History of Yankee Candle
Yankee Candle was founded in 1969 by Michael Kittredge in South Hadley, Massachusetts. As a teenager, Kittredge created his first scented candle using melted crayons as a Christmas gift for his mother. After receiving interest from neighbors and friends, he began making candles in larger quantities, eventually turning his hobby into a business. The company quickly grew, focusing on high-quality, long-lasting scented candles that became popular across the United States.
By the 1980s, Yankee Candle had expanded significantly, moving to a larger production facility and opening retail stores. In 1998, Kittredge sold the company to a private equity firm, and it later changed ownership multiple times. Despite these transitions, Yankee Candle remained a leader in the scented candle market, known for its extensive range of fragrances and seasonal collections. Today, it operates as a subsidiary of Newell Brands, with a global presence and a reputation for high-quality, handcrafted candles.