Blackcat and Standard Fireworks Blog

The history of fireworks is complex and originated approximately 2000 years ago. Fireworks are widely associated with key events and celebrations and over the years the use of fireworks has become widespread at parties, weddings, birthdays, parades and public holidays all over the World. Production of fireworks is predominately in China, Germany and Italy as well as other countries in Europe including the UK.

The recognised creation and history of fireworks started with black powder; the largest ingredient of fireworks. The explosive chemical was discovered by the Chinese in the first century BCE – approximately 2000 years ago. Later in China, in the 10^th Century, black powder was used to make the first firework, named a firecracker.

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Radio Leeds – 4^th November 2010

Helen Ashton, Marketing Manager at Black Cat and Standard Fireworks is a guest on Radio Leeds’s radio show feature on the 4th of November joined by reporter Richard Edwards at the Standard Fireworks headquarters in Huddersfield. Talking about Bonfire Night and fireworks, types of fireworks, firework history and how to stay safe with fireworks and enjoy Bonfire Night. Let us know your views about fireworks after reading below. Read the rest of this entry »

Radio Cambridge – 3^rd November 2010

Helen Ashton, Marketing Manager at Black Cat and Standard Fireworks is a guest on Radio Cambridge’s Wednesday show talking about Bonfire Night, fireworks, firework traditions and firework safety. Read the rest of this entry »

We’ve been through a lot over the last 118 years at Black Cat and Standard Fireworks, from aiding efforts in the First and Second World War to designing and importing over 17 million innovative and exciting fireworks every year.  With years worth of knowledge and experience it’s no wonder we’re the UK’s leading firework brand!

Standard Fireworks was the brainchild of Yorkshire draper James Greenhalgh. Established in 1891, Standard Fireworks moved to its Crosland Hill site in Huddersfield in 1910 where it now covers over 100 acres.
During both the First and Second World Wars production switched to munitions and became an essential part of the war effort.
The post-war years brought further expansion and the company was floated on the Stock Market in 1959. In 1988 Standard Fireworks bought the old established Scottish based Brocks Fireworks Ltd, seeing all fireworks production transferred to Yorkshire.
During the 1980s and 1990s Standard Fireworks became a major employer in the Yorkshire region with a 500 strong workforce. 1998 saw the purchase of Standard Fireworks by the Chinese based Black Cat Fireworks. As the largest manufacturer of fireworks in the world, Black Cat switched firework manufacture to China.

The Huddersfield site is now the UK headquarters for Black Cat and acts as the Sales, Marketing and Distribution centre for both Black Cat and Standard product ranges.
Continued investment in new product development, logistics, sales and marketing have ensured Standard Fireworks will remain the leading family favourite firework brand in the UK. Black Cat has established itself as the brand leader for fireworks enthusiastic and continues to produce innovative ranges.