A coalition of more than three dozen members of the logistics industry announced Tuesday morning the launch of Circulate NJ, an organization that intends to use an education campaign to promote public understanding of the numerous benefits that logistics brings to New Jersey’s economy, environment and workforce.
The coalition will include representatives from all sectors of the logistics industry, which encompasses the Transportation, Logistics and Distribution industry, including port workers, warehouses, retail developers, trucking companies and more.
A number of well-known and established N.J. brands are part of the group, including: NAIOP New Jersey; Amazon; Crow Holdings; Federal Business Centers; Forsgate Industrial Partners; Greek Real Estate Partners; The Hampshire Companies; JG Petrucci; NAI Hanson; Prologis; Russo Development; Sitex Group; Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, P.A.; Shipping Association of New York and New Jersey; Association of Bi-State Motor Carriers; New Jersey Chamber of Commerce; and NJBIA.
For more information about Circulate NJ, including a full list of members, click here.
David Greek, the managing partner of Greek Real Estate Partners, will serve as the inaugural chair.
“Circulate NJ represents the logistics industry’s essential role as the life force behind New Jersey’s economy,” he said. “This coalition will lead productive conversations with residents and stakeholders to inform them about the industry and address misconceptions.
“From tackling environmental issues, to strengthening the communities in which we operate, logistics industry members are working to uplift New Jersey’s economy and workforce.”
Circulate NJ’s wide-ranging coalition members are driving economic growth and success in towns across the state. Data provided by the N.J. Department of Labor & Workforce Development shows the numerous benefits the TLD industry provides New Jersey, including:
- Supporting more than 400,000 jobs;
- Employing 12% of the state’s private work force and providing 12.7% of New Jersey private sector wages;
- Providing an average $75,000 annual industry salary;
- Contributing $62.5 billion, or 10%, to New Jersey’s overall GDP.
Dan Kennedy, the CEO of NAIOP New Jersey, is another key player in the effort.
“The logistics industry contributes so much to the state and its residents, from economic growth to personal development to environmental rehabilitation,” he said. “Circulate NJ is here to demonstrate how New Jersey’s logistics industry is more than moving goods. We’re driving brownfield remediation, providing job training opportunities, and powering the state’s growing digital economy to make a real difference in our communities.”
Michael Egenton, EVP for government relations at the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber also is behind the effort: “Circulate NJ’s members have taken the lead in environmental cleanup of brownfield sites. These hazardous locations often cost millions to rehabilitate and make usable for the public. Circulate NJ’s members have taken the initiative to clean up and reuse these sites across New Jersey, from Jersey City to Lower Alloways Creek and points in between.”
The ongoing campaign will amplify independent studies and reliable data, providing a holistic overview of the industry’s impact across New Jersey — including efforts to address climate change by incorporating sustainable and clean energy and utilizing modern infrastructure, engagement with local communities, and partnerships with organized labor to ensure long-lasting infrastructure for sustained job opportunities.
The launch drew positive responses from many, including:
John Nardi, president of the Shipping Association of New York and New Jersey: “A sustainable robust supply chain is the fuel that feeds the economic engine of the region and is necessary to meet the current and future demands of the consumer,” he said.
Lisa Yakomin, president of the Association of Bi-State Motor Carriers: “The stability of our supply chain hinges on the successful coordination and collaboration of the business operations that comprise each link of that chain. Our port supports the needs of millions of consumers throughout the region, and the logistics involved in moving those goods are complex and dynamic. We look forward to increasing awareness on the role that each of Circulate NJ’s coalition partners serves in that vital process.”
Anne Strauss-Wieder, New Jersey supply chain expert: “New Jersey has been a national leader in production and distribution since Alexander Hamilton established the first industrial park in Paterson. New Jersey’s historic strength in the logistics industry continues today, serving the region, nation and the world, while producing a full range of job opportunities and revenue benefits for the State’s residents.”
