Montparnasse 56 Group, a global leader in observation deck management, has acquired Chicago's 1,030-foot-high John Hancock Observatory, a venue universally acknowledged to offer the best and most panoramic view of the city and its environs.
The prominent observation deck is located at 875 North Michigan Avenue on the 94th floor of John Hancock Center, America's sixth-tallest building. The Observatory, situated on Chicago's famed Magnificent Mile, offers an 80-mile, 360-degree, four-state view of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.
The Paris-based Montparnasse 56 Group attracts more than 2.5 million visitor to its three European tourism sites annually.
The company has been evaluating growth opportunities associated with a number of major attractions and tourism venues in the United States and elsewhere around the world.
"After a history of successful operations and growth in Europe, Montparnasse is pursuing a strategic expansion initiative," said Patrick Abisseror, CEO of Montparnasse 56 Group. "We are aiming to acquire and operate exceptional sites both here and abroad, and maximize these venues' potential as world-class destinations."
"Supported by superbly qualified operating and consulting teams," said Eric J. Deutsch, head of US operations for Montparnasse 56 Group, "Montparnasse is ideally equipped to ensure the long-term success of John Hancock Observatory as a tourism venue and as a thriving business.
"A well-managed observation deck contributes significantly to the image and global standing of a great city," he said. "Moreover, successful observatories that attract large contingents of national and overseas guests deliver major economic development benefits. Montparnasse 56 Group has the practical experience and know-how to achieve these valuable goals."
"We at GNMAA are delighted to welcome such an experienced and accomplished attractions operator to The Magnificent Mile," said John Chickow, President and CEO of the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association in Chicago. "Montparnasse 56 Group's proven approach to international tourism is not only going to elevate the Observatory as a renowned tourist attraction, but it will also add to the evolving world-class reputation of The Magnificent Mile and Chicago as a whole. Their global sales offices m