Author: Lake County Partners

Fine Dining Restaurants are On the Rise

, Date: December 7, 2022

Fine dining is always front and center during the holidays in Lake County—even more so with the grand opening of several new restaurants that are certain to make their mark on the community. These innovative spaces will create jobs, enhance Lake County’s appeal, and add to the enormous impact that the bar and restaurant sector has on the local economy.

Last year, the industry contributed nearly $900 million to Lake County’s Gross Regional Product, and supported approximately 20,000 jobs at more than 1,200 businesses. Judging from recent activity, this number stands to grow.

In Gurnee, officials just gathered to celebrate the opening of the Cooper’s Hawk; it is the second Lake County location for the high-profile restaurant known for delicious dishes, Napa-style tasting room and signature wine membership club.

“The enthusiasm felt from the Gurnee community was overwhelming throughout the entire process,” said Founder and CEO Tim McEnery. “Lake County’s vibrant community is the perfect match for our restaurant—at the tables, and in the kitchen. Our Executive Kitchen Manager is a graduate of the culinary arts program at the College of Lake County, and our close proximity to the school will give us access to some of the finest kitchen talent in the region. During the hiring process in Gurnee, we immediately found the workforce that we needed, and had no trouble staffing up to meet the demand.”

Gurnee — long-known as one of the area’s entertainment hotspots — also has its hands full with a few other new restaurant-related businesses. Ground-up construction is underway on a building for Restaurant Depot, a wholesale supplier of food and beverage equipment, refrigeration and supplies to independent restaurants, businesses and nonprofits. Pip’s Meadery is also opening soon, boasting of one of the top-rated beverages in the “Untappd” app. The company joins an impressive and steadily growing roster of breweries and distilleries that are expanding in Lake County and enhancing the local entertainment scene.

“We’ve seen momentum across the board, not only in the restaurant and entertainment industries, but also in retail and manufacturing, with recent big projects from Buick GMC of Gurnee and AZ Polymers,” said Mayor Tom Hood. “The activity is a testament to Lake County’s business climate, and Gurnee’s approach to business support.”

Further south, in Mundelein, the Village is ushering in a downtown renaissance with a new outdoor dining program that supports local businesses by making it easier to serve customers. The program has the added benefit of cohesively beautifying the right of way and creating an inviting environment for customers.

“Mundelein is a maker’s place, and this new program and space will let our business owners express their creativity while showing off our downtown. What’s even better is we can share this space with other Mundelein businesses and visiting businesses with the new food truck pad/business kiosk space,” said the Village’s Community Development Director Amanda Orenchuk. “We have so many incredible, authentic dining experiences to offer, and the Village was happy to work with local business owners to enhance these opportunities.”

Nearby, in Libertyville, officials are also ushering in a new crop of upscale restaurants. The Board Room, opened by Libertyville native Liz Turnbaugh, is an immaculately detailed bistro space that shines a spotlight on charcuterie. The restaurant is in good company among a row of other tastefully decorated spaces including Main Street Social, Milwalky Taco, Milwalky Trace, Firkin and others.

“Six incredible dining venues have opened over the last year alone in Libertyville including Coppolio’s, Mixto Cuisine, Harbor Kitchen & Tap, and Duck Donuts,” said the village’s Economic Development Manager Heather Rowe. “There are nine other kitchens in the works to include Hewn Bakery, Singh’s Kitchen, and Kung Fu Tea, and we expect to see their doors open soon. Libertyville is a destination for specialty restaurants and unique shops, and each new addition adds to the energy on the street. We try to make it easier for our customers to find Libertyville options through our dining website.”

Neighboring Vernon Hills is also seeing its share of bustling retail and restaurant activity. Texas-based Perry’s Steakhouse just announced big plans to open its third Chicago-area restaurant on the revamped Hawthorn Mall property—they are preparing for 11,000 sq. ft. that will provide the capacity to seat up to 350 people and four private dining rooms.

“We are excited about the momentum at Hawthorn Mall. The Perry’s announcement is just the start, and we continue to be impressed about the future of this project,” said Assistant Village Manager Jon Petrillo. “The redevelopment of Hawthorn Mall represents a $252 million investment and includes a grand plaza, 55,000 sq. ft. of retail/restaurant space, a new mall entry and over 500 luxury apartments. We look forward to creating a destination for visitors and residents of Lake County to experience and enjoy.”

Earlier this year, Crain’s Chicago Business and the Chicago Tribune both reported on a wave of new restaurants in Lake Forest, representing really experienced, innovative restauranteurs with ties to Chicago. This year, the city added five additional restaurants to the already 30 existing eateries. Among the upscale additions were Le Colonial and Sophia Steak. The Wall St. Journal, too, just picked up on the news with a story focusing on the restaurant industry’s shift in focus to the suburbs.

The sentiment is echoed by recent reports coming out of the Illinois Restaurant Association. “The suburban fine dining restaurant scene is hotter than it’s ever been,” said Illinois Restaurant Association President and CEO Sam Toia. “Despite the challenges presented over the past few years, the industry has emerged stronger and is ready to confidently meet consumer demand.”

Manufacturing Month Caps off Tremendous Year of Growth

, Date: October 25, 2022

October always brings cooling temperatures, falling leaves and the promise of a very full calendar of events to celebrate Manufacturing Month in Lake County. Indeed, there is much to herald, and the excitement isn’t limited to this month alone. 2022 has been filled with exciting announcements, ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings and gatherings that commemorate Lake County’s strong history of manufacturing excellence.

Lake County is in good company with communities across Illinois that are enjoying a surge in advanced manufacturing, prompting the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) to launch “Makers on the Move,” a statewide bus tour that has visited manufacturing facilities, colleges and high schools around the state to highlight rewarding career pathways available in the industry.

Makers on the Move kicked off in Lake County, at the College of Lake County’s impressive new Advanced Technology Center (ATC) in Gurnee. The 142,000 sq. ft. facility was a former big box home improvement store that underwent extensive renovations to transform into a state-of-the-art center for manufacturing education. It is now a powerful symbol of Lake County’s investment in talent and commitment to forward-thinking workforce development.

