NEW BEDFORD — As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded in 2020, businesses deemed “close contact personal services” faced significant challenges, with salons and barbershops among the hardest hit. Now, New Bedford’s hair care professionals are urging individuals to consider entering the field, highlighting opportunities arising from the industry’s rebound.
Jennifer Ferreira, owner of J Glam Hair Studio on 651 Orchard St., reminisced about the tumultuous period in March 2020 when non-essential businesses were ordered to close. She described the subsequent 10 weeks of shutdown as arduous, with many struggling to access pandemic unemployment benefits due to their 1099 tax status. For some, it marked the end of decades-long enterprises.
“The closures were devastating for many longstanding businesses,” Ferreira lamented.
According to data from the Mass. Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR), the number of licensed salons and barbershops in Massachusetts plummeted from 14,650 in 2020 to 11,293 in 2021, reflecting a reduction of 3,357 establishments.
However, despite the decline, industry insiders emphasize that job opportunities remain abundant. Sean Almeida, manager of Vega’s Barber Club on 507 Kempton St., highlighted the challenge of finding licensed barbers. He noted that while vacancies exist, suitable candidates are scarce, often lacking the necessary passion for the profession.
Almeida also pointed out transportation barriers, particularly in accessing barbering schools. He suggested that establishing a local barber school in New Bedford could alleviate this issue and bolster the industry.
Despite ongoing challenges, Ferreira and Almeida expressed resilience in the face of economic fluctuations. Ferreira noted the rising cost of supplies and a slight decline in holiday business but affirmed the enduring demand for hair care services.
Meanwhile, Rob Roy Academy CEO Tracy Casey emphasized the continued demand for licensed professionals, noting stable enrollment levels despite the pandemic’s impact. She observed a shift in enrollment patterns, with individuals increasingly pursuing their passions in response to the pandemic’s disruption.
Reflecting on the versatility of a hair care license, Ferreira emphasized the myriad career paths available beyond salon ownership or employment. From runway shows to educational roles, she highlighted the diverse opportunities awaiting licensed professionals.
Echoing the sentiment, barber Chris Medeiros of Kustom Blendz Barbershop on 1865 Acushnet Ave., encouraged aspiring barbers to seize the moment. He underscored the role of social media in expanding clientele and professional opportunities, citing his own transformative journey from adversity to success in the field.
As New Bedford’s hair care industry rebounds, professionals advocate for individuals to explore the field’s potential, embracing a career path that offers both creative fulfillment and economic stability.
