Business environment in Chicago
Chicago is the third-most populated metropolitan area in the United States with more than 9.6 million residents in the city and suburbs. It is the centerpiece of commerce in the Midwest. Unlike other major cities, Chicago does not have a single industry specialization because it dominates many diverse industries, including manufacturing, financial, transportation, food, insurance, pharmaceuticals and publishing. Ranked as the runner-up after New York City, it is the home to more than 30 Fortune 500 companies.
Chicago, Illinois
The city is an important world-wide financial center with major financial exchanges, including the Chicago Board Options Exchange, Chicago Mercantile Exchange and Chicago Board of Trade. It also is a major hub for international conventions.
Known as the birthplace of the skyscraper, the city is recognized for its innovative architecture and design. The mass destruction caused by the 1871 Great Chicago Fire inspired the largest building boom in the country, leading to a world-wide skyscraper era. The first skyscraper, Home Insurance Building, used the steel-frame method that is used in modern construction. Today, Chicago’s skyline is considered to be among the world’s tallest and dense with many iconic buildings, including Willis Tower and John Hancock Center.
Communications, media and PR market
Often called the “Windy City,” Chicago is a place that encourages communication of diverse opinions. The city’s nickname is rooted in political debates that “blew hot air.” Chicago has a history of being a leader in the field of communications with hundreds of global and local advertising, public relations and media companies headquartered in the city.
Chicago is the third-largest media market in the country. All of the major national television networks, national publications and wire services have affiliates in the city. Additionally, there are about 150 radio stations on Chicago airwaves, comprising news, talk, sports and music formats. In the print arena, there are three major newspapers, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and Daily Herald and about 50 weekly neighborhood, suburban and industry weekly newspapers that focus on local issues.
The city is a place for vibrant voices to tell stories through a traditional and digital media landscape, reaching audiences on local, national and international levels.
Known for the music of world-famous Blues and Jazz Festivals, sports stars Harry Caray and Michael Jordan, and delicacies like deep-dish pizza and the Chicago-style hot dog (no ketchup!) the culture of Chicago is steeped in history and pride.
Key expertise of LCWA
L.C. Williams & Associates (LCWA) is a full-service, integrated public relations agency comprised of experienced, invested and creative individuals, providing clients with a refreshing experience based on trust, flexibility and the delivery of meaningful results on time and on budget.
Teams are fully immersed in the business of clients and have the experience to offer honest opinions and creative solutions — always with an emphasis on positively impacting the bottom line. They focus on integrating communications across all channels to reach audiences, including media relations, social media, influencer outreach and grassroots marketing.
We have expertise in home & housewares, healthcare, B2B, consumer and food & beverage.
Top 3 advice for companies to navigate the media and communications environment in Chicago
Reach the region. Chicago is a gateway to the entire Midwest region and provides an opportunity to reach key audiences throughout Illinois as well as neighboring states Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri and Kentucky.
Know the neighborhoods. The heart of Chicago is its neighborhood structure, each creating a place of pride and identity. From the middle of downtown to the suburbs north, south and west, understanding the distinct regionality of Chicago is important for any communications program.
Always be approachable. Chicago offers the fast pace of a city with the approachable kindness of “Midwest nice.” When working with media or potential partners, lead with friendliness and it will be given in return.
Most influential media for consumer communication
- Television
- WMAQ-TV (NBC)
- WLS-TV (ABC)
- WBBM-TV (CBS)
- WFLD-TV (FOX)
- WGN-TV (Nexstar)
- Radio
- WGN-AM
- WBBM-AM
- WLIT-FM
- Social Media
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Influencers
Most influential media for corporate communications:
- Crain’s Chicago Business
- Chicago Tribune
- Chicago Sun-Times
- Daily Herald
- Bloomberg
Most important international events in Chicago
Lollapalooza, a four-day musical extravaganza held every year in Chicago’s Grant Park. https://www.lollapalooza.com/
Chicago Marathon was just held on October 13 and is also an annual attraction of the city. https://www.chicagomarathon.com/
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade has been a tradition for more than 175 years. The highlight of the event is the ceremony of dying the Chicago River green which has happened since 1962. https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/holidays/st-patricks-day-chicago/