Candle-lite to expand, add jobs

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Candle-lite announced a major investment in the Leesburg production facility at a Thursday gathering of company officials, community leaders and economic development partners.

The nearly $12 million investment will add new production equipment and make leasehold improvements at the facility, and includes 50 new full-time jobs over the next three years.

The announcement comes as Candle-lite, a CL Products International LLC company, celebrates the 175th anniversary in the industry. Candle-lite is the oldest candle company in the United States and makes all of its candles at the Leesburg facility.

“During our peak season, we employ over 600 people in our Leesburg facility,” said Calvin Johnston, CEO. “Our employees are the foundation of our success. Many of our employees have spent their entire careers at Candle-lite and work beside second and third generation family members.”

Highland County Commissioner Shane Wilkin said, “On behalf of Commissioners Jeff Duncan and Tom Horst, as well as our economic development clerk, Nicole Oberrecht, I would like to thank all who have participated in this retention and expansion project. This is a perfect example of how state, regional, county, local and private sector can successfully collaborate to support crucial economic development in our area.”

Dayton Power and Light (DP&L), a subsidiary of the AES Corporation, provided an economic development grant to the company.

JobsOhio, along with regional partner, the Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth (APEG), provided support for the project.

“The Southern Ohio Agricultural and Community Development Foundation (SOACDF) is proud to partner with Candle-lite as it continues its long history of investment and growth in Leesburg and Highland County,” stated Don Branson, Executive Director. “The Foundation’s economic development program is specifically designed to assist companies that make strategic investments in local communities with the objective being job retention and creation.”

Village of Leesburg Mayor Danny Daulton said, “It is impossible to say just how important Candle-lite is to the Village of Leesburg and Highland County. We are pleased to be able to support the county’s largest employer with this important expansion project.”

Candle-lite announced a major expansion and investment at its Leesburg operation.
http://aimmedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2015/11/web1_Candlelite-pic1.jpgCandle-lite announced a major expansion and investment at its Leesburg operation.

Staff report

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