The Beltane Chew Logstore is big on style and substance
There’s no better time to start planning for autumn/winter. During the summer months, it may not feel like the chilly nights are drawing near but thinking about a heating upgrade or project renovation now means less rush and more time to get it right. The Chew Logstore from Beltane Stoves is the perfect choice for larger rooms and open-plan living and it’s available now from Eurostove. Combining striking style with the convenience of an integrated wood store, this woodburning stove features large H803mm x W510mm x D300mm sizing, an impressive 4 to 6kW heat output and the ability to burn logs up to 35cm long. The stove is elevated to an eye-catching height thanks to the easy-access practical logstore beneath, and a built-in logstore is a great alternative to having to go outside for more logs while the weather takes a turn. This contemporary stove also boasts a large glass viewing window for a captivating view of the flicking flames within, perfect for bringing warmth and ambience to any room, whether as the central focal point in a modern new-build, a sympathetic conversion or a characterful cottage. Sleek and stylish, the Beltane Chew Logstore is designed for larger spaces with a generous heat output of 4 to 6kW alongside easy-to-use air controls for precise control of the burn rate for efficient and responsive heat control. The stove is lined internally with vermiculite, a naturally insulating material that improves combustion efficiency and heat retention, while the sturdy and durable cast iron grate is built to withstand the demands of everyday use. Designed in Britain, the Beltane Chew Logstore combines expert craftsmanship with careful attention to detail and is suitable for installation on a 12mm glass floorplate for a clean and modern look whilst complying with all safety requirements. It’s A+ rated for energy efficiency and is Defra approved so it can be installed in smoke control areas. Engineered for high efficiency and cleaner burning, it will help to reduce both fuel consumption and environmental impact. “We are thrilled to introduce the Beltane Chew Logstore as part of our wide woodburning stove offering,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “This stove goes big on size, heat output, log capacity and log storage, making it the perfect choice for large spaces and open-plan living.” The Beltane Chew Logstore is available from Eurostove, priced £925.
SIA Launches New Consumer Knowledge Hub
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) is pleased to announce the launch of its new Knowledge Hub – a free online resource designed to help consumers make informed decisions about wood burning stoves and learn how to use them safely, efficiently and responsibly. Available now on the SIA website, the Knowledge Hub brings together a growing library of short, easy-to-understand videos covering many of the questions consumers ask most frequently. Whether someone is considering purchasing their first stove, already owns one, or simply wants to understand more about modern stove technology, the Knowledge Hub provides clear, evidence-based guidance they can trust. The new resource has been developed to support consumers with practical advice on key topics including: With increasing amounts of information available online, it can often be difficult for consumers to distinguish fact from opinion. The SIA has created the Knowledge Hub to provide a single, trusted source of information based on current legislation, industry best practice and the latest available evidence. The videos have been produced in a straightforward, accessible format, making them suitable for both new and existing stove owners. They are also available on the SIA’s YouTube channel, allowing them to be easily shared by retailers, installers, chimney sweeps, manufacturers and other organisations across the sector. Erica Malkin, Executive Director of the Stove Industry Association, said: “The Knowledge Hub represents a significant investment in helping consumers access clear, balanced and reliable information about modern wood burning stoves. We know that people increasingly turn to online video when researching products or looking for advice, so we’ve created a resource that answers common questions in an engaging and accessible way. Our aim is to improve consumer understanding, promote best practice and ensure people have the information they need to enjoy the many benefits of their stove while minimising emissions through correct installation, maintenance and operation. We encourage everyone across the industry to share these resources widely so that together we can reach as many consumers as possible with consistent, evidence-based advice.” The SIA will continue to expand the Knowledge Hub over time, with additional videos and resources planned to address emerging topics and answer further consumer questions. Visit the Knowledge Hub today and explore the full range of videos available. Industry members are encouraged to share these resources freely through their own websites, social media channels and customer communications.
