Meet Charlie Barnes

Growing up in the business, and now building a career of his own

For Charlie Barnes, Krispies has always been part of life. As the son of owners Kelly and Tim Barnes, he grew up around the shop, seeing first-hand the work, skill and commitment that goes into running the business.

In 2025, Charlie officially joined the Krispies team full time and began building his own career within the industry.

His journey is also a reminder that things don’t always have to go exactly to plan. Exams and traditional education are only one route forward. With the right support, a good employer can help you discover what you’re good at, develop practical skills and find opportunities you might not previously have considered.

Since joining full time, Charlie has been learning the craft of frying from Tim, gaining the skills and knowledge that come from years of experience in the industry. But his development goes much further than learning what happens behind the fryer.

Charlie is attending industry events, meeting suppliers and learning more about where the food we serve actually comes from. He’s developing an understanding of sourcing, sustainability and the wider fish and chip industry, as well as what it takes to maintain the quality and standards Krispies is known for.

It’s about giving him the strongest possible foundation at the beginning of his working life, then seeing where that foundation might take him.

Charlie’s story reflects something we believe strongly at Krispies: potential isn’t defined by exam results. Sometimes people simply need an opportunity, someone willing to teach them and an environment where they can learn by doing.

And while Charlie might have grown up in the Krispies family, that opportunity to learn, develop and progress is something we want to create for every member of our team.