Dupage Policy Journal

Earlier this month, the final stop of the fourth annual #MakersOnTheMove statewide bus tour took place at Ferrara in Itasca. The visit highlighted Ferrara's long-standing presence in Illinois manufacturing, with the company producing 800 million pounds of candy and 42 million pounds of fruit snacks annually.

Ferrara employs over 8,300 people and manages more than 30 brands. The company is currently hiring.

The facility tour included several local officials such as State Senator Seth Lewis, Itasca Mayor Jeff Pruyn, and DuPage County Board Commissioner Lucy Evans.

"Since 1908, Ferrara has been 'sharing delight in every bite' — producing a staggering 800 million pounds of candy and 42 million pounds of fruit snacks each year," said a statement from the event.

"A big thank you to the entire Ferrara team for the warm welcome and for helping us celebrate Manufacturing Day and Manufacturing Month across Illinois," the statement continued. "Your work is a shining example of the innovation and job creation happening in our state!"

Jennifer Sanalitro, a Republican who was elected to represent Illinois' 48th House District in 2023, participated in the event. She succeeded Terra Costa Howard as state representative.