SIA partially exonerated after u-turn on advert ruling
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has welcomed an update after the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) was found to have made an error when it rapped the association for false advertising. The SIA was reported to the ASA last year amid a complaint that its promotional material around the emissions benefits of modern stoves was misleading. The crux of the complaint was the SIA’s claim that a ‘modern stove’ was a ‘very low emission way to heat the main living space in your home’. The advert also stated that a ‘modern stove and dry wood fuel can significantly lower emissions and improve efficiency compared to an open fire or older stove’. It is not known who made the complaint. In its ruling to ban the advert, the ASA made some damaging statements that the SIA objected to. The ASA erroneously stated that there was no evidence to support the claim that Ecodesign stoves were less harmful than older ones in terms of PM2.5 and smoke. More than six months on, and the ASA has now changed its ruling following an independent review of the decision, which had been requested by the SIA. An update published on July 8 reveals that the independent reviewer agreed with the SIA that the previous ruling assessment contained a substantial flaw. The ASA has now accepted that its original interpretation of the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (NAEI) dataset was incorrect in that it treated the data as “per appliance” rather than aggregate. This led to the decision makers believing modern Ecodesign stoves were responsible for more pollution per appliance than old ones. That statement has now been removed from the ASA website. There is no change to the original decision that the advertising claims made by the SIA, comparing different emissions such as cooking and candles with modern stoves, required greater clarification. That part of the ASA ruling remains upheld. The SIA said it had always accepted this. Erica Malkin, Executive Director of the SIA, said: “We are very pleased that the Independent Reviewer has agreed with us that the NAEI data, that had been reviewed by the ASA as part of its investigation, had not been correctly interpreted.” In explaining her conclusion that there was a substantial flaw in the original Ruling, the Independent Reviewer noted: “During the preparation of the case for this review, the ASA has accepted that its original interpretation of the dataset is incorrect in that it treated the data as “per appliance” rather than aggregate. Having reviewed the dataset myself, I agree with the outcome of that review and consider that this amounts to a substantial flaw in the Ruling.” In addition to concluding that the original Ruling contained a substantial flaw, the Independent Reviewer noted that the November 2025 Ruling “…could mislead the average consumer.” and therefore, recommended that the case be reopened and reconsidered by the ASA Council. The revised Ruling relates to two historical advertising claims that previously appeared on the SIA website. While the ASA’s decision that the claims required greater qualification remains unchanged, the Independent Review has resulted in a revised assessment of technical evidence relating to emissions and clarification of the limitations of the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (NAEI) when comparing the performance of individual appliance types. Following publication of the original Ruling in November 2025, the SIA requested an Independent Review. The Association accepted the ASA’s conclusion that greater qualification of the advertising claims were required. However, it was concerned that elements of the published reasoning extended beyond advertising copy into incorrect technical interpretation of emissions evidence. The revised Ruling explains that the NAEI data represents aggregate national emissions by source category and fuel type and does not provide direct per-appliance comparisons between modern stoves, older stoves and open fires. It also provides a revised assessment of the additional technical evidence submitted during the investigation. Erica Malkin added: “The SIA has always supported clear, accurate and evidence-based communication with consumers. Throughout this process we accepted that the wording of the original advertising claims could have been clearer and, following the original Ruling, we removed the claims from our website and reviewed our communications. Our concern related not to the ASA’s role in regulating advertising, but to aspects of the published reasoning that interpreted complex technical evidence in a way that we believed could create an inaccurate understanding of the comparative performance of modern stove technology. “The Independent Review process exists precisely to address situations where there are concerns about the reasoning underpinning a published ruling. We are therefore pleased that the process has resulted in a revised assessment which accurately reflects the evidence that was considered. Accurate interpretation of technical evidence is important for everyone — consumers making informed choices, policymakers developing future policy, and organisations such as ours that are committed to promoting best practice and continual improvement across the sector.” Andy Hill, Chair of the SIA added: “Independent review is an important part of good regulation. We welcome the fact that the process has worked as intended and we remain committed to supporting clear advertising standards and accurate interpretation of technical evidence.” The SIA remains committed to working constructively with government, regulators, industry partners and environmental stakeholders to improve air quality through evidence-based policy, consumer education and the continued development and adoption of modern stove technology.
