PartyLite Gifts, Inc News

PartyLite to combine with Candle-lite Company

Press Release | 5/28/2016

This new holding company combines two global candle and home fragrance companies: Candle-lite Company and PartyLite. The two companies will operate as wholly-owned subsidiaries of Luminex HD&F Company, and will establish the foundation to create a leading global omni-channel home décor & fragrance company, leverage their R&D and product development efforts, and ensure broad consumer reach by both companies.

Candle-lite Company, founded in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1840, is a designer, manufacturer and wholesaler of candles and home fragrance products for the mass merchant, food, and drug retail outlets in the United States. From its almost one million-square-foot manufacturing and distribution facility in Leesburg, OH, Candle-lite offers consumers a wide selection of high quality products under its Candle-lite Company, Essential Elements, Revere House, and Royale Classics brands.

PartyLite, founded more than 40 years ago, is a global home décor and fragrance direct selling company. As a designer and manufacturer, PartyLite offers an extensive portfolio of premium candles, flameless products, and home décor accessories through its network of 45,000 sales consultants operating in 24 countries.

Candle-lite’s Chief Executive Officer, Calvin Johnston, will serve as the CEO of the combined companies as well as serve on Luminex’s Board of Directors, along with representatives from The Carlyle Group and Centre Lane Partners. With more than 1,200 employees operating out of 12 offices worldwide, the new corporate office for Luminex will be based out of Candle-lite’s headquarters in Blue Ash, OH.

“Our teams are excited by the opportunities and growth potential the combination of these two great companies offers,” said Johnston. “This structure will enable us to leverage the strengths and capabilities of both businesses, allow us to serve our existing customers and consultants better, and provide a platform for growth by entering new product categories and markets over the coming years.”

PartyLite Parent Names New CEO

Press Relase | 10/18/2015

Carlyle Managing Director David Stonehill said, “Nobody knows home fragrance like Harry Slatkin. He has a strong legacy of innovation, product development and market expansion. We are confident Blyth and its business units PartyLite and Silver Star will thrive under Harry’s inspired leadership. We are very excited to welcome Dan Chard, whose operational expertise in the direct selling sector will help fuel Blyth’s expansion.”

Slatkin is one of the world’s most successful leaders in the home fragrance industry. As the founder and creative force behind Slatkin & Co, the premier home fragrance brand, he has received numerous awards, and was dubbed by The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal as the “King of Home Fragrance.” In 2005, Slatkin sold Slatkin & Co. to L Brands’ Bath & Body Works division. At L Brands, Slatkin grew the business to the second largest home fragrance company in the world, and the number one home fragrance brand on QVC. In 2011, Slatkin became Belstaff’s Chief Executive Officer and Co-Chairman and spearheaded the plan that transformed Belstaff into a leading luxury lifestyle brand.

“Twenty three years ago I entered into the world of home fragrance where my passion for excellence helped create the best home fragrance products in the world,” said Slatkin. “At PartyLite, my first priority is to expand the company’s direct salesforce and drive new product innovation. Together we will develop and deliver premier home fragrance products and experiences to people all over the world.”

The company also announced the appointment of Dan Chard as the new President and COO, effective immediately. Chard joins the company from Nu Skin, where he served as President of Global Sales and Operations. For 15 years, Chard worked for Nu Skin, a direct seller company that distributes premium-quality anti-aging products in the personal care and nutritional supplements sectors. He also held the positions of Executive Vice President of distributor success and President of Nu Skin, Europe.

“I am honored to take this role at Blyth, and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead,” said Mr. Chard. “PartyLite has the best independent consultants, who all have remarkable passion for the product. I look forward to working with the entire team as we embark on this exciting journey together.”

PartyLite Parent Acquired by Investor

Press Release | 9/5/2015

Under the terms of the definitive agreement, an affiliate of The Carlyle Group will commence a tender offer for all of Blyth's outstanding shares of common stock at $6.00 per share in cash. The tender offer is conditioned on Blyth's stockholders tendering at least a majority of Blyth's outstanding shares in the tender offer, early termination or expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and other customary closing conditions. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2015. The financing for the transaction will come from Carlyle Equity Opportunity Fund, a $1.1 billion U.S. middle-market buyout fund. Robert B. Goergen, Blyth's Chairman of the Board, and Robert B. Goergen, Jr., Blyth's President and Chief Executive Officer, who beneficially own approximately 38% of Blyth's outstanding shares of common stock, have committed to support the tender offer.

Carlyle Managing Director David Stonehill said, "Blyth is a pioneer in home fragrance with well established brands and extreme customer loyalty. We expect Carlyle's deep experience in global consumer businesses will help drive Blyth's product innovation and growth goals. We are particularly impressed with PartyLite's network of 40,000 independent consultants who have remarkable passion for the company's products. We are excited to support their efforts as we grow the company together."

Blyth CEO Robert B. Goergen, Jr. said, "This is an important day in Blyth's 40-year history. Carlyle understands what our team has accomplished and supports our vision for the future. Building on our strong consumer relationships, Carlyle, with its proven track record of growing companies, is the right partner to take PartyLite and Silver Star Brands to the next level of creativity and global growth."

