WARRINGTON-based family-run business Barrow Electrical has proven that community impact outweighs corporate size after being crowned the winner of the High Sheriff’s Award for Excellence in Enterprise.
Laurence and Claire Barrow accepted the prestigious award at a ceremony held at the University of Chester, joined by the High Sheriff Joëlle Warren MBE DL, Lady Redmond MBE, the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, and her husband, TV producer Phil Redmond. The category recognises businesses that have shown outstanding commercial growth and resilience.
In what many are calling a true “David vs. Goliath” victory, Barrow Electrical emerged triumphant in a field dominated by corporate giants, including those with turnovers exceeding £20 million. This proves that a dedicated, family-run team from Warrington can lead the way in both enterprise and community impact.
The judges’ decision was rooted in Barrow Electrical’s deep commitment to the region. Beyond their commercial success, the company was recognised for its significant social impact, driven by consistent support for multiple organisations and charities. For Barrow Electrical, “excellence” isn’t just about the balance sheet; it’s about the lasting positive impact they leave on Warrington and the wider community.
Fresh off their High Sheriff Award win and upcoming invitation to the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, Barrow Electrical is now looking towards applying for the King’s Awards for Enterprise. Even as the accolades grow, the heart of the business remains the same: it’s always about the team.
Laurence Barrow said: “It was an honour to be recognised alongside such large-scale companies, but the real pride comes from knowing this award belongs to the entire Barrow team. They are the ones on-site every day, representing us with our clients and delivering the high standards we have become known for. We simply wouldn’t be celebrating this milestone without their hard work and dedication.”
The High Sheriff’s Award is one of the region’s most respected accolades, celebrating leadership and resilience. For Barrow Electrical, the victory highlights a team capable of managing complex, high-standard projects for its clients while never losing the “personal touch” that defines a local family business.
Stephen Fitzsimons, Warrington Chamber Plus of which Barrow Electrical are a proud member, said: “It was an honour to attend the High Sheriff Awards and witness Barrow Electrical receive recognition for their efforts from peers across Cheshire. Laurence, Claire and the team have worked really hard to grow the business, whilst always giving plenty back through their charitable and community-focused activities. The company is a rising star, and the Chamber will continue to support them in maximising their potential.
While the awards now sit in their Warrington office, the team is already back on site, continuing to provide the multidisciplinary electrical solutions that have made them a local success story.
About Barrow Electrical:
Barrow Electrical is a multi-award-winning, family-owned business of commercial and industrial electrical contractors based in Warrington. Known for technical excellence and a community-first mission, they serve a diverse range of sectors across the UK and internationally. They are the 2026 winners of the High Sheriff’s Award for Excellence in Enterprise.
