Jaxport conference to explore emerging markets

   The Jacksonville Port Authority’s 2013 Logistics & Intermodal Conference, March 18-19, will highlight how major global terminal operators are expanding in emerging markets, including those in South America, Central America and the Caribbean – but not investing as aggressively in the United States.
   Leading this discussion will be senior management from BlueWater Reporting, William Blair & Co., Norfolk Southern, APM Terminals and Diversified Port Holdings.
   Other panels will explore rising industry costs, Puerto Rico’s economic future and maritime industry impacts, growing exports, manufacturing and sourcing patterns, and the impact of public-private investments in port infrastructure. Shipper representatives from Walmart, Home Depot, General Motors, American Honda, WS Badcock Furniture & More Stores, and Stein Mart will present on the various panels. A noontime keynote will be given by John Phillips, senior vice president of customer supply chain and logistics for PepsiCo.
   Local and state port issues will also be addressed.
   Jaxport Interim Chief Executive Officer Roy Schleicher will provide an update on key initiatives at the Florida port, including a status report on deepening of the federal channel in Jacksonville, the Mile Point navigation project, plans for a new Intermodal Container Transfer Facility (ICTF) to facilitate rail movement from Jaxport, and strategic business planning at the port.
   Richard Biter, assistant secretary for intermodal systems development at the Florida Department of Transportation, will share insights on the state’s transportation system, including steps Florida is taking to ensure one of the nation’s largest and busiest freight systems is prepared for growth.
   The near capacity Jaxport event is jointly presented with American Shipper and will be held at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort. For more details and to attend, access the conference Website.