The Goergen family has controlled Blyth for nearly 40 years. The company, based in Greenwich, Connecticut, includes PartyLite and Silver Star Brands.

PartyLite Celebrating Earth Hour 2015

Press Release | 3/10/2015

Over the last eight years, Earth Hour has grown from a symbolic "lights out" event in Australia to an annual global event celebrated in 7,000 cities in 163 countries. It encourages individuals, businesses and communities to turn off their lights for 60 minutes to show support for actions that will help stop climate change.

"Last year, we reached more than 5 million people with the Earth Hour message," says Rob Goergen, Jr., President of PartyLite Worldwide. "It's such a wonderful idea. People around the globe turn off their lights for one hour using their power to demonstrate the need for change. We're happy to provide the candlelight. It's a fantastic way to express our commitment to the planet."

As the world's largest party plan candle company, PartyLite, whose products are available in the United States, Canada and 21 other countries, will also show its support of Earth Hour 2015 by donating one dollar to the World Wildlife Fund for every Brighter World™ by PartyLite Jar Candle sold March 27-29. Purchase of ingredients used in these premium soy blend candles benefits the local communities where they are grown and supports sustainable agricultural practices and regional conservation efforts.

PartyLite is encouraging everyone to participate and asks candle lovers to post photos of their Earth Hour candles, along with the hashtags, #EarthHour and #PartyLite on Twitter, Instagram and the PartyLite Facebook page – www.facebook.com/partylite. PartyLite wants to know about everyone's Earth Hour experience, especially how many candles people light for Earth Hour. They'll create a photo album from the posted photos and total up the number of lit candles.

"All of us at PartyLite are excited about Earth Hour," says Goergen. "We've been encouraging people to turn off the lights and light up the candles for 42 years because we're passionate about celebrations! Surely, Earth Hour is a celebration of our planet that deserves support from us all."

PartyLite Products Now Available In Turkey

Press Release | 1/31/2015

Martin Koehler, President of PartyLite Europe, and Luca Pozzoli, PartyLite Group General Manager for Switzerland and Emerging Markets, held a successful opening event in December. Mr. Koehler noted, "The Direct selling model has been widely accepted in Turkey. In 2013, direct selling generated more than one billion U.S. dollars in Turkey and over one million people were estimated to be working in the channel. Sustained growth, along with the increasing popularity of the home décor and cosmetic segments has made Turkey an extremely lucrative market."

Robert B. Goergen, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of Blyth and President, PartyLite Worldwide said "The demand in Turkey for premium candles and candle accessories offers an excellent opportunity for PartyLite. We are pleased that our exclusive products offer new possibilities for consumers in Turkey to enhance their homes."

PartyLite Expands Popular Product Lines for 2015

Press Release | 1/16/2015

"Our customers are passionate,” says Joan Connor, president of PartyLite North America. “They don’t just like candles, they love candles! They love the sense of warmth and celebration that candlelight brings to their rooms. They’re creative, romantic and eager to have fun and express their real personalities when they decorate. They also care passionately about friends and family and community – and about people who may need a helping hand, too,” she said. “If you read through our new catalog, you’ll feel all of that great passion shining right through its pages.”

Expanded Collections – More of What Everyone Loves

Some of the most popular PartyLite collections have grown, so new pieces can be added to an existing set – or a new collection can be started. For example:

Jonathan Adler for PartyLite® – Fans loving the first collection will love the new addition – a collection called Safari Chic. It’s a fabulous walk on the wild side with the famed potter, designer and author. Exotic new candles, candleholders, animal motifs and a splash of metallic, and it all works seamlessly with the existing pieces.

Vienna Collection - This beautiful group in an updated, elegant Art Deco motif has been turning heads everywhere with its mosaic patterned, hand-placed glass pieces. Now, have a look at the amazing new sconces just added to the collection. Great statement pieces will bring added glamour and drama to any room.

Forbidden Fruits- The PartyLite collection that’s the very definition of sheer romance has turned the temperature up a notch - or two. Now there are new candles, new holders, a glamorous new hurricane, more melts, more warmers and the ultimate new candle idea: the Forbidden Body Sensual Massage Candle. Wow!

DIY "Decorate It Yourself" - More of "What You Love to Do"

Clearly Creative™ Collection – One of the most stunning and versatile glass collections anywhere, this terrific collection -- with new pieces from the Symmetry group -- provides the ultimate freedom in clear glass at varied heights. The rest is personal! Just add what inspires– such as shells, moss, flowers, fruit, ribbons, marbles, corks. It’s 100% personal preference.

Clearly Creative Votive Holders - Personalized candle holders! Here’s the chance to get crafty with a brand new decorating kit that provides everything needed to design votives that nobody else has.

Helping Others, Too - More of "What You Care About"

Brighter World™ by PartyLite - Natural, soy blend candles with exotic fragrances from faraway places. Created in partnership with renowned fragrance house Givaudan, these candles help us all to “give back.” Thanks to a special program supported by PartyLite and Givaudan, the plants needed for these fragrances are being saved from extinction. Plus, the program ensures a livelihood for the farmers who harvest the plants -- in Africa and Laos and now in France, where the lavender of Provence is threatened by disease.

