Claire’s to Relocate Headquarters Near Chicago’s O’Hare Airport

Claire’s to Relocate Headquarters

Claire’s is relocating its corporate headquarters to an office building near O’Hare International Airport, marking a significant step in the retailer’s effort to rebuild after emerging from its second bankruptcy.

The accessories chain has leased 43,214 square feet at Columbia Centre III, located at 9525 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. in Rosemont, according to brokerage firm Newmark and CoStar data. The company will relocate from its current base in Hoffman Estates.

The headquarters move follows closely behind another major investment: a 248,400-square-foot distribution center lease in Elgin aimed at modernizing Claire’s supply chain. Both initiatives are part of a broader transformation led by Ames Watson, the Maryland-based private equity firm that acquired the company out of bankruptcy last year.

Claire’s, long known for its ear piercings and affordable jewelry targeted at tweens and teens, is working to reposition itself for a new generation of consumers. Its new ownership has outlined plans to modernize the in-store piercing experience and streamline its retail footprint.

Spence Mehl of RCS Real Estate Advisors, which has been advising Ames Watson, said the office lease reflects evolving workplace needs as the brand adapts to shifting consumer expectations.

“Through our work on major strategic initiatives—from the Claire’s acquisition to the evolution of its logistics portfolio—we’ve developed a strong understanding of how the company’s workplace requirements are changing,” Mehl said.

Claire’s nearly faced liquidation last year before Ames Watson finalized its acquisition in September, with plans to keep up to 950 stores operating nationwide.

The new headquarters is expected to open early next year. The company is leaving its current location at 2400 W. Central Road in Hoffman Estates, which has functioned as both office and warehouse space.

The move also reflects a broader trend in the office market, where companies are upgrading to newer, amenity-rich buildings despite persistently weak demand nationwide.

Columbia Centre III itself has recently undergone financial restructuring. Its previous owner, Adventus Realty Trust, faced foreclosure on a $29 million loan. The property was ultimately transferred to Rialto Capital Advisors through a deed in lieu of foreclosure, according to Cook County records.

“Claire’s was seeking a modern, accessible workspace that supports talent recruitment and retention,” said Sean Moran of Newmark, who represented the tenant. “This new headquarters positions the company for its next phase of growth.”