HR0087 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0087 LRB104 11882 ECR 21973 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, World Nutella Day, celebrated annually on February 5, brings people together from across the globe to honor their love of Nutella, the iconic hazelnut spread enjoyed by millions; and

WHEREAS, Ferrero, the company behind Nutella, is a global confectionery leader with deep roots in Illinois, including $289 million in investments in new facilities and new jobs in the City of Bloomington, further solidifying the company's commitment to Illinois' economic development; and

WHEREAS, Ferrero has demonstrated a strong commitment to Illinois with its continued investment in the State, employing over 1,700 individuals at facilities that drive local economies and provide quality jobs; and

WHEREAS, Ferrero's presence in Illinois includes the Nutella Café in Chicago, the only café in the world dedicated entirely to Nutella, which has become a unique attraction and celebration of this iconic product; and

WHEREAS, Ferrero also owns Fannie May, a cherished 100-year-old chocolate company with retail stores across Illinois and the region, which was Ferrero's first acquisition in the United States in 2015, underscoring the company's confidence in Illinois as a key market and manufacturing hub; and

WHEREAS, In 2023, Ferrero opened an Innovation Center and R&D Lab in Chicago's historic Marshall Field and Company Building, further showcasing the company's dedication to innovation and Illinois' role as a hub for cutting-edge advancements in the confectionery industry; and

WHEREAS, Ferrero's additional Illinois facilities include a manufacturing plant in Franklin Park, where the company produces Butterfinger and Baby Ruth products, and a Chicago plant on 110th Street dedicated to manufacturing Keebler products; and

WHEREAS, Nutella has become a beloved treat for Illinois residents of all ages, symbolizing joy, creativity, and shared moments; and

WHEREAS, Ferrero continues to build on its legacy in Illinois through innovation, sustainability, and community engagement, enhancing Illinois' reputation as a leader in advanced manufacturing and economic development; and

WHEREAS, World Nutella Day provides an opportunity to celebrate Ferrero's contributions to the State of Illinois and recognize the delight Nutella brings to households across the State; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare February 5, 2025 as Nutella Day in the State of Illinois to honor Ferrero's significant investments in our State, the many employees who contribute to its success, and the joy that Nutella spreads throughout our communities; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Ferrero as an expression of our esteem and respect.