Back in October, we caught Steve Purcell, founder of Uppercut Deluxe, on a plane to the UK to share his story and passion for all things barbering.
“It’s really far away, dude!” – Steve Purcell, 2023
Meeting up with Chris Brownless (Ambassador, Founder of North West Barber Co., UK) and Ben Boyer (UCDC Member, Founder: Le Coupeur, France), Steve had a terrible night's sleep before going all in on his first tour dates. I did.
Barbers from all over the UK flocked to The Foundry on the opening day. Our education and events facility (located at our UK headquarters) features barber demos, freshly brewed hot coffee from Dark Arts Coffee staff, and food from our Black Butter Social friends throughout the afternoon. It wouldn’t be an Uppercut Shindig without a few games of table tennis and “cornhole,” right?!
Our next destination, SB Barber Academy in Sunderland, UK, is over 300 miles away. Another night of barber demos and drinks surrounded by owners. Vicky Smith's infectious energy. And damn… the North really showed up for this!
Three stops. Just across the water, you're in mainland Europe. The last day of this itinerary was in Amsterdam. Amsterdam is home to a fascinating canal system, beautiful sloping architecture, and some questionable pastimes.
Steve, Chris and Ben took to the stage to share the spirit of Uppercut Deluxe with local Amsterdam barbers before returning to the UK the next morning for a private education class at the Foundry.
Thank you to all the barbers who keep the blue collar flame burning. And a special thanks to Liquid Death and Fritz Cola for the drinks and to Hair Pomades for all the help in Amsterdam!