The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires at Eurostove
The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires at Eurostove Brings Elevated Heating to the Home On a cold winter’s day, the last thing anyone wants to do is to trudge outside to gather logs for the fire. Whether it’s kept in the garage, outhouse or shed, any dry, untreated wood is much more convenient if it’s stored inside the home. So, what better solution than a logstore stove, with ready to burn wood piled neatly underneath. The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires is just the thing. Blending classic styling with a compact design, it’s crafted to fit effortlessly into a standard fireplace opening and is available now from Somerset-based and family-run stove supplier, manufacturer and distributor, Eurostove. Logstore fires are ideal for all properties and thanks to their optimum airflow for burning efficiency, effortless convenience and cosy aesthetic, they provide the perfect focal point in any living space. The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires features clean burn technology and an advanced secondary air wash system. Both work together to ensure a clean and clear view of the flickering flames within while maintaining a clean and clear glass door. The airflow meanwhile is easily managed with user-friendly controls that operate the stove’s performance and 5kW nominal heat output with a versatile 3-6kW range. Expertly crafted from cast iron, the Accona Logstore is extremely durable and hardwearing, radiating heat evenly throughout the room to maximise its efficiency. It’s also designed for convenience and safety and is suitable for use with a 12mm glass hearth, adding a touch of elegance to any fireplace setting. Adjustable feet bring added flexibility, making it perfect for period properties with an uneven stone floor. This freestanding multi-fuel logstore stove is A+ rated for energy efficiency, Eco-design compliant and approved for use in Smoke Control areas. It’s also affordably priced, so suits all budgets and is ideal for retrofit projects, renovations, conversions and new-builds alike. The Accona is also available as a standard stove, without logstore “The Accona Logstore multi-fuel stove brings built-in convenience to the home,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “Compact and cosy, it fits into any standard fireplace opening and provides 5kW nominal heat output to warm any space this autumn/winter.” The Accona Logstore stove from F2 Fires is priced £875 at Eurostove
The Trade Stove & Fireplace Professional Show 2026: it’s like we’ve got our industry back!
The first Trade Stove and Fireplace Professional Show was a phenomenally HOT time for many in the industry – in more ways than one. The weekend in Doncaster was held across the 30th-31st May 2026 – during the tail-end of a heatwave which showed no signs of letting up as traders began to put up their stands. The builds ranged from small but quirky stands to outdoor sheds, stages, and gigantic displays which almost scraped the ceiling of the Doncaster Racecourse building. You could play foosball on the Tortoise stand, cook bacon butties with Mendip or sit and have a beer with Poujoulat. The whole industry was represented, from component manufacturers and stove suppliers to chimney sweeps, trade associations, fuel providers and electric fire wholesalers. Accessories were also in abundance – some of the log baskets were so huge you could climb inside them (although we didn’t try this, honest!). A fireside dream come true Behind a huge amount of the organisation was Selina Brannan from M.A.C. Metalcraft, who had a dream of bringing the industry back together on a grand scale following a break of such events due to the Covid years. Selina said: “The show has been amazing – it’s well exceeded my expectations – nice to see everyone from the industry together, networking in a positive way – it’s been great. “The M.A.C stand has been fantastic, I’m really pleased with how it looks, how it’s been set out. We’ve had some great feedback, and we’ve been able to showcase our new products — four new stoves, a range of fire surrounds and media wall electric fires.” Emma Hatherall, from Fireplace Specialist Magazine, said: “There’s been such a buzz, everyone’s really chuffed! It’s what the industry has been crying out for. Positive future ahead for the stove and fireplace trade “We’ve been delighted to see so many companies really step up with wonderful products to promote at the show and, from the magazine’s point of view, we’ve been really happy to help create the positive atmosphere. “We’ve found that the industry has really got involved in promoting the show, especially on social media, and we’ve been able to do that too through the magazine and allow people to have a wider platform. “We’ve been speaking to so many businesses who now want to advertise in the next issue of the magazine and through our e-shots, they want to keep that momentum up after the show.” Recoheat’s Will Burrows was at the expo to promote his revolutionary heat recovery system. His heat pump boosts stove performance by circulating warm air around the appliance, helping reduce fuel consumption while improving heat output. Boosting businesses Will said: “It’s been brilliant! The key to exhibitions is having a live stove so people can feel our product’s effect on the heat. “We’ve been to