Brighter Home™ by PartyLite- A new décor collection complementing the Brighter World candles. These candle holders are crafted using socially responsible practices -- from honoring cultural craft traditions to being sensitive to the environment. Artisans in India craft these soapstone candleholders into beautiful shapes and forms by hand.

GloStrong™ GloLite Jar in Forever Mango - This charming new jar candle with a tender red heart on the glass is the 2015 special candle. A portion of each sale is donated to support the American Cancer Society in the United States and Children’s Miracle Network in Canada.

PartyLite Donates Millions in Product to Holiday Gift Drive

Press Release | 12/6/2014

According to Ms. Connor, "This is the TODAY Show Holiday Gift Drive's 21st anniversary and we're very proud to continue our support and to report that our total contribution to date totals just over $22 million!"

"We actually came up with the idea of donating gifts that children can give to significant adults in their lives – like their moms, grandmothers and teachers," said Connor. "The local organizations distributing our products tell us they especially love the concept of teaching children to give as well as to receive. Some organizations have even set up special holiday programs for kids to wrap up presents for their moms and make holiday cards, too. It makes the kids feel very proud!"

Connor pointed out that while PartyLite is a key individual donor to the gift drive, the company is also proud to be part of the Direct Selling Association's contribution. "As a longstanding member of DSA, we're proud to join with others in our industry in supporting this excellent outreach," she said.

Asked why participating in the gift drive is important to PartyLite, Connor said, "Our sales consultants who sell PartyLite products are women and men who are usually very involved with their families. So they respond strongly to this cause, as they do to our support in the United States for the American Cancer Society and in Canada for Children's Miracle Network. PartyLite is very community-minded, and contributing to these important causes brings special meaning to our work lives and helps to make this holiday season even brighter."

PartyLite Sponsoring Giant Flag In Thanksgiving Celebration

Press Release | 11/22/2014

According to Donna Green, Manager of Community Relations and Corporate Giving at PartyLite, 2014 marks the 19th year that PartyLite has sponsored a float in the Plymouth parade. The 2014 theme, "Land of the Free," was chosen to honor two important U.S. milestones: the 200th anniversary of "The Star Spangled Banner," written by Francis Scott Key; and the 50th anniversary of the passage of the Civil Rights Act.

"PartyLite employees could not be prouder to carry our country's flag," says Green. "By carrying the flag, we recognize not only the brave passengers of the Mayflower, who helped found our country, but also the brave men and women who serve in our country's armed forces around the globe today keeping our freedom safe."

Green says that 25 PartyLite employee volunteers will march the 1.5 mile parade route holding the 40-by-25 foot American flag. PartyLite and its employees have participated in every parade since the celebration began.

Other PartyLite employees will hand out tealight candles at the PartyLite tent on the waterfront between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday. Tealights also will be given out from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday during the first annual "Illuminate 2014" ceremony and festivities kicking off the five-year countdown to the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower landing in Plymouth and the first Thanksgiving.

"PartyLite has always been so proud to be headquartered in Plymouth," says Joan Connor, President of PartyLite North America, "and it is really an ideal fit when you think about it. PartyLite sells the ultimate products for celebration – the best quality candles you can buy anywhere in the world."

PartyLite, whose candles, home décor and home fragrance products are available in 23 countries around the world, will provide much of the actual candle light for the Illuminate 2014 event, including donated candles for luminaria and the candle-lighting ceremony.

PartyLite is also sponsoring the Plymouth 400 Illuminate mobile app, which includes the weekend's celebration schedule. Additionally, the app will allow people in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to engage with participants in sister city, Plymouth, England, and connect through the app's social media photo-sharing feature. The app also gives users the ability to light a virtual candle to illuminate in their own communities."

PartyLite Sponsoring Humane Society of the U.S. 60th Anniversary Gala

Press Release | 11/14/2014

But this year, on Nov. 21, after walking the red carpet and enjoying cocktails, guests will sit down for dinner at tables featuring candleholder sculptures of the very animals they are raising funds to protect.

Center stage on each table will be dramatic centerpieces donated by PartyLite featuring the newest designs from the new Jonathan Adler for PartyLite® Safari Chic Collection. The golden glow of candlelight will emanate from the newest votive, pillar and tealight holders, among them will be Adler sculptures of beloved animals -- elephants, zebras and lions. Cocktail tables will feature his stunning gold Santorini Hurricanes, accompanied by his charming Squirrel Tealight Holder and, Jonathan's personal favorite, the Peace Dove Tealight Holders.

"We became sponsors of this year's HSUS Gala because it's such a perfect fit," says Rob Goergen, President of PartyLite Worldwide. "They wanted to make this year's Gala even more special to celebrate their 60thanniversary. At PartyLite, we're celebrating the success of our first Jonathan Adler for PartyLite Collection and welcoming the next one, which debuts Dec. 19 for winter-spring 2015. We're actually providing a sneak preview of these fabulous designs and irresistible animal sculptures to some of the most passionate animal lovers in the world, and we're delighted to do it for this great cause."