MOVING MANUFACTURING FORWARD

“Manufacturing is diverse, sustainable, innovative and exciting, with artificial intelligence, robotics, 5G and virtual reality transforming the industry and our world. The ‘Makers on the Move’ tour is designed to shine a spotlight on the great work our manufacturers do every day, as well as the many exciting job opportunities available across Illinois,” said Mark Denzler, President & CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. “There’s no better time to explore a career in manufacturing, and manufacturers are ready to train and hire new workers. We’re excited to celebrate our industry and inspire a new generation of leaders who will move our state and nation forward.”

A recent IMA study found the total economic impact of manufacturing in Illinois is estimated to be between $580 billion and $611 billion every year – the largest share of any industry to the state’s Gross Domestic Product. Manufacturing directly employs 662,298 workers but ultimately supports as many as 1,771,928 jobs, generating up to $150 billion in labor income for Illinois residents annually. In all, it’s estimated that the manufacturing industry supports nearly 30 percent of all jobs in Illinois, making it among the state’s largest industry sectors.

Manufacturing is particularly important in Lake County, which is dominated by pharmaceutical, plastic product and medical equipment production. The same study found the industry creates $48.4 billion in economic output each year in Lake County, supporting an estimated 31 percent of the county’s economy. This includes 98,949 jobs, which is among the highest concentration of manufacturing jobs in the state. Manufacturers generate $12.2 billion in salaries and benefits in Lake County, with the average manufacturing employee making an annual salary of $160,968.

As part of the study, economists examined the manufacturing industry’s evolution in the face of rapid technological development, with trends suggesting a shift toward a higher-skilled workforce. In the next six years, it’s estimated there will be a 21 percent increase in employment growth for process control programmers and a 10 percent increase in demand for industrial engineers. These in-demand occupations likely need a post-secondary credential or some college, underscoring the importance of working closely with education institutions, policy makers and manufacturers to provide specialized training, and the need to further expand workforce training across the state to better prepare Illinois residents to enter high-demand fields. This underscored the decision to kick off the tour at the incredible new ATC.

“The manufacturing workforce is a major part of our competitive advantage here in Illinois. Traveling across the state to celebrate the past, present and future of the manufacturing industry can bring awareness to the accomplishments, opportunities and needs of the industry to build a better tomorrow,” said David Boulay, PhD, President of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center. “Manufacturing is a stronghold of our communities that helps strengthen local economic, innovates our way of life, and brings people together. I look forward to seeing the positive impact we can make on the future of the industry while also showing recognition and appreciation for those who have dedicated their careers to manufacturing.”

LOCAL INVESTMENTS IN HOMEGROWN TALENT

“We’re proud to sponsor the Makers on the Move bus tour,” said Blake Hunter, Plant Manager at Lake County-headquartered Novelis. “Collaborating with strategic partners like IMA and IMEC supports the development of a critical pipeline for STEM and manufacturing professionals. Thanks to years of investment and innovation, careers in manufacturing are plentiful, safe and rewarding. It is with great appreciation for our partners that Novelis invests in valuable initiatives like Makers on the Move to make a positive impact on our colleagues, customers and communities.”

Understanding changing workforce needs, the College of Lake County invested in the ATC to strengthen Lake County’s workforce by providing industry-relevant career pathways that focus on industrial technology, fabrication and welding.

“CLC is a dedicated partner in meeting workforce needs in Lake County,” said Lori Suddick, EdD, President of the College of Lake County. “The college’s investment in the ATC aligns programming with Lake County’s most in-demand jobs. This project represents enormous potential to grow a diverse skilled talent pipeline that is responsive to a critical Lake County industry. The ATC will give our students new opportunities to build rewarding careers in Lake County, while also supporting our thriving manufacturing businesses in this region.”

FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE

Among the successful recent workforce development efforts championed by the IMA is the creation of two new world-class manufacturing academies scheduled to open this fall, a new law that will require all high schools to offer career and technical education by 2025, the establishment of an apprenticeship tax credit for manufacturers that train employees, and a partnership with the Pritzker Administration to launch a new multi-million dollar ad campaign highlighting manufacturing jobs that will launch later this year. All of these efforts will support Illinois’ unparalleled manufacturing workforce and favorable business climate.

“Manufacturers are often housed in unassuming buildings that disguise the impactful products being made inside. This tour shines a spotlight on the great work taking place in those buildings, while showcasing the variety of fun and interesting jobs available throughout our communities,” said Sarah Hartwick, Vice President of Education and Workforce Policy at the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and Executive Director of the IMA Education Foundation, which works with high schools and community colleges across the state to create pathways for students to begin acquiring specific skillsets necessary for careers in the manufacturing industry. “No matter your background, there’s a manufacturing job available for you.”

MOVE FORWARD WITH US

Learn more about the IMA’s efforts to bolster manufacturing here, and explore the cutting-edge ATC at the College of Lake County here. Connect with us here to tap into these resources and others designed to help your business grow in Lake County, Illinois.

When the Community Invests in Talent

, Date: September 27, 2022

Lake County’s workforce literally stands apart from peer regions across the country. Case in point, Lake County has two times more manufacturing talent than the national average for similarly-sized communities. Much of the success is owed to the vast network of local partners who work together to give students the tools that they need to forge rewarding careers and support business needs.

The Lake County Tech Campus, well-regarded as one of the best career and technical education training facilities in the Midwest, is a prime example of this. It was established in 1977 as a means of pooling together local educational resources to educate high school students. The institution acts as an extension of 22 area high schools in both Lake and McHenry counties. This year, the Tech Campus welcomed 1,900 students—its largest cohort in the past 10 years, which solidified its position as the largest career technical secondary educational center in the entire state of Illinois. It is also the largest career center in the state, both in space and student population.

“Recent enrollment is a testament to our reputation for providing high-quality educational training,” says Tech Campus Principal Derrick Burress. “Through our connections with local schools, the College of Lake County and business leaders, we are arming high school students with the skills and resources that they need to choose suitable career paths and forge rewarding careers.”

