General Motors Co. is making a significant move by relocating its downtown Detroit headquarters to the Hudson’s building, a new 1.5 million-square-foot project developed by billionaire Dan Gilbert. This decision solidifies the carmaker’s long-term presence in the revival of Detroit’s downtown, a project spearheaded by Gilbert through the acquisition and development of 45 major office, retail, and hospitality properties.
By committing to Detroit, GM will maintain its status as the only major automaker still based in the city. With approximately 5,000 employees downtown and thousands more in its Tech Center about 12 miles north of its current headquarters, GM’s relocation underscores its dedication to the city. Additionally, GM has one plant in the city, its Factory Zero electric vehicle facility, further emphasizing its investment in Detroit.
The press conference hosted by GM Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra and Gilbert at the building, officially named Hudson’s Detroit, is expected to announce the move. Relocating to the new building would entail GM leaving behind its space at the Renaissance Center office tower, its longtime headquarters. Discussions about the redevelopment of the Renaissance Center have been underway, though specific plans are yet to be disclosed.
Dan Gilbert, through his Bedrock Detroit development company, has been instrumental in the city’s transformation since relocating the offices of his Quicken Loans and other companies to Detroit in 2010. This move brought approximately 1,700 employees into the city and marked the beginning of Gilbert’s extensive real estate acquisitions and redevelopment efforts. With over 20,000 employees downtown and nearly a third of the space in his Detroit portfolio occupied by his companies, Gilbert’s vision for the city’s revitalization is well underway.
The Hudson’s Detroit site, situated on the historic location of the former Hudson’s Department Store, purchased by Gilbert in 2007, represents a significant milestone in his ambitious plan to restore Detroit to its former glory. Together with the Book Tower, another key property in downtown Detroit, Gilbert’s vision for the city’s resurgence continues to take shape after years of decline.
