Pomade Cartel
Pomade Cartel is Gum Cruz’s signature barbershop and mercantile, based in Angeles City, Pampanga. What began as a pomade-focused retail concept evolved into one of the most respected barbering destinations in the region.
Founded in 2014, Pomade Cartel is recognized as the first pomade and hair-grooming one-stop shop in the Philippines. Today, it combines world-class barbering services, grooming products, and lifestyle culture under one roof.
From Pomade Shop to Barbershop
Pomade Cartel started as a business focused on selling pomades and grooming products before barbering services were introduced. Gum Cruz initially built the shop around product curation, sourcing both local and imported grooming items. Over time, demand for barbering services grew, leading to the integration of haircutting into the space. The shop eventually transitioned into a full-service barbershop while retaining its mercantile identity. This evolution positioned the shop as both a service destination and a lifestyle space.
Pomade Cartel places strong emphasis on technical barbering fundamentals and personalized service. Each haircut begins with a professional consultation that considers face shape, hair type, hair growth pattern, purpose, and lifestyle.
Services include specialty cuts, shampoo, massage, and styling using curated grooming products. Importantly, all barbers inside Pomade Cartel are trained using the same skills, knowledge, and cutting standards that Gum Cruz applies to his own work. Even apprentice barbers operate under supervision to ensure quality and consistency. This internal training system ensures consistency across every chair in the shop.
Beyond daily grooming services, Pomade Cartel functions as an education and community hub. The shop regularly hosts barbering workshops, training sessions, and industry gatherings.
These events helped position Pomade Cartel as a center for learning and professional exchange. Education inside the shop reinforces Gum’s advocacy for strong foundations and continuous improvement.
Pomade Cartel has earned recognition from media outlets such as Esquire Philippines and Garage Magazine, both of which highlighted its concept, services, and founder Gum Cruz. It is widely regarded as a go-to destination for traditional, contemporary, and creative haircuts.
Pomade Cartel is also listed on the Mizutani Scissors global network as the Philippines’ exclusive distributor of their products, reflecting international professional recognition. Gum Cruz’s role as an award-winning barber and educator further elevates the shop’s standing. Together, these factors contribute to Pomade Cartel’s reputation as one of the leading barbershops in Pampanga.