Each day, students from across the county and beyond come to the Grayslake campus for a two-hour session in the career pathway of their choice. Twenty-two programs are offered in Lake County’s most in-demand industries like welding, industrial technology, healthcare, EMTs and fire fighters. Classes are standards-based which allows students some freedom to explore at their own pace, through hands-on, experiential learning. Lessons intentionally reinforce the notion of having “a calling,” or a purpose that students can explore beyond the classroom walls.

The Tech Campus not only provides an environment that supports and nurtures a variety of learning styles, it also offers an opportunity for students to earn up to 9 college credits at no cost through a dual credit program with the nearby College of Lake County (CLC). Credentials are stackable, so students can use them to supplement post-secondary education as they zero in on a long-term career path.

“Our relationship with the Tech Campus is very collaborative,” notes Sarah Stashkiw, the Director for P-20 Educational Partnerships at the College of Lake County. “In response to employers’ demand for industrial maintenance skills, we worked with the Tech Campus to establish a dual credit program for high school students at our new, cutting-edge Advanced Technology Center (ATC) in Gurnee. Because the program is dual credit, students are receiving in-demand training while earning both high school credit through the Tech Campus and free college credit through CLC.”

Relationship-building is emphasized, with students relying heavily on local business leaders, also known as “advisories,” who help them align their training with the skills expected to be needed in the next 3 – 5 years. Over 350 local business and industry partners provide advisory committee members, internship and job shadow opportunities, apprenticeship sites, field trip sites, and/or donations to the Technology Campus each school year. These companies support the mission of Career and Technical Education which allows the facility to offer the highest quality programming of any Area Vocational Center in Illinois.

“Tech Campus has always looked to partner with businesses and institutions, and this is highly evident in our new Industrial Technology Program at the ATC of CLC. This program brings students to the ATC to learn state of the art manufacturing techniques that can be used at businesses throughout the area,” said Tech Campus and ATC Industrial Technology Instructor, Dave Wooten.

This model highlights Lake County’s ingrained sense of community and the close local connections between education and employers. For example, when budding firefighters needed real-world experiences, the Village of Grayslake donated a fire truck for training. Similarly, students in the automotive repair track benefit from cars donated by local businesses and residents.

Later this year, the Tech Campus will also supplement its programming by rolling out a new career pathway endorsement certification, similar to what was recently embarked upon in Grayslake. A coordinator will serve as the liaison between businesses, students and schools.

“The Tech Campus’ impact on students and the wider Lake County community is immense,” said Brian Floore, the school’s new construction skills and management teacher who graduated from the Tech Campus in 2003. After working in the trades, he returned to teach. “The Tech Campus really helped me hone in on my interests and talent. Because of the guidance that I received, I began building a career as soon as I graduated. Coming back as an alumnus to teach has been a full circle moment. I am using my professional experience to give back to the students and help them launch their lives beyond school.”

HOW CAN YOUR COMPANY JOIN IN THE SUCCESS?

The Tech Campus continues to add to its robust list of community connections. Business leaders who are interested in learning more can take a virtual tour here, contact Tech Campus Principal Derrick Burress at 847-543-6003 or dburress@techcampus.org or get in touch with us here to see how we can help you can connect with the school’s talent.

Summer Tourism is Hot in Lake County

, Date: August 30, 2022

The latest jobs report from the Illinois Department of Employment Security bodes very well for Lake County and the entire state of Illinois. The unemployment rate continues to dip, down nearly 2 percentage points from one year ago. Overall, the Lake and Kenosha IL-WI Metro Division labor force data shows that the number of employed individuals has been trending upwards since the beginning of the year.

“Lake County’s employment picture is strong. Our labor force is as big as it ever was before the pandemic,” says Bethany Williams the Director of Strategy & Intelligence at Lake County Partners. “Importantly, even as more people come back to the labor force, unemployment numbers are dropping in all corners of the county. The manufacturing and business services sectors are bigger than they were before the pandemic, and importantly the leisure and hospitality sector is squarely back on track. This sector is both an important economic driver and a major contributor to our high quality of life in Lake County. There’s lots to be excited about this summer.”

Leisure and Hospitality businesses are taking advantage of those additions to the labor force and are quickly creating jobs. In the Lake/Kenosha region we’ve seen approximately 3,700 new jobs in this category alone in the last two months, according to recent data from the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

These numbers reflect increasing consumer confidence and the popularity of Illinois as a tourism destination. In June, hotel occupancy in the state reached 72%, beating the national rate of 70%. This favorable trajectory has many industry leaders optimistic for continued recovery in the back half of the year.

Deloitte indicated in a recent report that travel confidence continues to rise; six in 10 Americans planned to travel this summer, and more than one-quarter planned to spend significantly more on their vacations this summer compared to 2019. Auto trips have also surpassed 2019 metrics, and travel spending is up nationwide as the pent-up interest in vacation surged this summer.

“In Lake County, we’ve seen hotel room demand continue to climb, and July was our strongest month for travel since the pandemic, with an average occupancy of 71.6 percent,” said Visit Lake County President Maureen Riedy. “This is a testament to Lake County’s standing as a premiere destination for tourism in the Midwest. Summer is a prime time for us to leverage local assets. We’ve seen tremendous success with our Libation Trail, Road Trip and Kids Summer Fun campaigns. People from across the region continue to flock here to enjoy attractions like Six Flags, the Chicago Bears Training Camp and our wide array of dining and recreation.”

Business travel has begun to recover and is expected to continue to increase this fall. In addition, data shows the return of short-term, small corporate meetings, which has helped boost local hotel occupancies, according to STR.

“The hospitality industry is definitely making its way back,” said Jessica Keene, director of sales and catering at The Forester in Lake Forest. “Not only have we seen a big increase in hotel room bookings this summer—our event space is also in high demand. Many companies that suspended in-person meetings and were working remote during the pandemic have returned, so we are thrilled to be busy with corporate travel and meetings.”

As a sign of this optimism, Lake County is seeing investment. The Illinois Beach Hotel at the Illinois Beach State Park near Zion closed two years ago in response to the pandemic, and recently reopened with new management after a complete renovation. It has the distinction of being one of the only hotels in Illinois on Lake Michigan, and its prime location between Chicago and Milwaukee gives it an audience of more than six million people according to ExplorUS. Like many in the industry, the hotel is exploring special events, equipment rentals and other perks that will bring in new customers.

