Getting to know... Adam Leah

In the latest instalment of Bdaily’s Getting to know... feature, which looks at the person behind the business profile, Adam Leah, founder of Stockport-based Direct Stoves and Fireplaces, talks about his route into the retail sector, his passion for developing new growth opportunities and why the North West is such a great place to do business...

We know you as the founder of Direct Stoves and Fireplaces, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick…

I enjoy building things, identifying opportunities and constantly seeking improvement.

I am driven by progress, whether that means growing a business, developing new ideas or finding better ways to accomplish tasks.

My strong interest in buying, selling and trading has made retail a natural fit for me.

Outside of work, I like to stay active and keep busy, whether it’s working on projects at home, going for walks with my wife or spending time with my seven-year-old son.

Did you always want to work in the fireplace industry? 

I didn’t initially plan to work in the industry, but I discovered an opportunity that drew me in.

What started as a simple business idea quickly evolved into something much larger.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst? 

What I enjoy most about running a business is developing strategy, identifying new products and categories to explore, and collaborating with the e-commerce team to enhance the website’s functionality and performance.

I thrive on the challenge of advancing the business and discovering new growth opportunities.

On the other hand, I find the day-to-day pressures and problems that come with running a business less enjoyable, but I understand they are part of the experience.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

I rarely stop to look back at where the business started, but when I do, I’m proud of how far it has come.

I started in the fireplace industry, labouring for a stonemason, and 21 years ago, I saw an opportunity to sell fireplaces on eBay and founded Fireplace Warehouse.

From those early days, the business has grown into one of the UK's largest retailers of fires, fireplaces and stoves.

I’m very proud of that journey.

How do you relax outside of work?

I tend to relax by staying busy doing chores around the house, walking the dog and keeping up with whatever my seven-year-old son wants to do.

I enjoy being active and spending time with my family.

What makes the North West such a great place to live and work?

The North West has a strong sense of community, great people and a hardworking business culture. It offers a good balance between work and family life, and there’s a lot of pride in the region.

It’s a great place to build a business because people value honesty, hard work and long-term relationships.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know…

I once sailed across the Atlantic.

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