Barrier marks anniversary with growth blueprint

A North East engineering and industrial services contractor is marking 50 years with plans to double global sales by 2030.

Barrier Group has grown from a small industrial painting and blasting operation serving the oil and gas sector into a multi-disciplined engineering, design and build contractor. 

Now operating across the UK and Canada, the company delivers projects throughout Europe and North America, and reports annual turnover of more than £50 million.

As part of a new five-year strategy, bosses say Barrier will consolidate its individual divisions into one integrated business to strengthen its brand and improve client engagement. 

They add the move is designed to support international growth and help the firm surpass £100 million in global sales within the decade.

Ted Nightingale, an original Barrier Group founder, said: “When John and I started Barrier in the mid-70s, I could never have imagined the scale of projects and global reach the Group would have achieved today. 

“From those early days, our shared vision and commitment to doing things properly helped shape the company’s culture, one built on quality, professionalism and teamwork. 

“It’s a proud moment to see how those values have endured over time, and to watch my son Alan and grandson Paul continue that legacy and guide the business into its next chapter.”

Alan Nightingale, group director, who has been at Barrier Group for over 48 years, added: “The foundations that my father, John, and Robert Bowles laid all those years ago have shaped every chapter of Barrier’s journey. 

“Their shared vision and commitment to integrity, quality and reinvestment set the tone for the business we have today. 

“Over 50 years, the industry has changed dramatically, and Barrier has continuously adapted through diversification, innovation and international expansion. 

“The decision to bring our brands together reflects how we now operate as one team across multiple disciplines, making it easier for clients and positioning Barrier for the next phase of growth.”

Over the years, Barrier has diversified into fire protection, architectural services and marine operations, expanding beyond oil and gas into shipbuilding, petrochemicals, construction and renewable energy. 

Long-term contracts and major programmes, including energy transition projects in the North East and vessel builds in Canada, have reinforced its position in global markets.

Paul Nightingale, group operations director, representing the third generation of leadership at Barrier, added: “We’re proud of our heritage, but our focus is firmly on the future. 

“We want Barrier to be recognised not only for what we’ve achieved in the past 50 years, but for how we continue to innovate and grow. 

“We’re investing in new facilities, systems and our people to prepare for this growth. 

“Our ambition is to strengthen our reputation, expand into new markets, and ensure we remain a trusted partner for the next 50 years and beyond.”

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