Legislators ‘Disappointed’ In Office Depot Move

Illinois lawmakers who sponsored legislation offering tax incentives for companies like newly merged OfficeMax and Office Depot say they're disappointed the company is moving its corporate headquarters to Florida.

The two merged last month under the name Office Depot. OfficeMax was based in suburban Chicago and Office Depot in Boca Raton, Fla.
 
Company officials said Tuesday that it appeared the Florida location would better help drive profitability.
 
Illinois state Sen. Tom Cullerton backed a bill encouraging the company to consider Illinois in exchange for creating 200 jobs. It passed the Senate but House lawmakers adjourned after approving landmark pension reform.

The measure was also meant to benefit Archer Daniels Midland, which is moving is headquarters out of Decatur.
 
Cullerton says Illinois needs a better approach to business retention.
 
Rep. Mike Zalewski sponsored a similar bill. He says it was a case of bad timing with the pension vote.