Jill Deardorff launched her branding agency in Wilmington more than 30 years ago. Now she’s moving to a brand new space in Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood.
For the Delaware resident, the change of scenery is nothing against Wilmington. It’s just what made sense for the nationally-oriented firm.
“If I had found the right space, I would have stayed in Delaware,” Deardorff said. “But I was more focused on what was best for the business.”
Deardorff said she looked for spaces in Wilmington, but nothing turned up. She also didn’t feel pressure to stick around. Her firm has long identified more with the region than a single city.
“Our clients are from all over,” said Deardorff, who also chairs the Philly Ad Club. “We have a pretty substantial practice in financial services, and a lot of that business originates out of New York, Philadelphia and Atlanta.”
Her staff comes from across the region as well. Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware each contribute about a third of her 15 employees.
Deardorff said she will maintain the firm’s Delaware license and continue to work with local clients such as the Delaware Office of Highway Safety and the Department of Education.
Deardorff said that personally the move wasn’t difficult. “I’m a crazy Eagles fan. I’m a crazy Flyers fan. I’ve managed throughout my life to be in and out of Philly at least once or twice a week.”
The space is located in the corner office of 400 Market Street, Suite 800. It’s about 6,000-square-feet and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, which face towards the Delaware River and the baby-blue span of the Ben Franklin Bridge.
“I’ve never really thought about limiting my business to Delaware,” Deardorff said. “I have no issue traveling or looking for the best resource, even if it’s in a neighboring state.”
