In this episode of the MenswearStyle Podcast, we sit down with Richard Marshall MBE, Founder of Pall Mall Barbers, to explore an extraordinary journey from sweeping the floor of a barbershop at the age of 12 to building one of London’s most recognised barbering businesses.
Richard talks openly about growing up dyslexic, being asked to leave school at 15 without qualifications, and discovering that his strengths lay not in conventional education, but in learning through experience, intuition and doing. His story is a fascinating insight into how perceived limitations can ultimately shape an entrepreneurial mindset built around problem-solving, resilience and finding a different way forward.
We also hear how Richard acquired Pall Mall Barbers in 2005, initially unaware of its remarkable history. After discovering an old business card beneath the floorboards, he began researching the company and traced its roots back to 1896. What started as a run-down barbershop became the foundation for a brand now known for its heritage, craftsmanship and modern approach to men’s grooming.
One of the most fascinating parts of Richard’s story is how a childhood fascination with the film Trading Places helped inspire his ambition to open a business in New York. Following the disruption caused by Brexit to his international distribution plans, a trade show brought Richard back to New York, where a chance walk through Rockefeller Center led him to spot an opportunity for a Pall Mall Barbers location. Today, that dream has become reality.
We discuss the differences between British and American customers, why international businesses need to adapt to local markets, and how Pall Mall Barbers recreated the atmosphere of its London stores at Rockefeller Center while retaining its distinctive British identity.
Richard also shares his approach to scaling a service business without losing its soul. Rather than controlling every detail, he believes in empowering people, mentoring them and giving them the freedom and environment to become the best version of themselves. It is an approach that has helped him grow the business while developing the people around him.
Finally, Richard talks about his plans to give back through mentoring and the challenge of writing his first book — something particularly meaningful given his lifelong struggles with reading and writing.
From barbering and entrepreneurship to international expansion, British heritage, dyslexia, leadership and the power of dreaming big, this is an honest and inspiring conversation with one of the leading figures in modern British barbering.
Listen to the MenswearStyle Podcast with Richard Marshall MBE, Founder of Pall Mall Barbers.
