Bernard Barton 1939 - 2023
February 2023 marked the end of an era for Bensons with the sad passing for former owner and Managing Director Bernard Barton.
Bernard joined Bensons in the mid-1960s, at a time when the business was primarily focused on commercial gas engineering and run from Don Benson’s kitchen table.
Ever the one with an eye for an opportunity, Bernard was instrumental in pivoting the business to focus on the design and manufacture of electrical control panels, leading to the purchase of premises on Normanton Industrial Estate in 1967.
From there the business saw steady growth with the original 255m2 facility eventually growing to 847m2 by 1986, the year that Bernard succeeded Don Benson as Managing Director. During the late 80s and early 90s the business continued to grow and prosper under Bernard’s stewardship, with the site growing to its current 1,100m2 and new markets successfully entered. In 2001 Bernard retired and was succeeded as Managing Director by Keith Williams.
Outside work, Bernard had a successful amateur career in motorsport, completing the RAC Rally twice and winning a host of events locally and nationally. In addition, he was a keen sailor, crossing the Atlantic in 1995 and a keen golfer until Parkinson’s brought this to a premature end. He is succeeded by his wife Jenny, children Matthew, Helen and Greg, and six grandchildren.
Celebrating Success
In the hotly contested Employer of the Year category, we are again proud to announce that Bensons was recognised as being 'Highly Commended', reflecting the continued commitment to the team to Providing outstanding solutions, service and careers in engineering and manufacturing.
Refurbishment Complete
Our customers and team now have access to a high-quality and effective space for collaboration, team building and downtime
Making the Vision come to Life - A Perspective from our new Head of Operations – Tony Weston
Since joining Bensons at the end of April, a lot of my time has been
focused on learning the systems and the basics of what we do.
Working Environment Upgrade
Every business is a work in progress, there are always ways to make it better, be that from a perspective of people, process or the facilities and infrastructure.
Need to discuss your perfect Control Panel solution? Simply fill in the form with your details and requirements and we'll be in touch!