Get to know Wernick Refurbished Buildings and Managing Director Alan Barnes
Wernick Refurbished Buildings (WRB) specialises in giving modular buildings a new lease of life. Through a meticulous, industry-leading refurbishment process, the company transforms existing modular units into high-quality buildings that look and perform like new.
While the original steel frame, the most carbon-intensive element, is retained, every other component is replaced, renewed and tailored to the client’s exact requirements. The result is a bespoke refurbished modular building that offers the same reliability, comfort and appearance as a new build, but at a lower cost and with a significantly reduced environmental impact.
Journey to MD
Alan Barnes, Managing Director of Wernick Refurbished Buildings, has been with the business for over 13 years. His journey began with PK Accommodation, where Alan was offered the role of General Manager despite having no prior experience in modular construction.
“Michael Thistlethwaite, Managing Director at Wernick Hire, knew me from our time at Sunbelt Rentals,” Alan explained. “He reassured me that I’d be a good fit for the role.”
Following meetings with then-CEO Simon Doran and David Wernick, Alan joined the business and has since helped shape it into what it is today.
Milestones and achievements
Alan’s leadership has been defined by growth, innovation and investment. Among the key milestones he highlights are:
- Rebranding PK Accommodation to Wernick Refurbished Buildings in October 2014.
- Relocating to a larger site in 2016, after outgrowing the original premises. The team managed a full site redevelopment while continuing operations, officially opening the new site with local MP Kevin Hollinrake.
- Establishing a strong senior management team, with four directors now leading core departments and reporting directly to Alan.
- Significant investment over the past five years, including solar panels, electric forklifts, a roller crusher, new racking, tools and saws.
These efforts have enabled the company to quadruple in size over the last five years, all while maintaining healthy margins.
“Culture, environment and teamwork are vital,” Alan said, “but none of it is sustainable unless the business itself is performing well. It’s about finding that balance.”
The rewards
For Alan, the most rewarding aspect of his role is working with people, both within the business and beyond.
“Having a boss who listens and supports you makes all the difference,” he explained. “That mutual respect and understanding help you move the business forward.”
He also finds great satisfaction in watching people develop their careers:
“Seeing people grow in confidence and ability gives me a real buzz.”
Equally rewarding is the customer feedback that reflects WRB’s commitment to service and quality, along with the sustainability aspect that underpins the business.
“Our model is built around circularity,” Alan said. “We’re proud to be championing sustainability in everything we do.”
What sets Wernick Refurbished Buildings apart
Alan believes WRB’s success is rooted in its people, culture and history.
“It’s the people and the journey we’ve been on as part of the Wernick Group,” he said. “That experience translates into the quality and service our customers receive.”
The business is guided by The Wernick Way, the Group’s core values: Simplicity, Invest, Excellence, Careers and Environment. These values shape WRB’s culture and drive its focus on delivering quality buildings, exceptional service and long-term value for money.
“For our clients, it’s about peace of mind,” Alan added. “We sell on service, quality and trust, building repeat business through strong relationships.”
Looking ahead
Alan has ambitious plans for the next decade.
“In 5–10 years, I want us to be 50–100% bigger than we are now,” he said. “To do that, we’ll need additional space and resources.”
The company has already acquired two acres of land for storage, supporting its growing operations and stock requirements. But Alan emphasises that growth must be sustainable, both environmentally and operationally.
“You need to hold the team together. Without the people, you can’t do it.”
As part of its long-term vision, Wernick Refurbished Buildings aims to:
- Double turnover and profit while maintaining the same high standards of quality and service.
- Become fully electrified in operation, transitioning away from fossil fuels.
- Achieve net zero in operation and develop the capability to manufacture buildings that are net zero in operation.
- Promote social value within local communities, supporting initiatives that make a positive difference beyond the business itself.
“We’ve got the right people, the right mindset and the right values,” Alan concluded. “The future’s bright for Wernick Refurbished Buildings.”
