Zebra Relocates, Expands HQ to 44,000 SF

The lease brings the five-story building to about 60% leased, according to John Clark of Jones Lang LaSalle, who along with Dan Fernitz represented building owner Millbrook Real Estate Co.

"Zebra is already in the area so that was attractive because the move doesn't upset the employees' traffic patterns," Clark says. "This building is very exciting for them because it's a nice step up. The technological infrastructure had some appeal as well, with an existing generator and data rooms."

Zebra had previously occupied about 34,000 square feet spread out between 100 S. Milwaukee Ave. and 333 Corporate Woods Pkwy., both in Vernon Hills. Its new office will house its senior executives and corporate staff, while its North American sales, marketing and operations groups, Cless Technology Center and distribution functions will remain located in Vernon Hills. Scott Brandwein and Sean Kropke of CB Richard Ellis represented Zebra in the Lincolnshire lease.

Completed in 1998 and designed by Loebl Schlossman & Hackl, 475 Half Day Rd. was constructed within the 70-acre Millbrook Business Center, which offers ponds, jogging paths and volleyball courts. Zebra's new office building is the twin of 485 Half Day Rd., which is the same size, also owned by Millbrook and 100% leased. Asking lease rates at the two buildings are around $16.50 per square foot, net, Clark says.

Zebra's new office is close to Interstate 94 and O'Hare International Airport. The property offers surface and covered parking, a centralized security station, on-site management, and a restaurant and conference facility in-building. Other tenants at 475 Half Day Rd. include Zenith, Illinois Tool Works, Eagle Test Systems, Walgreens/OptionCare, Plexus, Production Services Associates, Ambius, Weltman Bernfield and The Benida Group.

The property is in the Lake County/north suburban submarket, where occupancy rates are around 84%, or 78% including sublease space. "This market has much more sublease space than it previously had, so it's become very competitive," Clark says. "We feel fortunate we were able to attract a large user in this market."