Franchise: Candle franchise opportunity

May 3, 2007 - PRLog -- Far from being only the preserve of hippies, students, people in black-outs and Wee Willie Winkie, candles have surged in popularity over recent years and are now an essential part of fashionable interior designs for people's homes.

Originally, the wax sticks were used as the primary source of light until the mid 19th century when lamps and electricity began to take over, although they have also been used for centuries to give off colour and aromas as well as forms of decoration.

Candleholders, candlesticks and original chandeliers are all an essential part of many historical and retro-designed buildings and homes, and provide a huge amount of scope for manufacturers, artists, interior designers and retailers.

The boom in the candle industry has been largely down to the continuing trend for interior design and home improvement, with many homeowners seeing the humble candle as the ideal icing on the proverbial cake to add that finishing touch to a well-presented room.

And with the candle industry in the US growing over 650 per cent since the early 90s, growing from a $300 million market to one exceeding $2.5 billion in retail sales in 2002, according to one franchiser, there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of this continuing trend.

Candleman, one of the most successful candle franchises in the world, puts much of its success down to the increase in global demand, as well as a tried and tested franchising model.

It said: "Initially beginning with one store in our local market, we quickly saw the industry potential and began expanding to include franchised stores in some of the finest shopping malls across the United States and Canada.

"Throughout our history, our two-part goal has remained the same - to assist individual business people to build a successful business of their own while gathering the broadest assortment of the most unique candles and candle accessories available."

This is, of course, good news for anybody looking to get involved in one of the easiest retail sectors available. While few business people and entrepreneurs will be keen to get involved solely in the candle industry at first, those with aspirations of success in retail, home furnishings, interior design and home arts and crafts could find the appeal more attractive.

With an initial investment ranging anything from $50,000 to $200,000, there is need for financial planning and research before diving into the industry, although with the help of several experienced franchisers, there could be a profitable business venture available for those prepared to burn the candle at both ends and put in the hard work.

Copyright Adfero Ltd 2007

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