The Estée Lauder Companies is set to invest in its UK manufacturing network, as its Whitman facility in Petersfield celebrates its 60th anniversary.
The company is set to integrate selected luxury candle and home fragrance capabilities from long-standing supplier Contract Candles into its UK operations.
The move includes taking over the lease of one of Contract Candles’ facilities, bringing approximately 50 employees into the business over time and adding research, development and quality functions.
Following the integration, it is understood that the UK will become the primary manufacturing base for candles across Estée Lauder’s prestige brands globally, including Jo Malone London, Tom Ford and Aerin.
The company said the investment is intended to strengthen operations and increase control over a category that continues to grow across its fragrance portfolio.
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“For sixty years, Whitman has reflected the craftsmanship, quality, and innovation that have defined The Estée Lauder Companies since my grandparents founded the business,” said The Estée Lauder Companies board of directors chair William P. Lauder.
“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.”
Since 2020, Estée Lauder has invested $72m in the Whitman facility, with funding being allocated to upgrades in automation, sustainability schemes, manufacturing initiatives, as well as apprenticeship and STEM programmes in partnership with local universities.
The Estée Lauder Companies executive vice president and chief value chain officer Roberto Canevari added: “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.”
Last month, merger talks with Spanish perfume maker Puig, collapsed, which Estée Lauder later attributed to price disagreements.
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