Yankee Candle names Chris Kelly General Manager of Canada

The Yankee Candle Company, Inc., the leading designer, manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer of premium scented candles, announced today that Chris Kelly joined the company as General Manager, Canada.

Kelly will oversee all aspects of the Yankee Candle business in Canada. The Company currently operates 6 company-owned retail stores in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and also sells products at select independent gift and specialty stores. As part of planned global expansion efforts, this new business unit will focus on building out the gift and specialty business as well as invest in building the retail store base to over 50 stores in the next five years across the country.

"We are very pleased to have Chris join our leadership team," said Harlan Kent, president and chief executive officer of Yankee Candle. "Chris brings to Yankee Candle a proven track record of brand development in the Canadian market, as well as relevant category and consumer product experience. His experience working within the Canadian marketplace, together with his solid business acumen, general management, sales and strategy development make Chris a perfect fit for Yankee Candle during this exciting time."

Prior to joining Yankee Candle, Kelly was part of the executive team at Hallmark Canada, where he most recently served as the Vice President of Consumer Solutions & Brand Experience. Previously he served as General Manager, Hallmark Gold Crown Stores and Director of Marketing & Sales Operations, also with Hallmark Canada. Kelly has also held sales & marketing leadership positions focused on the Canadian marketplace with companies such Timberland and Champion Athletic Apparel.

"Yankee Candle is the industry leader and a highly recognized brand both in the United States and internationally," says Kelly. "I look forward to working with and building the Yankee Candle team in Canada, in order to continue our expansion into new Canadian markets and channels, while continuing to develop and grow our existing markets."

Source: PR Newswire

Yankee Candle names Chris Kelly General Manager of Canada

Yankee Candle names Chris Kelly General Manager of Canada

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