• 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.

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