Founded in 1934 in Belper, Derbyshire, the popular boiler and heating controls manufacturer is a cornerstone of the heating industry, and this year marks nine decades of business for the trusted heating brand. Over 90 years it has gone from producing ‘balanced flue’ – a room sealed, gas heating and hot water boiler through to its first cast iron wall hung boiler – the ‘Spacesaver’, which was one of the most successful heating products of the 1970s. And, in more recent times, the launch of ‘Micron’, the tiniest heating appliance ever produced followed two decades later by manufacturing their most compact and lightweight boiler aptly named ‘Compact’.

Renowned for durable, great value energy solutions, and warranties, Glow-worm also has an army of devoted installers via its Club Energy loyalty programme.

When asked why installers continue to fit the brand year after year, comments included:

“As an apprentice, I’d fitted many other different boilers, and I kept looking for a boiler that I knew was reliable. I was dropped on Glow-worm and then just continued fitting from there.” Matt Brookes, M J Brookes Plumbing and Heating, who has been installing Glow-worm products for 10 years.

“The heritage of the company, the quality of the product, and I like to give my customers a product I can rely on and is trustworthy for them,” said Mike Haywood, Mike Haywood Services, fitting Glow-worm for almost 30 years.

“We do get guidance and support through the loyalty scheme. The call centre, when you ring up for technical support, they’re always there and they are good,” said Gary McGinnell, Gasgo Central Heating, working with Glow-worm products for 8 – 10 years.

Still Belper-based

Glow-worm has been manufacturing boilers in Derbyshire since the day it opened its doors. First at the Derwent Foundry and then today, it continues to thrive at its Belper location, where it not only produces high-quality domestic gas boilers - ranging from combi to system and heat-only models - but also plays a vital role in the local community. As one of the area’s largest employers, Glow-worm supports hundreds of jobs, drives economic growth, and helps to sustain Derby’s rich industrial heritage.

Henrik Hansen, managing director for Vaillant Group UK, added: “It is right that we mark this significant milestone in the history of Glow-worm. The company’s enduring success is testimony to the talent and dedication of all our employees, from those first pioneers in the 1930s to our current workforce that continues to make a difference.

“We also recognise the role played by our loyal installers. They continue to proactively promote the many features and benefits of Glow-worm’s wide range of heating product solutions and stand alongside us in celebrating this fantastic achievement. Glow-worm is 90 years young, and we all look forward to the exciting future that lies ahead.”