Chicago Heights manufacturing warehouse reopens after devastating 2023 fire: 'Rising from the ashes'
The company has added more jobs than before the fire, for a total of 250 employees at the site.
CHICAGO HEIGHTS, Ill. (WLS) -- It was two years ago when the Morgan Li furniture manufacturing warehouse was destroyed in a massive fire. But now, it is back and better than before.
Work is underway on Tuesday at the south suburban warehouse, creating custom furniture for businesses across the country and around the world. Being back up and running is a comeback story the owners had dreamed of.
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"It's joy. It's happiness. It's resiliency. It's rising from the ashes, I guess," said Morgan Li President Jonathan Rosenband.
Jonathan and his brother, CEO Andy Rosenband, are the third-generation owners of Morgan Li manufacturing.
Two years ago, their family business was destroyed in a massive fire.
Fire engulfed the Chicago Heights warehouse, and smoke could be seen for miles in February 2023.
But the brothers were determined to rebuild on the ashes of the old site.
"Once we saw we were going to be OK, we went straight into problem-solving mode and mobilization and getting this thing back on track," Andy said.
Back on track and looking to the future, they built a new, 240,000-square-foot energy-efficient facility that brings all operations under one roof.
But most important was keeping the company in Chicago Heights.
"This new facility reflects the very heart of our town. We take care of one another. We show up. We rebuild. Not just structures, but trust, hope and pride," said Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon.
Tuesday was a chance for community partners to take a look at the new warehouse and to thank members of the Chicago Heights fire and police departments, who worked hard to battle the fire and keep everyone safe.
"It's just a great, full-circle moment for us, and to be able to be a part of this is an extreme honor," said Chicago Heights Fire Chief Wendell Thomas.
The company has added more jobs than before the fire, for a total of 250 employees at this site.