other shows before but this one has a lot more fireplace shops visiting, distributors and overseas manufacturers as well – so the people we want to speak to. It’s been very, very good. “We’ve seen good numbers, and had a chance to connect with the people we really want to talk to. Retail showrooms are seeing and feeling the product in action so they want to put them in their showrooms. Feeling it is the difference between being convinced about the product or not.” The trade was also able to touch base with industry bodies and David Hamilton, head of membership at the Stove Industry Association which also helped to organise the event, said: “The show has been amazing and far exceeded expectations. We’ve had lots of positive feedback at the event and we’re looking forward to another show — it will get bigger and better hopefully! “From the SIA’s point of view, we’ve been delighted to support the show and encourage members to attend, signed some new members up which is both rewarding and increases the size of our voice with the government.” A sweeping success Jez Brook, from the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, said: “It’s been a good show for us. Our aim was to promote the Guild, our training course and to get people signed up as members — we think we have achieved this. “There’s been a good atmosphere. We have been around the other stands at the expo, and were impressed by the variety of exhibitors – some have clearly spent a fortune on their stands! “We have our own show for chimney sweeps, but it has been worthwhile coming here to Doncaster. Shops which employ sweeps have spoken to us and joined as a business – then each sweep will get a membership number as well. “And the show has been an opportunity for us to tell people about Find A Sweep – our directory for consumers – as each member gets into the directory, where customers can then search for their business.” The next steps for the Trade Stove and Fireplace Professional Show So the question on everyone’s lips at the event was: will there be another? Selina says: “It’s 100% going to happen, I can see myself doing this for the next 25 years! I’ve been in the industry since I was 19, and it’s such a nice industry to be in. It’s great to be able to support the industry and everyone in it – including our competitors! “Our industry needs this and it’s better that people within the industry organise this event. The first show has given me some different ideas about future exhibitions.” On his way out of Doncaster Racecourse on Sunday afternoon as the stands were being broken down, James Verlaque from the SIA and CEFACD — who spoke at the event on ‘The View From Brussels’ — summed up the vibe of the whole event nicely. He said: “I was talking to someone at the show who told me, ‘The buzz here has been incredible — it’s like we’ve got our industry back!’” A huge thank you to each and every person who was a part of the Trade Stove and
Anti-stove council’s ‘Cosy Killer’ ad banned by regulators
Brighton & Hove City Council (BHCC) has been told that one of the posters used in its controversial ‘Cosy Killer’ campaign breaches advertising regulations. The Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) has upheld a complaint which accused the council of misleadingly implying the use of wood burners and open fires was the cause of the an increase in particle pollution around four schools. However, the ASA has not banned BHCC from continuing to use the ‘Cosy Killer’ slogan in future campaigning. The digital poster, seen around the region last December, included a graphic of a wood-burning stove that was emitting smoke in the shape of an adult and child, and the text: “Harmful particle pollution near 4 city primary schools was 78% higher last winter compared with last summer. Wood burners and open fires. The cosy killer.” The ASA ruling said: “The ad implied that wood burners and open fires were the cause of the claimed increase in particulate pollution around four city primary schools. “However, we have not seen evidence to substantiate the claim. We therefore concluded the ad was likely to mislead.” It is the second time the ASA has taken issue with BHCC’s ‘Cosy Killer’ campaign. It issued the council with an ‘Advice Notice’ last year after its use of data in its winter 24/25 campaign was found to be inaccurate. At the time, Councillor Tim Rowkins, BHCC’s cabinet member for net zero and environmental services, denied they had been warned, saying they had merely been told to be more careful with their citing of data. Now after a second intervention from the ASA he has remained unapologetic about the council’s public messaging linking wood burning with death. In a statement to Fireplace Specialist magazine, Cllr Rowkins said: “We have clear and detailed local data that shows the impact that burning solid fuels has on air quality in our densely populated urban areas. “The health implications of PM2.5 exposure are well-documented and we have a duty to protect the health of our residents. “We are committed to ensuring our messages are accurate and reliable. The ASA has ruled that, in one of the campaign graphics we used, there was an insufficiently clear link to the evidence. We accept that ruling and will be taking time to review it to ensure any learning for the future. “There was no ruling against the campaign as a whole or the other materials that were used. The campaign ended in