North America’s leading candle manufacturers, suppliers and distributors gathered in Las Vegas April 16 to 19 for the National Candle Association’s annual meeting and trade show. According to the association, participants emerged from the event with a general perception that 2012 will be a solid year for candle sales as consumers continue to loosen their wallets for the sort of affordable gift, relaxation and home décor item that candles represent.

Event participants traveled to Las Vegas to exchange information on the business challenges, regulatory developments and design trends impacting the industry. In excess of 300 attendees packed the National Candle Association committee meetings, technical sessions and networking events during the four-day program, the association related. This year’s technical presentations on the Global Harmonization System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, California’s green chemistry initiative and the Lean Six Sigma principles for improving business operations drew standing-room-only crowds, the association stated. In addition, a hands-on workshop allowed participant teams to create new products and related marketing strategies based on future trend directions.

The NCA supplier’s trade show, held in conjunction with the annual meeting, provided candle manufacturers the opportunity to view the latest product innovations and conduct business with leading wax companies, wick suppliers, fragrance houses and equipment and container manufacturers.

The next NCA annual meeting runs July 8 to 11, 2013, in Hollywood, FL, in conjunction with the triennial World Candle Congress, which brings together manufacturer and suppliers from North America, Latin America and Europe.