Stovax & Gazco are thrilled to announce that their new state-of-the-art facility at Exeter Skypark is now open and fully functioning. Boasting an impressive 205,000 sq ft structure, the facility marks a new chapter in Stovax Heating Group’s manufacturing capabilities, and their future for sustainable heating solutions.
Environmental considerations have been central to the Group’s core business values for over 40 years. With sustainability ever more topical in today’s climate, the company embraces their responsibility for continued improvement, responsible operation, and the new Skypark location allows them to continue to grow as they invest in greener futures.
The new facility has been purpose built to afford Stovax & Gazco the right space to continue to develop their diverse and leading range of high-quality woodburning, multi-fuel, gas, and electric stoves and fires.
By incorporating the latest technology, insulation, and heat recovery and cooling systems, the company has been able to both significantly reduce their commercial energy usage and impact on the environment, as well as drive the continued development of a portfolio of efficient stoves and fires that serve tomorrow’s eco-conscious customer.
Notably, the Stovax Heating Group have been leading the way in the development of Hydrogen gas fires for the decorative heating sector. In the past 12 months, they have become part of an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on the future of Hydrogen, sponsoring the group with several other companies and organisations. Earlier this year, they attended the launch meeting for the annual general report, which was sent into the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS)* in order to influence the future decarbonisation of the UK, using Hydrogen to play a pivotal role.
With commitments to decarbonisation top of mind, the Group’s long-term goals are to obtain part funding to build their own Hydrogen development and test facility in these new headquarters. Taking the first important step, their £900,000 investment into a new paint plant features cutting-edge Hydrogen-ready ovens, opening up possibilities for the use of an environmentally friendly fuel type for production.
The Group has been working with Hydrogen South West as a member, alongside the SWBC (South West Business Council) to look at possible avenues to fund the further development of Hydrogen appliances. They have taken an active part in future village and town trials, which they hope will utilise their very own Hydrogen decorative gas fires – developed for exploration into decarbonising the domestic gas grid.
The new Skypark facility is fully equipped with new Research & Development labs that have been made specifically for the company’s future. Thoughtfully-designed spaces have been created for various testing purposes, enhancing the evaluation of products before their official launch, including the continued development of a solid fuel portfolio that stays ahead of the curve, supporting Government’s plans for cleaner air.
Already offering the UK’s largest range of Ecodesign stoves and fires, the Stovax Heating Group’s new headquarters allows them the right location to support their commitment to backing the drive for improved air quality – including ongoing investment into the latest heating technology for a collection of stoves and fires that keep emissions to an absolute minimum.
Following the Grand Opening of the facility, Ian Kingscott, Group Technical Director, said: “Today marks a huge milestone for us, and this new facility sets the stage for our continued growth and innovation. We are excited about the opportunities ahead as we strive to deliver sustainable heating solutions and contribute to a greener future.”
Special guest Kunle Barker – property expert, writer, and broadcaster – joined Stovax & Gazco to officially open the premises at their ribbon cutting ceremony. During his speech, Kunle commented: “My first editorial piece about Stovax & Gazco’s fireplaces was actually my first real paid journalist job, and I was working for Grand Designs at that time. I am delighted to be able to continue to talk to the company about their onward trajectory.”
