There was a traditional link between soap making and candle making since a common ingredient in both is tallow. Edward Ryan & Co had a small scale production of “dip” candles but in 1899 they developed this area further when the company bought the Munster Candle Works on John Street in Cork.

By this time Munster Candle Works monopolised the wax candle trade in the Republic of Ireland and exported to the UK. The concern thrived following the take-over, with additional capital and an improved plant leading to a doubling of output.

Attached to the works was a box making department for packaging candles. Over 18 different types of candles were produced including a large trade in Church candles.

In the 1960’s the candle making side of business moved to Kinsale and in 1977 Edward Ryan & Co was acquired by the Punch Group and was re-named Kinsale Candles.

The vast range of candle/wax products produced by Kinsale Candles reflect the interior design trend for candles as ambient, atmospheric lighting in both the domestic and social settings. It continues to supply the significant ecclesiastical market with traditional, high quality, beeswax church candles and nightlights as part of its core business.

Kinsale Candles was the first Irish company to produce Scented Candles and to enter the Air Care Sector. It is also the only Irish company to manufacture and market Gel Candles.

With a rich heritage and eventful history, Kinsale Candles continues a long tradition of candle making in Cork, proudly upheld for many years by the firm Edward Ryan founded.