Award Recipients

Established in 1983 by founding partners Ivor Mitchell and Alan Pryke, Focal Point Fires has grown from humble beginnings in Christchurch, Dorset into an internationally recognised manufacturer, while remaining proudly independently owned. More than 40 years later, Ivor and Alan still own the business today – with the same entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality that first launched the company.

In 2019, the company launched British Fires, a premium electric fireplace brand created with a clear ambition: to develop market-leading electric fireplaces with an uncompromising focus on quality, realism and design innovation.

One of the proudest moments in the company’s history was being granted the rights to use the name British Fires, a title that carries tremendous value and significance both within the UK and internationally.

The use of the word “British” within a company name is highly protected and cannot simply be adopted without approval. To secure the rights to the name, the business was required to demonstrate to the UK Government that it was pre-eminent within its field, representing best-in-class standards in quality, manufacturing, innovation and reputation.

For the company, the approval was far more than a naming decision; it was recognition of decades of dedication to British manufacturing, product innovation and industry leadership. Today, the British Fires name stands as a mark of pride, reflecting a commitment to creating world-class electric fireplaces that are designed, developed and recognised as leaders within the global marketplace.

From the outset, British Fires was designed to challenge perceptions of what an electric fireplace could be. The goal was not simply to produce another appliance, but to create a truly aspirational product that would become the centrepiece of modern living spaces. Through advanced flame technology, premium materials and exceptional attention to detail, the brand quickly established itself as one of the most influential names in the industry.

Global Expansion
Since its launch, British Fires has experienced remarkable growth and has become a powerhouse within the global fireplace market. The brand now leads the UK electric fireplace sector and exports internationally to countries including the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and the UAE, with ambitious plans to continue expanding across the world.

This international success reflects not only the strength of British manufacturing and design, but also the universal appeal of the modern media wall concept. Across the globe, homeowners are embracing the idea of creating stylish social spaces within the home, with the fireplace acting as the natural focal point of the room. British Fires products have become synonymous with this movement, helping to define the premium electric fireplace category both in the UK and overseas.

The growth of the media wall has created an entirely new category within home design. Today, fireplaces are no longer hidden away in traditional chimney breasts, but instead form the centrepiece of the room, bringing together entertainment, ambience and interior styling in one striking installation. This home revolution has transformed the role of the fireplace, and Focal Point Fires has been at the forefront of shaping that change.

Deluxe Real Logs
One of the defining features of the British Fires range is the use of real logs within its fireplaces. In an industry often dominated by artificial materials, the company chose to adopt natural real logs to create a more authentic and visually striking product. Each log is carefully sourced, treated and prepared through a meticulous process that ensures it is cared for right up to the point of installation within the fireplace.

The inclusion of real logs has become a defining characteristic of the brand, helping British Fires achieve a level of realism rarely seen within electric fireplaces. More importantly, it reinforces the connection between the product and nature, bringing the warmth, texture and character of natural materials into modern homes in a sustainable and responsible way.

This dedication to realism, craftsmanship and sustainability has helped make British Fires an iconic brand within the fireplace industry. Consumers are increasingly looking for products that not only perform exceptionally well but also create emotional connection and enhance wellbeing within the home. The calming ambience of a fireplace, combined with natural materials and energy-efficient electric technology, aligns perfectly with the needs of modern living.

The King’s Award
Winning the King’s Award represents a tremendous honour for everyone at Focal Point Fires and British Fires. The recognition is a proud milestone in the company’s journey and reflects decades of hard work, innovation and commitment to excellence across every part of the business.

The award is not only recognition of the products the company creates, but also of the people, partnerships and long-term strategy that continue to drive it forward. Sustained growth on a global scale can only be achieved by having the right foundations in place, from trusted retail and distribution partners to a clear vision for the future of the brand and the marketplace.

Ivor Mitchell, Founder, says: “When I started this business in 1983, it began with a simple ambition, to build a company founded on quality, innovation, and strong relationships. To see how far we have come today, with our products recognised and enjoyed around the world, is incredibly rewarding.

“Receiving The King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade is a proud moment not only for me personally, but for everyone who has been part of the journey over the last four decades. What makes this achievement even more special is that we share it with the fantastic partners, customers, and team members who have supported us along the way.”

As Focal Point Fires looks towards the future, the company remains committed to innovation, British manufacturing excellence and continued international growth. From producing hundreds of thousands of gas fires during the early decades of the business to leading the modern electric fireplace revolution today, the company’s journey reflects an ability to adapt, evolve and lead within a constantly changing market.