RITA icon search
Innovation & Global Reach

About RITA Corp

Rita Corporation was founded in 1954 by Stephen Goode Sr., a visionary who foresaw a growing demand for personal care and cosmetic products featuring lanolin and other specialty chemicals in post-war America. Over the decades, RITA has consistently stayed ahead of industry trends, establishing itself as a key supplier of chemicals to the personal care sector and other industries.

Today, we are headquartered in the northwest of Chicago and operate four strategically located warehouses across the US. Our extensive distribution network includes global partners, ensuring efficient delivery and service worldwide.

RITA’s Mission

We are committed to being a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality chemicals. Our mission is to deliver innovative solutions that meet the diverse needs of our clients while ensuring safety, sustainability, and excellence in every product. We strive to build lasting partnerships and drive progress in the industries we serve.

Empowering Our People

At RITA, we recognize that our success is built on the contributions of each team member. We nurture a culture of collaboration where every voice matters. Our environment promotes continuous personal and professional growth, as well as innovation and excellence within our team.

Community Engagement & Integrity

Our commitment extends beyond our business operations. At RITA, we are actively involved in the community and make a positive impact through various initiatives. We operate with integrity and compassion, ensuring that our pursuits not only lead to business success but also contribute to societal betterment, promoting a healthy balance for our employees and their families.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are the foundations of our values at RITA. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive. Through the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of our team, we can build a richer, more creative, and inclusive atmosphere that drives better business outcomes.

RITA team by outdoor sign

Recruitment

RITA offers many rewarding career paths in a supporting workplace environment for a variety of skill sets and new or experienced employees. 

Find our open positions here.

RITA logo from 1954 - 1979
1954 - 1979
RITA logo from 1980's
1980's
RITA logo from 1990-1999
1990 - 1999
RITA logo from 1990-1999 full color
1990 - 1999
RITA logo from 2000-2023
2000 - 2023
large RITA logo with values circle white on clear
TODAY

RITA Company Timeline

1954 – today

70 Years of Service and Still Going Strong

1954
  • RITA Corporation is founded as a manufacturer of Lanolin and Lanolin derivatives
  • Acquisition of American Lanolin
1954
1976
  • Relocated manufacturing from Massachusetts to Chicago, IL
1976
1980 - 1994
  • Opened distribution centers in New Jersey, California, Texas, and Georgia
  • 1980 - 1994
    1995
  • Launched our Formulation Support Team
  • 1995
    2004
  • Relocated corporate office to Crystal Lake, IL with new administrative offices, state of the art laboratory, manufacturing, and distribution warehouse
  • 2004
    2016 - Today
  • Doubled production capacity in Crystal Lake facility
  • ERP implementation
  • 2016 - Today