New and improved: Ramstein’s oldest barbershop receives a twist

Story and photo by Senior Airman Timmethy James
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Sigrid Zang, Siggi’s Barbershop owner, poses for a portrait in her shop April 6 on Ramstein Air Base. Zang previously cut hair for 9 years. She took over ownership April 1, renamed the shop, and added new amenities such as hair washes, womens’ services, and beverages.

For 57 years, Kaiserslautern Military Community members have had a barbershop that offered a fresh cut. C&H Barbershop, in MOMS Ramstein, was the first to open on base, and served everyone from generals to toddlers. Today, anyone who takes a stroll into the old shop will notice some new flavor added to an old tradition.

C&H closed over Easter weekend and reopened under new ownership April 1  as Siggi’s Barbershop.

Sigrid Zang, “Siggi” for short, previously cut hair in the shop for nine years. She took over ownership once her boss, Claudia Gomez, retired after 37 years cutting hair, and 17 years as the owner.

Upon entering the new shop, customers will notice a different name and logo, a new interior, and different furniture and decorations. New amenities include salon services for women, hair massages and washes for both men and women, and a beverage station with coffee and water. Haircuts are available to all ages.

Walk-ins are still welcome, but scheduled appointments have priority. The new hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturdays 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Siggi’s will close all German and U.S. holidays, and official family days.

“For me, as a hairstylist, it’s the passion,” Siggi said. “You can change a lot with a haircut. You can also help make somebody feel better with the relaxing time and peace they get while in the shop.”

Gaining ownership of a business would normally take a few weeks or more. But when Gomez stepped down on March 30 the Ramstein Club Complex, which oversees MOMS and its shops, worked with Siggi to streamline the contracting process so there wouldn’t be a stoppage in service at the barbershop.

The club also aimed to increase customer service at the barbershop by adding credit and debit card payment options and accepting walk-in appointments.

“The 86 Force Support Squadron is pleased to announce the new operator, Ms. Sigrid Zang, and we look forward to this continued service to the community,” said Paul Gotshall, Ramstein Club Complex General Manager.

Siggi’s new contract as owner will carry her through the next 10 years.

“I plan to do this until I retire at 67, so another 27 years is my goal” Siggi said.