Wahl in the UK
In October 1987, after discussions with Jack Wahl, Wahl Clipper Corporations Chairman, Wahl Europe Ltd was launched as the European HQ for the Wahl Clipper Corporation. Headed by Mr Brian Hollands and located in Herne Bay, Kent, distributing Wahl electrical hair products throughout the UK.At the beginning of 1989 Wahl Europe continues to expand its European distribution, developing new and innovative products for the hairdressing industry. Continuing to expand its consumer range into high street stores as Argos selects Wahl as the first consumer clipper to be sold in their catalogue stores nationwide which increase sales and awareness of the consumer personal care industry. This success prompted further expansion into additional industrial units in Herne Bay.
In 1995 Wahl Europe sponsors the first Black Beauty Afro Awards in London recognising the importance of the UK Afro market and continues to sponsor this event to present day. Simon Shaw begins working with Wahl Europe and impresses audiences at shows and seminars around the country with his skills and enthusiasm.
Along with the purchase of further industrial units in Herne Bay, Wahl Europe introduced one of Wahl’s European distributors based in Holland, into the company portfolio, which subsequently changed its name to Wahl Nederland. The following year Wahl Europe Ltd. became Wahl (UK) Ltd. and its focus changed to continuing to expand the UK market whilst the European business is passed onto Wahl GmbH.
In 2001 Wahl (UK) signed Strictly Come Dancing celebrity chef James Martin to promote a signature range of kitchenware.
2002 continues to be another successful year as Mr Dave Goodman is promoted to Managing Director and Mr Brian Hollands becomes Chairman at Wahl (UK). The Wahl Academy was also opened in Herne Bay and as the inspiration behind it, Simon Shaw now European Artistic Director for Wahl (UK) plays a greater role within the education and development of stylists.
The Wahl Academy continues to grow and due to this success in 2005 Wahl (UK) introduced the Academy Collection range of professional products endorsed by Simon Shaw.
The constant success of Wahl (UK) has seen them become one of the leading electrical suppliers to both the consumer and professional hairdressing industries and in 2005 they were rewarded with Investors in People, an achievement recognised and respected by every one.
Always moving forward, 2006 saw Wahl (UK) expand into and develop new offices for its Marketing department, combining enthusiastic and energetic personnel into the Marketing Suite helping to drive the company into the future and ensure its continued success.
2007 was a year for celebration. Wahl (UK) celebrated it's 20th anniversary. Always moving forward, Wahl picked up several accolades during the year, the Academy won the Training Award in Today's Therapist magazine, the Cutek+ ceramic straightener was voted 10/10 in Your Hair magazine, the Detailer trimmer was voted Top Electrical Product in Professional Hairdresser magazine and the limited edition MHI X Wahl clipper was no. 1 in Creative Head's Top 100.
Building on fantastic achievements, Wahl continues to expand.