In Illinois, the product design industry includes specialized firms focused on transforming concepts into tangible goods. These companies span various sectors, providing services such as product development, industrial design, and user experience design. As technology evolves, there’s a noticeable shift toward sustainable practices and user-centered design. Innovations like smart products and eco-friendly materials illustrate this trend, positioning Illinois as a hub for creativity and engineering expertise. The industry continues to grow, fueled by demand for complex solutions that cater to consumer needs while balancing environmental considerations.

This list features 25 product design companies based primarily in Illinois, ranging in size from small teams of less than ten to mid-sized firms with up to 200 employees. Many were founded in the 1990s and early 2000s, showcasing a solid history of innovation. Specializations include UX/UI design, industrial design, and branding. Companies like Mnml and IA Collaborative illustrate this area's blend of artistic flair and engineering prowess, creating products that not only function well but also appeal to users aesthetically and practically.

Read on to discover more about Illinois' top product design companies.

Top 25 Product Design Companies in Illinois

1. Mnml

• Website: mnml.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: minimal-inc-

Mnml, also known as MINIMAL Inc., is a Chicago-based design agency and engineering firm founded in 2007. The company specializes in creating innovative products and building meaningful brands, serving a variety of clients across different industries. With a team of skilled designers, engineers, and strategists, Mnml focuses on product design, branding, and engineering, ensuring that they deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of their customers. Their portfolio features a range of successful projects, including the Theragun product family and collaborations with brands like Bang & Olufsen and Cresco Labs. Mnml's approach emphasizes collaboration and creativity, allowing them to effectively address challenges and drive innovation in product development.

2. CHOI Design Group

• Website: choidesign.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: choi-design

CHOI Design Group is a Chicago-based product design firm founded in 1994. With a small team of 1-10 employees, they specialize in industrial design, prototyping, and design research. The firm collaborates with businesses across various sectors, including healthcare, consumer goods, and commercial industries, to develop innovative products that prioritize user experience. Their portfolio includes notable projects such as a rigging control console for Chicago Flyhouse and a dental X-ray machine for Midmark, demonstrating their capability to handle complex design challenges. CHOI Design Group employs a design thinking approach, ensuring that they not only meet client specifications but also enhance the overall user interaction with their products. They have not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained operation focused on delivering quality design solutions.

3. Beyond Design, Inc.

• Website: beyonddesign.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: beyond-design-inc

Beyond Design, Inc. is a Chicago-based design consultancy that specializes in product development and engineering services. Founded in 1994, the company has accumulated over 30 years of experience in the industry. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, including research, industrial design, user experience, and engineering solutions. Beyond Design focuses on creating innovative and user-centered designs that meet the needs of various sectors, such as consumer electronics and healthcare. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and strategic thinking, allowing them to craft impactful solutions that resonate with users. The firm has worked on notable projects, including kitchen appliances and medical devices, demonstrating their capability to handle complex design challenges. With a small team of dedicated professionals, Beyond Design remains agile and responsive to client needs, ensuring that their designs are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and manufacturable.

4. Design Union

• Website: design-union.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: design-union

Design Union is a Chicago-based design studio founded in 2001 by Miguel and Lee Corrina Cano. The firm specializes in product design and consulting services, offering innovative solutions tailored to both businesses and consumers. One of their standout products is Stashcord, a tangle-proof accessory for headphones, which showcases their ability to address everyday challenges through thoughtful design. The company engages in various design-related industries, providing strategic insights and prototyping services that help clients navigate the complexities of product development. With a small team of dedicated professionals, Design Union emphasizes collaboration and a hands-on approach to design, ensuring that they remain responsive to client needs and market trends. Their work spans multiple sectors, including housewares and industrial design, reflecting their adaptability and commitment to creating useful products.

