Governor Announces Quaker Oats To Keep Danville Plant Open

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today commended Quaker Oats for its decision to keep its Danville plant open. The plant currently employs 540 workers and is expected to add new workers as a result of today's decision.

"Quaker's decision to stay and grow in Illinois demonstrates once again that our state is a great place to do business," Ryan said. "Quaker could have closed the Danville facility as part of its reorganization, but the company recognized how important Illinois' highly skilled workforce, healthy business climate and central location is to its bottom line."

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA) worked with Quaker in an effort to keep the Danville plant open. DCCA will provide job training assistance for new and existing workers at the facility. In addition, the company could be eligible for Enterprise Zone and EDGE tax credits.

"Through our Industrial Training Program we were able to provide targeted assistance to Quaker that will upgrade the skills of workers at the plant," DCCA Director Pam McDonough said. "Had Quaker left Danville, it would have been devastating for the community. Governor Ryan realized the impact closing the plant would have on Danville and personally lobbied Quaker to keep it open."

Steve Brunner, Quaker Oats Danville plant leader, credited Governor Ryan, DCCA and the plant employees for their efforts to keep the facility open. "We are extremely pleased about the decision for the Danville community. The positive decision is the result of hard work by our employees. They pushed for a new labor contract and a renewed commitment to cost savings and high-quality performance," Brunner said. "I also want to commend the work of Governor George Ryan and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs in providing employee training incentives to keep the plant competitive in today's marketplace."

The Danville facility was opened in 1969 and produces ready-to-eat cereals and snacks.