February, and we have no plans to run it again in its original form. “Later this year we’ll be introducing a new Smoke Control Area covering most of the city, accompanied by information and clear guidance on what can be burned and how. “We’re working towards cleaner air in Brighton & Hove and will always act to protect the health of people in our city.” A spokesperson for HETAS, said: “This ruling is a reminder that all claims – including those about air quality – need to hold up to scrutiny. “Domestic burning is a recognised contributor to particulate pollution, but the amount any single fire produces varies widely: appliance type and age, fuel quality, how a stove is operated, and how well it is maintained all make a measurable difference.” Erica Malkin, Executive Director at the Stove Industry Association, said: “The ASA’s ruling highlights the importance of balanced and evidence-led discussion around air quality and domestic heating. “The SIA has always recognised that air quality is an important public health issue, and we support proportionate measures that deliver meaningful emissions reductions. Air quality is a complex issue involving multiple contributing sources, which is why constructive and balanced public discussion is so important. “The industry has invested significantly in modern stove technology, fuel quality standards and consumer education. Today’s Ecodesign-compliant appliances are specifically designed to achieve lower emissions and improved efficiency compared to older appliances and open fires. “We hope this ruling encourages a more balanced and constructive conversation about how we continue improving air quality while recognising the progress that has already been made and the role that modern, responsibly operated appliances can play in people’s homes.” Andy Genovese, owner of Hove Wood Burners, who was one of the two complainants against the advert, said he was pleased to see the ASA take action. He said he would prefer to see BHCC promote the cleanest and best wood burning stoves and practices rather than labelling the entire industry ‘Cosy Killers’.
World of Fireplaces 2027 and an industry in transition: challenges open up new opportunities
Following two successful editions, World of Fireplaces (WOF) is now firmly established in the trade fair calendar and has earned a reputation as one of the most important platforms for the European fireplace industry. In the run-up to the third edition, which will take place once again in Leipzig from 13 to 15 April 2027, there is already considerable interest from stakeholders across the entire value chain. For in a phase of profound change, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and tradespeople are increasingly seeking exchange, guidance, fresh impetus and shared perspectives. As an international trade fair for fireplaces and modern heating solutions, WOF is setting the course to once again serve as a catalyst for dialogue and innovation in 2027. New requirements are reshaping the role of modern fireplaces whilst simultaneously opening up new opportunities. Market trends for fireplaces in recent years clearly illustrate this: according to data from the WOF’s sponsoring body, the German Association for Home, Heating and Kitchen Technology (HKI), the German fireplace industry remains a significant part of the heating market, with an annual turnover of around 1.1 billion euros and an annual production of approximately 315,000 wood-burning stoves. At the same time with an export ratio of around 50 per cent, the sector maintains a strong international focus. Following the sharp decline in the pellet heating sector in 2024 (–45 %), which was largely driven by political uncertainties, a noticeable recovery began as early as 2025. In 2026, too, economic uncertainties, changes in subsidy conditions and new regulatory requirements continue to influence investment decisions. At the same time, positive signs are increasing both nationally and internationally: the growing global demand for sustainable heating solutions is opening up promising prospects for hybrid heating concepts and creating new growth potential for the entire industry. World of Fireplaces 2027 builds on this momentum and showcases the innovative solutions and forward-looking technologies with which the industry is actively shaping the heating transition of the coming years. Cleaner, smarter, more integrated: fireplaces as part of modern heating concepts The global trend towards sustainable heating solutions and increasingly stringent requirements regarding emissions and efficiency are driving the technological advancement of fireplaces and transforming their role in the heating market. They are increasingly viewed not merely as standalone products, but as integral components of integrated heating and energy concepts. Bjarne Varre, a member of the supervisory board at Nordpeis and an exhibitor at WOF, sums up this trend: “Only if heating systems are constantly developed further, thereby becoming more efficient and producing lower emissions, can they continue to make their important contribution as a renewable source of space heating in the future.” There is a demand for technologies that can be seamlessly integrated into smart home concepts, yet at the same time, expectations regarding design and comfort are rising. The industry’s focus on innovation is shifting — from pure heat generation towards system integration, digital