Founded and owned by Lawrence Wheen in 2016, the Arcade began life as a disused former industrial unit before an extensive renovation transformed it into a hub for small businesses and independent traders.
Over the past decade, the space has hosted businesses spanning fashion, homeware, art, lifestyle, tattooing and music, with its focus on independent operators helping it become an established part of Kelham Island’s business community.
For Lawrence, one of the project’s biggest successes has been seeing businesses use the Arcade as a springboard for growth. A number of former tenants have gone on to outgrow their units and move into larger premises elsewhere in the city.
At the heart of operations is Lawrence’s own Kelham Barber, which has grown alongside the development over the past ten years. Training and career progression have become an increasing focus for the business, with educational events taking place in the UK and overseas.
That emphasis on development has also led to Lawrence’s latest venture, 92 Academy, which recently opened at the Arcade alongside 92, his new range of professional hair products.
The Academy provides a flexible training environment where barbers can practise, produce content and take part in professional development away from the pressures of a working barbershop.
Lawrence said: “Our ethos has always been about creating a progressive, inclusive space, coupled with really good customer service and, hopefully, very nice haircuts.
“Ten years on, I’m incredibly proud of the community we’ve built and of the businesses and people who have been part of the Arcade’s story. It’s exciting to think about what the next ten years could bring.”
