Our people are at the heart of everything we do, as there is so much that goes into creating a candle; it takes a team effort to get our candles into your hands. The different departments in Torc come together as seamlessly as our fragrances.
About Us
A company steeped in history, culture, and heritage, Torc has been operating for over 50 years in Ireland. Step back in time and discover the journey that led us to where we are today.
Our Story
In 1968, Torc Candles was founded as a small family run business in the charming and picturesque village of Borris, Co Carlow. A granite village full of character and heritage nestling in the fertile valley of the River Barrow at the foothills of Mount Leinster.
In the mid 1990’s, Torc transitioned to manufacturing premium home-fragranced candles, a transition that would see Torc emerge as Ireland’s largest and most successful candle manufacturer. Today, Torc is a streamlined and highly automated manufacturing facility producing over 120 million candles annually which are lit on five continents across the globe. Our commitment to excellence and safety in 2024 is as it was in 1968, a commitment matched only by the dedication and loyalty of our staff. Inspired by the breathtaking beauty of our surrounding lush green countryside and sheltering in the shadow of a 19th century limestone viaduct, the next chapter in our story was easy.
This chapter would see us on a journey switching from fossil fuels to using green clean energy, continuing to drop our carbon footprint emissions and work with sustainable and natural raw materials such as soy wax, rape seed wax, 100% sustainable cotton wicks and working with natural essential oils. As we look forward to celebrating 56 years in business, the next chapter in our story will see us launch new exciting products and fragrances.
Supported by a local community for over half a century, Torc are proud to continue its commitment to “give-back” by supporting local and national charities, local sporting clubs and initiatives.
Our Team
David Sammon
Managing Director
David joined Torc Candles as sales manager in 1996 and progressed through the company to become Managing Director in 2023. David has worked in all areas of the business and has played a key role in its growth over the past 20+ years, building valuable expertise and establishing strong connections within the candle industry.
Colin Herity
Director of Operations
Colin joined Torc Candles in March 2020, bringing extensive production and financial expertise to the company. Before joining Torc, Colin worked as production manager in Connolly’s Red Mills and has held various finance roles at companies such as AIB. A qualified management accountant and member of CIMA, Colin is also a black belt in Lean Manufacturing.
Stephen Bryan
Director of Finance
Stephen joined Torc Candles in June 2022. He has a wealth of experience in family manufacturing companies, previously working as Divisional Controller within Connolly’s Red Mills Group and as a management accountant with Stapleton’s Bakeries Roscrea. Prior to working in industry Stephen trained as an accountant with PwC South East and is a Fellow Member of the Chartered Accountants of Ireland.
Laura Eldridge
Sales Manager
Veronica Dobbs
Sales Executive
Carmel Sammon
Regulatory Officer
Jessica Rovida
Graphic Designer
Sean McGovern
Production Manager
Cian Hadden
Quality Control
Caroline Walsh
Accounts
Siobhan Taylor
Accounts Receivable
Karen Mahon
Accounts Payable
Valerie Stanley
Production Supervisor
Artur Kolanski
Warehouse Manager
Our Heritage
Situated in the historic village of Borris, our heritage is of great significance to us. In a County steeped in culture and heritage, it is easy to find inspiration for our product ranges. Even our name Torc carries a deeper meaning rooted in the past. It is derived from the Torc necklace, worn by Celtic warriors in battle and was a sign of nobility and high social status.
For centuries a flickering flame has been a guiding light in the dark. The Torc necklace worn by Celtic warriors symbolised light, honesty and warmth, and we aim for our candles to embody these same qualities.
Our Process
While the exact formula is a well-kept secret, all the ingredients are environmentally friendly. Over many years of research and development, we created a blend of natural waxes that make the most perfect candle possible. Our candles are all made of food-grade wax, which means they’re vegan-friendly.
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We melt our secret blend of natural wax to begin the candle-making process.
02
When the temperature is right, we carefully add our fragrance to the wax.
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We then ensure the cotton wick is centred to allow the candle to burn correctly.
04
The scented wax is now poured into the container and allowed to slowly cool.
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The candle will now be gift packed and sent to our warehouse for distribution
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Add a finishing touch to your purchase with a choice between a gift box or bag.
Our Candles
Combining our history and heritage to create the perfect candle every time.
Finest Fragrances
We use only the finest blend of fragrances to entice your senses and uplift any room, giving it an ambience that suits your mood. Our fragrances are carefully researched, tested, and quality checked before they are put in your hands and we are proud of each and every one of the unique fragrances we carry.
Safety
Safety is at the forefront of our process, and we are part of the Irish and British candle making association which has strict guidelines on how to safely use a candle within a home. We abide by those guidelines to ensure the safety of all who purchase a Torc candle.
Sustainable
As of 2022, we have reduced the amount of plastic used in Torc by 40%. To do this, we have changed our labels from plastic to paper, and instead of using bubble wrap, we have made the switch to recyclable shredded paper.
