About
Built on Experience. Growing Through Reputation
PLB Group was established in 2019 by Paul Barrett, bringing more than 30 years of experience working with commercial vehicles to a new business focused on quality workmanship, technical expertise and dependable customer service.
What started as a small operation specialising in the conversion and maintenance of horseboxes quickly developed into something much bigger.
As word spread and demand increased, PLB established a reputation across Cornwall for high-quality commercial vehicle maintenance and repair, supporting businesses and vehicle operators who needed experienced technicians they could trust to keep their vehicles safe, reliable and on the road.
Today, PLB has two commercial vehicle facilities, a growing team and an expanding range of specialist capabilities – but the principles the business was built upon remain the same.
Do the job properly. Look after the customer. Keep their vehicles moving.
How we have grown
The PLB of today looks very different from the business that started in 2019.
In the beginning, Paul carried out all of the vehicle repairs himself, supported by just one person in the office and operating from a small workshop.
The reputation of the business led to increasing demand and it wasn't long before PLB had outgrown its original premises.
2019 – Where It Started
PLB was established by Paul Barrett, initially specialising in horsebox conversions, repairs and maintenance.
With more than three decades of commercial vehicle experience behind him, Paul built the business around technical knowledge, quality workmanship and personal service.
2020 – PLB Moves to Redruth
As the customer base grew and the business expanded further into commercial vehicle servicing, maintenance and repairs, the original premises could no longer accommodate the operation.
In 2020, PLB moved to its larger Redruth facility, providing the additional workshop capacity needed to support its growing commercial customer base.
2024 – Mitchell Opens
Continued growth led to another significant milestone in 2024 with the opening of PLB's second facility in Mitchell.
With workshops in both Mitchell and Redruth, PLB now has greater capacity to support commercial vehicle operators and fleets across Cornwall.
Today – The PLB Group
The addition of the haulage side of the business has seen PLB continue to develop into a wider commercial vehicle group.
From a business that began with two people at one small site, PLB Group now employs 16 people across its operations – and we're continuing to grow.
More Than 30 Years of Commercial Vehicle Experience
Although PLB was established in 2019, the experience behind the business goes back much further.
Founder Paul Barrett has spent more than 30 years working with commercial vehicles, and that technical knowledge and understanding of the industry has helped shape the standards PLB works to today.
As the business has grown, so has the expertise within it.
Today, PLB has built a highly skilled technical team with expertise covering commercial vehicle servicing, preventative maintenance, diagnostics, vehicle electronics, mechanical repairs, brake testing, tail lift engineering and specialist commercial vehicle maintenance.
Our technicians include IRTEC accredited and IVECO accredited professionals, supported by investment in modern workshop equipment and the latest commercial vehicle diagnostic technology.
Experience Supported by Modern Technology
Commercial vehicles have changed significantly over the past 30 years – and maintaining them requires workshops to change too.
That's why PLB continues to invest in the technology, equipment and facilities our technicians need to do their jobs effectively.
Across our Redruth and Mitchell facilities, we've invested in modern commercial vehicle workshop equipment and diagnostic technology, including Jaltest multi-brand diagnostics, IVECO manufacturer diagnostics, inspection pits, column lifts, commercial vehicle brake testing equipment, a loaded trailer brake tester, shaker plate and headlight beam setter.
Across both sites, we have the capacity to work on up to nine commercial vehicles at the same time, helping us support everyone from individual commercial vehicle operators to businesses managing larger fleets.
The combination of experienced people and modern technology allows us to diagnose problems accurately, maintain vehicles proactively and complete repairs efficiently.
Our Ambition for the Future
2026 marks another important chapter in the PLB story.
We've been investing in new technology, strengthening our operations and introducing a long-term growth plan for the business.
Our ambition is clear:
To become Cornwall's most respected independent commercial vehicle maintenance business, recognised for operational excellence and exceptional customer service.
But growth for us isn't simply about becoming bigger. It's about becoming better.
- Better communication with our customers.
- Better use of technology.
- Better planning.
- Better facilities.
- Better career opportunities for our people.
And an even better service for the businesses that trust us to maintain their vehicles.
Ultimately, commercial vehicle maintenance isn't just about vehicles.
Behind every van, HGV or specialist commercial vehicle we maintain is a business that depends upon it.
- A delivery that needs to arrive.
- A job that needs to be completed.
- A customer waiting.
- A driver who needs a safe and reliable vehicle.
We understand that responsibility.
It's why our focus isn't simply on repairing vehicles when something goes wrong. We're increasingly working in partnership with our customers to prevent problems, reduce downtime and keep their fleets operating safely, reliably and compliantly.
From one man carrying out repairs in a small workshop to a growing team operating across two locations, a lot has changed since 2019.
One thing hasn't.
We're here to keep Cornwall's commercial vehicles moving.
Benefits Of Working With Us
Modern Workshops
Across our Mitchell and Redruth workshops, we're continually investing in the facilities and technology our technicians use every day. Our aim is simple - give skilled technicians the tools and facilities they need to do skilled work properly.
Training and Development
Commercial vehicles are constantly evolving, particularly in areas such as electronics, diagnostics, emissions and vehicle technology.
We want our technicians to evolve with them.
Competitive Salary
Of course, competitive pay matters.
But so does enjoying where you work, having the right equipment to do your job properly, being respected for your skills and knowing there's an opportunity to develop your career.
Testimonial
"Absolutely brilliant place to get anything mechanical fixed. Had my air con sorted, new condenser fitted regassed and ready to collect in a few hours. Thanks Paul."
Contact Details
Unit 2 Winfield Park, Mitchell, Newquay, United Kingdom