Cincinnati, OH – An Ohio federal judge has largely dismissed a proposed class action lawsuit alleging dangerous defects in Mainstays-branded candles sold at Walmart that could cause them to explode. The decision marks a significant legal victory for Walmart and associated manufacturers in the ongoing litigation.
U.S. District Judge Jeffery P. Hopkins granted Walmart’s partial motion to dismiss and fully granted motions from manufacturers CL Products International LLC, Luminex Home Décor and Fragrance Company LLC, and Candle-lite Company LLC. Although the judge allowed the plaintiffs to amend and refile parts of their complaint, the sprawling class action claims have been substantially curtailed.
The lawsuit, initially filed in November 2020, accused defendants of concealing defects in every Mainstays candle manufactured since 2016, leading to fires and explosions. The plaintiffs brought 38 claims spanning negligence, unjust enrichment, and violations of consumer protection laws across 38 jurisdictions.
Judge Hopkins noted critical shortcomings in the plaintiffs’ case, including insufficient factual support and lack of specificity regarding which candles caused injury. The judge emphasized the complexity arising from multiple candle sizes, wick types, formulations, and manufacturers involved, alongside product recalls and reformulations during the class period.
“The alleged injuries and factual scenarios vary widely,” Judge Hopkins stated, noting that the proposed class definitions were overly broad and unworkable, potentially including millions of unharmed consumers.
Walmart responded to the ruling, stating, “We are pleased with the court’s decision and remain committed to offering safe, high-quality products that comply with all laws and regulations.”
The case, Amanda Ivanoff et al. v. Walmart Inc. et al., case number 1:20-cv-00896, continues in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, with plaintiffs allowed to file an amended complaint addressing the deficiencies outlined.
