Role Models: Floyd's 99 Barbershop

From its original location in Denver to its 99th location opening in 2016, Floyd’s 99 has a good thing going. Jennifer Relic, marketing manager for the company, shares the story of how Floyd’s 99 barbershops grew to 99 locations and developed its own line of products. 

Their Story

Brothers Paul, Bill and Rob O’Brien first had the idea to open a barbershop in 1998. Their plan was to open the first shop in 1999 (hence the 99 in the name), but things didn’t go as planned. The first location finally opened in 2001. Currently, there are Floyd’s 99 shops in 11 states with 70 percent of those businesses owned by the home office. “The employees are the secret sauce of the business,” says Relic. The staff is referred to as the Floyd’s family. Each shop has a manager, who is heavily involved in running the business. “We like to promote from within,” says Relic. A stylist at one location can become, say, a district manager. Most of their district managers started out as stylists or as front desk staff so they really understand Floyd’s culture. 

One of the company’s trademarks is the rock ‘n’ roll décor at each location. A custom-installed poster wall that reflects the music of that region is installed in each shop. The murals are made up of vintage rock ‘n’ roll posters, showcasing what is relevant for a specific market and giving each space a distinctive vibe. 

Something else that sets the company apart is Floyd’s 99 Academy. A team of educators travels to different locations offering courses on clipper and shear cutting techniques. All classes are free to Floyd’s employees, and each employee gets paid for each training.