Celebrating 21 Years in Business: 2004 – 2025
From a bold idea sparked in 2004, to becoming one of the UK’s most respected names in professional and retail fireworks, Celtic Fireworks Ltd has spent the past 21 years building a legacy of quality, innovation, and explosive success. Here’s a look back at the key milestones shaping our journey:
2004 – Founded with a Vision
Celtic Fireworks Ltd is established by Chris Allen and Mark Copland – a Welshman and a Scotsman (hence the name Celtic) – driven by a shared goal: to import and supply the very best display fireworks from around the world to the UK market.
2005 – First HSE Licence
The company secures its first HSE licence at a derelict quarry site in West Wales, laying the foundation for safe, compliant, and professional firework storage and distribution.
2007 – Buying Group Established
Celtic pioneers the formation of its own Buying Group – a UK first – bringing together a network of customers to collaborate on sourcing and supply. The same year, Celtic organises its first customer trip to China, giving participants a unique insight into the production process. The Buying Group initiative helped unite the industry, fostering cooperation and transparency, and ultimately changed the UK fireworks market for the better.
2009 – Scaling Up Imports
Celtic imports ten containers from China for the first time, marking a significant step forward in scale and ambition. The product range expands, and so does the company’s reputation.
2010 – Launching Celtic China
After working closely with Alice Lan for several years, Celtic offers her a full-time role. With Alice leading operations, Celtic China is born – deepening supplier relationships and enhancing quality control at the source.
2012 – A Strategic Move to Alconbury
Operations are relocated to Alconbury, providing improved facilities and a more central location to serve a growing customer base more efficiently.
Whilst not perfect, the site allows Celtic to expand and increase stock holding, albeit in the dark with no electric on site!
2014 – Retail Brand Launch
Celtic enters the consumer market with the launch of its own retail brand, bringing the same high-quality performance trusted by professionals to the general public.
Then and now, we wanted our consumer brand to be sold only by specialist firework retailers and to remain a premium offering. Our numerous industry awards and trusted network of resellers are recognition of this.
2015 – A Change in Personnel
Mark Copland steps back to focus on his own business interests in Scotland. Jonathan Finch joins the business, bringing new ideas and renewed energy to the leadership team.
2017 – Supporting the Industry (One Bacon Roll at a Time)
Celtic Fireworks has always championed the UK fireworks industry, and in 2017, we took that support to the next level – by firing up the grill.
We began providing catering support at the British Firework Championships, keeping competitors fueled with breakfast, lunch, and plenty of drinks. This tradition soon extended to the British Musical Fireworks Championships in Southport, where our legendary bacon rolls and hot dogs became a firm favourite.
2020 – New Home in Derbyshire
Celtic Fireworks relocates to a purpose-built site in Derbyshire. This major commitment was a pivotal moment designed to meet the needs of a growing business.
The new facility offered enhanced storage capacity, modern infrastructure and improved logistics – allowing for more efficient operations and better service to our customers across the UK. The move also marked a commitment to further growth, operational safety and innovation – future-proofing the business to continue delivering high-quality fireworks in an evolving market.
2021 – An Emotional Farewell
We lost our founder Chris Allen during 2020, and due to Covid-19 restrictions we held an event to celebrate his life in August 2021 in Plymouth. An assembled mass of firework industry people came together to share stories.
Our 3 main storage buildings at Fauld are also named accordingly – Chris, Roy and Allen.
2022 – Acquisition of Kimbolton Retail
Celtic completes the acquisition of Kimbolton Fireworks’ retail division, strengthening its retail offering and continuing the legacy of a beloved British fireworks brand.
2022 – Container Imports Hit 50
After two challenging years of reduced demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Celtic bounces back stronger than ever – importing 50 containers from China for the first time.
It’s a new record and a testament to the resilience of the business and the industry.
2025 – Celebrating 21 Years in Business
Celtic Fireworks Ltd celebrates 21 years at the heart of the UK fireworks industry – a milestone that reflects unwavering commitment to quality, strong partnerships, and a passion for lighting up the sky.
Over 200 industry personnel attended our party – making it (we believe) the largest ever gathering held of the UK firework industry.
Thank You
To our customers, colleagues, suppliers, and partners—thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of spectacular displays and unforgettable moments.