AU Vodka, the rapidly expanding premium spirits brand renowned for its distinctive gold bottles, has selected a state-of-the-art fire detection system from Hochiki Europe for its impressive new head office in Swansea. The system, installed by South Wales-based fire safety and security specialists H3 Group, provides exceptional reliability and seamlessly integrates with the building’s ultra-modern design.
The new AU Vodka HQ is a testament to the brand’s ambitious vision and rapid growth. As widely reported in national media, the two-story facility is a unique and dynamic workspace designed to accommodate over 150 employees. Beyond sleek, contemporary offices and communal areas, the building boasts a bustling kitchen, a mini golf course, and even a maze, presenting a diverse range of fire safety requirements.
Tasked with safeguarding this prestigious and complex environment, AU Vodka entrusted the project to H3 Group, a long-standing partner of Hochiki Europe. H3 Group recognised the need for a fire detection system that not only offered unparalleled reliability but also complemented the building’s striking aesthetic.
Simon Goneso of H3 Group commented, “When we secured the AU Vodka contract, it was clear that we needed a fire safety solution that mirrored the brand’s commitment to quality and design. Hochiki’s ESP addressable range emerged as the ideal choice. We have consistently found their devices to be exceptionally reliable, which is crucial in minimising the risk of false alarms within a busy and dynamic environment like AU Vodka’s headquarters. The ease of installation and maintenance offered by Hochiki’s systems is also a significant advantage for our engineers.”
The Hochiki ESP addressable system was specifically chosen for its high performance and its ability to blend seamlessly with the contemporary architectural design of the AU Vodka offices. For a brand that places significant emphasis on visual appeal, the sleek and unobtrusive nature of Hochiki’s devices was a critical factor in the decision-making process.
Furthermore, the two-floor layout of the headquarters necessitated a robust and reliable networking capability. Hochiki’s system provides seamless communication and control across the entire building, ensuring comprehensive fire safety coverage throughout all areas, from the main office spaces to the unique recreational facilities. This integrated approach guarantees that all zones are continuously monitored and protected.
The implementation of the Hochiki fire detection system by H3 Group ensures that AU Vodka’s innovative and creative hub in Swansea is equipped with a fire safety solution that is as reliable, stylish, and cutting-edge as the brand itself, providing peace of mind for employees and safeguarding the company’s valuable assets.
To read the full story and learn more about the ESP range, visit the Hochiki website
About the Author

Hochiki Europe (UK) Ltd
INTERNATIONAL MARKET LEADER
Hochiki has a distinguished heritage of specialist technological expertise which has gained the group its international status as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of commercial and industrial fire detection solutions. Established early in the twentieth century, Hochiki has remained an independent, multi-national company which now employs over 1500 personnel in total, operating five manufacturing plants, thirty-one sales offices and eighteen subsidiaries.
Hochiki Europe (UK) Ltd manufactures and distributes product for Europe, the Middle East and Africa and is dedicated to providing sales and technical services to these markets.
WORLD PROVEN PERFORMANCE
With a heritage of innovative design and leading edge technologies, Hochiki’s products have gained widespread acceptance as the benchmark for high-integrity and long-term reliability throughout the world.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FOR LIFE SAFETY
Hochiki owns the world’s largest, purpose-built, state of the art fire test laboratory. This ensures that the pedigree of Hochiki products remains unrivalled and guarantees that even large scale designs are fully proven in real fire conditions.
In addition, the Group employs over 100 specialist research and development engineers that undertake activities from fundamental research into the physical properties of fire, to hardware and software product design and development.