5. Qdesign

• Website: qdesign.us.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 33%, Saudi Arabia 33%, Liberia 17%, Other 17%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: qdesign

Qdesign, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private design consultancy that has been operational since 1994. Initially launched as Quicksilver, the firm quickly gained recognition in the contract furniture industry. Over the years, Qdesign has evolved into a comprehensive resource for product development, offering services that include design consultation, concept development, and marketing strategies. Their work is characterized by a collaborative approach, often partnering with firms like Whitney Architects to enhance their design capabilities. Qdesign's portfolio features a variety of furniture designs that emphasize functionality and aesthetic appeal, showcasing their ability to revitalize clients' product lines and brand images. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained operational model.

6. PitangoUX - UX/UI Product design

• Website: pitangoux.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Anna, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Israel 92%, Italy 4%, United States (USA) 4%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pitango-ui-ux

PitangoUX is a UX/UI design agency based in Anna, Illinois, specializing in crafting exceptional digital experiences for businesses. Established in 2005, the company has built a reputation for its focus on user-centered design, offering services that include product UX/UI design, prototyping, and front-end development. They cater to a variety of industries, such as gaming, fintech, and medical, demonstrating their adaptability and expertise. The firm employs a team of skilled professionals who prioritize understanding user needs to enhance product usability and engagement. Their approach involves thorough research, user analysis, and iterative design processes, ensuring that the final products not only meet business goals but also resonate with users. PitangoUX has collaborated with notable clients, showcasing their ability to deliver impactful design solutions that drive business success.

7. Design Integrity, Inc.

• Website: designintegrity.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: design-integrity

Design Integrity, Inc. is a Chicago-based consulting firm established in 1998, specializing in new product development and engineering design. With a team of 24 professionals, the company offers a range of services including industrial design, innovation consulting, and project management. They cater to various sectors such as healthcare, consumer products, and industrial equipment, helping clients navigate the complexities of product development. Their expertise lies in managing technical challenges and ensuring high-quality outcomes, which has led to numerous successful product launches. Over the years, Design Integrity has collaborated with notable clients and has been recognized with several design awards, showcasing their commitment to excellence in product design and innovation.

8. ArtVersion

• Website: artversion.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Northbrook, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: artversion

ArtVersion is a creative agency based in Northbrook, Illinois, founded in 1999. With a team of 29 professionals, the agency specializes in design and branding solutions, offering services that include web design, UI/UX design, and graphic design. ArtVersion has built a reputation for enhancing brand identity and user engagement through innovative design strategies. They have collaborated with a variety of clients, including notable names like Morgan Stanley, Caterpillar, and Hilton, showcasing their ability to cater to different industries. Their work has been recognized in various publications, and they have received numerous awards for their design excellence. ArtVersion's approach combines traditional graphic design with modern digital practices, ensuring that their solutions are both visually appealing and functional. They focus on creating immersive user experiences that resonate with audiences, making them a significant player in the design industry.

9. Grand Studio

• Website: grandstudio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: grandstudio

Grand Studio, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a design consultancy founded in 2018. The firm specializes in crafting digital products and services, with a strong focus on user experience and product strategy. Their service offerings include qualitative research, UX/UI design, service design, and conversation design, among others. Grand Studio has collaborated with a range of clients, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, helping them navigate complex challenges and enhance user engagement through innovative design solutions. The company prides itself on a user-centered approach, ensuring that the needs and behaviors of users are at the forefront of their design process. With a team of skilled professionals, Grand Studio has established a reputation for delivering tailored solutions that address specific client needs, making them a notable player in the product design industry.

10. Surge Creates

• Website: surge-creates.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Hong Kong S.A.R 15%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: surge-innovations

Surge Creates, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private design agency founded in 2001. With a team of 20 employees, the company specializes in consumer product design and promotional services. They provide a wide array of solutions, including strategic planning, product development, and packaging design, aimed at enhancing customer engagement and brand loyalty. Surge Creates has worked with various clients across multiple industries, demonstrating their capability to adapt and innovate. Their approach emphasizes creating positive human experiences through thoughtful design. The agency has also been recognized as a Minority Business Enterprise and has achieved status as a Global Agency of Record for Burger King. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their initiatives to develop environmentally friendly products and packaging solutions. Surge Creates operates with a global perspective, leveraging teams in the US, Latin America, and Asia to stay attuned to market trends and consumer needs.

