PR firm Walker Sands expanding 55 W. Monroe office lease

JLL announced the expansion of Walker Sands Communications at 55 W. Monroe Street. The new lease marks the third time the public relations and digital marketing firm has expanded since moving their Chicago headquarters to 55 W. Monroe from the West Loop in 2014.

“This lease renewal and expansion illustrates Chicago’s position and competitive strength as a top tech market, which has helped drive the growth of companies like Walker Sands,” said executive vice president Andy Strand, who represented Walker Sands in the deal along with senior associate Deanna Becker. “Since moving their headquarters to 55 W. Monroe, it’s been great to see Walker Sands have the flexibility to grow with their space so that they can continue to take advantage of the deep labor pool we have here in Chicago.”

When Walker Sands moved to 55 W. Monroe in 2014, the agency had a 45-person staff and 10,000 square feet of space. Today, they have doubled those numbers on both accounts, with 110 employees and a new, 22,000-square-foot lease. Their growth has been highlighted by several accolades for PR and digital marketing work, including being named to Chicago Inno’s 50 on Fire list in September.

“2018 has been an incredible year for us and having an environment that fosters big ideas helps us better serve our innovative clients. Our space at 55 W. Monroe is our Chicago home base that allows us to achieve that vision,” said Mike Santoro, president of Walker Sands. “We are committed to creating opportunities for top talent, and I look forward to seeing our continued momentum and growth.”