LONDON – The Estée Lauder Cos. Inc. is pumping up its U.K. manufacturing base with the integration of technical know-how and expertise from one of it key suppliers, Contract Candles, into its Whitman facility in Hampshire, England.
The company said it will assume the lease of one of Contract Candles’ two U.K. facilities, and hire around 50 of its employees over time.
William P. Lauder, Lauder’s chair, described the new investment as strategic, and said it would further reinforce the company’s “longstanding commitment to British craftsmanship, innovation, and growth in prestige fragrance.”
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The move, he added, will not only add “research and development and quality capabilities,” but will also “enhance operational control and long-term resilience in a strategically important category.”
Following the integration, the U.K. will serve as the primary manufacturing base for candles across The Estée Lauder Cos.’ prestige brand portfolio worldwide, including Jo Malone London, Tom Ford and Aerin.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed. Contract Candles will continue to operate as a standalone company.
Lauder said that since fiscal 2020, The Estée Lauder Cos. has invested $72 million in its Whitman facility across automation, quality systems, sustainability initiatives, and advanced manufacturing capabilities, alongside apprenticeship and STEM outreach programs in partnership with local universities.
Established in 1966 and marking its 60th anniversary this year, Whitman is part of Lauder’s global manufacturing network, producing skin care and fragrance products for brands including Jo Malone London, Estée Lauder, Clinique, and La Mer.
The site produces more than 90 million units annually for distribution across the U.K., Europe, and other markets worldwide.
“Whitman has reflected the craftsmanship, quality, and innovation that have defined The Estée Lauder Cos. since my grandparents founded the business,” said Lauder.
He added: “When my family established our manufacturing footprint here in 1966, we recognized the remarkable depth of British artisanal skill, and we are proud to continue investing in that legacy today.”
Roberto Canevari, Lauder’s chief value chain officer, said the U.K. “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.”
Lauder said that home fragrance continues to represent a “significant opportunity” across The Estée Lauder Cos.’ portfolio of fragrance brands, “driven by growing consumer interest in premium scent experiences and elevated home environments.”
The company added that Jo Malone London is the number-one luxury home fragrance brand in the U.K. across home scents and fragrance ancillaries.
