Sussex candle manufacturer fuels expansion

Sussex-based family-owned business Contract Candles & Diffusers, a manufacturer of premium home fragrance products for luxury brands, has secured a multi-million-pound asset-based lending facility from Praetura Commercial Finance to support its next phase of growth.

Established in 1997 and based in the South Downs National Park, the company has built a strong reputation for crafting high-quality scented candles and diffusers.

Since expanding into diffuser production in 2010, Contract Candles & Diffusers has become one of the few UK manufacturers capable of meeting the exacting standards of the global luxury market.

The business partners with prestigious British and international brands within the sector, offering a comprehensive range of hand-poured and bespoke home fragrance products whilst also being a market leader in sustainability.

With a workforce of 250 employees across its two sites in Fernhurst and Chichester, Contract Candles & Diffusers sought new funding to accelerate its strategic growth plans, support its innovation projects and expand its manufacturing capabilities.

Richard Grieveson, managing director of Contract Candles & Diffusers, said: โ€œThis partnership with Praetura not only allows us to release equity tied up in our fixed assets, but also provides the financial flexibility we need to invest in the next phase of our manufacturing capabilities.

โ€œWith this backing, weโ€™re well-positioned to continue leading the industry in sustainable production and innovation.โ€

The bespoke multi-product facility, structured by Praetura Commercial Finance, provides a flexible funding package and offers the headroom needed for the business to diversify and scale operations.

Nick Salmons, sales director at Praetura Commercial Finance, said:ย โ€œSupporting British manufacturing is vital to driving local, sustainable economic growth, and we were thrilled to partner with Contract Candles & Diffusers.

“It was a pleasure to structure a tailored, multi-product facility that aligns closely with their long-term vision. Our thanks go to BTG Advisory for the introduction.โ€

The client was introduced by David Mathieson, Director at BTG Advisory. Legal advice for Praetura was provided by Squire Patton Boggs, whilst Ward Hadaway advised Contract Candles & Diffusers.

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