JUST three years after it first opened, a gentlemen’s salon has won a top national industry award.

Crate Cheshire has been named Male Grooming Salon/Barbershop of the Year, sponsored by Modern Barber, at HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards 2021.

The salon has two branches, one in Barons Quay, Northwich, and another in Minshull Street, Knutsford.

Crate Cheshire beat off tough competition from other finalists to be recognised as an all-round exceptional men’s hairdressing destination.

Held on October 4 in London, HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards – now in its 23rd year – rewards the hardworking people who have built outstanding salon businesses.

Crate Cheshire reached the finals after submitting a detailed online account earlier this year, outlining its marketing strategy, services and what makes it stand out from the crowd.

Judges praised Crate Cheshire’s clear vision, from salon design and branding to staff incentives and training programmes.

Charles Rose, director of Crate Cheshire, said: "We found out we had got to the final around July/August.

"I personally have been to the event a few times and never did I think we'd get to the final, let alone win it.

"It was a bit of a surprise.

"We went up on stage and I had to do a speech, there were lots of people there – hundreds and hundreds.

"It feels amazing to be winners, and we want to thank everyone that’s been involved during the last three years.

"We’re all incredibly passionate about what we do, and we work extremely hard to give our clients the best experience.

"We’re thrilled to win this award!"

Charles left behind the London life to set up his debut Gentlemen’s hair salon in Northwich in July 2018, and more recently branched out to Knutsford in August 2020.

Jayne Lewis Orr, executive director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards said: "Male grooming is one of the fastest growing areas in hairdressing and it takes talent, drive and resilience to stand out.

"Crate have demonstrated an exceptional contribution to the men’s hairdressing sector and should feel incredibly proud of what they have achieved as a business."