A State Grant from Gov. Pat Quinn Prompts Illinois Manufacturer to Expand, Add Jobs

(Chicago, IL) — February 9, 2011. Continuing to swat fears that the new Illinois income tax increase will drive away businesses, Governor Pat Quinn today announced a more than $1 million state investment package to allow an Illinois manufacturer, The Chamberlain Group, Inc., to expand its operations and create potentially 100 new jobs over the next four years.

“Our efforts are proving successful in bringing more businesses to the state and putting more people back to work,” said Quinn.

Chamberlain, which manufactures residential garage door openers, commercial door operators, residential and commercial gate operators, and telephone entry systems, will open a new product showroom, a training center and open workspaces in the 23,000 square-foot former Saturn dealership in Elmhurst.

“We are thrilled to establish yet another tie to the Elmhurst community, which has been home to The Chamberlain Group headquarters since 1967,” stated James J. Roberts, Chief Executive Officer, The Chamberlain Group, Inc. “The [center] will showcase Chamberlain’s position as an industry leader that supports world-class innovation and design.”

The facility is scheduled to open in fall 2011.

The state’s business investment package consists of Economic Development for a Growing Economy corporate income tax credits based on job creation and Employer Training Investment Program funds.

“Illinois’ manufacturing industry is continuing to see positive momentum, and Chamberlain’s expansion is a sign of more good things to come,” said Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Warren Ribley.

The company employs more than 4,000 people worldwide, including 327 Illinois-based employees at its world headquarters in Elmhurst and warehouse in Addison.

Illinois ranked fourth in the nation for job growth in 2010, leading the Midwest, and December marked the ninth straight month of declining unemployment.