11. Surge Innovations

• Website: surge-innovations.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: surge-innovations

Surge Innovations, also known as Surge Creates, is a Chicago-based design agency founded in 2001. With a team of 21 employees, the company specializes in consumer product design and promotional services. Surge Creates offers a comprehensive suite of services, including strategic planning, product solutions, and packaging design, aimed at enhancing customer engagement for brands in the consumer goods and retail sectors. Their portfolio showcases collaborations with well-known brands like Procter & Gamble, Burger King, and Kimberly-Clark, demonstrating their ability to deliver innovative and effective design solutions. The company prides itself on creating positive human experiences and is committed to sustainability, actively seeking to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their product offerings. As a minority-owned business, Surge Creates also emphasizes its dedication to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture.

12. IA Collaborative

• Website: iacollaborative.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ia-collaborative

IA Collaborative, founded in 2000 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a consulting firm that specializes in human-centered design and business strategy. With a team of 51-200 employees, they focus on helping businesses enhance user experiences and drive innovation through deep user insights and collaborative prototyping. Their services cover a range of areas including growth strategy, business innovation, experience design, and organizational transformation. They have worked with notable clients across various sectors, applying their expertise to create impactful solutions that address complex challenges. Their approach emphasizes the importance of understanding user behavior and needs, which is essential in the product design process. IA Collaborative is committed to delivering actionable insights that lead to the development of new products and digital experiences, making them a relevant player in the product design industry.

13. M4 Factory

• Website: m4factory.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Woodstock, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: m4-

M4 Factory, based in Woodstock, Illinois, is a private design and manufacturing company that has been operational since 1975. The firm specializes in sustainable product development, offering services that include industrial design, materials studies, and sustainability audits. Under the leadership of Patricia Miller, who took over in 2014, M4 Factory has modernized its approach to manufacturing by integrating high-quality design with ethical practices. The company has built a reputation for its innovative use of materials, including bio and post-consumer plastics, and has developed a comprehensive materials library to support its projects. M4 Factory has collaborated with well-known brands such as GE, Newell Brands, and Bogobrush, showcasing its ability to cater to both established and emerging companies. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their operational practices and product offerings, making them a significant player in the product design industry.

14. Kaleidoscope

• Website: thinkkaleidoscope.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, India 2%, South Africa 2%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: think-kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope is a Chicago-based branding agency founded in 1995, specializing in brand strategy, packaging design, and prototyping. With a team of experienced thinkers, designers, and makers, the company focuses on enhancing brand identity and market presence for clients in the consumer packaged goods sector. Their services include consumer insights, brand equity positioning, and structural packaging development, all aimed at creating compelling brand experiences. Kaleidoscope's commitment to a people-first culture fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing them to deliver tailored solutions that resonate with consumers. They have worked with notable brands such as Barilla, Moët & Chandon, and Gatorade, showcasing their capability to handle diverse projects within the industry.

15. RGLA Solutions, Inc.

• Website: rgla.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rgla-solutions-inc.

RGLA Solutions, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, is a retail design firm established in 1972. The company specializes in branding, architecture, and program management, focusing on creating compelling and experiential store environments for clients in the retail sector. RGLA's approach is rooted in understanding business objectives and consumer behavior, which informs their shopper-centric design strategies. They have worked with notable brands across various industries, including sports, entertainment, food and beverage, and specialty retail. Their projects often integrate sustainable design practices, with a team of LEED-accredited professionals ensuring that environmental considerations are part of their architectural solutions. RGLA has cultivated long-standing relationships with reputable retailers, providing innovative design and creative solutions that enhance brand experiences. Their portfolio includes flagship stores and unique retail environments that reflect the essence of their clients' brands, demonstrating their commitment to quality and strategic design.

