As reported by WKYC Westlake Mayor Dennis Clough was informed by the cosmetics company via letter this past Wednesday their plan to close down their manufacturing & distributing facility in Westlake. The announcement letter also includes details of the mass layoff of 91 employees which was confirmed by Bonne Bell Media Relations Manager Mary Ann Milo to WKYC. On Thursday, Markwins International announced it had purchased Bonne Bell and Lip Smackers(the widely popular lip balm brand). The company name will be changed to Bell Family Brands. Lip Smackers will continue to be distributed in Europe, Australia, and Asia through their distribution affiliate Aspire Brands. The mass layoff is to take effect on March 29th.
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| Photo courtesy of Bonne Bell |
The Bonne Bell company was founded as a family-owned company in 1927. Founder Jesse G. Bell named the cosmetic line after his daughter. Since then it has been a beauty staple for many young girls.
Growing up I definitely had my share of favorite Lip Smacker flavors from classic Strawberry to Starburst. I think the line was great for young girls weren’t quite ready for more grown up makeup brands (i.e CoverGirl, Almay & etc.). I also remembered how I could buy several lip balms for the price of one in other brands.
It is sad that another childhood memory is going away especially on the heels of Delia’s closing. However, on a more serious note, I am really concern about the workers and their families. I really hoped it works out for them. To get a more in-depth look at the story you can click on the link to the original story here. Also, please feel free to let me know how you feel about this story by commenting below.
