In this client Focus we catch up with Compass Client, and co-owner of Ian Henry Barbers, Curtis Lavell…
Established in 1928, Ian Henry’s is one of the longest running barber shops in Portsmouth. Based on Spur Road, ownership of the barbershop has traditionally been taken on by the staff that have worked there, all of whom have maintained the traditions and community spirit the barbershop was founded on.
After Ian Henry himself worked at the barbers from the age of 18, he took it over and worked as a barber for 60 years. Ian eventually sold it to another staff member, who most recently sold it to the current owners, Curtis and Lawrance Lavell in September 2022.
“It’s a great honour to own a barbershop that has been a staple of the community since the late twenties.” Says Curtis, who continues to work as a barber alongside staff members Amy and Katie. They also support an apprentice who is currently in full time education, for one day a week, who is in preparation for working at the barbers after leaving school.
Curtis owns Ian Henry’s with his husband Lawrance who looks after marketing, finance and general day to day running of the business.
“After working here for many years, I made a joint decision with Lawrance to buy the shop. We were adamant that we didn’t want to change the name as it has been Ian Henry’s for so long, and we wanted to keep that tradition alive.”
Approaching its 100th birthday, the barbershop has been serving generations of customers, many of which have been clients for decades.
“We have older customers that have been coming here for years,” adds Curtis, “Some of which actually went to school with Ian Henry himself! There are many generations of clients, young and old, men that came as boys, that now bring their sons in. We’ve even seen older clients bring their great grandsons in and both have their hair cut together.”
The heart of a strong community
“Portsmouth is generally smaller than the bigger cities and so, in our community, many people are familiar with each other. On a busy Saturday you really see that. There’s a big rush for kick off on football days, the lads rush over to the pub and watch the game with a few drinks, mums come in with the kids. We really are a part of a local traditional atmosphere, and quite a well-known within in the community.”
“Recently, one of our young customers tragically passed away. We had been the family’s barber for years, so it was really important for us to contribute, help out in any way and support the family. Things like that hit you hard. They make you realise, you really are part of a wider community.”
Meeting Compass
When Curtis and Lawrance first took over Ian Henry’s, Lawrance researched different accountants in Fareham, and looked for one that had experience with barbers. “We were looking for a local accountant that could best suit our needs.” Said Curtis. “And then we came across Compass. We had a chat and got on really well. They have been a massive help in getting started and helping to set the business up for us. They are always helpful, always there to help us, guide us through things – especially when we ring up and say – ‘I don’t get it?!’ It always feels like they are there for us, whatever we need, which is great.”
If you would like to visit Ian Henry’s, head to Spur Road in Portsmouth or call – 023 9232 4022