control, filter technology and high-quality design. Alongside technical criteria, however, the emotional factor remains crucial: the fireplace continues to be a design feature in the living space, associated with atmosphere and cosiness. The Danish language probably describes this best with ‘hygge’ – a way of life that stands for cosiness, well-being and slowing down, and which is becoming all the more important, particularly in increasingly volatile times. Furthermore, particularly in the wake of the energy crises of recent years, the desire for security of supply and greater self-sufficiency has become a key factor in the decision to purchase a fireplace. Fireplaces are increasingly seen as a complement to existing heating systems, whilst wood is being re-evaluated as a locally available energy source. The fact that World of Fireplaces resonates strongly with the industry thanks to its clear forward-looking approach is demonstrated by the overwhelming response from exhibitors. Numerous returning exhibitors have already confirmed their participation for 2027, whilst the trade fair is also attracting further renowned companies, particularly from across Europe. Rudolf Körber, Head of Marketing and Sales at RIKA Innovative Ofentechnik, emphasises: “Our successful appearance at the 2025 fair confirmed that World of Fireplaces is a key industry meeting place for us – which is why we’ll be back again in 2027. The fair offers the ideal setting for face-to-face exchanges with long-standing partners and specialist retailers, as well as for inspiring discussions within the industry.” World of Fireplaces will once again be organised in 2027 by trendfairs GmbH in collaboration with its partner and official sponsor, the HKI Industry Association for Home, Heating and Kitchen Technology. The association supports the trade fair as a key voice within the sector and underscores its importance as a platform for innovation, exchange and political dialogue. Frank Kienle, Managing Director of the HKI, says: “With this new edition of WOF, we stand as partners of the trade fair for innovation, safety and continuity for the retail, trade and industrial sectors. WOF combines tradition and innovation and, with the Fireplace HUB, offers a central platform for dialogue within the industry as well as for political discourse. Personal exchange is at the heart of this. Modern fireplaces and innovative secondary measures make an important contribution to reducing emissions and promoting more climate-friendly heating solutions.” Now in its third edition, World of Fireplaces 2027 builds on the success of previous years and once again focuses on the themes that will shape the future of modern heating: efficiency, security of supply, system integration and professional networking within the industry. Save the Date WORLD OF FIREPLACES 202713 –15 April 2027 | Leipzig Messe | Germany |Hall 5 You can visit the trade show website here.
New Beltane Cary stoves from Eurostove
Give the home a warm welcome with the new Beltane Cary stoves from Eurostove. Whilst summer is just around the corner, those crisp autumnal evenings and wet wintry afternoons are not too far away. Which is why this is the perfect time to start planning a heating upgrade for the home. Beltane Stoves has two new woodburning stove designs for 2026, both available now at Eurostove. The Cary woodburning stove is an impressively large fire with generous dimensions and a 5kW nominal heat output, ideal for medium-sized rooms, open-plan living and period properties with draughty floorboards and window frames. It can burn logs up to 35cm in size and is sure to make an instant impression on family and friends, as it boasts outstanding performance with a striking style. A large glass window offers a tantalizing view of the flickering flames inside, perfect for a cosy and captivating focal point in any living space, while its sleek, clean lines are beautifully combined with a timeless design, which can be installed as a freestanding stove or into an existing fireplace – great for a retro renovation as well as a central focus in a new-build or grand design. With an excellent heat range of 4-6kW, the new Cary woodburning stove from Beltane Stoves offers a comfortable and consistent heat even in larger rooms with easy-to-use air controls to operate the burn rate for total control over heat output and efficiency. As an added benefit, the stove is lined with vermiculite, a natural insulating material, which improves combustion performance and helps to maximise heat retention. Crafted for durability as well as long-term reliability, the Cary is made to withstand daily use and is A+ energy efficiency rated for reduced fuel consumption and sustainability. It’s also DEFRA approved for use in smoke control areas as well as EcoDesign compliant. The Beltane Cary woodburning stove is also available from Eurostove as a logstore model, perfect for keeping dried and seasoned logs close to hand for quick and easy access when snuggling in on a cold winter’s day. “We are delighted to welcome the Beltane Cary family to our portfolio of woodburning stoves for 2026,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “With the option of a logstore model too, this duo of timelessly classic stoves blends character with clean lines – ideal for modern living.” The Beltane Cary is available from Eurostove, priced £895 and the Cary Logstore, £1,081.
