A product that came into prominence after the 2008 floods and most certainly every summer since, including 2020 during the height of the derecho and pandemic, is now under the umbrella of another locally-based company known for its organic lip balm products.

Marion-based Eco Lips obtained distribution rights to an already locally-made product by acquiring the parent company of "Bug Soother," Columbus Junction-based Simply Soothing.

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports the partnership will help grow Bug Soother's distribution, according to Eco Lips owner and CEO Steve Shriver. Both Simply Soothing and Eco Lips products are currently distributed at over 10,000 retail locations each across the country. Despite that widespread availability, you seem to hear folks wondering how they can get their hands on some every summer. It's a great promotional product to give out during our on-location broadcasts and appearances (when we had them before the pandemic.)

Simply Soothing's product line also includes candles, fire starters, and other products.

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For his part, Shriver stated in a press release

The two companies complement each other well.  But, in this case, it really is incredibly true. We’ve been soothing lips for years, especially in the fall and winter. Now, we can soothe the whole body all year-round.

Eco Lips, in its Marion location at 1199 44th St. after having moved about two years ago from the NewBo District, will now proudly pool its line of organic natural lip balms and other products with those of Simply Soothing, including its signature item just in time for "biting season."

Here are some tips for self-care during the pandemic:

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