It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the journey we’ve shared over the past two and a half decades of DQ Heating. From our earliest days to where we stand today, it’s been an incredible adventure — full of learning, growth, challenges, and achievements.
To our loyal customers, dedicated suppliers, trusted showroom partners, and the brilliant team behind it all — thank you. Your continued support and collaboration have shaped who we are today, and we’re genuinely proud of what we’ve built together.
This month, we’ll be revisiting the past 25 years — the milestones, the lessons, and the people who’ve made it possible. And while we’re looking back with gratitude, we’re also looking forward with energy and excitement for what’s next.
But let’s start where all good stories do, at the beginning.
The company was started in 2000 by Mike Double (Stewart’s father) supplying a select number of ladder rails to independent merchants in the UK, with the help of one other employee.
It was setup when an opportunity presented itself to supply towel rails manufactured by an Italian company from a previous contact that Mike had from working within the panel radiator business for a Finish company, Radson. They were then sold to what we know now as the Purmo Group in 1990. Mike, who was working as Radson’s General Manager in the UK, took this opportunity to take voluntary redundancy and open a local plumber’s merchant located in Brandon, Suffolk.
Stewart was working as a production planner for the company he’d completed his engineering apprenticeship with when Mike asked him to join, and run, DQ in 2002.
When Stewart joined the business DQ Heating, or Double Quick Heating as the business was called then, it turned over a little over £300K and had one sole employee: Stewart. Selling a range of white and chrome ladder rails, Stewart has to quickly learn not just about towel rails, but about picking, packing, sales, customer service and accounts; none of which he had done before. In 2003 DQ employed John Rolph, who was a school friend of Stewart’s, and who some of our old customers will still remember. From this point the company continued to grow without any outside investment. Any profit was reinvested into the business allowed us to keep adding to our towel rail ranges and introduce designer radiators.
Growth continued steadily, leading to DQ’s 2014 relocation from Brandon to its current facilities in Thetford. This was also the year that Emily Double, Stewart’s wife, joined DQ Heating. In 2018 additional space was secured at our site to install a powder coating plant, which to this day was one of the largest investments in the company’s history. It has completely changed the way we operate.
The industry has evolved but many core products are surprisingly similar — Just now with better methods and continuous quality improvements. Our powder coating plant improved product consistency and gave us full control over our branded products. It enabled our shift from distributor to semi-manufacturer, building our brand on our terms without supply limitations.
The biggest change in our history was either moving to our current premises or having the powder coating plant installed; but there are many other notable milestones in our recent history. The most significant have definitely been the additions of Jody (Commercial Director) in 2019 and James (Operations Director) in 2021. Without theirs and Emily’s support, we wouldn’t be where we are today. The company is in the strongest position it has ever been and looking forward to what the future holds.
Without doubt my favourite product is our multicolumn radiators (Ardent/Modus). While these are some of the oldest in the product portfolio the options, quality and models have had constant rejuvenation and improvements to enable it to be our bestseller, and one of the best multicolumn radiators on the market today. I can only see this continuing for many years to come due to its versatility and timeless looks.
I also love the cast iron products, these seem to be getting more and more popular every year.
Over the years, we’ve shared truly memorable moments as a team—both within the company and in the wider community. From Stewart’s bike ride all the way to Paris, to the Three Peaks Challenge conquered by Stewart and Jody in just 24 hours, our team continues to go the extra mile for great causes. Even Barney, our “Dogrector,” joined the fun during Movember, as the company rallied together to raise awareness for men’s health. We’re also proud to support the next generation through our apprenticeship programme, creating real opportunities for learning and growth.
Recent additions such as our new box machine, packaging machine and improved computer system, as well as an additional premises on the same site, means that we are in an excellent position for the foreseeable future. But we are constantly looking for ways to improve our products, quality, service and long-term environmental sustainability. We constantly evaluate our products’ environmental impact, ensuring every improvement keeps sustainability top of mind.
Our product quality and customer service are the main reasons we have gained the reputation we have, and that is down to all of the excellent staff we have working at DQ Heating.
In a world driven by convenience, sustainability has often taken a back seat — but that needs to change. If we’re serious about protecting our planet, businesses must go beyond good intentions and take measurable action.
Our products speak for themselves and sales tell us what our customers favourite products are, but now we’re turning the spotlight on the management here at DQ to get a look into what their favourite products are!
If you're lucky enough to have an en-suite or second bathroom in your home, you'll know that these spaces are often require smart, space-saving design choices to make the most of every inch.
Modern towel rails have evolved beyond mere functionality to become striking features in contemporary interiors. Sleek, minimalist, and often crafted from high-quality materials
At DQ, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive range of radiators and towel rails, making it easy to choose us. Our products are loved across the UK, but what truly sets us apart goes beyond just having great products.
We've expanded our product range. Our new 2025 products are available for order now, but you can check them out right here!
One of the main things that sets us apart from other distributors in the UK is that we have our own in-house powder coating plant.
When it comes to creating a warm and stylish home, the right heating solutions make all the difference. At DQ Heating, we understand that your radiators and towel rails aren’t just about functionality—they’re essential design elements that enhance your space while keeping it warm and inviting.
To download our latest July 2025 brochures please just click on the icons below.