The overall performance of leisure this summer in response to the tourism boom has created new employment and funding opportunities. Governor Pritzker recently announced a new $15 million grant—funded through the American Rescue Plan Act—to support tourism and festivals across Illinois. Of this allocation, $10 million will support tourism-related projects like attractions, museums, live performances and more, while $5 million is set aside for economic drivers like community festivals.

“We will certainly be exploring avenues to best position Lake County for this grant,” noted Ms. Riedy.

Locally, community leaders are also hard at work to help hotels staff up to meet demand. One example is the partnership that emerged between Lake County Workforce Development, the Village of Lincolnshire and the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort. In 2021, the group held its first “Hire Lake County Job Fair,” to source talent for a variety of positions. The event was such a success that the group is gearing up for it again this year.

“This year, we’re hosting the 2nd Annual Hire Lake County Job Fair on September 27 at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, and registration looks very promising,” said Village of Lincolnshire Planning and Development Manager Tonya Zozulya. “This free in-person event will directly connect businesses in a variety of industries with Lake County’s incredible workforce and create opportunities for networking and collaboration.”

HOW CAN YOUR COMPANY JOIN IN THE SUCCESS?

Click here to register for the Hire Lake County Job Fair, and click here to connect with us to see how we can help your business tap into the wealth of free resources available to businesses in Lake County.

Lake County, the Home of Heroes Who’ll Soon Benefit from Fisher House Humanitarian Aid

, Date: August 2, 2022

Lake County’s Naval Station Great Lakes, in North Chicago, has the honored distinction of being the U.S. Navy’s only Recruit Training Command and the Navy’s largest training facility. It has been an important military hub for more than 100 years. Since World War I, it has trained more than 2 million new sailors through the Recruit Training Command (RTC) and nearly an equal number through its technical schools.

The station sits on over 1,600 beautiful acres overlooking Lake Michigan, and it is home to 1,153 buildings, 39 of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. Its population includes 4,000 active-duty staff personnel and families, 14,000 recruits and students, 3,000 government civilian employees and 2,000 contractors—all of which have an incredible impact on the local community and the U.S. Navy worldwide. Operations, along with area military retirees and educational aid payments, increased Illinois’ gross domestic product by $4.6 billion.

The station provides a host of services for military members and family from a surrounding 16 state area. The nearby Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) was established in 2010 as a first-of-its-kind partnership between the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense (DoD); this initiative integrated all medical care under a combined mission, allowing for the medical treatment and care of nearly 75,000 patients per year at several locations.

FHCC locations include a West Campus, East Campus and community-based outpatient clinics in Evanston and McHenry, Illinois as well as in Kenosha, Wisconsin. A full spectrum of healthcare is provided for patients at these locations, including medical and surgical care, mental health services, medical sub-specialties like cardiology, and more.

While receiving medical attention at these sites, many patients and their families have a need for housing, meals and other accommodations. Demand led the Veterans Administration to explore opportunities to provide spaces in which military families can heal together, without the financial burden brought on by medical crises. The concept of a “Fisher House” was built around this very idea.

HOW FISHER HOUSES ARE A GAME-CHANGER FOR MILITARY SUPPORT

Fisher Houses are “home away from homes,” designed to provide humanitarian support and cozy shelter for active military, veterans and family members who are undergoing treatment. They typically have 16 – 20 suites with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, dining and living rooms and a laundry facility.

The Fisher House model has been an incredible success. Now, 1,100 military members sleep in Fisher Houses each night, spread across 92 homes located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide. Since inception, the nationwide Fisher House program has saved military and veteran families an estimated $407 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation.

Locally, the Friends of Fisher House-Illinois (FOFH-IL) nonprofit organization works to guarantee that there is never a lodging fee and provides all food, beverages and quality-of-life outings for families. The group is the steward of the state’s first Fisher House—the Hines VA Fisher House outside of Chicago—which has operated at near full capacity since it opened in 2010.

Hines VA hosts up to 44 people; if at full capacity, those in need are housed free-of-charge at local hotels until suites become available. The need for Fisher House accommodations is so great, in fact, that FOFH-IL is expanding its focus to include Lake County.

“When members of our military are wounded protecting our country, not only do they pay a steep price, their families also suffer. The Hines VA Fisher House is a special place, as are those like FOFH-IL who do humanitarian work on behalf of these patriots and their families. As wounded warriors receive VA medical care, their families stay at nearby Fisher Houses free of any charge. Soon, I am proud to say, there will be a new Fisher House at the Lovel Federal Healthcare Center—a facility that bears my name,” announced retired Captain and former NASA astronaut James Lovell.

WHY A FISHER HOUSE WOULD BE AN ASSET IN LAKE COUNTY

In North Chicago, FOFH-IL is raising funds to help the Fisher House Foundation build proposing to build the “Lovell Fisher House”—a 15,000 sq. ft. facility along Buckley Road, within walking distance of the Great Lakes Naval Station and FHCC. The two-story, 16-suite structure will carry on the Fisher House tradition and provide free short and long-term lodging, access, food, beverages, outings and camaraderie to help families in North Chicago.

Major General James H. Mukoyama, Jr., U.S. Army Retired and Chair of the Lovell Patient Advisory Council, added to Lovell’s endorsement. “When military veterans face medical crises, they need to heal together with their families. Sadly, this is a financial hardship. Because I’m devoted to the best medical care for our heroes whose sacrifices protect our country, I want to share a special haven in Illinois helping military families. It’s the Fisher House at Hines VA Hospital. As wounded warriors receive vital medical care, their families stay at this comfort home at no charge. And soon, I’m delighted to say, there’ll be a new Fisher House at Lovell Federal Healthcare Center in North Chicago.”

Project construction is estimated at $9 million, and FOFH-IL is currently fundraising with the goal of breaking ground later this year and ushering families into the new facility in 2023. The group anticipates supporting 900 families, or approximately 1,800 individuals per year.

HOW TO GIVE BACK AND PROVIDE LOCAL SUPPORT

Keeping in mind the sacrifices that so many of these military members have made, and the immense impact that this base has had on the Lake County community, FOFH-IL has made it easy to give back and show support. Click here to learn more about FOFH-IL and its mission to construct the first Lake County Fisher House to support the Great Lakes Naval Station and our military members.

