Each day, planet Earth experiences a net gain of 200,000 people or 140 every single minute. That equates to 70 million more people every year, about the same as the combined populations of California, Texas and Washington. From day one, each person added is a “consumer,” relying on the delivery of products to their doorsteps and store shelves in order to prosper. The products consumed will vary based on geography and culture, as will the technical details to physically get the products delivered… but the importance of logistics is universal. And, as populations and demographics change so too are the rapid advances in technology to create a global marketplace. Companies were once able to compete as solely an “importer” or “exporter” but now see those lines blurring and competitiveness tied to leveraging both imports and exports, coupled with domestic last-mile distribution in order to satisfy the rapidly increasing demand for products all over the world. This growing global economy is making supply-chains more complex and integrated.
This trend is further evidenced by the fact that both U.S. exports and imports of goods and services reached the highest on record in 2012 at nearly $2.2 trillion and $2.75 billion respectively. Recent data shows the export trend continuing in 2013 with exports up 2.6% over 2012 and imports remaining steady. Thus a focus on export, import and domestic logistics at the 2014 Georgia Logistics Summit is very timely for while volumes are up so are total logistics costs (although still well below 2007).
On March 18th and 19th in Atlanta, the 2014 Georgia Logistics Summit will deliver a unique two-day program with multiple speakers from leading private industry shippers and logistics experts. Companies like Target, Walmart, Merck, Starbucks, Baxter, AGCO, Boeing and many others will discuss with attendees how they are managing trends in the global economy where the only constant is change. In addition to focused breakout sessions on imports, exports, and domestic logistics, the Summit includes keynote speakers from Wal-Mart and panel discussions on the “Logistics of Manufacturing” and “International Trade: Partnerships and Possibilities.”
In its 6th year, the Summit has widely established itself as a powerful networking event designed with ample opportunities to establish connections with the other attendees. The Summit draws together an unmatched depth and breadth of attendees from every aspect of the ‘logistics ecosystem.’ The summit allows attendees to meet and mingle with executives in all modes of transportation and every aspect of supply chain who can provide deep expertise and insight about each sector. Make plans to join over 2,000 industry peers and customers from 30 states and nine countries in Atlanta on March 18 & 19 at the 2014 Georgia Logistics Summit. These are exciting and challenging times in logistics, making opportunities to meet and hear from professionals in the industry even more important for you to connect, compete and grow your business. You don’t want to miss it! Learn more and register online:
www.georgialogistics.com/logistics-summit
CO-LOCATED TRADE SHOWS
Co-located with the 2014 Georgia Logistics Summit will be two incredible supply-chain trade shows in MODEX 2014 organized by the Material Handling Institute (MHI) and the first-ever Supply Chain & Transportation USA Exhibition & Conference (SCT) hosted by Reed Exhibitions. These shows take place right downstairs from the Georgia Logistics Summit and run four days (March 17-20) providing access to 800 supply-chain related exhibitors and multiple on-floor educational seminars. So maximize your conference experience and make plans now to attend March 18 & 19 for the Georgia Logistics Summit AND take in the trade shows at the same time. Paid registrants of the Georgia Logistics Summit receive a badge that will also provide immediate access to the MODEX and SCT show floor. However, registration for MODEX and SCT only does not include access to the Georgia Logistics Summit. Take advantage of the tremendous opportunity to connect, learn new ways to improve your business and grow!
ABOUT THE GEORGIA CENTER OF INNOVATION FOR LOGISTICS
The Center of Innovation for Logistics is the leading statewide resource for fueling logistics industry growth and global competitiveness. The Center directly helps companies to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities related to the movement of freight. We provide focused expertise, specific industry data, connections to state resources, and an extensive cross-sector industry network. The Center is an industry focused component of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) and has main offices in Savannah and Atlanta, but has activity in all parts of the State. The Center represents all segments of the logistics industry and provides a unique platform for companies to network, address industry issues and share knowledge. Simply put, the Center is a catalyst to help logistics-enabled businesses connect, compete and grow.
