top of page

History of Belmont Barber Chairs


Belmont Barber Chairs


History of Belmont Barber Chairs


Belmont barber chairs have a rich history that dates back to the 1930s in Japan. This iconic brand was founded by Hidenobu Yoshikawa and initially known as Takara Chuzo Ltd.


In 1956, Takara made its foray into the global market by establishing its first subsidiary in the United States. This marked a significant milestone for Takara as it expanded its reach beyond Japan's borders.


The subsidiary was later renamed Takara Company NY Inc. and eventually evolved into Takara Belmont USA, Inc.


During the same decade, Takara introduced its first hydraulic barber chair, revolutionizing the industry. The company's innovative designs and commitment to quality soon caught the attention of barbers worldwide.


In the 1960s, Takara expanded its presence in Europe through a collaboration with Wella, while still offering dental and cosmetic products alongside barber supplies.


salon direct barber chairs

Takara's Entrance into the US Market

When Takara entered the barber supply business in the United States, it faced fierce competition from well-established manufacturers like Koken and Emil J. Paidar.


Despite starting with no market share, Takara had a significant advantage due to its mass production capability and access to more affordable suppliers.


To the surprise of industry leaders, Takara introduced its Belmont barber chairs to the US market, offering both affordability and quality comparable to the luxurious chairs produced by Koken or Paidar.


This disruptive move had a profound impact on the existing local suppliers. Brands like Emil J. Paidar and Koken, which had already established a sizable market share, had to rethink their strategies.


The fashionable and reasonably priced Belmont barber chairs became an attractive choice for consumers. Additionally, as longer hairstyles gained popularity, salons began to play a more prominent role.



Takara Belmont's Dominance

Out of the three prominent players in the industry, only Takara Belmont emerged as the victor by the end of the decade. Once giants in the field, both Koken Barber's Supplies Business and the Emil J.


Paidar Company faced serious difficulties. In 1969, Takara acquired Koken Barber's Supplies Business, further solidifying its position as the market leader. Simultaneously, the Emil J. Paidar Company lost a significant portion of its market share to the Japanese firm.


The success of Takara Belmont can be attributed to the quality, style, and comfort of their barber chairs.


These factors can make or break the success of a barbershop, and Takara Belmont chairs have consistently met the expectations of professionals and customers alike. Even today, Belmont barber chairs remain highly sought after and widely popular.


To explore the full range of Belmont barber chairs and experience the difference they can make in your barbershop, visit Salons Direct.



Opening New Possibilities

Takara's acquisition of the Koken name paved the way for further conceptual possibilities in barber chair design.


The joystick lever patent, previously owned by Koken, allowed for a single mechanism to perform all the functions of the chair.


This breakthrough innovation enhanced the user experience and set a new standard for barber chair functionality.



Conclusion

The history of Belmont barber chairs is a testament to Takara's commitment to excellence and their ability to adapt to changing trends in the industry.


From their humble beginnings in Japan to their global dominance, Takara Belmont has consistently delivered exceptional barber chairs that meet the demands of professionals and customers worldwide.


With their continued focus on quality, style, and comfort, Belmont barber chairs are poised to remain a beloved choice for barbers for years to come.



FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)


1. Are Belmont barber chairs only available in the United States?

No, Belmont barber chairs are available worldwide. Takara Belmont has a global presence and distributes its products to various countries, including the United States, Europe, and beyond.


2. Can I purchase Belmont barber chairs online?

Yes, you can purchase Belmont barber chairs online through authorized retailers and distributors. It is recommended to buy from trusted sources to ensure the authenticity and quality of the products.


3. Are Belmont barber chairs suitable for both small and large barbershops?

Absolutely! Belmont barber chairs come in a variety of models and designs to suit different barbershop sizes and aesthetics. Whether you have a small boutique barbershop or a large establishment, there is a Belmont chair that will meet your needs.


4. What sets Belmont barber chairs apart from other brands?

Belmont barber chairs are known for their exceptional quality, style, and comfort. They are designed with the utmost attention to detail, incorporating innovative features that enhance the barbering experience for both the professional and the client.


5. Can Belmont barber chairs be customized to match my barbershop's theme?

Yes, many Belmont barber chairs offer customization options, allowing you to personalize them to align with your barbershop's theme and branding. From choosing the upholstery colour to adding specific logo embroidery, you can create a unique and cohesive look for your barbershop.


salon direct

Belmont Apollo 2 Icon Barber Chair

Belmont Apollo 2 Icon Barber Chair

Belmont Apollo 2 Icon Barber Chair radiates luxury with quilted diamond stitching, refinement and comfort.






Belmont Apollo 2 Elite Barber Chair

Belmont Apollo 2 Elite Barber Chair

Belmont Apollo 2 Elite Barber Chair has an iconic design with refined matt or gloss black or white gloss iron works which appeals to traditional barbers, male grooming salon and beauty salons.




Belmont Apollo 2 Elite Barber Chair

Belmont Apollo 2 Elite Barber Chair

Belmont Apollo 2 Elite Barber Chair has an iconic design with refined matt or gloss black or white gloss iron works which appeals to traditional barbers, male grooming salon and beauty salons.


bottom of page