Karen Platt & Hayley Clarke

CandleXchange is a circular economy social enterprise transforming the home fragrance industry by reducing waste, extending the life of candle containers, and supporting communities in need. Founded by Hayley Clarke and Karen Platt, CandleXchange demonstrates that sustainability and social impact can go hand in hand.

By partnering with eco-conscious individuals and businesses, CandleXchange has created a closed-loop system that keeps candle containers in use and out of landfill. In addition to the Return and Swap model, the UpCandle program collects containers from other candle brands, refills them, and donates to charities supporting domestic violence survivors as they move into their new homes.

CandleXchange aims to expand its reach by broadening return and swap operations, increasing collection points for UpCandle, and creating a culture of reuse. Each reused candle is a tangible reminder that circular design and community impact can start with simple actions