Goergen noted that the decision to become an HSUS sponsor for this year's Gala reflects the famous "heart of PartyLite" spirit of the company. "PartyLite is the world's #1 candle party company," he says, "and our products are sold in 23 countries around the globe. This year marks our 41stanniversary, and the people who make up the PartyLite family have always been involved in causes that work toward making life better. In the United States, for example, PartyLite has raised more than $14 million for the American Cancer Society since 1997. Preventing animal abuse is a cause we are happy to support as well. We all love animals, too!"

In addition to the Jonathan Adler for PartyLite centerpieces, PartyLite is donating all of the candles used during the HSUS Gala and giving each guest a special Fresh Home by PartyLite™ Perfect Pet Odor Neutralizing 3-Wick Jar Candle, which features a lemony verbena floral fragrance to freshen pet-friendly spaces with a cheery scent.

Partylite Introduces Jonathan Adler Collection

Press Release | 7/29/2014

Introducing the brand new Jonathan Adler for PartyLite® Collection.

PartyLite – whose world-class candles, candle accessories and fragranced home décor are sold around the globe – is unveiling its new designer collection, created by Jonathan Adler. Inspired by Adler’s home – New York City – the collection brings “Big Apple” glamour and style to candle lovers everywhere.

There’s plenty of glowing gold tone for holiday dazzle, from a tall, dramatic gold hurricane to a swanky, softer gold votive holder. There’s a stunning contemporary wall sconce that is especially brilliant when used in pairs. There are sharp red accent pieces, and a cool white ceramic Big Apple candle holder, plus two sophisticated new fragrances (Big Apple by Day and Big Apple by Night) to finish with a wonderful scent. There are even some irresistible white porcelain creatures to add a touch of fantasy to the scene: sculptural peace doves and a charming squirrel. There’s just so much to love and so many ways to “gift” your way into the holidays.

“The new Jonathan Adler for PartyLite Collection delivers the on-trend glamour our global audience will love,” says Rob Goergen, President of PartyLite Worldwide. “These stunning candle holders, pottery pieces and brand new fragrances bring a sense of luxury and excitement to any home, anywhere in the world.”

The Jonathan Adler for PartyLite Collection debuted online and in the PartyLite Fall/Holiday 2014 catalog on July 27.

“One of my favorite pieces is the ceramic squirrel tealight holder,” says Joan Connor, President, PartyLite North America. “All of Jonathan’s designs are unique and make a bold statement that will speak to the hearts of PartyLite fans everywhere. The collection is a clever way to infuse your space with style and scent – and it makes gift-giving this year really easy.”

PartyLite Announces Collaboration with Jonathan Adler

Press Release | 1/27/2014

"We are delighted to team up with Jonathan Adler to create this exclusive collection of candles, fragrances and decor for PartyLite," says Rob Goergen, PartyLite Worldwide President. "The new Jonathan Adler for PartyLite® Collection has a fresh, contemporary edge that we know our global audience will love. It's an exciting opportunity to introduce Jonathan's special brand of sophistication to style lovers worldwide – the PartyLite way."

The Jonathan Adler for PartyLite Collection will debut online and in the company's Fall/Holiday 2014 catalog in early August. Adler says his collection for PartyLite reflects a New York City state of mind. But he adds: "My collection for PartyLite captures the spirit of the city and will make your home vibrant and glamorous, no matter where you live."

The new collaboration gives PartyLite consultants an exciting and unique opportunity to introduce Jonathan Adler's signature style to hosts and guests at home parties and online. The initial offering includes two modern, sophisticated candle fragrances, Big Apple by Day and Big Apple by Night, in a variety of candle forms, along with decor designed to bring style, craft and joy to people's lives.

"We love Jonathan Adler's style," says Goergen. "All of his designs reflect his famous sense of irreverent luxury, which fits perfectly with the kind of on-trend fragrances, candles and candle holders that our new and longtime guests have come to expect from and love about PartyLite."

Additional Jonathan Adler for PartyLite products will be introduced throughout 2015.

PartyLite Donates 1.4 Million To TODAY Show Gift Drive

Press Release | 12/14/2013

According to Michael Norris, President of PartyLite Americas, this is the company's eighth year donating products to this famous charity. "This is the TODAY Show Holiday Gift Drive's 20th anniversary year," he said, "and we're delighted to report that our total contribution to date totals just over $20 million!"

"We've pioneered the idea of donating gifts kids can give to their moms or their grandmothers or perhaps their teachers," said Norris. "The local organizations that ultimately distribute these products tell us they love our concept of teaching children to give as well as to receive. Some of them actually create special holiday programs where children can wrap presents for their moms, make a card and really feel proud of having a holiday gift to give to the special person in their lives."

Norris, who will appear on the TODAY Show on December 13th, pointed out that while PartyLite is a key individual donor to the gift drive, the company is also proud to be part of the Direct Selling Association's contribution. "As a longstanding member of DSA, we're happy to join with others in our industry in supporting this very worthwhile cause," he said.

PartyLite Donates 1.4 Million to Today Show Holiday Gift Drive

Press Release | 11/26/2013

According to Michael Norris, President of PartyLite Americas, this is the company’s eighth year donating products to this famous charity. “This is the TODAY Show Holiday Gift Drive’s 20th anniversary year,” he said, “and we’re delighted to report that our total contribution to date totals just over $20 million!”

