SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
JACKSONVILLE TRADE AND LOGISTICS
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Florida is the second-leading state in total damage costs since 1980 .
“ Making sure that we ’ re staying current with the market and taking care of our employees , that ’ s probably the biggest focus we have , whether it ’ s financially or emotionally or whatever it might be — that we ’ re helping them as much as possible ,” Luciano said .
Additionally , companies must be aware of the increasing consistency of natural disasters . This is especially pertinent in Florida , which has suffered some of the highest damage costs of anywhere in the US , largely due to the impacts of destructive hurricanes . Just behind Texas , Florida is the second-leading state in total damage costs since 1980 at $ 389 billion .
In 2023 , the United States experienced 28 separate weather and climate disasters costing at least $ 1 billion , making it the highest-ever billion-dollar disaster year . Overall , the total cost of billion-dollar disasters in the US from 2019 to 2023 is $ 603.1 billion .
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ’ s National Centers for Environmental Information
( NCEI ), climate change is partly to blame for the increasing frequency of these extreme events , as well as increased exposure and vulnerability . The NCEI recommends that , given these combined risks , Jacksonville and the businesses that inhabit the region must continue to focus on where and how they build and invest in infrastructure updates that are designed to withstand these climate disasters .
“ One of the most pressing challenges in Jacksonville is the potential impact of hurricanes and tropical storms ,” said Patrick Tamasitis , general manager of Crowley Logistics .
“ Natural disasters pose risks that we have worked comprehensively to offset with our business continuity plans . However , the city ’ s location along the coast does still bring potential for damage to critical infrastructure or disruption of port operations thus impeding the movement of goods ,” he added .
Growing pains may be a natural partner to expansion , but with strategic planning and an eye on preparation , Jacksonville is situated on strong footing to withstand the challenges that may come its way . ■
Built to serve
AS A LEADING American transportation and logistics company with a legacy of excellence in the maritime industry , TOTE Group is committed to delivering reliable , efficient and innovative solutions , TOTE Group has been a trusted partner for businesses and communities alike . Founded in 1975 , the company has since expanded its reach across multiple sectors .
TOTE Group consists of independently operated companies spanning three business lines : Maritime , Terminals , and Services . TOTE Group takes pride in its valued position as an industry leader in maritime shipping , ship building , and management and terminal operations . The business is dedicated to serving its customers by seamlessly connecting TOTE Group ’ s ship services and technical solutions with its environmentally sustainable maritime vessels and worldclass terminal operations .
With a strong emphasis on safety , sustainability and customer satisfaction ,
TOTE Group continues to set new standards in the industry , reflecting its unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled services and fostering longlasting relationships with clients . Driven by a team of seasoned professionals and a culture of continuous improvement , TOTE Group remains at the forefront of the maritime landscape , positioning itself as a dynamic and forward-thinking force in global commerce .
TOTE Services and First Coast Terminals are TOTE Group companies that operate out of the Port of Jacksonville ( Jaxport )
TOTE offers twice-weekly sailings from Jacksonville to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean , delivering critical cargo and services to the islands .
TOTE Services is a leading ship management company that provides crewing , technical services and vessel construction and offers LNG bunkering and expertise at Jaxport .
First Coast Terminals provides reliable , world-class stevedoring and cargo services safely and efficiently at Jaxport . ■
For more information , please visit www . totegroup . com .
30 Journal of Commerce | April 22 , 2024 www . joc . com