Estée Lauder makes UK its primary manufacturing hub for prestige candles

As The Estée Lauder Companies’ Whitman manufacturing facility celebrates its 60th anniversary, the company has announced a strategic investment aimed at strengthening its UK manufacturing network and expanding its fragrance production capabilities.

Established in 1966, Whitman is part of The Estée Lauder Companies’ global manufacturing network, producing skincare and fragrance products for brands including Jo Malone London, Estée Lauder, Clinique and La Mer. The site currently produces more than 90 million units annually for distribution across the UK, Europe and selected international markets.

As part of the investment, the company will integrate selected luxury candle and home fragrance capabilities from Contract Candles, a long-standing manufacturing partner specialising in luxury candles and scent diffusers, into its UK operations.

The move includes assuming the lease of one of Contract Candles’ two UK facilities, incorporating approximately 50 employees over time, and adding new research and development and quality capabilities.

Following the integration, the UK will become the primary manufacturing base for candles across the company's prestige portfolio worldwide, including Jo Malone London, Tom Ford Beauty and Aerin.

It comes as home fragrance remains an area of growth across the company’s fragrance portfolio, supported by consumer demand for premium scent products and home fragrance experiences. The category is particularly significant for Jo Malone London, which the company describes as the UK’s leading luxury home fragrance brand across home scents and fragrance ancillaries.

The business said the investment is intended to enhance operational control and long-term resilience in the category, while further establishing the UK as a centre for fragrance manufacturing and craftsmanship.

Speaking during Whitman’s 60th anniversary celebration, Roberto Canevari, Executive Vice President and Chief Value Chain Officer at The Estée Lauder Companies, said: “The UK plays a significant role in our global manufacturing network, and this investment in candle and home fragrance manufacturing reflects our continued commitment to British craftsmanship and innovation.

"Bringing these activities more closely into our manufacturing network will strengthen resilience and support our ability to continue delivering the exceptional quality and artistry that define our brands."

Since fiscal year 2020, the company has invested $72 million in the Whitman facility, funding automation projects, quality systems, sustainability initiatives, advanced manufacturing technologies, apprenticeships, and STEM outreach programmes developed in partnership with local universities.