National Logistics Day: Celebrating the Industry Powering Polk County’s Growth
Every year, National Logistics Day recognizes the industry that keeps goods moving, businesses operating, and consumers connected. From transportation and warehousing to cold storage and e-commerce fulfillment, logistics serves as a critical foundation of the modern economy.
In Polk County specifically, the logistics industry is a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and investment.
Polk County’s Strategic Advantage for Supply Chain and Logistics
Located in the heart of Florida, Polk County offers companies unmatched access to one of the nation’s fastest-growing markets. Businesses operating within Polk can reach 21.5 million consumers within a 5-hour drive, making the county one of the most strategically positioned logistics hubs in the Southeast.
Polk County’s robust transportation infrastructure supports efficient movement of goods through a comprehensive multimodal network that includes:
- More than 300 miles of rail infrastructure
- One international airport and three regional airports
- Thousands of miles of roadway connecting major markets
- Access to two international airports in Orlando and Tampa within 75 miles
- Proximity to three major seaports serving domestic and global trade
This connectivity continues to attract leading companies seeking to strengthen their supply chains and improve operational efficiency.
The impact of the industry is significant. According to JobsEQ by Chmura Economics, more than 20,000 Polk County residents are employed in the Logistics & Distribution sector. In 2023, the industry generated approximately $1.4 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) for Polk County.
“With more than 21,000 people employed in Logistics & Distribution and $1.4 billion in GDP generated for Polk County, this industry continues to be a driving force in our local economy,”said Kate Bernthal, Business Development Associate for the Central Florida Development Council. “Polk County has evolved into one of Florida’s premier multimodal logistics hubs, with access to road, rail and air transportation that helps businesses move products quickly and efficiently. As the industry continues to grow and diversify, it is creating quality career opportunities and strengthening the economic future of our community.”
Featured Project: Chick-fil-A Supply Expands in Polk County
A recent example of the industry’s continued growth is Chick-fil-A Supply’s investment in Polk County.
The company has announced plans to construct a new 244,000-square-foot logistics operations center within the Central Florida Integrated Logistics Park in Winter Haven. As the supply chain and distribution subsidiary of Chick-fil-A, the facility will support restaurant operations through warehousing, inventory management, and delivery of ingredients and supplies to franchise locations throughout the region.
The project represents more than $150 million in capital investment and is expected to create approximately 180 new jobs in Polk County.
This investment further reinforces Polk County’s reputation as a premier destination for logistics, distribution, and supply chain operations.
Industry Spotlight: GMF Steel Group
Headquartered in Polk County, GMF Steel Group has established itself as one of the nation’s leading structural steel partners. The company provides comprehensive steel fabrication and erection services from its offices in Lakeland, Tampa, Panama City, and Concord, North Carolina.
GMF Steel has contributed to numerous high-profile projects across the country, including Florida State University’s Doak Campbell Stadium, Tampa International Airport, Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World Resort, Tyndall Air Force Base, and the University of Florida Baseball Stadium. Their continued growth reflects the strength of Polk County’s industrial and construction sectors.
Industry Spotlight: Intersect Development Group
Intersect Development Group is a development agency that continues to play an important role in expanding industrial real estate opportunities throughout Central Florida.
With more than 4 million square feet currently under development, the company focuses on creating industrial and logistics facilities that align with the needs of businesses and the surrounding communities they serve.
Most recently, Intersect Development Group partnered with The Ruthvens to open a new industrial development in Auburndale, FL. The Pace Innovation Center in the Central Florida Innovation District offers flexible unit sizes ranging from 5,460 to 85,975 square feet, providing opportunities for distribution, manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial users looking to establish or expand operations in Polk County.
Building the Future of Logistics in Central Florida
As supply chains evolve and consumer demand continues to grow, Polk County remains uniquely positioned to support the future of logistics and distribution. With strategic infrastructure, a growing workforce, available industrial sites, and continued private-sector investment, the county is helping companies move products more efficiently while creating quality jobs for residents.
This National Logistics Day, the Central Florida Development Council celebrates the companies, workers, and industry leaders who keep goods moving and contribute to Polk County’s continued economic success.
