Barber shop gives away free haircuts to people who have been affected by COVID-19 - but there's one rule: Don't talk about the virus
- Barber Bros and Co are offering 20 free hair cuts each week between their shops
- Customers can exchange a brief explanation of their circumstances for a hair cut
- The only rule is there is to be no chat about the coronavirus pandemic in store
- Learn more about how to help people impacted by COVID
A barber business is giving away 20 free haircuts every week to people who have been affected by COVID-19 - but there's one rule, no coronavirus chat.
Barber Bro's and Co are offering the service through its two Gold Coast stores, at Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.
Owners Emir Kanalic, Alen Celahmetovic and Denis Celahmetovic said they had wanted to give back to their community for a while and - being one of the few businesses deemed essential - now seemed like the perfect time.
Owners Emir Kanalic (right) and Alen Celahmetovic (centre) said they wanted to give back to the community and provide a sense of normality to people during the crisis
'The main motivation was to look after everyone during the tough times, and give something back. We thought, what a better time than now?' Emir told Daily Mail Australia.
'We are there, we are open. We are giving away 20 hair cuts every week to any one who has been disadvantaged by the COVID-19 crisis, from losing your job or hours, or even mentally.
'A lot of people are doing more than we are but we are just trying to do our part. Giving someone a haircut can make someone's day.'
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Alen, who works in store as a barber alongside cousin Denis, said they hoped the promotion would give people an experience of normality in their lives.
'It's our way of giving back. We have been open for seven years and have a very loyal customer base,' Alen told Daily Mail Australia.
'There are a lot of people losing their jobs, and it's a way for us to reach out to the local community and get them out to the shops.'
'Not only are we helping others find some normality in their life but it also helps us do the same.'
Barber Bro's and Co Isle of Capri store, in Surfers Paradise
Barber Bro's and Co store in Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
Since announcing the promotion, they have been inundated with messages from people who would like to take up the offer.
Those who wish to access the service can contact the business and briefly explain their circumstances in exchange for a haircut.
Emir said there are a lot of people who are having a hard time communicating they are in a disadvantaged situation, but urged those who may be hesitant to reach out.
Business has dropped 50-60 per cent for the Queensland hairstylist but the owners have been overwhelmed by some contributions from customers.
Originally, they were doing more than 20 cuts per day, but had to cap the figure to ensure they could still maintain costs.
They expect to take a minimum hit of $10,000 to provide the free cuts but feel staying open is important for everyone.
The stores' interiors are decked out emulate old-fashioned barber shops. Pictured is the inside of the Surfers Paradise outlet
In light of the widespread economic struggle, they are also selling discounted gift vouchers to help everyone gain easier access to their services.
And as for the rule, he said it was introduced to further ensure the 'normalcy' of the styling experience.
'It is simply a rule that allows us to look after all of our valued clients from a positive point of view,' he said.
'We want to be able to disconnect for at least the duration of the haircut from any negativity, and create a sense of normality in these challenging times.
'Mentally distract our valued clients with barbershop banter, old school music (dating back to the 50's, 60's and 70's), sports re-runs on TV, and of course rad haircuts.
