World Business Chicago celebrated the launch of their latest retail experience, “The Rendez-Vous,” on Tuesday, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting and opening. The French Market pop-up is the latest addition to World Business Chicago’s series of immersive activations that aim to honor Chicago’s diverse cultural landscape.
Attendees of the opening were joined by guest speakers from the French Consulate’s office, the French American Chamber of Commerce, and World Business Chicago CEO Michael Fassnacht.
“Chicago’s greatest strength lies in its vibrant tapestry of diversity, culture, and global influences,” said Michael Fassnacht, “...this French-inspired experience is a testament to our rich cultural connections, support of small business, and the very essence of Chicago – a city that thrives on diversity, celebrates culture, and embraces the world.”

The Rendez-Vous features a cafe area with offerings from La Boulangerie
The Rendez-Vous’s launch offered guests a first look at the pop-up’s curated selection of French-inspired clothing, accessories, kitchenware, artwork, and home goods. Attendees enjoyed croissants, fresh bread, and other treats from the market’s cafe, courtesy of the French bakery La Boulangerie.
According to World Business Chicago, The Rendez-Vous aims to be a place where Chicagoans can come together to explore, shop, and celebrate the city’s global connections. The pop-up invites residents and visitors to experience the best of France, while highlighting the diverse and inclusive nature of Chicago.
The Rendez-Vous is the third cultural retail pop-up from World Business Chicago, along with the Cultural Exchange Market and “C Ukraine” pop-ups, which opened earlier this year. The Rendez-Vous will be open Monday-Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. through December 23.

(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.