New reports are shining a positive light on Florida's industrial real estate prospects heading into 2017. The musical chairs continues this week. And the ink is drying on significant leases. These are a few of the leading stories in Florida's middle market this week.

BY THE NUMBERS

MIAMI—The seven major markets in Florida play an integral role in global trade networks with each market having a unique place in moving goods into and out of the state, according to the Cushman & Wakefield's 2016 Florida Logistics Report. CushWake examined the Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa Bay, Lakeland, Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade markets, comparing road, rail, air and sea capabilities and capacities. Trade in some Florida markets in 2016 approached, and in some cases exceeded, the volume recorded during the height of the last economic cycle in 2007-2008. As transportation dynamics change to larger ships with the widening of the Panama Canal, Florida increased investment to create greater efficiencies in moving goods between different modes of transportation—ports, truck, rail and air. Demand for warehouse and distribution facilities has the potential to add up to 19 million square feet of space by 2030 as the population grows to over 27 million. “Florida is at the crossroads of international trade lanes and has the potential to play an important part with both imports and exports. It can capture additional market share from other markets with its superior logistics infrastructure that moves goods more efficiently and cheaper from points-of-entry to end-markets,” says Chris Owen, Florida Research Manager and the lead behind the 2016 Florida Logistics Report. ”As a dynamic and growing state, the report provides a clear picture of current capabilities and the challenges for future growth.”