The Anglo-Dutch Unilever says the acquisition of the firm based in Melrose Park, Ill., will
make it the world's leading company in hair conditioning, the second largest in shampoo and the third largest in styling. Leonard Lavin founded the company in 1955, took it public six years later and
now serves on the board after relinquishing management of the company in 1994. His daughter, Carol Lavin Bernick, is currently executive chairman.
Personal care has been outperforming Unilever's other divisions thanks in part to the success of Degree deodorant and Suave shampoo in the U.S. It also recently launched a successful range of Dove products for men.
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