Dueling Barbers

We noticed that two new businesses popped up on our street last weekend.  One day there was empty space and then next morning ... BAM ... two new shops had opened up right before our eyes.  Despite being only yards apart, both of these businesses offer the same service -- hair cuts for men.  Do not walk up expecting to special order your haircut, men.  These shops offer one cut and one cut only.  It is a mix of a buzz cut and a flat-top.  Even though the end product looks the same, one guy must have had a better business plan. While he had customers lined up waiting, the other fellow looked down right bored.

No, no.  A storefront is not required to open a shop.  All you need is a piece of sidewalk, some blue tarp, and the audacity of hope.

Just a few motorbikes away, another barber is eagerly taking customers and has a line waiting.  What is it about his tarp that draws in the crowds?

Lots of clients makes for one happy barber who is excited to pose for a photo opportunity. Thumbs up for business.

The entrepreneurial spirit lives free in HCMC!