History of O'Brien's

The O'Briens have been in the cosmetology business for over 60 years. Starting in the early 1950's, they were the first to open first floor locations next to high-end retail stores, developing new concepts such as `no appointment necessary' walk-in services. With the cosmetology business expanding and the need for young skilled stylists, the O'Briens opened Vermont College of Cosmetology in 1964. With the success of the school brought opportunities for stylists as the family opened shops in Essex Junction, Middlebury, Montpelier, Shelburne, Vergennes, and Barre.

The 1970's brought new ideas with the partnership with L'Oreal, a french hair color manufacturer. O'Brien's also teamed with Lancome Cosmetics to sell their products. As the family continued to expand, the 1980's brought the merger of O'Brien's with Frank Cooper, Inc., a haircutting company that was started in the late 70's by the O'Brien's two sons, with stores under the names of Frank Cooper, Clip For Men, Haircuts For Less, Haircuts Plus, Bimini Bill's, and O'Brien's Training Center, College of Cosmetology. These locations were spread throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York with over forty locations. The merging of the two companies brought about exciting opportunities as the company continued to grow.

O'Brien's Training Center has trained thousands of cosmetologists who have gone on to become successful stylists and business owners. The company has seen many of its graduates continue to work as stylists, instructors, platform artists, school recruiters, human resource directors, sales managers, district managers, and even in accounting positions within the company. Many graduates have become loyal employees for a number of years, enjoying the benefits of an established company. The family feels honored and privileged that so many successful people have graduated from the training center.

O'Brien's Training Center has recently expanded its scope of programs to include a barbering course and a massage course.