Chicago's Big Box Resurgence

8/24/2026

New leasing activity within Chicago’s big-box segment totaled 9.1 million square feet (msf) through the first half of 2026, representing a 51.0% year-over-year (YOY) increase. As demand for modern big-box facilities accelerates, market fundamentals are beginning to respond, with vacancy declining, absorption gaining pace, and developers maintaining confidence in the segment's long-term outlook.

Our latest report, Chicago's Big-Box Resurgence, examines the trends shaping today's market, from the rise in large-scale leasing activity to the continued preference for modern facilities and the industries driving demand.

Download the report to explore:
• The markets capturing the greatest share of new leasing activity
• The role of large-scale transactions in driving demand
• Why modern big-box facilities continue to be favored by occupiers
• How 3PLs and logistics users are influencing leasing trends

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