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Candles are simple idea, but Scentinel succeeds in part with secret formula By
Brett Lundahl
It is said that 98 out of every 100 small businesses fail, and of the two that succeed, only one makes a profit. When asked how a small company in Nibley could become a model of success, general manager Mark Hedin says, "People want their homes and businesses to smell pleasant, that's the bottom line." Scentinel Candle Company is an example of the American entrepreneurial dream realized: a small, "Mom and Pop" candle manufacturer that is enjoying great success. While the concept appears simple, the application is just the opposite. Jodi Allen started the company in his garage in 1993. Allen saw a need for scented candles in the promotional products business that his family was operating. As the business began to grow, Allen brought on some help on the production side of the business. Hedin is not about to divulge any production secrets. "It may sound unusual, but the candle business is very competitive. Any advantage that you can come up with in you mixing or pouring procedure can be a huge benefit," he said. While the basic ingredients are wax, color and scent, the way that they are put together can make or break a candle company. Hedin began working for Scentinel as a candle maker and chemist, mixing scents and colors to create an original and exciting product. Hedin was made the general manager after a change of ownership and the reorganization of the company. The business experienced outrageous growth in the first years of operation, and according to Hedin, "It does not seem to be slowing down." Scentinel boasts some high-profile customers, including the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and Pinehurst golf club, the site of the United States Open Golf Championship in 1999. "We do candles for golf courses all around the country," Hedin explained. Scentinel has even gone so far as to have a representative of the company at the PGA golf show in Las Vegas. Other big clients include Zion's Mortgage Co., Albertsons, Rite-Aid drug, and a stint on QVC, the home shopping network on cable television. If you would like to visit Scentinel, a factory outlet store is at 2788 S. Highway 89 in Nibley.
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