The
Merchandise Mart
The
Merchandise Mart is the world’s largest commercial building,
largest wholesale design center and one of Chicago’s
premier international business locations. Encompassing 4.2
million sq. ft., The Mart spans two entire city blocks and
rises 25 stories.
Opened on May 5, 1930 by Marshall Field & Company, The Merchandise
Mart realized Marshall Field’s dream of a single wholesale
center for the entire nation. When Joseph P. Kennedy returned
to the United States from his position as Ambassador to Great
Britain, he saw something in what Field was trying to accomplish
and he purchased The Mart in 1945. The Merchandise Mart was
owned and managed by the Kennedy family interests for more than
50 years. In 1998, MMPI and the buildings it manages was acquired
by Vornado Realty Trust, a leading real estate investment
trust (REIT). The Mart’s tradition of commitment to supporting
the wholesale industries continues under the management of
Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI).
Today, The Mart remains the largest trade center in the world
and welcomes more than three million visitors each year. Sixty
percent of the building’s area is devoted to wholesale
showrooms. As a design center, The Merchandise Mart hosts
16 major trade shows, co-produces 15 more and also houses
more than 300 conferences, seminars and special events each year.
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