 | Stepping into Luc’s Barber Shop and Hairstyling is like taking a step back in time. | |
Cornwall - Dec. 21, 2011 - Stepping into Luc’s Barber Shop and Hairstyling is like taking a step back in time.
The Pitt Street business features all of the accessories that you would expect to see in a traditional barber shop, from the red-and-blue barber pole hanging in an interior window to the old-fashioned cash register with the big bright buttons.
It’s a sight that thousands of Cornwall and area residents have grown accustomed to while visiting the barber shop over the past 40-plus years, and it’s one that they will continue to enjoy under the management of new shop owners Gilles and Carole Givogue.
“We want to maintain the authenticity of the business, because that is part of what makes it so special,” said Mr. Givogue. “It’s a gentleman’s barber shop, and we intend to keep it that way.”
Located at 723 Pitt Street, the barber shop was originally opened by George Fraser in 1965. The business was taken over by Luc Martin in 1983 and together with partner Terry Kitts, the duo managed a large client base for 25-plus years. However, things took a turn for the worse. Mr. Martin fell ill and had to step back from the business. Mr. Kitts also fell ill and eventually passed away. Mrs. Givogue, a hairdresser, had been working for Mr. Kitts when the illness struck.
“His last wish was that she would buy the business and keep it going,” recalled Mr. Givogue.
In addition to the barber shop’s legacy and track record of excellent customer service, Mr. Givogue said the location on Pitt Street in the centre of the city makes it an ideal spot to operate a business.
“It’s a great location in the middle of one of Cornwall’s main commercial areas,” said Mr. Givogue.
The Givogue’s plan to keep the familiar name and look of the barber shop intact, however Mr. Givogue intends to add a couple of new decorations to the shop – pictures of Mr. Martin and Mr. Kitts.
“We want to recognize all that they’ve done for this business,” he added.
In the lead-up to taking ownership of the business, the Givogues turned to the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre for some guidance and assistance.
“It is heartwarming to see the love and appreciation that both Carole and Gilles have for the history of this business” said Candy Pollard, Business Consultant with the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre. “Luc’s Barber Shop has offered quality service for generations. The Givogue’s commitment to the preservation and continuation of this business, will certainly be welcomed by their customers”.
Luc’s Barber Shop is open from 8 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Friday and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturday.
The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre helps small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed in Cornwall, Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry & Akwesasne by offering information, tools and support during the start-up and growth stages of business operation. The Centre also offers seminars, workshops and networking opportunities that are designed with the entrepreneur in mind. Please visit www.BusinessEnterpriseCentre.ca for more information.
The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre is operated by Cornwall Economic Development in partnership with the Ministry of Economic Development and Innovation.
Entrepreneurs in Action is a new initiative by the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre to profile small to medium-sized businesses that have recently opened in Cornwall, S.D. & G. and Akwesasne. To see all of the current profiles, please visit the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre website.
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