Charlie Mullins: From Apprentice Plumber to Multimillionaire Business Icon

The Life, Success, Controversies, and Business Legacy of a Self-Made British Entrepreneur

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Charlie Mullins is one of the most recognizable self-made businessmen in modern Britain. Known for founding Pimlico Plumbers, he transformed a single-man plumbing operation into London’s largest independent domestic services firm. His story is frequently described as a rags-to-riches journey, built on resilience, sharp branding instincts, and an unapologetically outspoken personality. Over more than four decades, Charlie Mullins has become not just a successful entrepreneur but also a public commentator on business, politics, and the changing economic climate of the United Kingdom.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Charlie Mullins was born on 28 October 1952 in London. He left school at 15 with no formal qualifications, a background that would later become central to his public identity. Rather than continuing in education, he entered a plumbing apprenticeship, learning a trade that would define the rest of his professional life. These early years were marked by long hours, practical learning, and a determination to succeed in an industry that often rewards discipline and consistency over academic credentials.

Founding Pimlico Plumbers

The Birth of a Business Vision

In 1979, Charlie Mullins founded Pimlico Plumbers from a basement in London. At the time, the business consisted of little more than Mullins himself, a van, and a belief that domestic plumbing services could be delivered more professionally. He focused on punctuality, presentation, and customer trust, areas that were often neglected in the trade sector at the time.

Growth into a London Institution

Over the following decades, Pimlico Plumbers grew steadily into a multi-trade services company offering plumbing, heating, electrical work, drainage, and maintenance. The brand became instantly recognizable due to its uniformed engineers, branded vehicles, and strict internal standards. By the late 2010s, Pimlico Plumbers employed hundreds of staff and contractors and was widely regarded as London’s most prominent independent plumbing company.

Branding Genius and Public Profile

Marketing That Changed the Trade Industry

One of the defining features of Charlie Mullins’ success was his unconventional branding approach. He invested heavily in visibility, including a famous collection of plumbing-themed personalized number plates such as “BOG1”. These plates became part of the company’s identity and were widely reported to be worth over £1.5 million collectively. This approach helped elevate Pimlico Plumbers from a trade business into a recognizable consumer brand.

Media Presence and Public Commentary

Charlie Mullins became a regular presence in British media, frequently commenting on small business challenges, entrepreneurship, and regulation. His willingness to speak candidly, sometimes controversially, kept him in the public eye and reinforced his image as a straight-talking businessman who had built success from nothing.

The Sale of Pimlico Plumbers

A Landmark Business Deal

In September 2021, Charlie Mullins sold a 90 percent stake in Pimlico Plumbers to the US-based home services group Neighbourly for approximately £145 million. The deal marked one of the most high-profile exits in the UK trade services sector and confirmed Mullins as a multimillionaire entrepreneur.

Leadership Transition and Family Involvement

Following the sale, Mullins stepped back from day-to-day operations. His son, Scott Mullins, retained a 10 percent stake and continued as chief executive, ensuring continuity in leadership and family involvement within the company.

Life After the Sale and New Ventures

Launch of WeFix London

After leaving Pimlico Plumbers, Charlie Mullins launched a new venture called WeFix London. The business operates as a 24-hour service provider covering plumbing, heating, electrical work, and roofing. The move demonstrated Mullins’ continued belief in the domestic services sector and his desire to remain active in business rather than fully retiring.

Entrepreneurial Philosophy

Mullins has consistently stated that trades remain one of the most reliable routes to financial independence. He frequently promotes apprenticeships and vocational careers, arguing that practical skills offer long-term security in a changing economy increasingly dominated by automation and digitalization.

Political Views and Public Controversies

Shifting Political Allegiances

Charlie Mullins is also known for his political involvement. Over the years, he has donated to multiple political parties, including the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats. In 2024, he officially joined Reform UK, citing concerns about taxation, regulation, and the treatment of entrepreneurs in Britain.

Decision to Leave the United Kingdom

Between late 2024 and 2025, Mullins announced that he was selling his UK properties, including a luxury London penthouse valued at around £12 million. He stated that proposed tax policies, particularly around inheritance tax, influenced his decision to leave the UK permanently. This announcement generated significant public debate about wealth, taxation, and business migration.

OBE Controversy

Charlie Mullins was awarded an OBE in the 2015 New Year Honours for services to the plumbing industry. In March 2025, media reports suggested the honour could be withdrawn following controversial comments about London mayor Sadiq Khan. After legal representations and a commitment to sensitivity training, Mullins retained the honour, though the episode added to his reputation as a polarising public figure.

Personal Life and International Living

Life in Spain and Dubai

As of 2026, Charlie Mullins divides his time between Marbella and Dubai. He has described this lifestyle as offering greater financial predictability and personal freedom compared to the UK. Despite relocating, he remains closely connected to British business discussions through media appearances and interviews.

Family and Legacy

Mullins has four children and frequently speaks about the importance of providing future generations with financial security and independence. His journey from apprentice to business icon is often presented as an example of what can be achieved through persistence and calculated risk-taking.

Charlie Mullins’ Impact on British Business Culture

Charlie Mullins has had a lasting impact on how trade businesses are perceived in the UK. By professionalizing branding, emphasizing customer service, and openly discussing financial success, he helped shift public attitudes toward vocational careers. His outspoken nature ensures that his views, whether admired or criticized, continue to influence debates about entrepreneurship and economic policy.

Conclusion

Charlie Mullins represents a rare combination of trade expertise, marketing intuition, and unapologetic honesty. His life story continues to resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from non-traditional backgrounds. Whether admired for his business achievements or debated for his political views, Charlie Mullins remains a significant figure in discussions about success, wealth creation, and the future of British enterprise.

(FAQs)

Who is Charlie Mullins?

Charlie Mullins is a British businessman and entrepreneur best known as the founder of Pimlico Plumbers. He is recognized for building one of London’s largest independent plumbing companies from scratch.

How did Charlie Mullins make his money?

Charlie Mullins made his wealth primarily through the growth and eventual sale of Pimlico Plumbers, as well as subsequent business ventures such as WeFix London.

Why did Charlie Mullins leave the UK?

He stated that changes in UK tax policy, particularly changes to inheritance tax, were the main reasons for selling his UK assets and relocating abroad.