History
Ron Barton establishes R.S.J. Barton.
1948 – Whitstable Shipwright and boat builder Ron Barton establishes R.S.J. Barton. He was one of the first to use a fabric based laminated plastic called Tufnol and stainless steel to manufacture yachting blocks which were much lighter and stronger than previously achievable.
Introduction of GRP boats, bringing sailing to a larger audience.
1960 - Sees the introduction of GRP boats, bringing sailing to a larger audience. Demand for Barton’s innovative, lightweight and cost effective products continues to grow. Ron realised that Tufnol was too labour intensive and costly so set about re-designing the entire Barton product range to become the first marine company to use a new plastic injection moulding process using revolutionary fibre glass reinforced plastic materials. RSJ Barton now becomes a limited company.
RSJ Barton moves to Cromwell Road, Whitstable.
1963 – RSJ Barton moves to Cromwell Road, Whitstable. The Barton brand becomes known internationally, Barton winches take off in the USA! Now commonplace on smaller cruising and racing yachts.
Barton now a leading manufacturer of lightweight yacht fittings
1971 – Barton now a leading manufacturer of lightweight yacht fittings; new products include slab reefing kits, ball bearing blocks, deck organisers, mainsheet systems and rope clutches. Barton expands its Cromwell Road factory to cope with demand. Plastimo appointed as distributor for France.
Ron Barton retires and Barton is sold to David Coleman
1986 – Ron Barton retires and Barton is sold to David Coleman, who brings a wide experience and knowledge of the yacht equipment market and global distribution. Barton Marine Equipment Ltd is formed; Belship appointed as distributor in Holland.