Aug 13, 2008

Colonial Candle recognized as Green Facility

(Cannon Falls, MN) – Midwest, manufacturer of Colonial Candle premium brand of home fragrance products, announced today that Colonial Candle’s Elkin, North Carolina, production facility is officially recognized as an Environmental Partner in the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (NCDENR) Environmental Stewardship Initiative. Colonial Candle has voluntarily established an Energy Management System recognized and audited by the NCDENR, which goes above and beyond regulatory requirements. In a letter from the NCDENR officially recognizing Colonial Candle’s “green” status and certification as an Environmental Partner, Secretary William G. Ross Jr. wrote, “Your organization is to be commended for making a voluntary commitment to move toward environmental sustainability by using a systematic approach to environmental performance.”

To receive the NCDENR’s Environmental Partner recognition, the Colonial Candle facility had to prove that it meets strict guidelines by opening its doors to an audit and sharing its on-going recycling and energy-saving activities with the NCDENR, including extensive recycling and reuse of wax, corrugate, paper, glass, water, metals, wood pallets and other materials; investing in state-of-the-art energy saving systems such as electric boilers and Turbocor units for process chilling to reduce natural gas and electricity consumption; installing T-5 lights, which use less energy, produce less heat and last twice as long as standard light bulbs; and implementing an Energy Conservation Policy encouraging all employees to reduce energy consumption on an on-going basis.

“We are proud to lead the home fragrance market with this distinction, and we hope to share the best practices we’ve developed with others,” says Midwest President Frederic Contino. “With the ultimate goal of a healthier environment and conservation of natural resources, we are making a difference, and we’re honored to bring our customers quality candles and other home fragrance products they know have been produced with smart, environmentally responsible techniques. We will continue to lead the market and do our part to establish new and innovative ways to minimize impact on the environment and conserve natural resources.”

Colonial is one of approximately 40 organizations in North Carolina, and the first candle manufacturer, who have been recognized as an Environmental Partner in the NCDENR’s Environmental Stewardship program. As an Environmental Partner, Colonial’s Elkin facility will be reviewed each year by the North Carolina DENR to ensure strict guidelines continue to be met.

Midwest sparkles as a national leader in the giftware industry, bringing independent retailers unique product designs, award-winning display ideas, innovative merchandising programs, outstanding customer service, and an experienced and enthusiastic sales team. Through our Colonial Candle brand, we bring independent retailers the highest quality premium candles and home fragrance products featuring on-trend fragrances and colors, effective displays and the Colonial Candle Promise. Through our Seasons of Cannon Falls brand, we offer a wide variety of exclusive holiday, seasonal, and everyday home decorations and gifts. And now through our Delight brand, we offer a complete collection of trend-forward candle accents to brighten the home. Please call 800-776-2075 or visit www.midwestofcannonfalls.com to request more information or locate a showroom near you.