Candle Industry Facts

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U.S. candle consumer retail sales for 1999 are projected at $2.3 billion, not including candle accessories. Since the early 1990's, the industry has averaged a growth rate of 10-15% annually. In recent years, this growth has doubled.

There are over 200 known commercial, religious and institutional manufacturers of candles in the United States, as well as many small craft producers for local, non-commercial use.

Candles are sold principally in three types of retail outlets: department stores, specialty (gift) shops, and mass merchandisers, including drug store chains, supermarkets, and discount stores. The U.S. market is typically separated into seasonal (Christmas Holiday) business at roughly 35%, and non-seasonal business at about 65%. Typically, a major U.S. candle manufacturer will offer 1,000 to 2,000 varieties of candles in its product line.

Types of candles manufactured in the U.S. include: tapers, straight-sided dinner candles, spirals, columns, votives, wax-filled containers and novelties. Some of these varieties come in different sizes and fragrances, and all come in a range of colors.

Candles can range in retail price from around 50¢ for a votive up to $75.00 for a large column candle although a specialty candle could be as much as $200.

Candle shipments increase substantially during the third quarter of the year because of the seasonal nature of candle sales for the Christmas season.

Historically, production workers have represented approximately three-fourths of the total employment in the candle industry.

Candle industry research findings indicate that the most important factors affecting candle sales are color, shape and scent. Fragrance is increasing in importance as a special element in the selection of a candle for the home.
Candle manufacturers' surveys show that 96% of all candles purchased are bought by women. Candles are used in 7 out of 10 U.S. households.