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Combe Incorporated to invest $30 million in Rantoul expansion, backed by $5 million state grant

Combe Incorporated to invest $30 million in Rantoul expansion, backed by $5 million state grant

Photo: Associated Press


RANTOUL, IL (Chambana Today) — Combe Incorporated, the family-owned personal care company behind brands like Just For Men, Clearasil, and Vagisil, is expanding its Rantoul manufacturing facility with a $30 million investment, supported by a $5 million grant from the State of Illinois.

The expansion will create more than 20 new full-time jobs and retain more than 100 existing positions, as the company relocates operations from California to Illinois. Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Village of Rantoul, and Combe announced the investment together.

“Combe’s expansion is a great example of how the State of Illinois works with companies and communities to create jobs and opportunities for our people,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With more than a half-century of calling Illinois home, Combe’s long-term commitment speaks to why Illinois continues to bolster its reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse.” 

Combe has operated a manufacturing facility in Rantoul since 1974, when the company was scaling its major global brands. The facility serves as a critical hub for Combe’s global supply chain.

“Our roots in Rantoul run deep, and this commitment ensures that these jobs remain in the community that has supported us for over half a century,” said Keech Combe Shetty, Executive Chair of Combe Incorporated.

State Senator Paul Faraci of Champaign called the expansion a significant win for the region.

“Combe brings new full-time jobs to the area while retaining full-time positions that are critical to our local economy,” Faraci said.

Combe is a third-generation family-owned company with a history of building major consumer brands, including Odor-Eaters and Vagisil.

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