How Candle Shack Became a Beacon for the Home Fragrance Industry
From Kitchen Experiment to Industry Leader
It all started in 2010, when husband-and-wife team Duncan and Cheryl MacLean began experimenting with candle-making at their kitchen table. What began as a family passion project quickly grew into something bigger.
They noticed a major gap in the market: while demand for luxury candles was booming, most small makers couldn’t access the same high-quality ingredients and reliable education as big brands.
So, the MacLean's set out to change that, creating Candle Shack, a company that would supply premium materials and teach people how to use them.
From those humble beginnings, Candle Shack evolved into a powerhouse serving thousands of independent artisans, boutique brands, and major fragrance companies across the UK and Europe.
The Secret to Their Glow
While competitors chased lower prices, Candle Shack focused on premium, sustainable, and consistent quality. Their range includes high-performance wicks, natural waxes, and ethically sourced fragrance oils that meet professional standards.
But their biggest differentiator isn’t what they sell, it’s how they support their community.
Through Candle Shack Academy, they offer training courses, step-by-step tutorials, and expert advice designed to empower makers at every stage, from curious beginners to established candle entrepreneurs.
This educational approach turned customers into advocates. Candle Shack isn’t just a supplier anymore; it’s a trusted partner in creativity.
“Our mission is to inspire and empower people to make amazing candles and home fragrance products,” the founders explain.
That commitment to craftsmanship and shared success has built a fiercely loyal customer base, one that credits Candle Shack not only for their products but for their progress.
Scaling Without Losing Their Spark
Then came the pandemic. As lockdowns swept across the UK, the DIY and home fragrance boom created unprecedented demand.
Candle Shack faced a defining challenge: how to scale without sacrificing quality or community.
They responded by investing heavily in:
A state-of-the-art manufacturing and logistics facility in Scotland to handle increased orders.
An advanced e-commerce platform, streamlining global distribution.
Sustainable operations, minimizing wast,e and optimizing sourcing to stay true to their eco-friendly ethos.
Rather than chasing quick wins, Candle Shack doubled down on what made them special: craftsmanship, innovation, and connection.
That strategy worked. Even amid global supply chain turbulence, the company kept growing, expanding its reach while staying grounded in its purpose.
Lessons from Candle Shack’s Rise
1. Community Builds Longevity - Empowering customers to succeed turns them into lifelong advocates.
2. Education Adds Value - Teaching customers how to create better products builds trust, loyalty, and credibility.
3. Sustainability Isn’t Optional - In modern business, eco-conscious practices are no longer trends; they’re expectations.
4. Adapt to Scale - Growth is sustainable only when innovation evolves alongside demand.
Today, Candle Shack is a driving force behind the home fragrance industry’s evolution.
By blending craftsmanship, technology, and education, they’ve built a model that helps others grow and shines a light on how purpose and profit can coexist beautifully.
As global demand for sustainable, high-quality home fragrance continues to rise, Candle Shack’s flame is only burning brighter.
Sources:
