CHICAGO, July 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- United Airlines today announced that it selected Chicago for its new headquarters, and will move about 350 management employees to downtown Chicago in early 2007. At the same time, United will consolidate several of its suburban facilities, generating cost savings and creating an Operations Center on its campus in Elk Grove Township
"Today United strengthens our long relationship with our hometown, the city of Chicago, and with the state of Illinois," said Glenn F. Tilton, United chairman, president and CEO. "This move enables us to reduce our costs and drive efficiencies by consolidating facilities and bringing those who support the day-to-day operations together in one location, and it puts United's headquarters in the heart of the city's vibrant business district."
United's new corporate headquarters will be located at 77 W. Wacker Drive.
"United Airlines travels the world every day, but we are so happy it is going to continue calling Illinois home. Chicago has everything a world-class corporate headquarters could ever want -- the best and the brightest people, the ability to travel virtually anywhere and a great quality of life. We have worked very hard to create an attractive business environment that is bringing more new companies and helping to put more people to work," Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich said.
Under the agreement, United is receiving $5.25 million in tax increment financing from the city of Chicago and $1.35 million in grants from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for infrastructure improvements and job training. Additionally, both the city and the state will propose legislation to cap the jet fuel tax for the next five years.
"This brings approximately 350 jobs and the headquarters of a Fortune 100 company into our city," said Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley. "United's move is part of a powerful trend that has seen a number of major companies establish headquarters in downtown Chicago. This is a great day for United and for the city of Chicago."
About United
United Airlines is the world's second largest airline operating more than 3,700 flights a day on United, United Express and Ted to more than 210 U.S. domestic and international destinations from its hubs in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago and Washington, D.C. With key global air rights in the Asia-Pacific region, Europe and Latin America, United is one of the largest international carriers based in the United States. United is also a founding member of Star Alliance, which provides connections for our customers to 842 destinations in 152 countries worldwide. United's 57,000 employees reside in every U.S. state and in many countries around the world. News releases and other information about United can be found at the company's Web site at united.com.
United Airlines, Worldwide Press Office:
Days: 847.700.5538
Evenings/Weekends: 847.700.4088
Mayor Richard M. Daley's Press Office
312-744-3334
Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich's Press Office
Andrew Ross: 312-636-1747
