In a $30 billion deal, Aon is buying Willis Towers Watson, a rival in business insurance and risk consulting, but it raises one question in the mind of most Chicagoans: What will happen to the Willis Tower name now that we’ve gotten used to calling it that?
The deal between the two London-based companies was announced Monday. Executives said the combined operation will use the Aon name, not Willis.
— Chicago Sun-Times
Willis Tower, which once reigned the skyscraper ranking as the world's tallest building for nearly 25 years under its former name Sears Tower, will likely not be renamed again anytime soon as the naming rights contract with Willis Towers Watson insurance does not expire until March 2025.
Crain's Chicago Business reports that United Airlines, by far the largest tenant in the 110-story tower, could potentially also make advances towards putting its name on its headquarters building after hinting at such aspirations in the past.
"It's unclear whether Aon, which already has its name on one of the city's most recognizable towers—Aon Center in the East Loop—would have the right to unilaterally change the name," Crain's adds. "If Aon can change it, it's conceivable that the city could soon have Aon Center and Aon Tower in a flex of the company's skyline muscle."
4 Comments
I still refer to it as Sears Tower.
Whatchu talkin' about, Aon?
I suggest "Larry."
Since the address is 233 S. Wacker AND it is in Chicago, I suggest calling it "Da Too Tree Tree Building"
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.