Young business owner lighting up the darkness

A young entrepreneur, who has grown his candle supplies business from a standing start to a £5m turnover within four years, says his desire to support his community is the main driver behind his success.

28-year-old Nicky Story, of Mexborough, is the owner of Swinton-based Supplies for Candles, which is marking its fourth anniversary.

Supplies for Candles primarily sells candle supplies for retail and wholesale across the UK and to micro businesses who manufacture their own candles, soaps and air fresheners which they then sell online.

The business now operates from a 81,590 sq ft warehouse in Swinton, employing over 30 staff. It is now the largest online company in Europe within the industry.

Story said: “I’m extremely proud of what we have achieved. The business has grown at an amazing rate, but for me the biggest reward is the effect we are having on the local community in terms of employment and wider social impact.

“We have seen an increase in trade from local people visiting our shop who have set up candle making businesses from home and selling online, allowing them to flexibly work around family commitments and bringing in additional income.

“I’ve also recently started working with youth groups in the area to talk about our journey and show that being an entrepreneur isn’t all what is portrayed on Dragons’ Den or the Apprentice.

“I hope that I’m someone young people can relate to and, after a successful talk with Wath Academy, I am keen to share my story wider to help inspire young entrepreneurs.”

MP for Wentworth and Dearne, John Healey, said: “Nicky’s business story is very impressive. Not only is he creating jobs for local people but his desire to ‘pass it on’ and inspire others is admirable.

“From humble beginnings, with no external investment or experience in the industry, Nicky Story’s socially conscious business is a great boost for the area.”