Tech firm praised for expansion and skills investment

Technology company Barron McCann has been praised for its recent expansion and investment in skills.

The firm, which is based at the Meteor Centre, in Derby, provides IT services to leading retail, hospitality and stadium companies throughout the UK and Europe.

It has opened an Innovation Hub at its base, showcasing the most advanced technologies transforming the sector.

Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson was recently given a tour of the business, accompanied by managing director Scott Watson, which culminated in a visit to the new hub.

Of particular interest was Barron McCann’s recent expansion into the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry, a strategic move aimed at supporting the UK’s growing EV infrastructure.

The company is planning to leverage its engineering expertise to support the Government’s pledge for 99% charge point reliability.

In addition to its commercial success, Barron McCann has also demonstrated a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Catherine learned about the firm’s focus on attracting local talent and its work with students from the University of Derby and schools such as Lees Brook Academy in a bid to nurture the next generation of professionals.

And she was introduced to the company’s head of IT and quality, Jack Buxton who started his career at the firm as an apprentice.

Catherine said: “Meeting the demand for the technology of tomorrow depends upon our success in developing a skilled workforce fit for the future.

“Barron McCann is a brilliant example of the innovative, forward-thinking approach to developing the skills our region and industries need to grow.”

Barron McCann is the largest of a family-owned group of businesses, privately owned by executive chairman and owner, Alan Watson.

The group encompasses a range of businesses that turn over circa £50 million, offering a range of services including IT hardware provision, installation and maintenance, infrastructure cabling, EV charge point maintenance and HR and employment law advisory services.

Scott said: “Although Barron McCann operates throughout the UK and Europe, we are proud to be based in Derby and it was a privilege to welcome Catherine Atkinson to our HQ and specifically our Innovation Hub.

“It was a real pleasure to introduce her to Jack Buxton who started with us 10 years ago as an apprentice at the age of 17.

“He is living proof that career progression is actively encouraged at Barron McCann.

“Jack’s journey demonstrates our commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth within the company.

“We remain dedicated to fostering innovation and development, both in our technology and our people, as we continue to expand our services across the UK and Europe.”