Crain

Crain Communications is a privately held American publishing conglomerate headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. Established in 1916 by Gustavus Dedman "G.D." Crain Jr., the company has grown into a leading business news and information provider. It offers a diverse portfolio of media brands that deliver essential coverage and data across various sectors.

These sectors include automotive, healthcare, finance, advertising, and more.

Publications

The company's flagship publication, Advertising Age (Ad Age), founded in 1930, is a prominent source of news, analysis, and data for the advertising industry.

Other notable publications include:

• Automotive News
• Modern Healthcare
• Pensions & Investments
• Crain's Chicago Business

These brands cater to professionals seeking in-depth insights and information within their respective industries.

Expansion and Acquisitions

Crain Communications has expanded its reach through strategic acquisitions, such as the purchase of Hart Energy in February 2025. This acquisition enhanced its presence in the energy sector.

Locations

The company operates multiple offices across the United States and internationally, including locations in:

• Detroit
• Chicago
• Cleveland
• New York City
• London
• Mountain View
• Munich

Additionally, in Chicago, Crain Communications relocated its offices to the One Two Pru building in March 2022.

This move consolidated the headquarters for Crain's Chicago Business, Modern Healthcare, and the Chicago bureaus of Ad Age and Pensions & Investments into a modern workspace overlooking Millennium Park.

Chicago, IL, USA also serves as a key location for the company.

Mission and Impact

Crain Communications continues to provide trusted information and analysis, empowering business leaders to make informed decisions across various industries.