Everyone around Fuquay-Varina has heard about Bob Barker Company, but what do you really know about the family who runs the business and the company itself?

Well, for starters, Bob Barker is the board chairman and CEO for the company, which is headquartered in Fuquay-Varina and is a worldwide leader in delivering supplies and services to correctional and rehabilitation customers.

A family business, Barker's company is the highest revenue producing company in the town of Fuquay, employing a majority of its 200 workers from Fuquay, in a variety of positions.

"Years ago, population 3,000, this town resembled the TV show ‘Gun Smoke,'" Barker said. "Change has occurred, most particularly, because land here is still relatively inexpensive and there has been tremendous growth largely due to the Research Triangle Park. I think people want to get away from city problems and raise their families in a small town atmosphere." 

Barker, earned a history degree from Campbell University and a certificate in Municipal Administration from North Carolina School of Government.  That education has served him well as he has worn many hats over the years.

He began as publisher/editor of his own newspaper, Western Wake Herald, in Apex.  He was that town's mayor as well.  In 1972, he was elected state senator and served until 1974. 

Barker entertained a career in law, but gave it up 36 years ago when he sold his newspaper and with his brother got involved selling restaurant equipment.  Then, in the late 70s, he bought out a friend who had opened a small jail business.

As his business grew, more space was needed for warehousing and the manufacture of metal products.  In 1986, he moved his headquarters to its present location in downtown Fuquay.

It truly is a family business. Barker's wife Pat is treasurer, and daughter, Nancy, is secretary of the board of directors. Barker's son, Robert, is president of the company. 

In an effort to foster good health, Robert initiated several programs with monetary incentives for weight loss and smoking cessation.

"As president, I see my role primarily as driving the growth of all aspects of the company and moving it forward as an organization.  In the future, the focus will be in the domestic and overseas areas."

All employees are entitled to take advantage of continuing education- from undergraduate to masters level.  E-learning is encouraged as a business discipline for effective management skills and development of a strong knowledge base.

Employees enjoy an annual picnic at Barker's farm complete with rides, games and BBQ. At Christmas, the celebration is a posh hotel affair.

Bob Barker Company contributes to the community.  They sponsor three soccer and three baseball teams for 5-6 year olds.  Granddaughter Adele Johns, 5, plays on the girls Little League baseball team.

Barker is a Rotarian and trustee on the board of Campbell University.

The Mission and Value Statements at Bob Barker are reflected in a six point Code of Conduct, which emphasizes a ‘can do' attitude along with team effort, promotion of the growth of individuals, strong communication centering on listening and hearing, internal alignment, clear thinking, mentoring and accountability.

Visit Bob Barker at www.bobbarker.com