Lake County is Primed for Continued Growth

, Date: June 29, 2022

Lake County has celebrated tremendous growth in the first six months of 2022. A streak of business wins coupled with strong gains in life sciences and advanced manufacturing, a pipeline full of projects, and a new Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy guarantees an equally busy back half of the year.

This success echoes what we are seeing in Greater Chicago and across the state of Illinois. A recent survey correction from the U.S. Census Bureau found that Illinois has actually gained population over the last decade and is the number one state in the Midwest for job growth — this reflects the state’s recent ranking as the third in the country for corporate relocations and expansions. Illinois ranks sixth in the nation for total labor force.

Talent continues to be a major factor in business decisions, which is why we remain laser-focused on working with new and existing businesses to help them tap into Lake County’s incredible workforce, forge important connections, leverage incentives and drive the economy forward. It is with great pride that we survey the following top accomplishments of the first six months of 2022:

NEW CEDS STRATEGY FINALIZED

The new Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for Lake County has been completed and adopted, and we are in the process of presenting it to other key stakeholder groups for endorsement. LCP recently led an implementation workshop to set priorities and build immediate action plans for short-term goals while also laying the ground work for longer-term goals. Stay up to date on our CEDS work here.

CLC RECEIVES $900K TO FUEL TALENT

Lake County is the second-largest advanced manufacturing county in the state, and a $900,000 award earned by the College of Lake County (CLC) will leverage industry growth and support the local talent pipeline with in-demand skills training. Lake County Partners is proud to work closely with CLC to align employers’ needs with education initiatives to improve opportunities and outcomes.

TAKEDA BREAKS GROUND FOR EXPANSION IN ROUND LAKE

LCP joined local leaders in commemorating a groundbreaking for Takeda’s expansion of its advanced manufacturing facility in Round Lake County to accommodate one of the company’s new production lines and position it for continued growth.

WAVE OF LIFE SCIENCE STARTUPS FLOCK TO LAKE COUNTY

The rapid growth of life science start-ups including ARTEC Biotech, Covira, Everyplace Labs and AirAnswers, at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science’s Helix 51 incubator highlights Lake County’s position as a leader in research and innovation. Budding entrepreneurs are a vital part of Lake County’s thriving industry ecosystem – which includes the headquarters for giants like Abbott, Baxter, AbbVie, Horizon and Pfizer and supports 80% of the life science jobs in Illinois. Check out our profiles of up-and-coming companies here.

LOCAL COMPANIES LEAD ILLINOIS’ R&D GROWTH

Lake County-headquartered AbbVie and Abbott were among the companies leading the way when it comes to investments, growth and patents across the state. This year’s Illinois Science and Technology Coalition’s Research and Development Index shows how the region is poised for continued success. The report illustrates the impact of developments in therapeutics, diagnostics, and medical research at Illinois’ amazing academic health centers, universities, federal labs, and innovative companies, demonstrating that there has never been a more important time for critical thinking, research, and scientific discovery.

LAKE COUNTY SEES BIGGEST SUBURBAN OFFICE DEAL SINCE 2005

A New York real estate investor paid $190 million for the 164-acre Kemper Lakes corporate office campus in Lake Zurich. This deal is the highest price paid for a suburban Chicago office property in 17 years, showing investor demand for office properties tied to long-term tenants with good credit. Investments like this aren’t just about the buildings, they’re also about vibrant communities and their ability to attract talent. Lake County offers top shelf schools, the second largest concentration of Fortune 500 headquarters in the Midwest and a healthy real estate market – making it a prime location to invest.

NEW C-PACE PROGRAM FUELS SUSTAINABILITY

C-PACE is an innovative program that helps commercial property owners make efficiency improvements through projects that involve water conservation, electric vehicle charging, renewable energy and more. It allows property owners to obtain 100 percent financing from private capital providers for eligible improvements such as HVAC, lighting and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and other improvements in both existing buildings and new construction projects.

ROSALIND FRANKLIN ROLLS OUT NEW NURSING PROGRAM

In a strategic effort to strengthen the local talent pipeline in an in-demand field, Rosalind Franklin University launched a new College of Nursing, the first of its kind in Lake County. The new program will strengthen talent and meet a critical nursing shortage, especially among communities hardest hit by COVID-19.

HOMEWERKS WORLDWIDE LEASES 260,000+ SQ. FT TO EXPAND

Homewerks Worldwide, an advanced manufacturer of private-label and branded kitchen, bathroom and plumbing products, signed on to occupy over 260,000 sq. ft. at a Libertyville distribution center shared with medical supply company Medline.

SOFTWARE LEADER XKZERO MOVES HQ TO LINCOLNSHIRE

Leading ERP software publisher and supply chain consulting company xkzero has announced the move of its headquarters to Lincolnshire. The new location will accommodate the company’s growth, and provide an updated workspace as the team returns to more in-person collaboration. The company finds that the area’s talent, coupled with the in-demand amenities offered at One Overlook Point will drive its continued success.

INTELLIHOT MOVES HQ TO VERNON HILLS TO SUPPORT GROWTH & NEW JOBS

This cutting-edge clean technology manufacturer announced its new headquarters in Vernon Hills to support aggressive plans for growth and new jobs.

AKHAN TAKES ITS TECHNOLOGY TO THE NEXT LEVEL

The locally-headquartered company moved ahead with its cutting-edge Miraj Diamond technology after securing $20 million to bring its synthetic, electronics-grade diamond material to market. The start-up has used its Gurnee location to attract talent and investment while honing in on a process that will have a huge impact on applications ranging from display glass and optics to semiconductors.

The good news doesn’t end here. Review other recent wins here, and keep an eye on our social media, blog and news for continued announcements.

Lake County is the Proud Home of the Second Largest Concentration of Fortune 500 Headquarters in the Midwest

, Date: June 7, 2022

Lake County’s economy benefits from a strong base of over 30,000 businesses in a variety of sizes, scales and industries known for growth and innovation. It has long been heralded as a destination for company headquarters, and the area is the clear location of choice for Fortune 500s.