The TODAY Show Holiday Gift Drive, originally called their “Toy Drive,” provides holiday gifts to children in need and their parents.

“We’ve pioneered the idea of donating gifts kids can give to their moms or their grandmothers or perhaps their teachers,” said Norris. “The local organizations that ultimately distribute these products tell us they love our concept of teaching children to give as well as to receive. Some of them actually create special holiday programs where children can wrap presents for their moms, make a card and really feel proud of having a holiday gift to give to the special person in their lives.”

Norris, who appears on the TODAY Show on Dec. 13, pointed out that while PartyLite is a key individual donor to the gift drive, the company is also proud to be part of the Direct Selling Association’s contribution. “As a longstanding member of DSA, we’re happy to join with others in our industry in supporting this very worthwhile cause,” he said.

PartyLite, which is sold in 21 countries around the globe, is famous everywhere for its world-class fragrances. Among PartyLite products donated this year were fragranced candles, votive holders, reed diffusers, ScentGlow™ warmers, fragranced oils, aroma melts, incense sets and even a charming stuffed animal – the Lavender Bunny Hop.

“Kids love it, but it’s really a great ‘mom’ gift,” Norris explained. “Pop the little bag of lavender into the microwave for a few seconds, insert it into a little pouch in the bunny’s back, and place the bunny against the back of your neck – and you get lovely warmth and fragrance – and some great holiday stress relief. This season we have a lavender teddy bear, as well.”

Asked why participating in the gift drive is important to PartyLite, Norris said, “Our sales consultants who sell PartyLite products are women and men who are usually very involved with their families. So they respond strongly to this cause, as they do to our support in the United States for the American Cancer Society and in Canada for Children’s Miracle Network. PartyLite is very community-minded, and contributing to these important causes brings special meaning to our work lives and helps to make this holiday season even brighter.”

PartyLite Sells 1 Million Escential Jar by PartyLite Candles in First 7 Months

Press Release | 7/29/2013

Plymouth, MA, July 29, 2013 -- What’s the world’s most popular new candle? It just may be the Escential Jar by PartyLite™.

PartyLite, the acknowledged global leader in party plan candle sales, has announced the sale of its one-millionth Escential Jar by PartyLite candle – only seven months after the candle’s marketplace introduction.

“We’re used to measuring candle sales by the millions,” says Rob Goergen, President of PartyLite Worldwide, “because PartyLite offers dozens of different types of candles each season and sells them in 21 different countries. We’re the number one party plan candle company in the world. But this year, we’ve been experiencing something new.

“It’s been tremendously exciting to introduce a new candle product – created, by the way, in response to heartfelt information from candle lovers – and have it break every sales record in our history. One million sold in only seven months is a wonderful acknowledgement of not only our 40 years of candle-making as PartyLite but also of the 60 years of candle-making before that. Having the original and the best candles is at the heart of our proud history.”

When PartyLite asked customers what they really yearned for, Goergen said, “they told us they wanted a long-lasting, affordably priced, decorative jar candle that provided an even more powerful fragrance throw – and lots of different fragrance choices. So we created the Escential Jar by PartyLite candle and introduced it in December 2012. It quickly became an incredible best-seller all over the world.”

The Escential Jar by PartyLite is deceptive. Only 3 ½ inches high with a 3-inch diameter, it is a diminutive powerhouse. It's highly fragranced wax formula wraps a room in rich scent offering a color to suit every decorating scheme, and a rich, radiant fragrance that really pleases. Best of all, it is available in all of the 30 PartyLite signature fragrances. Burn time is 40-60 hours – making it longer lasting than even classic 3-inch pillars – and it is affordably priced at just $15 (USD).

Decades of scientific research and perfumery training go into creating PartyLite fragrances, using only the finest natural essential oils and manufactured ingredients. “One scent can contain up to 100 different ingredients,” said Goergen, “and all of our fragrances comply with worldwide safety standards established by the International Fragrance Association.”

Like all PartyLite candles, Escential Jar by PartyLite candles are meticulously crafted in the United States and the United Kingdom, using the company’s proprietary wax formula – a custom blend of high-quality natural wax and food-grade paraffin that is specially crafted to deliver the very best fragrance. All PartyLite wicks are lead-free and 100% cotton, providing a clean and even burn. Escential Jar by PartyLite candles are also stringently tested for exceptional performance and quality and they are backed by a satisfaction guarantee.

“The great fun with this particular candle is watching people fall in love with it. Give one to somebody – as I often do – and watch what happens. They immediately become devoted fans!”

PartyLite President Named to DSA Board of Directors

Press Release | 6/25/2013

PLYMOUTH, Mass., June 24, 2013 -- Robert Goergen, Jr., President of PartyLite Worldwide, was elected in June to a three-year term on the Board of Directors of the Direct Selling Association (DSA) at its annual meeting in Phoenix.

According to the DSA – the national trade association of the direct selling industry – Directors are "recognized leaders who command the respect of their colleagues and the public, and who can devote the time necessary to lead and direct the affairs of the association."

