An Eccles-based salon are finalists at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards for the second year in a row.

After winning National UK Barber of the Year in 2023, founder and owner of McLaren and Co Barbering, Hair Replacements and Aesthetics, Ian Anthony McLaren, 37, has been recognised for the second year running.

The salon is up for the award in eight categories, including: Barber of the Year, Best Salon, Rising Star Award and Entrepreneur of the Year. 

After hearing about his nominations Ian said: “I wasn’t expecting to be recognised and shortlisted for eight categories in 2024, yet alone winning the national UK Barber of the Year Award this year.”

Inside of the Eccles salon. Photo courtesy of Ian McLaren.

He has received great support and encouragement from the local people, adding: “I just want to thank all my customers for their support, and everyone in Eccles, Greater Manchester and the North West who have been popping in saying congratulations and well done. Thank you for loving my work and being truly valued and respected clients.”

McLaren & Co Barbering, Hair Replacements & Aesthetics started up in April 2022, after Ian had been working in the Hairdressing and Barbering industry for twenty years, starting as an Apprentice at just 16. He has developed a strong passion for constant learning and development, by undertaking additional training and several courses to gain more and grow in the industry. He is now a favourite with the people in North West, working alone to provide all services, five days a week.

The UK Hair and Beauty Awards aim to celebrate the hair and beauty industry and bring recognition to all businesses big or small. For a hard worker like Ian, getting the recognition he deserves from these awards is crucial.

Ian McLaren holding Barber of the Year Award. Photo courtesy of Ian McLaren.

The judges from the awards said: “We thoroughly enjoyed seeing what you’ve been up to this year and are excited to see what the future holds for you and your business. You have done absolutely amazing to get this far and we wish you best of luck for the 2024 Grand Final.”

Ian works constantly to continue to grow in the industry and bring the best quality of work to all of his customers, which is very rewarding in the end as he said: “Even though it’s eat, sleep, work and repeat, the hard work is paying off, and this is why I do what I do. Sometimes you have to just go for it, and believe in yourself. It will pay off in the end.”

The outside of the salon. Photo courtesy of Ian McLaren.

Their shop is open from 9:30am-8pm Tuesday to Friday and 9:30am-2pm Saturday, and are closed on Sunday, Monday and Bank Holiday. They take bookings and consultations and walk-ins are welcome too. Located at 26 Church Street, Eccles, M30 0DF next to Eccles Tram, Rail and Bus Station. All information as well as how to contact them is on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

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