Ambitious Glam Wax targets UK and overseas markets after moving to new premises

Home fragrance start-up Glam Wax aims to secure a larger share of the UK market and expand overseas after moving to its first business premises.

Founded by Christie Stapleton in May 2019, Glam Wax has signed a five-year lease on a 3000 sq. ft warehouse in Exeter having previously operated from her parents’ seaside beach shop in Dawlish Warren and the family dining room table.

Glam Wax produces vegan and eco friendly range of products including handmade wax melts, reed diffusers, bath bombs, bubble bath and candles and demand has rocketed this past year as business has trebled during the pandemic with the company boasting more than 10,000 customers.

This rapid rise has quickened the need for the Devon business to relocate to keep pace with demand along with plans to expand and maximise opportunities both in the UK and overseas.

Stapleton said: “Until the move, I’d been running the business from my dad’s beach shop and before that from home on the dining table – where the business was growing so fast mum had to buy a new dining table!

“Since the first lockdown the business has really taken off with people spending so much time at home. It got to a point where I couldn’t hold all the stock and so I needed extra space to be able to not just meet demand but to also expand the product range.

“The lack of space does limit what we can produce and store. I haven’t been able to launch our candle range but, with the new premises, this is possible. I can bring in additional staff, extra equipment and expand the range of products, particularly the candles and the bubble bath collection, which launched at the start of the year.”

She added: “I have got some ambitious plans for the business this year which is looking to expand further into the UK market – with either a distributor or national retailer – as well as overseas.

“Since the move this has already begun to look promising.”

Stapleton plans to bring in one additional member of staff to assist with product development, while an existing member of staff has been able to go full-time.

The 30-year-old entrepreneur has grown the business from scratch with no funding or financial support and has learned ‘business skills’ as it has grown.

However, as Stapleton looks to take the business to the next level, she is also searching for a business mentor to provide the expertise and knowledge to enable further expansion.

Reflecting on her achievements to date, particularly securing its first premises, she added: “I’m so involved on tasks with the business every day that I’ve not really had a chance to take a step back and let it all sink in.”

Glam Wax has achieved a unique identity in the home fragrance sector with its trademark pink and sparkly identity. Glam Wax appeals to women looking for a touch of indulgence – but without the high price tags.

The company also has focus on well-being and self-care, which has been behind Glam Wax’s bath bomb and bubble bath lines.

For the latest Glam Wax news and new products follow them on Facebook and Instagram via glamwaxuk.