United's Chicago headquarters set to benefit from US$500 million enhancement
Chicago's Willis Tower will remain the site of United Airlines' headquarters, where the building's owner will make more than US$500 million in investments to transform the location for all tenants, according to a press release from the airline.
The new agreement extends United's existing lease with the building to March 31, 2033.
"As one of the city's largest private employers and its hometown airline, we are excited to deepen our roots here in Chicago while making the investments needed to reimagine the headquarters for our employees," said Oscar Munoz, United's Chief Executive Officer. "The investments we are making will help our employees provide unparalleled service to our front-line colleagues and to our customers as we continue to improve and realize our airline's full potential."
"We are thrilled with United's decision to remain at Willis Tower in a reimagined headquarters," said Jon Gray, President of Blackstone, the asset management company that controls Willis Tower. "This is terrific news for Chicago and a testament to our exciting $500 million revitalization program underway at the property. We look forward to partnering with United in this effort. Willis Tower will continue its role as an iconic business, retail and tourist destination in the heart of the city."