After serving in the Air Defense, Ivan Bocharov opened two barbershops named 'Patriot’s' and took a seat in the working chair himself to grow his own business.
Ivan Bocharov dedicated four years to military service. In 2020, he graduated from Kharkiv National Air Force University named after Ivan Kozhedub with a focus on anti-aircraft missile troops and received his officer rank. Before the full-scale invasion, he carried out tasks in the Mariupol area, and after February 24, 2022, he participated in the operations of air defense units in Kyiv. The idea for his own business emerged much earlier—back in 2021. He contemplated opening a barbershop then, but due to his service, he couldn’t dedicate enough time to the business. After his release, the decision became final.
I have always loved the atmosphere of barbershops and constantly used them myself. I liked the level of service and the attitude towards clients. I wanted to create a place where a person comes not just to get a haircut. I wanted to provide a comfortable environment for clients. So, the choice of direction was obvious for me," shared Ivan Bocharov.
The first step was finding funding. The veteran decided to take advantage of a state grant program. After defending the project, he received a grant of 500,000 hryvnias with the obligation to employ two staff members.
We drafted a business plan and submitted an application through "Diia." A few weeks later, I was scheduled for a defense. During the online defense, I had to explain my business model in detail. There were many questions — about expenses, competition, location. If you know your project well, this stage isn’t difficult to pass," noted the entrepreneur.
The first barbershop opened in September 2024 in the center of Kyiv. Grant funds were allocated for equipment, furniture, workstations for the masters, tools, partly for rent, and advertising. The owner financed the renovations himself. Friends who worked nearby helped in the search for a location.
However, the start turned out to be more challenging than expected. The main problem was the staffing shortage. Despite the difficulties, nine months after launching the first establishment, Ivan opened a second barbershop in a residential complex.
I realized that the biggest challenge is finding people. It’s tough to find masters right now. Some have been mobilized, and others have moved to different fields. There were clients, but not enough masters. The staffing issue became my biggest challenge," recalls the veteran.
That’s when the owner reevaluated his vision for the business. He realized that the role of a manager goes beyond just overseeing processes. To support the operations, Ivan went to train as a barber. After completing the courses, he started working with clients alongside his staff.
I thought the owner just managed the processes. In reality, the owner does everything. After opening the second shop, I went to train as a barber. It was easier for me since I had been observing the masters for almost a year. Now I work behind the chair at both locations, " emphasized the barbershop owner.
Today, the network consists of two barbershops, employing five people along with the owner. Ivan personally handles the purchases, oversees the operations, maintains service quality, and partially manages operational activities. The work schedule is six days a week, alternating between locations.
I come to work at ten in the morning and work until evening. Purchases, inventory, organizational issues — it’s all on me. I have help from an accountant and the team. I work three days in one establishment and three in the other. This format allows me to keep everything under control," says the former serviceman.
According to the veteran, the business only started turning a profit after he personally got involved as a master. Today, clients come not just for a haircut but for the vibe, service, and consistent quality.
We’re betting on quality and professional masters. We offer permanent discounts for military personnel. All tools undergo sterilization and control. Our masters regularly train and upgrade their skills. People come to us not just for a service but to switch off from their daily grind," shared the veteran.
The main advice for veterans planning to launch their own business is thorough planning and working with personnel even before the project starts, according to Ivan.
To veterans planning to start their own business, I advise clearly outlining the budget. The second important point is staffing. You need to look for people even before opening the business. You need to understand why a good specialist would choose you over others. You can handle all other issues," added Ivan Bocharov.