About Us
Firemasters specialises in the import and distribution of premium Namibian Braaiwood for outdoor cooking. Our authentic products are ethically sourced and support African businesses and communities. Firemasters is a subsidiary of Africa Dawn LTD.
Ian Moffett and Mike Laing started Firemasters in April 2020
About Ian
Ian Moffett is a co-founder of Firemasters UK and is responsible for operations. Born in South Africa but based in the UK for all of his adult life, Ian started Firemasters to share something he grew up with—a proper wood fire, made with premium hardwood that burns beautifully and brings people together.
From loading bags of wood to chatting with customers, Ian is involved in every part of the business. He manages logistics, quality control, customer service, and ensures everything runs smoothly day to day.
His passion for real wood fires—and the unique role they play in creating connection—drives Firemasters’ mission. What began as a way to bring a taste of South Africa to the UK has become something bigger: helping all customers across Britain enjoy a better fire experience, whether it’s for a summer barbecue, a firepit evening, or a log-burning stove.
Ian’s approach is hands-on, honest, and always guided by Firemasters’ values. He’s proud of what Firemasters has grown into—and even more excited about where it’s going.
About Mike
Mike Laing is co-founder of Firemasters UK and leads the company’s sourcing and business development efforts. Based in South Africa, Mike is responsible for identifying and securing the highest quality hardwood—working directly with trusted suppliers to ensure every batch meets Firemasters’ strict standards for performance, sustainability, and consistency.
With deep local knowledge and a sharp eye for quality, Mike plays a crucial role in maintaining the authenticity and integrity of the Firemasters product. He oversees the supply chain at the source, managing everything from supplier relationships to quality control and export logistics.
As a former restaurateur, Mike brings valuable insight to Firemasters’ business development strategy—especially when it comes to providing unbeatable value and service to restaurants. Always on the lookout for new opportunities and partnerships, he helps ensure the company continues to grow while staying true to its roots.
Guided by the same Firemaster's values—Mike brings both vision and execution to the Firemasters story.
Our Wood & Charcoal
Firemasters offers you premium firewood naturally dried under the hot African sun. Our high-density hardwood has less than 2% moisture content which generates extreme heat and long-lasting coals. Our firewood is ideal for braais (BBQs), fire pits, pizza ovens, wood burners and closed combustion stoves.
Whether socializing around a summer braai with your family and friends or spending a cozy winter's night in by the fireplace, we are here to ensure you never run out of Africa's favourite firewood.
Our Heritage
For centuries people have been on a journey of mastering fire, and we as South Africans were the very first humans to do so nearly a million years ago.
The mastery of fire is considered to be one of the most pivotal moments in the history of humankind, providing safety, warmth and a communal place for social interactions within the tribe.
Wherever humans have gone in the world they have carried with them the two most significant achievements of humanity, language, and fire!
From “Braaivleis” to “Shisa Nyama,” as South Africans, making fire is in our blood and we are proud to be supporting this age-old tradition with you here in the UK.
Firemasters is a subsidiary of Africa Dawn LTD based in South East England.
Our Values
- Win-Win relationships
- Integrity
- Committed and resilient
- Passionate about our products, our customers and South Africa
Our Mission
To deliver the very best in braai wood and charcoal with unbeatable service.