The world comes to Georgia
11 January 2012In this issue, we preview the new show from the MHIA, Modex, taking place in Atlanta, Georgia, from 6–9 February. As well as our extensive preview of ten of the most important exhibitors at the event for crane users, our two regular features this issue look at issues relating to the show.
The MHIA has explained how changes in world, and US, trade patterns prompted the move to drop NA in Cleveland and launch Modex in Atlanta. Last summer, then-CEO John Nofsinger, said, "Over 40% of North American manufacturing and distribution locations are now within a 500 mile radius of Atlanta. Georgia and the Southeast are also home to extensive intermodal and logistics hubs that drive supply chains now and will continue to in the future.
"Currently 90% of the global top 25 third party logistics providers (3PLs) have operations in Georgia and more than 48 of the largest retailers have distribution centers in Georgia."
One of the drivers for the changes in trade patterns is the planned opening of the expanded Panama Canal. This will allow goods from the world's leading manufacturers of consumer goods in the Far East to deliver their products by ship to some of the world's biggest concentrations of consumers on the US East Coast, without having to make expensive trips across the country by road or rail.
Our features this month have been targetted at both of these issues. As retailers build new distribution centers and warehouses in the region, they want to make sure they install the most efficient and safe equipment for handling light loads. Overhead cranes and vacuum lifters can play a vital role in this sort of environment. On p30, Nicole Robinson explains why ergonomics matters, and how the crane industry can help.
Nicole's second feature this issue, our regular region report, looks at the state of the market in the South. With the expansion of the Panama Canal expected in 2014, public and private investors are spending billions on port expansions. In the region, Savannah, Charleston, Jacksonville, and Miami are all planning major expansions. All of this growth is presenting opportunites for suppliers of dockside and port cranes.
At the same time, heavy industry, and the automotive sector in particular, continues its move from the more heavily unionised North to right-to-work states in the South.
With local opportunites for manufacturers of cranes of all types and capacities, Modex looks like this year's vital event. OCH will be there, and we will look forward to meeting you.
Will North, Editor
wnorth@worldmarketintelligence.com
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