CHICAGO – State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) released the following statement after an announcement that Kimberly-Clark, maker of trusted brands including Huggies and Kleenex, will expand its presence in Chicago with a new commercial center for its North American consumer products business:

 “The North American Commercial Center is expected to open in the Fulton Market area of Chicago, which will fall in the district I represent. I am confident that this initiative will create a massive increase in employment, while also providing an economic boost to our community.

“After a year like 2020, bringing employment opportunities to the 5^th District is crucial to the financial recovery of thousands of residents.

“Kimberly-Clark has been a hub for consumers worldwide, and I could not be happier that Chicago will get a taste of its liquidity. I commend everyone involved in this effort, and I will look forward to the center’s launch.”

The announcement was made Wednesday by Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and World Business Chicago.