Sweet smell of success as Gateshead distributor lands US candle work

Oct 10 2007 by Chris Knox, The Journal

ONE of America’s major suppliers of scented candles has expanded its operations into the UK through a Gateshead distribution company.

Gold Canyon Candles, which has £2m US sales, has announced an agreement with Gateshead online distributor Spark after setting up a UK headquarters in Chester.

The deal is a major addition to Spark’s 300 clients, which include Toys-R-Us, Setanta Sports and Powergen. Spark will distribute Gold Canyon goods from its warehouse in Follingsby Park after processing orders from the US firm’s website.

Spark secured the contract after being recommended by another of its clients, Blooming Marvelous, which specialises in baby and maternity wear. Spark sales executive Natalie Sahnal said: “This is a very exciting contract for us as it extends our reach into international markets.

“Gold Canyon is absolutely massive in America and they have very high growth targets for the UK. We are very happy to be part of the business.” Although Spark would not comment on job creation from the deal, Gold Canyon said Spark would have to increase its 250-strong workforce by at least 10 comfortably to handle first year orders, which it says will be in the region of 5,000 and increase 10% year on year.

Gold Canyon, which also has a bodycare and fragrance line, will aim to sell its products with the help of 1,300 self-employed demonstrators in the UK, who will showcase the products through parties. The company hopes to sign agreements with demonstrators in the North-East.

Gold Canyon CEO and president Curt Waisath said: “North-East England will be one of Gold Canyon’s highest growth regions in the UK.

“People in this region are known for being hard working, family orientated and social – attributes that naturally link to interest in Gold Canyon products and our business opportunity.”