South Shields barber goes back to his roots to open his own shop

Shaun Rundle is the new owner of barber shop Urban Fades.

Shaun Rundle has his first shop after taking the leap into self-employment.

The 20-year-old is now the proud owner of Urban Fades in Fowler Street – the shop where he started his career.

Shaun aims to take on staff and offer training places.

Mr Rundle said: “I used to work here previously and then an opportunity came up to take over the premises.

“After speaking with the landlord, I just thought I’d go for it.

“I have got a young family, I have a daughter, so going from having a guaranteed wage at the end of the week to having no security was a massive risk, but one worth taking.

“I have been barbering for five years now. I’m only 20, I’ve still got a lot to learn about business, but it’s going well so far.”

Shaun started out as an apprentice after training with the barbering academy in Sunderland, before making the leap to owning his own business.

The shop provides all aspects of barbering, including hot towel shaves and beard trimming.

Mr Rundle added: “Having my own place is something I’ve always wanted to do.

“My dad was an entrepreneur and had his own businesses. It was always going to be my goal to have my own place. Yes, it has had its ups and downs – but it’s exciting.

“You have to keep on top of everything, but I love what I do. I have got quite a passion for it.”

In the future, Mr Rundle hopes to be able to take on staff as well as offer a place where students studying for a career in barbering can come to practice their skills.

“It is a hard trade to break into. It’s hard to get the shop experience you need. I was lucky, I had a great place where I trained, and I still have a strong bond there with the management.”

Mr Rundle is also looking to one day work with homeless charities in South Tyneside, to provide free cuts to those who have no place to call their own.

He said: “It’s something I’ve wanted to do and hopefully one day I’ll be able to have the opportunity to do it.”

Urban Fades is open Monday to Friday from 9am until 6pm and from 8.30am to 5pm on Saturdays. For details, visit Urban Fades barbershop on Facebook.