A Greener Christmas: Report Shows Surge in Demand for Eco-Friendly Candles, Global Christmas Season Candle Usage Estimated at 8.5 Billion Units

Subtitle: Shift in Consumer Preferences, Market Share of Soy and Beeswax Candles Soars, Traditional Paraffin Candle Sales See First Decline

As the Christmas season concludes, the global market research firm "Lumina Insights" today released its annual Christmas Candle Usage Statistics Report. The data indicates that while the festive atmosphere continues to be illuminated by warm candlelight, a quiet "green revolution" is underway in consumer choices.

The report estimates that approximately 8.5 billion units of candles were consumed globally for festive purposes during the 2023 Christmas season (November to December), remaining steady compared to the previous year. However, a significant shift has occurred within this figure:

• Change in Materials: Sales of plant-based eco-friendly candles, represented by soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax, increased by 32% year-on-year, with their market share exceeding 40% for the first time. In contrast, sales of traditional paraffin candles saw a historic decline of approximately 5%. Consumers showed a clear preference for sustainable, low-smoke materials with longer burn times.

• Change in Usage Scenarios: Candles used for ambiance on Christmas dinner tables and window decorations accounted for the highest proportion of consumption (about 45%). Meanwhile, candle sets purchased as gifts saw their average unit price rise by 15%, indicating their growing status as considered, premium gifts.

• Regional Characteristics: The European and North American markets remain the primary consumers. However, demand for scented candles in Asian markets, particularly China and Japan, experienced explosive growth, surging over 50% year-on-year. Classic Christmas scents like "Fir & Cedarwood" and "Cinnamon Gingerbread" were among the most popular.

Li Na, Chief Analyst at Lumina Insights, stated, "The data clearly shows that Christmas candles have transformed from simple lighting decorations into carriers of emotion, quality of life, and eco-conscious values. Consumers are not just buying light; they are voting for their lifestyle and principles."

This trend is also driving upgrades in the related supply chain, with numerous brands launching Christmas candle collections featuring renewable packaging and carbon-neutral certification to meet new market demands.