For 68 years, Fortune Magazine has ranked America’s largest companies based on revenue and profits through it’s “Fortune 500 List.” Despite rising inflation, supply chain complications and inflation, Lake County again maintained its prominence on the just-released 2022 list, with a whopping 12 Fortune 500 headquarters that now call Lake County home. This number jumped up two from the 10 that made the list in 2021.

We are proud to congratulate the companies that were recognized on the list this year: Walgreens, AbbVie, Caterpillar, Abbott Laboratories, CDW, Discover, W.W. Grainger, Baxter International, the Packaging Corp. of America, Fortune Brands Home and Security, Camping World and CF Industries.

These companies represent a wide swath of industries, all of which are key to Lake County’s economy, including life science, advanced manufacturing, finance, distribution, logistics, clean energy and more. Combined, these companies employ tens of thousands of people in Lake County.

In addition to providing high quality jobs, rewarding career paths and talent enrichment, these companies are tremendous corporate citizens. They invest in Lake County communities, infrastructure, people and organizations, including Lake County Partners. They are fundamental to our mission of driving business growth and developing talent in Lake County.

WHY ARE SO MANY MAJOR CORPORATIONS HEADQUARTERED IN LAKE COUNTY?

Lake County boasts of the business, workforce, infrastructure and cultural benefits of a world-class metropolitan area, but at a fraction of the cost compared to coastal metros and downtown Chicago.

The county spans 1,300+ square miles and has a population of nearly 700,000 and access to greater Chicago’s 9.4 million people. Nearly 46% of residents have a Bachelor’s Degree or higher, which is 13% more than the national average, making its talent pool among the deepest in the country. It is also one of the most diverse, which brings a wide variety of valuable perspectives and experience to the table to drive business forward.

Furthermore, Lake County’s highly-integrated educational system anticipates business needs. Students study at nationally-ranked public high schools, earn STEM credentials at the College of Lake County and Lake Forest College, and go on to receive doctoral degrees from well-known schools in an array of in-demand disciplines. Many of these students appreciate the high quality of life, affordability and high concentration of job opportunities offered in Lake County’s many vibrant communities, and so they return to build rewarding careers and families. Case in point, Chicagoland is the #1 destination for BIG TEN university graduates.

Lake County’s central location between two major midwestern hubs — Chicago and Milwaukee — and position along Interstate 94, puts it within a one-day drive of most major industry in North America. It is a hub for regional, domestic and international markets, and has a tight-knit system of commuter options. Metra’s four rail lines feature 32 train stations coupled with Pace’s clean-diesel coach bus fleet and over 550 miles of trail and bikeway connections make it easy to draw talent from across the region.

The Port of Chicago and Waukegan Port District, coupled with Lake County’s state-of-the-art facilities, reliable rail lines, and transport routes put companies at a strategic crossroads for goods distribution. In fact, Illinois is the only state crossed by all seven of the nation’s class one rail lines. Lake County is also just a quick trip from three major international airports—Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, O’Hare International and Chicago Midway International—as well as Waukegan National Airport, which includes a new customs building, and allows corporate aviation departments, private users, emergency responders, law enforcement, medical transport and flight training programs in Lake County to connect with destinations worldwide.

Travel is fun when you have a wide range of entertainment options and cultural amenities suitable for all tastes. Local municipalities are regularly ranked among the top in the nation due to their high-quality schools, recreational opportunities, transportation, healthcare access, fiscal stability and leadership.

In Lake County, you can have the career you want, and the life you want, and employers are taking note. The strong balance of housing options, leading employers, outdoor activities and more proves that while Lake County is business driven, it is also a great area for those looking to prioritize both work and play.

It’s no wonder that Lake County continues to enjoy a surge of business expansions and relocations, and we are honored to play a role in the success. Contact us to learn more about how we can help your company join the ranks of Lake County’s many thriving company headquarters.

When it Comes to Air Quality, This Company Has the Answer

, Date: May 13, 2022

Air quality has perhaps never been more top of mind than over the past several years. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the West Coast wildfires and beyond, some of the biggest threats are now also the most microscopic.

A particle needs to be 10 microns or less before it can be inhaled into your respiratory tract and impact your health. In most cases, this size is imperceptible to the human eye, which means that invisible viruses, bacteria, dust, mold and respiratory droplets can persist in the air and be inhaled without warning, triggering a host of issues like illness, asthma, infection, or allergies.

When faced with the question “Do you know the health of the air you’re breathing?” the truth is, many of us don’t until we are faced with the negative effect of exposure. It’s the idea of bringing visibility to invisible threats that led one young company to Lake County to develop and take its cutting-edge concept to market.

SMALL WORLD, BIG IMPACT

Inspirotec, now known as AirAnswers Inc., is a compelling story of a life science startup that has successfully used local resources to move to the commercialization stage of company development. Its co-founder, Dr. Julian Gordon, was a renowned and highly-cited biomedical scientist at Abbott—a globally-recognized life science powerhouse headquartered in Lake County.

Dr. Gordon began his career at King’s College London, in the very lab where Rosalind Franklin originally advanced her famous research on X-ray crystallography and took images of DNA molecules in the early 1950s. It was her work on “Photograph 51” at King’s College London that ultimately demonstrated the helical structure of DNA and enabled James Watson and Francis Crick to build the first model of the molecule—science that would go on to fundamentally change the way that we understand the human body.

Franklin’s impact on medicine was so profound that it inspired the name of the university in North Chicago that is today known as Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science.

“Dr. Rosalind Franklin was a pioneer in the field of DNA research, and RFU researchers, faculty and students reflect her diligence in their work — including the pursuit of equity in population health and respiratory health,” said Dr. Wendy Rheault, RFU president and CEO. “We know there are communities in Lake County that have higher incidences of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease than neighboring communities. Our university is committed to the reinvention of health care and building healthier communities through experimentation and innovation, and our research partnerships with industry help drive that mission forward.”

Thanks in part to Rosalind Franklin University’s Helix 51 incubator, the school is certainly living up to its name and influencing medical technology at an unprecedented rate. In the past six months alone, five life science startups have signed on to grow, and they can now look to AirAnswers as a successful role model. (Learn more in our other profiles of Covira, Everyplace Labs, and ARTEC Biotech.)

