Guinness UDV to Expand in Plainfield

PLAINFIELD, IL -- Governor George H. Ryan today took part in a celebration of the expansion of Guinness UDV's Plainfield facility. The 90,000 square foot addition will allow the company to increase production capacity at the plant through the addition of a Ready to Drink (RTD) process and packaging line. The expansion will result in the creation of 80 new jobs.

"We're very pleased that Guinness UDV has recognized the benefits of expanding their operations right here in Illinois," said Ryan. "Our reputation as a leader in the global economy will continue to grow as a result of projects involving internationally recognized brand names like Guinness UDV."

The event in Plainfield is part of a weeklong global celebration conducted by Guinness UDV's parent company Diageo at each of its sites around the world.

"This project is a great example of how the Illinois economy is tied to the global marketplace," said DCCA Director Pam McDonough. "The new facility also illustrates how technology is being applied across all industry sectors in Illinois - in this case using new technology to integrate a centuries-old brewing process with the most modern of packaging techniques."

Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA) Director Pam McDonough is in Dublin, Ireland as part of a six-day trade mission to the United Kingdom and Ireland to promote foreign investment in Illinois.

The State of Illinois is assisting Guinness UDV with its expansion project through worker training grants from the Industrial Training Program (ITP). The company is also eligible for tax credits through the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Program. DCCA administers both of these grant programs. The EDGE program is a targeted tax incentive program that provides tax credits for businesses that create new jobs and make capital investments in Illinois. The company is also benefiting from local incentives through the Plainfield School District, the Village of Plainfield and the Will County Center for Economic Development.

Paul Clinton, President and CEO of Guinness UDV North America, said, "The state of Illinois has been a great partner in creating a positive business environment. That, coupled with a highly skilled workforce, has helped Guinness UDV flourish and expand in Plainfield."

Guinness UDV North America is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Diageo plc, the world's leading premium drinks company. Formed in December 1997 by the merger of Guinness and GrandMet, Diageo brands include: Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray, Guinness, J&B, Baileys, Malibu and Cuervo. Diageo is a global company, trading in some 185 markets around the world. The company is listed both on the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and on the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo go to: www.diageo.com.