Unilever to Expand in Raeford

Creating 25 jobs and investing $10.6 million over the next three years

September 16, 2007

HOKE COUNTY NC NEWS -- The monopolistic competition, Unilever United States will expand in Hoke County, creating 25 jobs and investing $10.6 million during the next three years. Unilever accepted a $60,000 One North Carolina Fund grant.

A manufacturer and marketer of leading brands of home care, personal care and food products, Unilever United States is a subsidiary of Unilever PLC of London and Unilever NV of Rotterdam. The company plans to expand its manufacturing facility in Raeford, where it produces a variety of brand name soaps, shampoos, deodorants and antiperspirants. While wages will vary by job function, the average weekly wage of the new jobs will be $836 plus benefits, which is higher than the Hoke County average weekly wage of $425 not including benefits.

The Raeford Unilever Plant Manager, Larry D. Gibson said, "Unilever selected the Raeford site because it best met the needs of the North American market for our deodorant and antiperspirant business. As a market leader, it is important to not only have the very best cost structure but also be in a position to meet the demands of our dynamic consumer base and the changing business needs of our customers."

Governor Easley speaking of Unilever's decision said: "Unilever's decision to expand brings more well paying jobs to Hoke County. We will continue to work to provide the policies and skilled workforce that has helped us earn our most-business-friendly rating and make our state attractive to companies looking to expand and succeed."

The One North Carolina Fund assists the state in industry recruitment and expansion by providing financial assistance through local governments to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new employment in the state. One North Carolina Fund grants require and are contingent upon a sate and local government match of funds.

Partners who helped make this economic development possible include the N.C. Department of Commerce, Hoke County, the Hoke County Economic Development Commission and the City of Raeford.

For more information about Unilever in Hoke County as well as employment opportunities, visit www.unileverusa.com.