This Week in Startups E1131 Bringing barbershops into the digital age with Squire CEO Songe LaRon | Rising Stars of SaaS 3
Oct 29, 2020
Songe LaRon, Co-founder and CEO of Squire, leads a digital revolution in the barbershop industry. He discusses how COVID-19 has accelerated the need for barbershops to embrace technology, from contactless payments to appointment systems. LaRon highlights the unique challenges barbers face as independent contractors and the financial hurdles they encounter. The conversation also covers the evolving barbershop employment landscape and the importance of these establishments as community hubs, adapting to modern safety and hygiene standards.
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Pandemic Impact and Response
- Barbers faced hardship during initial pandemic closures, unable to work from home.
- Squire waived subscription fees to support struggling barbershops.
Barbershop Culture
- Barbershops are a unique subculture with passionate individuals.
- Building specialized software for this niche market offers a competitive advantage.
Best Practices for Safe Reopening
- Barbershops should require masks for both barbers and clients.
- Implement appointment-only systems and disinfect equipment regularly.