In memoriam: John Barker (1936-2024), IPAF’s first president

John Barker, a pioneering figure in the powered access industry and the first president of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF),  died peacefully at home on Sunday, July 7th, 2024, at the age of 88, after a battle with late-stage prostate cancer.

John Barker’s remarkable career began in the Royal Air Force before he made significant strides in the powered access market as the managing director of Simon Dudley and Simon Access in the mid-1970s. Under his leadership, Simon Access expanded globally, acquiring several key companies including Krause in the USA, Skywitch scissor lifts, Ladder Towers Inc, Nolan truck-mounted lifts, Telelect digger derricks, and RO Holdings.

Throughout the 1980s, John continued his acquisition spree in Europe and beyond, bringing companies such as Simon Gala, Gloster Saro, Eurolift, Abbey Equipment, and Cella under the Simon Access umbrella. By 1992, Simon Access had grown into a global powerhouse with 22 companies and combined revenues of £152 million, commanding 15% of the global powered access market.

Despite the challenges of integrating a diverse group of companies and facing a market downturn in the early 1990s, John’s contributions to the access industry were significant and enduring. John was appointed IPAF’s first president upon the federation’s formation in 1983, as the International Work Platform Association and the International Federation of Hydraulic Platform Manufacturers merged to create a unified body representing the interests of both rental companies and manufacturers.

Peter Douglas, IPAF CEO and managing director, paid his respects, “John Barker’s vision and leadership shaped the industry federation as we know it today and he was a real pioneer for improving safety within the powered access industry. He will be deeply missed by his colleagues and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his long career.”

After leaving Simon in 1994, Barker continued to contribute to the industry, working with Janes Defence publications and later representing Swedish company Safelift in the UK. Known for his intelligence, wit, and camaraderie, John was a beloved figure in the industry. He is survived by his children, Richard and Sally, and will be fondly remembered for his impact on the powered access industry.