Nearly two years after Motorola Mobility first announced its plan to move 2,000 employees from its suburban campus in Libertyville to downtown Chicago, the company has formally opened the doors to its new global headquarters in the Merchandise Mart. Employees finished moving into the new 600,000 square foot Gensler-designed space last month, and at today's press event, Mayor Rahm Emanuel hailed Motorola's move as a huge win for Chicago's growing technology industry. The handset maker began its life in the city nearly 80 years ago, but has been based in Libertyville for the last 38 years. Motorola is now the Merchandise Mart's largest tenant, and occupies the top four floors of the building, as well as 50,000+ square feet of rooftop space.
Leaving behind its suburban cubicle-filled campus in Libertyville, the new LEED Gold certified HQ has an open, hip vibe complete with the usual tech company amenities like "micro-kitchens", lounging areas, a game room (complete with arcade machines and snacks), a large swanky commons area and a giant rooftop deck. Mayor Emanuel hopes that in the coming years, Chicago will become more desirable to tech professionals and believes that Motorola's return to Chicago will become an important catalyst in attracting talent to the Windy City.
· Mayor Emanuel Welcomes Motorola Mobility To Chicago At The Public Unveiling Of Their Global Headquarters [City of Chicago]
· Sweet Home Chicago [Official Motorola Blog]
· Previous Motorola coverage [Curbed Chicago]
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