DEPOT IKONS Crowns Craig Smith at Expo4Barbers

The DEPOT Ikons Styling Competition was created to celebrate individuality, technical skill and creativity within Australia’s barbering and hair industry, giving professionals at all levels the opportunity to showcase their work on a national stage.

Designed to be accessible and inclusive, the competition moved away from a traditional stage-first format, instead allowing entrants to submit their work through a photographic entry process. To enter, competitors purchased the official DEPOT Ikons Entry Pack and created a look using the four DEPOT styling products included. Each submission required front, side and back imagery, along with a self-portrait, professional bio and product feedback, all uploaded through the dedicated DEPOT submission platform.

Following a strong response from across the country, five finalists were selected to compete live at Expo4Barbers, where they battled it out in front of an engaged industry crowd. The finalists were judged by respected industry professionals Josh OP, Gareth Philpot and Dave Edwards, DEPOT Brand Advocate and owner of Dirty Chops ACT. Judging focused on creativity, technical execution, presentation and the effective use of DEPOT products within the final look.

Taking out the 2026 DEPOT Ikons title was Craig Smith from The Studio X, whose work impressed judges with its precision, creativity and polished finish. Joining Craig in the live final were Olly Macfarlane from DELL ACQUA, Hayley Joyce from The Studio X, Rory Watson from Blended Barbers and Keegs Walklin from Kings Domain Barbers, showcasing the depth of emerging and established talent currently shaping the barbering industry in Australia.

Beyond the title itself, the DEPOT Ikons competition offers a career defining opportunity for the winner. Craig Smith will receive an all expenses paid trip to Milan, Italy, to attend z.one G.E.T. (Global Education Training), an exclusive invitation only international education event. The experience places the winner at the centre of global men’s grooming, connecting with international artists, ambassadors and educators while gaining advanced education at the home of DEPOT Male Tools & Co.

The competition also highlighted the importance of education, connection and opportunity within the industry, creating a platform where barbers and hairdressers could not only showcase their work but gain exposure on a national level. With live competition continuing to grow within the barbering space, DEPOT Ikons has positioned itself as an exciting opportunity for artists wanting to challenge themselves creatively while building industry recognition.

Penny Bebb, Founder and CEO of Conceptual Brands, said the quality of entries and professionalism from competitors made the competition a standout feature of Expo4Barbers.

“The DEPOT Ikons competition was a great showcase of talent across the industry. From a strong group of entries, five finalists were chosen to compete live at Expo4Barbers, each bringing skill, creativity and professionalism to the stage. Judged on technical ability, we’re proud to congratulate Craig Smith as the winner. Thank you to everyone who entered and helped raise the standard.”

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DEPOT IKONS Crowns Craig Smith at Expo4Barbers

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