State Street Chicago
Description
Chicago’s Resilient Retail Corridor: Where History and Reinvention Collide
Once known as the beating retail heart of Chicago, State Street remains a vital shopping destination in the Loop. Despite recent challenges, including the impacts of the pandemic and shifts in work patterns, this historic corridor is home to major national chains like Macy’s, Zara, Nordstrom Rack, Sephora, Primark, Saks Off Fifth, Foot Locker and JD Sports. Concentrated between Randolph and Monroe, this stretch still holds a big appeal for both locals and tourists, even as it navigates a changing retail landscape.
The State Street Experience
State Street has a dynamic and thrilling history, dating back to the late
Gap Factory Store, looking forward to your opening this Summer on State Street in Chicago!
Stone Real Estate recently released its Annual Chicago Loop Retail Analysis for 2024, (https://bit.ly/LoopRetail) which was featured in Crain’s Chicago Business (https://bit.ly/CrainsBiz).
There are three key points from this year’s findings with the first point being Gap Factory signing its lease at 17 N. State Street. Gap Factory’s entry back on to State Street is seen as the beginning of a positive trend toward more value retail concepts considering State Street.
State Street has struggled during this Work From Home (WFH) period, as The Loop’s office density generates a substantial amount of the pedestrian traffic and shoppers on State Street. With the pedestrian count back to near 2019 levels and the WFH trend on a slow and steady decline, State Street’s rebound has hopefully begun.
More to come regarding second and third points from the 2024 survey. Find Stone Real Estate's Chicago Annual Loop Retail Analysis, here: https://bit.ly/LoopRetail.
Chicago's One North State retail space hits the market
John Vance on what works on Chicago's State Street
Gap Factory signs lease for space at 17 N. State Street in Chicago
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Expands with Third Location in Downtown Chicago
Local Expert Analysis
Market Positioning and Financial Metrics
State Street’s retail landscape is currently defined by its affordability, with gross rents ranging from $50 to $75 per square foot. Vacancy rates exceed 20%, reflecting ongoing challenges in tenant retention and attraction. However, recent acquisitions of buildings at a discount by new investors signal a potential shift. These new owners are likely to offer reduced rents, which could make State Street more attractive to emerging brands and national chains seeking a central location in Chicago.
Customer Demographics and Foot Traffic
The street primarily draws young professionals, students, and tourists. Foot traffic is highest during weekday office
New Developments
Several buildings along State Street have entered receivership, paving the way for new investors to potentially reposition these properties with more competitive leasing options. This could attract both new tenants and national brands looking to capitalize on lower rent costs. A reason to carefully evaluate the landscape for brands — given that the street’s current business makeup is still up in the air. The proximity to the Theatre District and ongoing commercial activity will play a crucial role in State Street’s retail recovery, as more office workers and tourists return to the Loop.