Commenting on his new role as a DSA Director, Goergen noted that serving on this board holds special significance for him: "I am honored to serve as a Director of the Direct Selling Association," he said. "PartyLite is one of the great established companies in the direct-selling industry and is, in fact, a long-standing member of DSA. As we celebrate PartyLite's 40th anniversary this year, I can think of no more appropriate commitment going forward than helping to further the critical goals of DSA."

Goergen also noted that adherence to the DSA's highly respected Code of Ethics by member companies literally defines the best companies in the industry for people looking to careers in direct selling.

"I agree wholeheartedly with DSA President Joe Mariano's statement that DSA member companies 'pride themselves in their commitment to the highest standards in business ethics,'" he said. "PartyLite is also very proud to have been recognized during this year's annual meeting for participating in the DSA's Code Communication Initiative. Communicating the DSA Code of Ethics effectively to our independent consultants, leaders and customers continues to be and will remain a high priority for PartyLite today and in the future."

Goergen joined the industry in 2000 as Director Internet Strategy and E-Business Initiatives Group for PartyLite's parent company, Blyth. In 2002, he was appointed Vice President of Blyth's Business Development Group, overseeing the company's acquisition strategy and implementation. In 2004, he became a member of Blyth's newly formed Office of the Chairman and was named President, Catalog & Internet Group, also assuming responsibility for Blyth's wholesale businesses in 2006, which was combined with Catalog & Internet to form the Multi-Channel Group. He was appointed President, PartyLite Worldwide in 2012.

Prior to joining Blyth, he served as Account & New Media Director for McCann-Erickson. Prior to that, he worked in corporate marketing at Candle Corporation of America. Mr. Goergen holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Richmond and has a master's in business administration from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

PartyLite Wins Two Telly Awards

Press Release | 6/4/2013

The Telly Awards honor the very best in video and film production as well as commercial broadcast, with fewer than 10% of nearly 11,000 entries from all 50 states and numerous countries receiving the coveted Silver Telly honor, the award presented to PartyLite for its delightful candle tango video.

The “Love at First Bright” video captures the unique brilliance of GloLite by PartyLite® candles – The World’s Brightest Candle™. GloLite pillar and jar candles are unlike any other candles in the world. The moment they are lit, they radiate an instant, all-over glow from top to bottom, illuminating the room with a magical, romantic light. The video highlights the candle’s mesmerizing glow and entices viewers to experience this seductive dance of light in their own homes.

“Every year, PartyLite – which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year – helps millions of people in 18 countries light up their homes and their lives through fragrance and candlelight,” said Robert B. Goergen, Jr., President of PartyLite Worldwide.

“No other candle in the world radiates light in this particular way,” Goergen said. “Like PartyLite itself, it’s all about innovation and transformation. Our goal in creating the video was to inspire others to discover how candles can magically transform their homes and, ultimately, their lives, when they choose to become part of the PartyLite family.”

As part of the 34th Annual Telly Awards, “Love at First Bright” was awarded the highest Silver Telly Award in the Internet/Online Commercial category for Collectibles/Gifts and a Bronze Award for Visual Effects for its stop motion animation. The award-winning video was a collaboration between PartyLite and Phanta Media.

PartyLite Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Press Release | 4/4/2013

It’s the 40th anniversary worldwide of PartyLite!

PartyLite officially entered the American scene in 1973, introducing its top quality candles and candle holders to delighted candle lovers from coast to coast. The PartyLite name quickly became synonymous with high-quality products and a contagious sense of celebration. PartyLite was personal and fun! After all, who doesn’t love a party?

Best of all, at a time when women, in particular, were struggling to find the best balance between work and family, PartyLite began lighting the way to an amazing opportunity to be your own boss; manage your own time; be part of a terrific, supportive team; and reach exciting new financial goals for you and your family, succeeding -- often beyond your wildest dreams -- by helping others succeed, too.

It didn’t take long for PartyLite to become one of the world’s most successful direct-selling companies. In 1990, PartyLite became a subsidiary of Blyth, Inc. (NYSE:BTH), a direct-to-consumer company and leading designer and marketer of candles, accessories for the home, and health and wellness products. A well-established part of North American culture by then, PartyLite had also crossed the seas to other countries around the globe.

Producing nearly 200 million candles a year and offering more than 600 different types of candles, home décor and home fragrance options each season, PartyLite today records sales of more than $400 million around the world. It currently ranks #31 in the Direct Selling News Global 100 top revenue-generating direct selling companies. Nearly 55,000 people sell PartyLite products today in 18 different countries. In fact, a PartyLite party is happening somewhere in the world every 18 seconds!

So how will the world’s largest direct-seller of candles, candle accessories and home fragrances celebrate its 40th anniversary?

“Traditionally, you throw a party. But we throw thousands of parties every day,” said Michael Norris, president of PartyLite Americas. “So we decided to celebrate our 40th anniversary in a different way -- by celebrating our customers with our PartyLite 40 Years, 40 Days of Winning Sweepstakes. We’re giving away prizes every day for 40 days in a North American sweepstakes. It’s a great way to share our excitement with the customers we serve.”

