With significant growth achieved over the last two years since the launch of the US business unit and creation of a dedicated distribution hub, John will be helping to capitalise on the many opportunities present in both the marine and industrial markets.  Helping to drive the business forward in its next phase of development, in both North and South America.  
 
John comes to Barton having spent the last five years working at CWR Wholesale Distribution, playing a key role in building the Marine and RV marketspace.  As a product specialist working with over 350 brands, he has created a huge network of industry contacts and has expansive knowledge of the boating sector.  Topped off with a lifelong love of sailing, John is well placed to take on the Pan-American challenge.  John has an interesting background and moved across to the marine industry following a 17 year career as a Flight Paramedic and Hazardous Materials Specialist, which has instilled him with a calm, analytical and solutions orientated mindset. 
 
Suzanne Blaustone, Chief Executive Officer, Barton Marine Equipment said, “On behalf of the whole Barton team, I am very proud to welcome John as our new COO for the American continent.  He will be a hugely valuable team member heading up the business, driving sales and customer relations forward.  It’s a very exciting time, as the team expands, allowing all of us to concentrate on delivering the best products and providing the highest levels of service to our customers.”
 
Talking about his appointment, John said, “I am very excited to begin work with one of the leading marine hardware manufacturers and help make the Barton Marine name the industry standard.  I truly believe that the culture at Barton thrives on offering honest, quality built and well-valued products.  To be able to help offer these products in North and South America, is a lifetime opportunity. 
 
Additionally, the chance to introduce children and young adults to the sport of sailing as part of my role is going to be something I accept as a personal challenge and I’m sure will also further the Barton Marine name, as a company people feel truly proud to be associated with.” 
 
John will be crossing the Atlantic to help host the annual Barton Drinks Party at METSTRADE, Amsterdam on the 15th November at 6pm (Stand 01.478), where all are welcome to join and discover the Barton range of products and new developments being launched at the Show.   He is also available to meet with businesses from the Americas interested in finding out about the Barton range and creating new partnerships throughout the METSTRADE show.  To contact John, email john.navarro@bartonus.com or call +1 (609) 276-9022. 

About Barton Marine

Barton Marine has been a worldwide supplier of blocks since 1948 in Whitstable, Kent. The founder, Ron Barton, was one of the first to use Tufnol, and later, plastic injection moulded plastics and stainless steel to manufacture yachting blocks which were much lighter and stronger than previously achievable. 70 years on, Barton Marine remains the premier UK deck equipment manufacturer for leisure sailing yachts up to 48 feet and supplies the range worldwide.

In 2020 sister company Barton US LLC was incorporated, with warehousing facilities in Hampton, Virginia to better serve the US market place.

Image credits - Barton Marine

For further information and to arrange interviews please contact:

Chris Jones (The Knot Agency) - chris.jones@kn8t.com - 020 3468 3458