Fast-growing Chicago technology company expands workspace, enabling greater employee collaboration, engagement

Architect : Eastlake Studio
Photography : Steve Hall, Kendall McCaugherty | Hall + Merrick Photographers

CHICAGO, October 4, 2021 — SMS Assist, an industry-leading facilities maintenance technology company, today announced that it has signed a long-term lease to move to the 114,000 square-foot, four-floor, former headquarters of the Chicago Tribune at 130 East Randolph, also known as One Two Pru.

SMS Assist provides property management solutions for more than 200,000 residential and commercial properties through its cloud-based platform and network of 20,000 service providers. Retail stores, banks, restaurants, rental homes, and more make up the properties that rely on SMS Assist’s proprietary technology platform, in-house subject matter experts, and 24/7 support.

This new space will allow SMS Assist to provide a modern work environment for more than 750 Chicago-based employees. The space was specifically designed for employee collaboration.

Features of the new space include:

  • Large reception space, open workstations, numerous formal and informal conference rooms, multiple huddle areas, and an expansive café
  • Standing desks for all employees
  • Superior training facility with a dedicated training wing
  • Location perks like convenient food options for employees, access to public transportation (i.e., L trains, Metra, buses, pedway, etc.), and within walking distance of major train stations
  • Building amenities such as rooftop deck, contemporary lounge, and 11,626 square-foot health club

“It was important to find a collaborative, comfortable, and convenient space for our Chicago team members, and this office became available at the ideal time with very favorable market conditions. It’s a real win-win for us,” said SMS Assist CEO Marc Shiffman. “SMS Assist is proud of our Chicago roots, and we are committed to continuing our growth here in this state-of- the-art space.”

The space comes fully built out with top-line furnishings and a grand staircase that connects all floors. The new office includes a private entry on Stetson Street.

“Sterling Bay’s recent repositioning of One Two Pru into a trophy office asset with ultramodern interiors has made it a sought-after destination for companies like SMS Assist that want to keep a strong presence in Chicago’s Central Business District. Maintaining a prestigious address without having to sacrifice advanced tech infrastructure and contemporary amenities is what makes One Two Pru the ultimate East Loop office destination,” said Andy Gloor, CEO of Sterling Bay. “We’re excited to welcome SMS Assist to the East Loop and look forward to providing a home base for their continued growth in Chicago.”

SMS Assist enhances how people experience some of the nation’s biggest brands, streamlining dozens of repair and maintenance services with best-in-class contractors. The company’s technology platform offers real-time quality assurance and transparency across thousands of locations simultaneously.

“SMS Assist is a true disruptor in the facilities maintenance industry, and its new office at One Two Pru provides the company with the ability to develop its market-leading solutions in an incomparable setting,” said Savills Vice Chairman Robert Sevim, who advised SMS Assist in its real estate strategy. “The like-new conditions and top-tier design from the previous installation provide a highly favorable economic outcome for SMS Assist while allowing flexibility for growth both within its space and within the building.”

SMS Assist will relocate the Chicago office in Q1 2022.

About SMS Assist

SMS Assist is redefining the way service providers and property owners work together by delivering unprecedented transparency and control within the facilities maintenance industry. Retail stores, banks, restaurants, rental homes, and more make up the 200,000+ properties that rely every day on our technology platform, in-house subject matter experts, and 24/7 support. We leverage our network of 20,000 skilled providers across more than 55 trades to deliver an exceptional maintenance experience to the communities where we live and work. To learn more, visit smsassist.com.

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