Starting April 1 and continuing through May 10, people can enter the PartyLite sweepstakes in one of three ways: (1) Our independent PartyLite Consultants -- those who sell PartyLite -- will feature banners on their business websites. Click through one of them and you can enter for that day. Or, (2) go to PartyLite Facebook and “like” PartyLite to be eligible to enter. Or, (3) in the United States, go to PartyLite.com. You must be at least 18 when you enter. PartyLite Consultants, employees and members of their immediate families are not eligible.

There will be one winner each day in the United States and one in Canada. Each day features a different prize, including many of this season’s most sought-after PartyLite products. There are dozens of hurricanes, lanterns, floor stands, hanging votive holders, color changing outdoor LED pillars with remote control, framed chandeliers, pillar garden sets, ScentGlow® flameless warmers and fragrances, as well as dozens of candles in a wide variety of shapes, scents and sizes.

The prizes include many of PartyLite’s most valued products, ranging in retail value from $50 for the ceramic Gazebo ScentGlow Warmer and three Scent Plus® Melts, to $175 for the stunning Large Weathered Zinc Lantern and Large Color Changing Outdoor LED Pillar.

There will also be two Grand Prizes awarded -- one to a winner in the United States and one to a winner in Canada. Each Grand Prize will be $5,000 (US) in cash, plus one year’s worth of PartyLite home décor and home fragrance – one package per month

“We’re celebrating 40 years as one of the great winners among direct-selling companies,” said Norris. “So we’re giving ourselves a wonderful gift. It’s the pleasure, every day for 40 days, of calling our customers with a great surprise message: ‘Guess what? You’re a winner, too!”

PartyLite Promotes Michael Norris

Press Release | 12/13/2012

Mr. Norris has 20 years of experience in the direct selling industry and joined PartyLite in February 2010 as Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing. He was promoted to President, PartyLite U.S. ten months later and, earlier this year, assumed leadership of the Canadian business. Prior to joining PartyLite, Mr. Norris was chief sales and marketing officer for Gold Canyon in Arizona.

PartyLite Donates 2.1 MM To TODAY Show Holiday Gift Drive

Press Release | 12/12/2012

PartyLite Worldwide Leadership Announced

Press Release | 5/30/2012

Commenting on his role, Robert B. Goergen, Jr. stated, "I am thrilled to be leading PartyLite at such an exciting point in the company's history. PartyLite's senior management, global home office teams and I are committed to the products and programs that drive growth, support PartyLite Consultants and Leaders and offer compelling shareholder returns."

New Leadership Appointed for PartyLite Worldwide

Press Release | 1/5/2012

Mr. Goergen, Jr. has been president of the Company's multi-channel group since 2007. He leads business development and corporate technology initiatives for Blyth and is a member of the Office of the Chairman. Mr. Goergen, Jr. joined Blyth in 2000 as Director, Internet Strategy and E-Business Initiatives Group. Prior to joining Blyth, Mr. Goergen, Jr. served as Account & New Media Director for McCann-Erickson where he managed E-commerce development and Internet marketing efforts for consumer products and services accounts. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Richmond and a master's in business administration from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Ms. Butler joined PartyLite in 1999 as President, PartyLite Europe and became President, PartyLite International, in 2003. She played a key leadership role during years of rapid international expansion for PartyLite, opening 6 new PartyLite markets in Europe, Mexico and Australia and positioning PartyLite as a global party plan competitor.

"Anne brought a wealth of direct selling executive experience to PartyLite, having worked in the United States and abroad for more than 25 years at leading direct selling companies," said Robert B. Goergen, Blyth's Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. "She has been a key partner to me and Blyth's Office of the Chairman for the past four years. I am proud of Anne's accomplishments and support her desire to transition to additional entrepreneurial activities and the next phase of her life."

Mr. Goergen continued, "During the last two years, Rob has played an active role in overseeing new Blyth investments in PartyLite in addition to his responsibilities for the Multi-Channel Group. He has worked closely with PartyLite management teams in North America and Europe. This is an exciting time for PartyLite Worldwide."

Mr. Goergen, Sr. will assume direct responsibility for the Multi-Channel Group during Mr. Goergen, Jr.'s tenure at PartyLite.

PartyLite Files 2 Million Distributor Lawsuit

Npros.com | 8/27/2010

The PartyLite lawsuit alleges that Mary Grace Lewandoswki, a top distributor, held a BBQ at her home in July to announce she was leaving PartyLite for Park Lane Jewelry.

The suit alleges:

Specifically, on or about July 14, 2010, PartyLite received information during interviews with certain salespeople in the downline sales force on which Lewandowski earned commissions (the "Serendipity Region" sales force), that Lewandowski had invited a number of salespeople in the Serendipity Region to a so-called "barbecue" at her home. According to these communications, during the course of the barbecue ... Lewandowski made an announcement in her living room to the PartyLite salespeople that she "had left" PartyLite. When asked why she had left PartyLite, Lewandowski made repeated statements that she "knew something" that the members of the Serendipity Region downline salesforce did not know.

PartyLite Expected to Boost Bottom Line for Blyth

Npros.com | 4/13/2010

...Shares of Blyth, Inc. soared on Friday after the company reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter results and gave a stronger than expected full-year view. The home-fragrance and design store projected fiscal 2011 earnings in the range of $3.20 and $3.50 a share, easily topping analyst projections for full-year earnings of $2.25 a share. The company cited its expectations for high sales from its PartyLite division, as well as margin improvement in the Miles Kimball Co. and cost reductions associated with the merger of Midwest-CBK... The full article can be found at the link below.