FROM STARTUP TO MARKET

Like Rosalind Franklin, AirAnswers co-founder Dr. Gordon has also made a major mark on our understanding of the human body. Today, he is perhaps best known for developing the seminal tests that lead to the technology Abbott uses for its home pregnancy tests.

Building on the extensive experience that he accrued while working in Lake County’s innovative life sciences ecosystem, Dr. Gordon went on to form AirAnswers, an early-stage company that developed innovative and affordable technologies for the collection, detection and tracking of airborne biological agents.

Between 2013 and 2017, AirAnswers refined its technology, demonstrating capture potential in an environmental lab chamber, Boston inner city schools, patient homes, and low-income homes in Baltimore. This work was supported through research collaboration with leading organizations like Harvard University, John Hopkins University, University of Chicago, Northwestern Medicine, Argonne National Laboratory, the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Nebraska Medical Center, the American Association for Aerosol Research and the U.S. Army.

The result is the AirAnswers product — a portable device that uses patented technology to move high volumes of air to identify harmful, invisible bioaerosols to prevent health issues. Through electrokinetic capture technology, charged particles become attached to the negative electrodes on a cartridge which is later sent to the AirAnswers lab for analysis. Only one sample is required for an entire home, and the process is the first and only to offer assessment of actively growing mold through a Beta Glucan analysis.

Because the device is “plug and play” and doesn’t rely on a filter, professional training is not needed to run the machine, and there is no hazard of clogging. Once the lab processes the cartridge, results are sent electronically. For all of these reasons and more, AirAnswers is now an easy-to-use and popular option in the indoor air quality market.

As a quickly developing startup, AirAnswers needed space to grow and develop its concept. In a twist of fate, Dr. Gordon’s earlier lab connection to researcher Rosalind Franklin brought his career full circle as he learned about the Helix 51 incubator being developed at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago.

The management team and board consist of a number of former Abbott executives tapping into the extensive executive management pool in Lake County. Top leadership, including president & CEO Jim Koziarz, Ph.D., EVP-Operations Steve Kuemmerle, Ph.D., and VP of Commercial Operations Richard “Rock” Marasco each spent more than 25 years at Abbott in various research and management roles.  Rounding out the AirAnswers management team is Director of Lab Operations, Rachel Reboulet, and VP Controlling, Russel Hunter.

Helix 51 provides a soft landing for early-stage and international life science companies in need of space and a nurturing environment in which to develop ideas. At the same time that AirAnswers was looking to expand, Rosalind Franklin University was celebrating the grand opening of Helix 51, and so AirAnswers was one of the first tenants to sign on at the facility. The partnership has yielded great success.

FLEXIBLE SPACE TO GROW

“Based on my industry experience, I knew that Lake County could accommodate our needs and provide unequaled access to talent and high net-worth investors who could help us take our product to market,” says Dr. Koziarz. “We connected with the Helix 51 incubator at a pivotal time in our company’s growth. We have an outstanding relationship with the university, and they’ve been exceptionally flexible as we have developed. In 2019, we signed on to initially occupy 1,600 sq. ft. space, and in August 2021 we expanded into about 6,800 sq. ft. on the fourth floor of the Innovation and Research Park as the first industry tenant. We have plans to further expand our footprint next year to coincide with our continued build-out of the space. We now have six lab specialists and technicians who provide cartridge testing and are developing our new products as we have transitioned from startup to early sales. Part of our success is undoubtedly the result of our location and the network that we have established in Lake County.”

Team leadership has spent recent months repositioning the company to key indoor air quality market segments, which in part led to the recent rebrand from Inspirotec to AirAnswers. The company is now in the process of sourcing new manufacturers for its next generation of products, and with Lake County’s thriving advanced manufacturing scene, the company will be looking locally.

“AirAnswers really is a model of what we’ve hoped to accomplish at the Helix 51 incubator,” notes Dr. Ronald Kaplan, EVP of Research at Rosalind Franklin University. “Local talent is fueling life science innovation and business growth in Lake County. Though we have a vast impact on healthcare, it’s remarkable to think about how small the life sciences world can be. Many of the partners, investors, affiliate organizations and leaders of our startups are interconnected and tied into nearby corporate giants. That’s why it’s so important for young companies in this industry to get the right start, in Lake County, where they can leverage our incredible network and resources.”

JOIN IN THE SUCCESS

AirAnswers is one of many companies working with Lake County Partners to grow. Connect with us here to see how we can help your business expand in Lake County, Illinois.

Life Sciences Growth Starts Here

, Date: May 3, 2022

When the first boutique-inspired Hyatt Place Hotel in the world opens, you know it will be special. That’s certainly been the case with Lake County’s new Forester Hotel, a nature-inspired oasis in Lake Forest designed to inspire business meetings that flourish.

From that seed of an idea—to invest in a business-focused development on a prime piece of real estate along I-94—a larger concept has blossomed. And it’s one that is certain to benefit Lake County’s hot life sciences industry and tight real estate market.

Janko Group, an investment/development team that has been involved in excess of $1 billion of real estate deals and has a current portfolio of owned properties valued at nearly $500 million across a spectrum of industries including hospitality, office, industrial, retail and residential, purchased the Forester property and received a variance to develop the hotel. The group also owns the adjacent 6.13-acre property alongside the Forester and is now focused on developing the site with a state-of-the-art facility specifically built to accommodate life sciences uses.

“We have been investing in properties across the region for more than 30 years. Based on our experience, we feel that this property is the best possible location for life sciences, in the county and in the larger metro. It’s extremely visible, easy to access, and in close proximity to many of the country’s biggest industry leaders. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and we know that the project will catapult the right company to the next level,” said Janko Group Founder and CEO Gary Janko.

POSITIONED FOR SUCCESS

The finished, access-controlled product will feature fourteen-foot ceilings, offices, first generation and column-free lab space, robust mechanical systems, multiple power voltages and backup power. In-demand wet lab space is also a possibility for the property. Importantly, it will also tie into the Forester Hotel next door to provide an additional 4,500 sq. ft. of flexible event space, a full-service bistro and bar, grab-and-go market, fitness center and comfortable hotel rooms and suites to accommodate visiting clients.

