Agru announces retirement of Paul Barker

Georgetown, S.C.-based Agru America Inc. announced in a July press release the retirement of senior vice president and officer, Paul W. Barker, effective Aug. 31, 2015.

Barker joined Agru America in 1997 and has played an integral part in Agru America’s growth and success. The release noted that “Over the last half-century, Mr. Barker has witnessed and participated in the expansion of the geomembrane industry from very small beginnings in 1963 to the large, sophisticated industry that today employs thousands of people.”

Agru America president, Robert Johnson added: “During Paul’s tenure with Agru America we have seen many changes, from being a small manufacturing company without name or brand recognition, to a company that has become [a] leader for geosynthetics in North America. Paul’s work ethic, integrity, dedication, leadership, technical and market knowledge, plus his understanding of global marketing during his 50-plus years in geosynthetics has not only helped our company, but has been a boon to the entire industry.”

Johnson concluded: “I speak for all Agru America employees and chairman, Alois Gruber Jr., when I genuinely say this is a very sad day. We all have the highest admiration for Paul as he embarks on his retirement and wish him the very best. He will be missed.”