Valor is probably the best known name in domestic fires and it is wonderful to see that this company still survives and trades in Birmingham as part of the Baxi Group, who are Europe's leading heating and home comfort specialists.

The Baxi Fires Division has long and established roots in the heating industry dating back to the early oil heaters. Baxi was founded in 1866 by Iron moulder Richard Baxendale.

The Valor company was founded in 1890, selling oil storage containers, they then began selling oil heaters in the Erdington area in Birmingham.

In 1939 both Baxi and Valor played a part in the war effort manufacturing ammunition boxes and fuel cans

1966, the First Valor Gas Heaters: Valor develops new products to meet rising expectations for better standards of living. The 'Valor 75' gas heater was quickly supplemented with the introduction of the Inca - the first wall mounted gas radiator.

1973/74, Valor entered the gas cooker market when they took over Newhome

1979, First 'living flame' gas flame fire - Valorflame - developed by Valor Quickly followed by their first LPG coal effect portable heater – Fyrglo, and the first compact portable LPG heater in the British market – Valorheat.

1990's, Continued Product Development Dedicated to 'Profit through Innovation' Valor launch market changing products throughout the 90's: including Homeflame with remote control, Dream - the efficient & cost effective DGF and Ultimate - the first inset fire to truly fit all flues.

2000, Newmond plc and Baxi Group: Baxi businesses merge with Newmond, the UK market leader in water heating/showers and gas fires, including the Valor and Wonderfire brands.

Jan 2002 Baxi Fires Division new site: New purpose built factory and office site opened in January 2002.

The Valor factory was originally next to the Hercules Cycle Factory in Rocky Lane, Aston

Valor still exists in Birmingham, not far from where the company first started;

Baxi Fires Division, Wood Lane, Erdington, Birmingham B24 9QP

A link to the Valor and Baxi website is on the Links Page.

If you worked at Valor, or have any memories or history of the company, please contact us at the email address on the home page.