16. Dogstudio/dept

• Website: dogstudio.co
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 30%, Belgium 30%, France 19%, Other 22%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dogstudio

Dogstudio/dept is a creative studio based in Chicago, Illinois, with additional offices in Belgium and France. Founded in 2006, the company specializes in design and technology, offering services that include strategy, web development, and immersive experiences. They aim to create emotional connections through innovative solutions, catering to clients across various sectors such as technology, entertainment, and culture. Their portfolio showcases a range of projects, including immersive installations for the Navy Pier and Tomorrowland, as well as redesigns for prominent institutions like the Museum of Science and Industry. Dogstudio's focus on high-quality branding and digital products has established them as a notable player in the product design industry, reflecting their commitment to crafting engaging experiences that resonate with audiences.

17. The Gettys Group

• Website: gettys.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, Philippines 13%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-gettys-group

The Gettys Group, founded in 1988 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a hospitality consulting and interior design firm. With a team of approximately 127 employees, they specialize in enhancing property performance through tailored brand experiences and bespoke interiors. The firm collaborates closely with hospitality leaders, developers, and brands to create spaces that not only meet the functional needs of clients but also resonate with guests. Their services include brand experience strategy, bespoke interior design, and procurement management, showcasing their comprehensive approach to hospitality design. The Gettys Group has established a reputation for transforming unique brand stories into dynamic environments, contributing to the success of various hospitality projects across the globe.

18. JAK Creative Design

• Website: jakcd.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Downers Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: jak-creative-design

JAK Creative Design, based in Downers Grove, Illinois, is a private creative agency founded in 1995. With a small team of 1-10 employees, the agency has carved out a niche in branding and design services, offering solutions that include brand identity, packaging, and digital marketing. Over the years, JAK has worked with a variety of clients, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, helping them enhance their marketing efforts through innovative design. Their portfolio features notable projects such as the branding for Gypsy's restaurant and promotional materials for Wynn Las Vegas, showcasing their ability to create compelling visual identities and marketing collateral. JAK's services extend to product-related design, particularly in packaging and promotional products, indicating their involvement in the product design industry, albeit as a secondary focus.

19. Innovative Marketing Solutions

• Website: innovativemarketing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Schaumburg, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%
• Founded year: 1959
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: innovative-marketing-solutions

Innovative Marketing Solutions, Inc. is a private company based in Schaumburg, Illinois, founded in 1959. The firm specializes in creating retail display solutions that enhance customer engagement and drive sales for businesses across various sectors, particularly in automotive and consumer goods. Their services include installation, prototyping, creative design, engineering, and quality assurance, all tailored to meet the specific needs of their clients. Over the years, they have developed a reputation for delivering award-winning displays, such as the ECOXGEAR Audio Display, which won Display of the Year at the Shop! Marketplace 2024. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, Innovative Marketing Solutions has maintained a strong presence in the market, serving clients like Honda and Samsung, and adapting to industry trends through continuous innovation and collaboration. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has solidified their position as a trusted partner in retail merchandising.

20. DiMonte Group Inc.

• Website: dimontegroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Warrenville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dimonte-group-inc

DiMonte Group Inc., based in Warrenville, Illinois, is a product development firm that has been operational since 1996. The company specializes in engineering and design services, assisting businesses in various sectors such as consumer products, medical devices, and industrial applications. With a team of around 25 professionals, DiMonte Group has successfully completed over 4,000 projects and holds more than 100 U.S. patents. Their services include mechanical engineering, industrial design, electrical engineering, software development, and prototyping. The firm prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with clients to ensure that their product ideas are effectively transformed into market-ready solutions. DiMonte Group's commitment to quality and client satisfaction is reflected in their impressive 92% rate of repeat business, indicating a strong track record in the product design industry.