This opportunity couldn’t come at a better time. Lake County’s unique mix of life science and advanced manufacturing industry leaders has set it apart when it comes to doing business, and growth is off the charts. The area is consistently ranked among the top ten for life science clusters nationwide, in large part because it is home to many of the world’s leading brands, including AbbVie, Abbott, Baxter, Horizon Therapeutics and Pfizer.

Chicago’s northern suburbs also host the headquarters or major operations for many international leaders including Lundbeck, Astellas, Fresenius Kabi and Takeda. Include younger companies like Jaguar Gene Therapy and Nexus Pharmaceuticals along with the many fast-growing startups at Rosalind Franklin University’s Helix 51 incubator, and you have a vibrant life science ecosystem.

“The best thing about Lake County is that we can accommodate all stages of company growth,” says Lake County Partners Business Development Director Ron Lanz. “From the major startup activity that we’re seeing in smaller labs at Rosalind Franklin University, to larger properties like this one—Lake County has top-of-the-line spaces with in-demand amenities, transportation access and a stellar workforce that you just can’t find anywhere else.”

IT ALL COMES DOWN TO TALENT

This huge concentration of industry leaders has indeed resulted in an enormous pool of talent. There are more than 5.6 million people within a commute radius from Lake County, and 40,000 of them work in life sciences. Lake County’s workforce not only includes seasoned professionals – there is a huge crop of young talent too, thanks to Chicagoland being the #1 destination for Big Ten university graduates. In fact, 46% of residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher, which is 13% greater than the national average.

With talent, comes great business success. Worldwide, local life science sales have accounted for $85 billion. Given the cost of doing business and living in Lake County, this amount can stretch much further than in peer areas like Boston, the Bay Area, San Diego and New Jersey. Chicagoland’s business operating index is a mere 98.3, compared to the average 101.9 seen in these counterparts. Here, effective tax rates are also competitive or lower, and electricity rates are much less—12.56 cent/kWh compared with Boston’s 21.11 cent/kWH, for example.

It’s Lake County’s affordability and high quality of life that keep businesses and residents coming. Award-winning communities feature nationally-ranked schools, making Lake County a destination for families and professionals who want to put down roots while building a rewarding career.

Enjoying life inside and out of the office is a pillar of Lake County’s work ethos, and it shows. Thankfully, projects like this one make the office element very, very attractive.

HOW CAN LAKE COUNTY PARTNERS HELP?

Lake County Partners has the resources and connections to help your company find the perfect spot and source the talent that you need. Connect with us here to explore this Janko Group opportunity or others.

Lake County is the Gateway to Global Markets

, Date: April 26, 2022

Lake County is a prime hub for regional, domestic and international markets. Its central location between Chicago and Milwaukee, along the I-94 corridor, provides convenient one-day access to a large swath of North American industry. The Port of Chicago and Waukegan Port District, coupled with Lake County’s state-of-the-art facilities, reliable rail lines, and transport routes put companies at a strategic crossroads for goods distribution. In fact, Illinois is the only state crossed by all seven of the nation’s class one rail lines.

Importantly, Lake County is also just a quick trip from three major international airports—Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, O’Hare International and Chicago Midway International—as well as Waukegan National Airport, which includes a new customs building and handles private, corporate, business, executive and governmental aircraft operating in Northeast Illinois and Southeast Wisconsin.

When it comes to attracting talent and accommodating business needs, this strong multimodal connectivity makes recruiting and commuting around the region a snap – particularly as travel returns to pre-COVID levels.

IT’S TIME TO TRAVEL

Nearby Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) has seen this travel surge first hand, and the airport is adding on new services to meet the growing demand and continue to deliver the first-rate experience for which it’s known.

MKE currently offers nonstop flights to 35+ destinations coast-to-coast, and more than 200 international destinations are available with just one connection. Through a convenient SmartPark app, travelers can reserve guaranteed parking spots and earn rewards.

As the world reopens, MKE has prioritized customer service, health, safety and convenience so that travelers taking to the sky feel comfortable to enjoy their recreational and business travel.

“We are proud to have recently earned our first Airports Council International (ACI) World Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for our success in delivering an outstanding customer experience at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport,” said Airport Director Brian Dranzik. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it places us among the world’s best airports as voiced by travelers through independent surveys administered at the airport. We competed with airports across North America that have 5 – 15 million annual passengers, and we were one of only eight in the U.S. to receive the award in the Best Airport by Size and Region category. The award is the most coveted and prestigious customer experience honor any airport can receive.”

Many Lake County travelers find that MKE’s close proximity, service and affordable long-term parking make it an easy choice for leisure and business. Even more so, now that the airport has rolled out new and expanded services including:

  • JetBlue launched new daily nonstop services between MKE and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS), bringing a new and cost-effective airline option to the market. Enabled by JetBlue’s Northeast Alliance (NEA), this Milwaukee service expands the airline’s presence in the Midwest, while diversifying and advancing its New York and Boston focus city strategy.
  • Spirit Airlines added Myrtle Beach to its growing list of destinations served nonstop from Milwaukee. With low fares and a flight time of just over two hours, the new flights make it easy to enjoy South Carolina’s beachfront boardwalks and golf courses. The airline launched its Milwaukee service in June of last year, with daily nonstop flights from MKE to Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Orlando. By the end of 2021, Spirit was also flying nonstops from Milwaukee to Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa, Phoenix, and Cancun.
  • Air Canada also announced plans to resume daily nonstop service between Milwaukee and Toronto beginning July 1st. The route had previously been suspended since March 2020 due to COVID-19. Flying Air Canada to Toronto provides another convenient connection point for flights to Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond.

With the public’s growing comfort level, MKE projects a busy back half of 2022. “Our famous ‘Recombobulation Area’ is ready to safely welcome back travelers and help them efficiently get on their way and enjoy all that life has to offer. We encourage you to check out our flights and book the trip that you’ve been waiting on.” says Director Dranzik.

THE CENTER OF IT ALL

Take our interactive tour to see why Lake County, Illinois is perfectly positioned to support your growing business. Connect with us here to see how we can help your company get settled in Lake County, Illinois.