French Logistics Company Launches U.S. Presence in Miami

French Logistics Company Launches 

U.S. Presence in Miami

SkyRoad International, a French company that uses technology to provide logistical support for airline travelers, announced the opening of its U.S. headquarters in Miami, adding 90 jobs at above county-average wages. The company also unveiled plans for $300,000 in new capital investments within three years.

“We chose Miami to target the U.S. and Latin American markets and because we are planning to expand our logistical support to include the cruise industry,” Skyroad International Representatives Georges and Monique Kandé said.
The 15-year-old company works with airlines throughout Europe to identify and collect mishandled baggage it then organizes delivery of the luggage at centrally located warehouses and provides delivery services.

“Miami’s global connectivity and the status as the cruise capital of the world provide companies such as Skyroad International with a solid foundation for future growth,” The Beacon Council President & CEO Larry K. Williams said. “This company combines tourism with tech and logistics – three of our seven target industries.” 

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Global Solar Company Opens Headquarters in Miami

Conergy specializes in the design, finance, construction and long-term asset management and ownership of commercial, industrial and utility-scale solar power systems. Founded in 1998, the company has pioneered the expansion of solar energy globally and has built structures that generate more than 1.5 gigawatts across six continents. The solar industry is divided into its upstream manufacturing segment and downstream installation/finance segment. 

“Miami is a unique, embracing melting pot, making it a perfect home for Conergy – a company comprised of passionate people from all walks of life and corners of the globe. Miami is also a convenient geographic hub to support Conergy’s growing presence in both the U.S. and emerging markets in Latin America. An added bonus is that, we now have the privilege of being local neighbors with our majority shareholder: Kawa Capital Management,” said Andrew de Pass, CEO of Conergy.

The Beacon Council introduced Conergy leadership to representatives at local universities and colleges to help with sourcing talent from the area and assisted the company with permitting processes.
“This major Brazilian investor chose Miami because of its diversity and the access it has to markets throughout the Americas,” The Beacon Council President & CEO Larry K. Williams said. “The Beacon Council helped them comply with local laws and regulations and eased their entrance into the market, so they can focus on creating more high-paying jobs.”

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INVESTOR SPOTLIGHT: Patricia H. Thompson, Attorney, Carlton Fields

Tell us a little about yourself. 

A resident of Miami for 40 years, I represent corporate clients in employment disputes, commercial and construction litigation, and claims concerning commercial insurance coverage.  In addition to my role at The Beacon Council, my community activities include secretary and member of the Board of Directors of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of South Florida; member of the Florida International University College of Education Advisory Board; and member of the Board of Advisors for the University of Miami School of Law Center for Ethics and Public Service. Service to the poor is something I am passionate about, and I have volunteered my time to many non-profit organizations, including the Florida Immigrant Advocacy Center and many pro bono activities.

How did you first get involved with The Beacon Council?

I have been an active supporter of the Beacon Council since 1986. In addition to serving as the current and past Secretary of the Beacon Council, I have previously served its Executive Committee as Treasurer and Committee Chair. Other committees on which I have served include the Finance, Audit, Human Resource, Local Business, Membership and Professional Services Committees. I support the Beacon Council because its mission of offering economic and business development services to both multinational and small business wanting to make Miami their home is of paramount importance to the future of our community and our standing in the world.

What are Miami’s top business assets?

Miami is a sophisticated city that is becoming more refined all the time, each day making its case that it is a force to be reckoned with on the world’s business stage. Some of its greatest qualities include its exceptional quality of life, competitive business climate with low taxes and no personal income tax, as well as its location as the gateway to Latin America and beyond, something that provides unique access to the world’s most important markets. Its multicultural and multilingual workforce also makes it a powerful competitor in the global marketplace. Diversity is increasingly important in securing a business advantage because the leaders of the nation’s top companies are consistently working to create a diverse workforce that will serve them well in the 21st century.

What’s next for your business/industry?

The legal industry is undergoing many changes. On the corporate legal department side, we are seeing the continued consolidation of the law firms they use.  On the law firm side, we are seeing an uptick in mergers. This isn’t surprising because as this consolidation takes place, more firms will face significant financial challenges and decisions to make.

What do you like best about living in Miami?

You can’t be bored in Miami! It has the best food, the arts, sports of all kinds, the most unique and beautiful outdoors, and the most interesting people from all over the world. Plus, anyone who is willing to work hard can be successful.

BEACON AWARD
WINNER SPOTLIGHT:

 AccorHotels 

AccorHotels includes 180,000 women and men in 3,900 AccorHotels establishments look after thousands of guests every day in 92 countries. 

Miami-Dade Schools Launch Paid Summer Internship Program 

The Miami-Dade Public School System announced its paid summer internship program for its students to gain work experience at local companies. The students will be paid during their internship through a grant. Therefore there is no cost to the participating company. The grant will also cover liability insurance to further reduce the impact on the employer. This is a great opportunity for companies to have a motivated student work on a project and for students to learn about their chosen field. Read more.Fill out form. 

GIS Website Features Available Properties

The Beacon Council and Miami-Dade County website www.miamidadesites.com features available vacant industrial and commercial properties. It is based on user-defined criteria for Miami-Dade County utilizing geographically based demographic and business information. 

It also enables commercial real estate brokers to register and highlight available parcels. Listings are provided at no cost and reach a targeted audience including Site Selectors/Consultants, Real Estate Developers, and businesses pursuing new opportunities in Miami-Dade County. Listings are featured regularly in this newsletter.  Contact Stephannie Cetoute,
Manager, Research & Strategic Planning,

scetoute@www.beaconcouncil.com

 Featured listing of the week:

4300 BISCAYNE BLVD # G07

·         Address: 4300 Biscayne Blvd.

·         City: Miami

·         County: Miami-Dade County

·         Zip Code: 33137

·         Type: Office, Other

·         Min Size:0 sqft

·         Max Size:2,605 sqft