Eurostoves’ Mark Blewitt Takes on Mallorca Cycling Challenge
By Mark Blewitt, national sales manager at Eurostove. A Raleigh Chopper bicycle for Christmas when I was young set me on a journey. Fifty years later, the Chopper is a distant memory, but a love of cycling remains. Last year, an invitation came my way to join the Ripples charity cycle ride around Mallorca. I could give you chapter and verse on the descent to Sa Calobra, or the long, slow climb back up to Coll dels Reis. Our group of fifteen riders was mixed ability, but thankfully there were others at my pace — and no time cut offs. What made the trip truly special was the camaraderie. Helping a fellow rider up a climb, sharing food, fixing a puncture, sheltering in the mouth of a tunnel during a thunderstorm, and of course, the occasional coffee stop — it all turned the challenge into a team effort. And while we were doing all that, the holiday was doing something important too: raising funds for The Cycle, a charity that builds toilet blocks in parts of the world where sanitation is desperately lacking. It’s something we take for granted, yet it transforms lives — allowing children to attend school and adults to work safely and with dignity. The charity is incredibly grateful for every donation; as an organisation working on sanitation projects far from the spotlight, it isn’t high profile, so every contribution matters. The Mallorca cycling challenge is now complete, but the fundraising continues. The money raised will become a lasting legacy in the form of a new sanitation block in a village that urgently needs it. If you would like to donate, please follow the link. https://around-the-island-cycle-challenge-2026.raiselysite.com/mark-blewitt
Exhibitor Applications Now Open for Be Fire, The International Trade Fair for Biomass Heating
From 10 to 12 February 2027, BolognaFiere will host Be Fire, an innovative, cutting-edge trade fair focused on heating and energy production from woody biomass. Wood and pellet-burning stoves, fireplaces, boilers and cookers will be in the spotlight at Be Fire, BolognaFiere’s new international event dedicated to fire and biomass heating technologies. The event will take place at the Bologna Exhibition Centre from 10 to 12 February 2027. Companies can now apply to exhibit at this new event, which aims to bring visibility, fresh energy and vision to a strategic sector of the energy transition through a B2B event capable of combining business, technology and the culture of fire. Today, the biomass heating sector faces three key challenges that are holding back its development: visibility that remains too national and fragmented; a real need for technological and commercial innovation; and a narrative that, until now, has placed the emotional dimension in the background — the very element that makes fire desirable, welcoming and deeply connected to the experience of warmth and well-being. Be Fire responds to these needs with an innovative trade fair format designed to strengthen competitiveness by building a leading European platform where industry, the supply chain, institutions and the market can engage in structured dialogue on technological innovation, environmental sustainability and regulatory alignment. It will be a place capable of supporting the evolution of biomass heating while enhancing its industrial, energy and employment contribution. “Today, the energy produced from biomass — firewood, pellets and wood chips — represents the first source of renewable energy in Italy and the second most important source for domestic heating,” says Antonio Bruzzone, CEO of BolognaFiere. “Despite this, the sector often receives limited recognition, even though it includes Italian companies that are European leaders in the production of stoves, boilers and fireplaces. This is an industry that needs greater visibility and clearer legitimacy in its dialogue with institutions.” For three days, business, innovation and emotion will be at the heart of a strongly international setting. Be Fire will create networking opportunities and present the sector’s most important technological innovations, highlighting the progress achieved by manufacturers in reducing fine particulate emissions, improving appliance efficiency and developing solutions dedicated to air quality. Significant attention will also be devoted to the development of advanced technologies and new applications. “Be Fire aims to respond to this need,” Bruzzone concludes, “positioning itself as an international platform for business, innovation and dialogue among all players in the supply chain. It is a format designed to support a sector operating in a complex and constantly evolving context, offering concrete tools for growth and new opportunities for development.” Be Fire stems from BolognaFiere’s experience — as one of Italy’s leading exhibition groups in terms of turnover, number of events organised and capacity for internationalisation — and from the awareness that the biomass heating sector today requires a broader, more integrated and supranational vision. This industry needs to expand its boundaries, drive innovation not only in products but also in business models, and rediscover the aesthetic and emotional value of fire. The event will take place from 10 to 12 February 2027 at BolognaFiere, where the energy of fire meets the future of business. You can visit the website here: https://www.be-fire.it/