A CHARD barbers has had to completely transform the way it works as more of the nation’s businesses prepare to reopen their doors this weekend.

Hair’s Johnny, based on Holyrood Street, is among a host of hairdressers planning to welcome customers back from July 4.

And business owner John Hewitt has been working hard to meet government guidelines before his first day back.

He said: “I have been itching to get back since the day we stopped.

“A lot of things have happened since the announcement.

“I have bought a lot of PPE, and there has been a whole change in how we run the business.”

The biggest change for John has been to introduce appointments after 20 years in the industry.

But government guidelines mean the hairdressing industry must now pivot to appointments.

John added: “We have worked with Nearcut, which sorts the booking system, and it links to the Facebook page and the website, and gives people a chance to book their day and time.

“It is all new for me. I have only ever been a walk ins only barbers, since 2000.

“The new government guidelines mean I have to take everyone’s contact details, and Nearcut takes care of that too.”

That isn’t the only change for Hair’s Johnny. Starting this week, hairdressers across UK will have to wear visors, use disposable aprons and more.

John said: “The cutting area is cordoned off, it is customers only so no one waiting around, and no one is allowed to use the toilet anymore.

“I am excited to get back, but I am worried about the older customers. I have had lots of people say they need me to fix what their wives or their mums have done, so that could be fun.”

For more information, visit hairsjohnny.co.uk.