Getting a haircut can be an intimate experience and it provides an opportunity for people to develop a close relationship with the person who is cutting their hair—and this inspired Gymshark to create a pop-up barbershop of its own called Deload. This non-judgemental safe space is a place where men can go to get a free trim, and at the same time, talk about the state of their mental health in a purpose-built environment.
Open for a limited time in London, this pop-up barber shop was created by Gymshark in response to research that shows men find it difficult to talk about their feelings yet feel more comfortable confiding in their barbers.
This pop-up barber shop ties in with Gymshark's larger mental health initiative, and Deload merch will help to support mental health charity CALM.
What's Driving This Trend
- Mental Health Barbershops
- Creating safe spaces for men to talk about their mental health while getting a haircut will become a trend as more companies like Gymshark look to address men’s emotional well-being.
- Pop-up Mental Health Installations
- Pop-up installations that allow people to engage in a dialogue about mental health will become a trend as more companies seek to foster conversations around mental health.
- Charitable Initiatives for Mental Health Support
- More companies will launch charitable initiatives that support mental health organizations as a way to tackle the stigma around mental illness and support those in need.
Who This Affects Most
- Barbershops
- Barbershops that promote a safe environment for men to talk about their mental health will experience increased customer loyalty and foot traffic as more people gravitate towards companies with a social impact.
- Fitness and Wellness
- The fitness and wellness industry will continue to evolve and incorporate mental health programs that address the emotional and physical well-being of customers.
- Mental Health Charities
- Mental health charities will experience an increase in donations and support as more companies partner with them to help raise awareness and funds for mental health initiatives.
