Barber Q&A
From Best Newcomer TO BARBERSHOP OWNER
INDIA HURFORD-JONES CHATS TO COSMIN GRADINARU ABOUT HIS RAPID RISE, THE CHALLENGES HE’S FACED AND WHAT’S NEXT
WHAT WAS IT LIKE WINNING BEST NEWCOMER AT THE MODERN BARBER AWARDS 2025?
I had been barbering for almost two years when I entered. I was scared, but I didn't want to be afraid. Winning Best Newcomer was my first win and had a huge impact on my career, bringing new clients, brand opportunities and industry features. I'd recommend anyone to enter.
AFTER THE AWARDS, YOU OPENED COS MALE IMAGE IN MANCHESTER. WHAT WAS BUILDING YOUR OWN BUSINESS LIKE?
I didn't really understand what it meant to run a business when I first took the shop on. Shortly after winning, my wife and I found out she was pregnant, then a week later I signed the shop contract. I was working around 12 hours a day and spent six months working alone, questioning whether I'd failed.
Then Aisha joined. We'd previously cut together on the Modern Barber stage, and everything started growing. Within a year, I had five barbers.
WHAT HAVE YOU ACHIEVED WITH COS MALE IMAGE?
In our first year, we won Best Barbershop of the Year and gained more than 1,000 five-star reviews. We've also doubled our chairs by expanding into another level of the shop.
I created the business from a barber's perspective, for barbers. I want my team to feel confident and appreciated, while offering competitive rates. We also have a licence to serve alcohol, creating a bar experience within the shop.
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED?
The biggest was learning not to compare myself with others. Instagram makes it easy to question why you're not achieving what someone else is. Eventually, I learned that everyone has their own journey.
Quieter periods can actually be valuable because you have time to create content, learn and invest in yourself. Start step by step, don't compare yourself and be authentic.
WHAT ARE YOUR ULTIMATE CAREER GOALS?
My biggest dream is to work for a football team. I'm currently working with one of the Manchester City directors and hope I get the opportunity to work with the first team.
I also want to help the barbers who join my business. I'm launching a beauty salon next door, creating opportunities for hairdressers and beauty technicians.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO BARBERS STARTING OUT?
Be consistent. When I started, I travelled an hour each way for six months to work in a big barbershop and learn from more experienced barbers.
Work hard, don't chase the money and choose the right shop and mentor for you.
DO YOU THINK YOU’LL STAY IN MANCHESTER?
Manchester is where I learned barbering and where my first shop was, so the city has been part of my whole journey.
Even if I achieve my dream of working for a football team, I'll still be in the barbershop cutting hair. After three years, I'm proud of everything I've achieved and excited for what's still to come.