PartyLite in the Portales News Tribune

Portales News Tribune | 10/5/2008

According to Jill Roe, consultant with PartyLite, it doesn’t take a design degree or a big budget to create ambiance in the home. She’ll show how to add a few simple pieces to create instant drama in any room...

Partylite Employees Donate to Plymouth Relay for Life

The Patriot Ledger | 5/13/2008

A $14,000 donation by PartyLite employees raised this year's total to $899,000 for the annual event, which will be held June 20 and 21. Teams of families, friends, churches, neighborhoods and businesses will walk the track at Plymouth South High School throughout the night.

This event will begin with a reception for cancer survivors at 5 p.m., followed at 6 by opening ceremonies and a victory lap for survivors. Other activities will include a luminaria ceremony, music and games.

New PartyLite Worldwide President Announced

RTTNews | 5/26/2007

Blyth Posts Quarterly Profit Results

Forbes | 4/6/2007

Blyth recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $12 million, or 19 cents per share, in the current quarter versus a charge of $53.3 million in the prior-year period. Adjusted earnings were $39.8 million, or $1 per share, versus $25.8 million, or 63 cents per share. Analysts surveyed by Thomson Financial forecast earnings of 60 cents per share.

Quarterly revenue for the period ended Jan. 31, 2007 dipped 0.2 percent to $379.8 million from $380.7 million. The prior-year's results included $3.1 million in sales from the Impact Plastics operation, which was sold in the fourth quarter of last year.

New Partylite President Appointed

Press Release | 10/30/2006

GREENWICH, Conn., Oct. 30, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Blyth, Inc. (NYSE:BTH), a leader in home decor and home fragrance products, today announced the appointment of JP Trottier to President, PartyLite U.S. and Vice President, North America. Mr. Trottier joined Blyth in 2005 as President, PartyLite Canada and has been instrumental in growing sales in that market. PartyLite, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Blyth, Inc., is a direct sales company for candles and accessories with more than 44,000 independent sales consultants in 11 countries across North America, Europe and Australia.

Mr. Trottier will continue to report to Jim Mannion -- President, PartyLite North America, who assumes additional responsibility for Global Marketing. Mr. Mannion joined Blyth in 2000 as Vice President, Product Marketing and Research and assumed responsibility for PartyLite U.S. the following year and PartyLite Canada in 2004.

Partylite Parent Blyth Declines on Downgrade

Chron.com | 10/24/2006

NEW YORK — Shares of Blyth Inc., which makes candles and other home accessories, fell Monday after an analyst downgraded the company, citing high raw material costs and stalling momentum in the company's direct selling business.

Shares tumbled $2.30, or 8.9 percent, to $23.65 in afternoon trading on the New York Stock Exchange. The stock has traded between $16.29 and $26.25 over the past year.

Partylite Parent Blyth Surges on Guidance

TheStreet | 9/4/2006

Partylite Parent Co Snuffs Euro Biz

Giftsanddec.com | 9/4/2006

Partylite Convention

St Louis Today | 7/20/2006

The event is the annual national convention of PartyLite Gifts, a company that sells candles through in-home party shows, a la Tupperware. The conventioneers heard motivational speeches and studied the candle displays for sales-inducing ideas.

Good thing the America's Center air conditioning worked, sparing conventioneers and displays from the wilting 100-degree heat outside. The running gag up and down the main hall was about protecting the merchandise.

"Heat is not good for candles," quipped Gina Murphy, events coordinator for the company, based in Plymouth, Mass.

Partylite Parent Posts 1Q Loss

Reuters | 6/6/2006

The company's net loss for the first quarter ended April 30 was $30.6 million, or 75 cents per share, compared with net income of $10 million, or 24 cents per share, a year earlier.

Net sales fell to $327.5 million from $342.8 million in the year-earlier quarter.

Partylite Parent Corp Sells Off Euro Companies

North-West Evening Mail | 5/10/2006

A CANDLE factory which employs 175 workers is up for sale.

Staff at the Colony Gift Corporation in Lindal were told yesterday that American owner Blyth Incorporated is selling off all its European home fragrance and candles companies.

A second big Barrow candle factory owned by Blyth Inc at Sandsale, CCW Ltd, is not affected and will continue as part of the US group.

It makes a different type of candles, sold via PartyLite house parties. There is speculation that one firm interested in buying Colony is Europe’s biggest wax maker CSS of Turin.

It owns Price’s, which supplies dinner candles to the Royal Family, but whose candles are all now made in Italy.

Despite being up for sale, bosses of the 26-year-old Colony company were upbeat.

Colony managing director Louise McMahon said: "We don't want any scaremongering because it is business as usual for us.

"There is nothing that I am aware of that is going to change at Lindal because we are being sold.

"A number of people are looking to buy us."

Colony was founded by Alan, Sue and Jill Williams, who sold it in 2001.

The trio were tragically killed in a plane crash in Africa last year.

Partylite Reports Earnings

Blythe, Inc | 4/21/2006