21. Design Resource Center

• Website: drcchicago.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Naperville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: design-resource-center

Design Resource Center (DRC), based in Naperville, Illinois, is a private branding and design agency founded in 1990. With a team of approximately 31 employees, DRC specializes in creating meaningful connections between brands and consumers. They focus on strategic insights and creative design solutions, particularly in the consumer goods and retail sectors. DRC has a strong track record of launching new brands, accelerating growth for established brands, and revitalizing those that are declining. Their capabilities include consumer insights, brand positioning, packaging design, and brand stewardship. DRC has worked with various clients, as evidenced by their case studies, which demonstrate their expertise in product design, especially in packaging that resonates with consumers. They have not reported any funding, indicating they operate independently without external financial backing.

22. Hatch Product Development & Contract Manufacturing

• Website: hatch-pd.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Waukegan, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hatch-pd

Hatch Product Development & Contract Manufacturing, based in Waukegan, Illinois, is a private company that specializes in product development and contract manufacturing. Founded in 2021, Hatch PD focuses on engineering, design, and prototyping services tailored for both startups and established businesses. They offer a comprehensive suite of services that spans from initial concept development to full-scale production. Their expertise includes mechanical and electrical engineering, software and firmware development, and user experience design. Hatch has demonstrated its capabilities through projects like the TegoTech magnetic wall outlet, where they refined the design and created a functional prototype, showcasing their commitment to safety and innovation. The company also provides advanced contract manufacturing services, including environmental stress screening and supply chain management, ensuring that products meet high standards of quality and reliability. With a team of 11-50 employees, Hatch is positioned to make a significant impact in the product design industry.

23. DuPuis Group

• Website: dupuisgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Canada 11%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dupuis

DuPuis Group is an innovation and design agency based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1988. With a team of approximately 35 employees, the agency specializes in enhancing brand identity and market presence for a variety of clients, from large corporations to emerging startups. Their service offerings include consumer research, branding, packaging design, and strategic marketing planning. DuPuis Group employs a collaborative approach, focusing on delivering creative solutions that drive growth and engagement. They have been recognized for their work, notably winning three GDUSA Package Design Awards in 2022, which underscores their expertise in product design and packaging. The agency's commitment to innovation is evident in their unique methodologies, such as BondFire for qualitative research and CampFire for experiential ideation, which facilitate deep consumer insights and effective product development.

24. Fuzzy Math

• Website: fuzzymath.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fuzzy-math

Fuzzy Math is a Chicago-based UX design consultancy founded in 2009. With a team of 16 employees, the company focuses on improving user experiences specifically for enterprise and B2B software. They offer a range of services, including AI integration, digital product strategy, and UX training, primarily targeting senior product management and IT leaders. Fuzzy Math emphasizes the importance of customer feedback and aims to modernize software solutions to enhance user engagement. Their work spans various industries, including financial services, healthcare, and SaaS, showcasing their adaptability and expertise in addressing complex user needs. The company has built a reputation for revitalizing legacy systems and creating user-friendly business applications, which are critical in today's fast-paced digital environment.

25. Clique Studios, LLC

• Website: cliquestudios.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: builtbyclique

Clique Studios, LLC, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a web design agency founded in 2008. The company specializes in crafting impactful digital experiences tailored for businesses and organizations. Their service offerings include digital redesign, web design, and UX/UI research, catering to a wide array of clients, particularly in sectors like healthcare and non-profits. Clique Studios prides itself on a collaborative approach, working closely with clients to enhance their online presence. They have successfully completed over 400 projects, showcasing their expertise and commitment to quality. The firm also invests in education and community initiatives, reflecting their dedication to fostering creativity and supporting local causes. With a team of 11-50 employees, Clique Studios continues to be an active player in the web design and product design space.

Product Design Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

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