Barrus celebrates its 100-year anniversary
The new Quicksilver Activ 875, flagship of the Sundeck range.
September 18 marks the 100-year birthday of E.P. Barrus Ltd.
It all began in 1917 when Ernest Prouty Barrus set up a company in the UK to supply Starrett precision tools including micrometers and measuring equipment and distribute them throughout Europe. Over the last century, Barrus has adapted to new opportunities and diversified into multiple market sectors including marine, garden and industrial.
E. P. Barrus is co-owned by the Glen family and MTD Holdings, also a family owned company based in the USA, and one of the largest producers of outdoor power equipment in the world.
Barrus entered the marine market during the late 1920s and were pioneers of the concept that became known as the ‘package boat’; a series of boats already fully equipped at a range of prices to suit most pockets. Powerboat racing has always featured throughout Barrus’s long history enabling the company to showcase its engine brands under the most extreme conditions. Ernest Barrus established a Barrus Powerboat Racing Team in the 1920s, and again, in the 1970s and 1980s Mariner outboards were promoted through powerboat racing.
Barrus has continued to introduce innovative products to the British market. Today, the company has long-standing partnerships with global suppliers, representing over 30 brands which are distributed through over 3,000 authorised dealers nationwide. Mariner and Mercury outboard engines; Quicksilver leisure and fishing boats; John Deere and Yanmar marine and industrial engines, Cub Cadet garden machinery; WOLF-Garten and Wilkinson Sword garden tools are just a few of the well- brands in the Barrus portfolio.
The ‘package boat’ pioneered by Barrus in the 1920’s.
Robert Glen, Chairman, E. P. Barrus Ltd and the grandson of the founder Ernest Barrus said: “As we celebrate our centenary we reflect on our proud past and most importantly express our sincere thanks to our customers, suppliers, distributors and partners, and loyal employees who have put their trust in Barrus and helped build the company’s success.”
Over the years Barrus has been responsible for numerous innovative products and solutions including many firsts to be introduced to the UK market. These range from the first claw hammer, ride-on lawnmower and gas-fired garden barbecues. The D-BAT, a diesel powered all-terrain vehicle popular with the military; FAST PIRS®, an engine that can be rapidly restarted after being submerged, pioneered by Barrus for the Armed Forces and rescue organisations, and a multi-fuel outboard developed for the UK MoD capable of running on four different NATO fuels.
“One hundred years in business represents a tremendous milestone,” commented Robert Muir, Managing Director, E. P. Barrus Ltd. “Not only are we looking back but also forward, focusing on the company’s future to build on our success and best serve our customers. 2017 is, indeed, a momentous year with recent announcements including our exciting new location plans which will enable us to grow the business. The acquisition of the gardening gloves and footwear company, Town & Country, and the engine supply contract recently awarded to Barrus by Atlas Elektronik UK who will build the £48M next generation Royal Navy workboats. As our centennial strapline states, “We are celebrating our first 100-years, gearing up for the next.”
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