The Aerozone is home to 11,000 businesses, making it an ideal location for logistics and distribution. Strategically located near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, the Aerozone is a crucial supply chain hub, connecting businesses to:

  • 4 Interstate Highways: I-80, I-90, I-71, I-77.
  • National Rail Systems, including hubs for: Norfolk Southern, Amtrak, Conrail.
  • Great Lakes & International Ocean Cargo: Cleveland Port, St. Lawrence Seaway.
  • Air Cargo: Both domestic & international via Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
  • 80% of the U.S. Population within one day.

Over the past year, Aerozone Alliance and our partners TeamNEO, Manufacturing Works, and our municipalities have engaged with over 20 logistics firms, observing their transformations and challenges. Here’s a quick look:

  • Supply Chain Adaptation: Post-COVID, the pandemic disrupted supply chains, making logistics companies critical in delivering essential goods. Post pandemic, these companies faced a roller coaster of high demand followed by cutbacks and excess inventory. Many companies are investing in robust supply chain technologies and strategies to manage shifting demands and mitigate future disruptions.
  • Workforce Solutions: Facing a skilled labor shortage, particularly in truck driving and warehousing, firms are enhancing training programs, wages, and working conditions to attract talent. Companies are also investing in warehouse automation to help adapt to the shortfall. The Aerozone also has a unique last mile transit program, RTA ConnectWorks, which gets employees transportation from the Brook Park Rapid Station to the employer’s front door.
  • Air Freight Dynamics: Despite a decline in air freight out of Cleveland, companies are optimizing routes through nearby city airports or alternative transportation modes. MRK Aviation, FedEx, and UPS are still busy with essential items that need timely transportation from many of the medical companies and manufacturers in the region.
  • E-commerce Surge: The boom in online shopping and other e-commerce has increased the demand for logistics services. Companies must expand their delivery networks to keep up with consumer expectations. This surge has driven investments in warehouse automation and last-mile delivery solutions and enhanced logistics software to manage increased volumes.
  • Tech Innovations: The logistics industry is increasingly leveraging technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Innovations such as AI, IoT devices, and the potential of autonomous vehicles, are transforming operations.
  • Sustainability Efforts: Firms are adopting green practices, investing in electric vehicles, and alternative fuels to meet their environmental goals and the growing demand from their customers and businesses for more sustainable practices.
  • Cybersecurity: Cyberattacks on supply chain networks have become more frequent, targeting critical infrastructure and sensitive data. Companies must invest in cybersecurity measures to protect their operations.

The global supply chain landscape continues to face numerous challenges, impacting industries across the board. Geopolitical tensions, raw material shortages, and transportation bottlenecks contribute to rising freight costs. Additionally, tariffs/duties out of China have prompted companies to diversify their imports, increasingly sourcing from countries like India, Mexico, and Canada.

Despite these challenges, the Aerozone’s strategic location and commitment to innovation position it for significant growth. Collaboration between industry leaders, local government, and educational institutions will be essential in overcoming these obstacles and seizing new opportunities. The Aerozone remains a vital player in the logistics sector, ensuring a bright future for Northeast Ohio.

Learn more about why the Aerozone is a great place for your logistics business to thrive.

Don’t Miss These Logistics and Distribution Industry Events in July & August!

  • OARC Conference on Freight: August 28-30 at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown, 100 Lakeside Ave East. NOACA, along with freight and transportation professionals, will host the 2024 OARC Conference on Freight. The two-day event will cover the latest topics, tools, and trends in freight and logistics.