New York Understands Earned Respect
New York doesn’t care for labels. It respects what’s earned through standards, repetition, and showing up day after day.
That’s the lens we’re sharing this news through.
Richard Marshall, Founder & CEO of Pall Mall Barbers, has been appointed an MBE as part of the King’s New Year Honours 2026, recognised for services to international trade, mentoring, and supporting people with dyslexia.
Written in the spirit of our motto Keep sharp, keep groomed this is a look at what an MBE actually represents, why it’s meaningful, and how Richard’s journey connects with the values we bring to Pall Mall Barbers NYC every day.
What Is an MBE and What Does It Recognise?
An MBE stands for Member of the Order of the British Empire. It’s not a reward for money, fame, or social status. It’s a form of national recognition given for service and contribution that creates real impact over time.
Official UK guidance describes an MBE as being awarded for an outstanding achievement or service to the community, work that has a long-term, significant impact and stands out as an example to others.
Within the Order of the British Empire awards, CBE is the highest level, excluding a knighthood/damehood, followed by OBE, then MBE.
Why Richard Marshall Was Recognised
Richard’s appointment in the New Year Honours 2026 specifically highlights three areas:
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International trade — helping take British barbering standards beyond the UK
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Mentoring — developing talent, supporting careers, and building confidence through the craft
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Supporting people with dyslexia — creating space for alternative learners and championing dyslexic thinking
This recognition appears in the UK government’s published New Year Honours material (Department for Business and Trade).
A Message from Richard Marshall, MBE
Founder & CEO, Pall Mall Barbers
When the honours were announced, my first response wasn’t to celebrate, it was to stop and think.
To me, this isn’t about a title. It’s about service, responsibility, and the standards you live by over time.
I left school at 15 with severe dyslexia. Traditional education didn’t suit the way my mind worked. I learned in a barbershop, watching closely, listening carefully, practicing constantly, and improving through real work.
Pall Mall Barbers has grown from humble beginnings into an international brand, but growth has never been the point. What matters is doing things properly: raising standards, mentoring people, and giving others a platform, especially those who don’t fit neatly into “traditional” systems.
The letters “MBE” may sit beside my name, but this honour reflects the people around me: the teams who’ve upheld the craft, the clients who’ve trusted us, and everyone who has believed in what Pall Mall Barbers stands for, whether in London or here in New York.
The Story Behind the Honour
Richard Marshall’s path has never been “textbook.”
With dyslexia shaping his early years, the usual routes didn’t fit. But barbering did because barbering rewards what New York respects: discipline, detail, consistency, and learning by doing.
Over time, those same principles became the foundation of Pall Mall Barbers:
- Craft first — not shortcuts
- Consistency — the standard is the standard, every day
- People — mentoring isn’t optional; it’s part of the job
As the brand expanded internationally, mentoring and advocacy for dyslexic thinking stayed central. That blend of business growth with genuine service helped lead to this recognition.
From the Honours List to Windsor Castle
After an honour is announced, recipients are invited to an investiture ceremony at a royal residence.
Richard Marshall’s ceremony took place at Windsor Castle, described by the Royal Collection Trust as the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.
For Richard, the moment wasn’t about “arriving.” It was about gratitude, thinking about mentors, colleagues, barbers, and clients who helped make the journey possible.
Why This Honour Belongs to More Than One Person
No meaningful brand is built alone, especially in a people-first craft like barbering.
Skills are passed down. Trust is earned one appointment at a time. Standards are protected daily.
That’s why Richard speaks in terms of “we, not I.”
This honour is shared with:
- The barbers who keep standards high
- The teams that mentor and develop others
- the clients who return again and again, placing trust in the craft
Mentoring and Dyslexia Support: The Heart of the Recognition
Being recognised for mentoring and dyslexia support isn’t a footnote; it’s personal.
Dyslexia shaped how Richard learned, communicated, and led. It also created a deep respect for people who think differently and might be overlooked in traditional environments.
Through Pall Mall Barbers, mentoring has become a real pathway: not just to technical skill, but to confidence and belief.
If this honour helps even one person reframe dyslexia from a limitation into a strength, then it’s already done something worthwhile.
What Happens Next
An MBE doesn’t change what happens in the chair.
What it does is reinforce responsibility:
- keep standards high
- keep mentoring
- keep service at the center
- keep doing the work when nobody’s watching
This isn’t a finish line. It’s a reminder of why the work matters.
Keep sharp. Keep groomed.
Stay Connected with Richard Marshall| CEO and Founder of Pall Mall Barbers
Follow Richard as he navigates the dynamic landscape of small business advocacy and empowerment. Together, let us work towards creating a thriving ecosystem where small businesses flourish and thrive.
Visit Pall Mall Barbers Midtown NYC – The Best Midtown Barber Shop
ADDRESS: 10 Rockefeller Plaza Lower Concourse, New York, NY 10020
PHONE: +1 (212) 586 2220
Whether you’re prepping for a major meeting or looking to elevate your daily style, if you’re typing “best barber Midtown NYC” into your search bar, it’s time to experience the difference that only Pall Mall Barbers NYC can deliver.
Sharp styles. Executive service. Authentic craftsmanship. Your new go-to barbershop is here.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is an MBE?
An MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) recognises outstanding service or achievement with long-term impact.
2) Why was Richard Marshall awarded an MBE?
For services to international trade, mentoring, and supporting people with dyslexia.
3) Does this change Pall Mall Barbers NYC?
No. It strengthens what has always mattered: standards, consistency, mentoring, and service.
4) Where are MBEs presented?
At investiture ceremonies held at royal residences.
5) What does this mean moving forward?
Same mission, same standards—kept even sharper.
