Mayfield Consumer Products
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Candle and home fragrance products |
| Founded | 1998 |
| Founder | Mary Propes |
| Headquarters | Mayfield , United States |
Area served | United States |
| Products | Branded candles, home fragrance items |
Mayfield Consumer Products (founded in 1998) is a family-operated American business located in Mayfield, Kentucky, known for producing branded candles and home fragrance items. On December 10, 2021, one of its candle manufacturing facilities was devastated by a tornado, resulting in eight deaths and several injuries. The company was subsequently sued with allegations that it compelled employees to stay inside the building during the severe weather event.
History
Established by Mary Propes in her garage, Mayfield Consumer Products grew to become a supplier for retailers including Bath & Body Works. In 2018, the firm allocated more than $8.3 million towards expanding its operations and generating additional employment opportunities.
2021 tornado
On December 10, a severe tornado struck the Mayfield manufacturing plant and nearby community, causing the structure to collapse and trapping approximately 110 workers beneath rubble. Some of those who survived used social media platforms to request assistance. By December 13, rescue teams had accounted for most employees; however, eight individuals lost their lives due to the building's failure.
Lawsuits
Controversy arose on December 17, 2021, when several employees initiated legal action claiming that management threatened termination for those who evacuated the factory prior to the tornado, treating such departures as leaving work early. In 2019, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) had issued a $9,810 fine to the company for "serious" safety breaches. As of January 2025, OSHA’s investigation into the facility’s safety practices remained ongoing.