PartyLite Handelsgesellschaft, the Austrian subsidiary of the US-based candle direct sales group, has filed for bankruptcy. The AKV credit protection association announced on September 24, 2026, that the company, which has one local employee, will be closed.
The insolvency follows a decision by the owner to cease European operations, with the Swiss parent company also filing for bankruptcy. Total liabilities in Austria reach 703 million euros, and many creditors hold vouchers for scented wax and home products.
Founded in 1909, the firm once employed 68,000 consultants worldwide. The Austrian branch filed after it could no longer obtain goods from its parent company. Creditors now face quota claims as the international group winds down its regional business.