Christodoulou's, a family-run hair salon in Birmingham's North Western Arcade, has been a fixture since 1982, but its future is now uncertain after the building owner reportedly told them to leave without relocation support after 43 years of tenancy.
History of the Salon
George Christodoulou, who moved from Cyprus to Small Heath at age 16, began cutting hair on Green Lane in 1960. He opened Christodoulou's in North Western Arcade in 1982, during England's World Cup-winning year. The salon has survived the curly perm era, Beckham-style curtains, Jennifer Aniston layers, and more, while surrounding shops closed.
Now, Demetri Christodoulou, who started learning the trade at age eight under his father, runs the salon. He took over in 2009 and has built a loyal clientele he considers friends.
Current Situation
Following the closure of House of Fraser on June 25, BirminghamLive understands that Legal and General, the building owner, has told Christodoulou's to leave with no relocation support. The salon is one of only two businesses still operating in North Western Arcade, alongside La MC vintage boutique.
Demetri Christodoulou said: "We have been here for over 43 years, have always been good tenants, and have paid our rent throughout. The matter is now with our legal team. I hope I'll be able to provide you with more information soon."
Community Reaction
Customer Ellie Kibble, 24, said: "I have been going to Christodoulou's for as long as I can remember! My dad has been going since before I was born. We travel from south Staffordshire because we get the best service. If they got forced out, we'd honestly be completely gutted because we don't know where they'll be moving to or if they will be able to move. We have such loyalty to Christodoulou's because we've built relationships."
Developer's Response
Sphere Group is working on behalf of Legal and General to regenerate North Western Arcade alongside other sites, as part of Birmingham City Council's Central Heart Vision. Managing director Thomas Taylor said: "We are preparing transformative mixed-use plans for the former Rackhams building and beyond. Discussions with all existing tenants are ongoing. There are no imminent changes at this early phase of planning."
Legal and General declined to comment on claims of pressuring tenants to move.
Heritage
Demetri Christodoulou trained at the heritage Birmingham salon Raymond's, whose emblem is still visible outside the Odeon Cinema on New Street. Among Raymond's most famous trainees was Vidal Sassoon, who achieved global fame.
