Baggu is opening their first Midwest store in Chicago's Wicker Park, reflecting a retail trend and the city's strong market for the popular reusable bag brand.

Illinois has passed a law banning hotels from offering small plastic bottles of personal-care items, with different compliance dates for larger and smaller establishments.

The Save A Lot on South Pulaski Road in West Garfield Park reopens with upgrades and events, signifying progress in addressing the area's food desert issue, despite the parent company's past challenges.

The Green City Market in Chicago celebrates its 25th anniversary, marking its impact on local sustainable food practices and farm-to-table connections.

Brynwood Partners acquired Miracapo Pizza Co. from the Crown family, expanding its Chicago-area food manufacturing presence and adding to its portfolio.

Despite a rise in unionization efforts, Illinois reports a decline in union participation, slipping to 12.8%, influenced by factors like the Janus v. AFSCME decision and sectoral job growth patterns.

Park Ridge City Council approved recreational cannabis dispensaries in its Uptown district after a 4-2 vote on a zoning amendment, with support from local law enforcement and the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Demolition begins at the Tribune's Freedom Center to make way for a new Bally’s casino, with residents and officials eyeing economic benefits and environmental safeguards.

The FTC is fighting Kroger's proposed $24.6 billion merger with Albertsons in court, arguing it will reduce competition, raise prices, and hurt employees. Albertsons claims the merger is necessary to compete against larger retailers.

A fire at Rivian Automotive's Illinois plant damaged multiple EVs. No injuries were reported and the investigation is ongoing. Rivian is managing the incident's aftermath while expanding and improving its production facilities.

Illinois job growth shows an increase in 9 metro areas but unemployment rates rise across all 14 areas, with Champaign-Urbana seeing the highest job gains.

The opening of Barnes & Noble in Wicker Park is delayed to October 30, due to site conditions and permitting issues.

Mars Inc. is set to acquire Kellanova, known for snacks like Cheez-Its, Pringles, and Pop-Tarts, in a $30 billion deal, expanding its presence in the snack market.