A dozen teams will compete in events Thursday, Aug. 16, 2012 that will test their logistical prowess in a distribution environment.

The LogistXGames showcases the logistics industry, and the people that make it work, said Mike Lowe, first vice president at CBRE, the company hosting the third annual event Thursday at the new, and still empty, Industrial Developments International building, 1201 Logistics Way.

“It’s one to promote the logistics industry and have distribution companies to have a fund, team-building event in a fun, competitive way,” said Lowe.

Employees from several regional companies, including JTM, Home Depot, Kohl’s and IDI, will participate in the LogistXGames which are designed to build pride, establish teamwork and reinforce industry safety standards.

“A lot of these teams take it really seriously,” said Lowe, adding some participants will dye their hair and companies bring in cheering sections. “Some of them train for the event and go through their strategy.”

The event will consist of teams — which can range from three to 10 members — and compete in events like the Pallet Puzzle Sprint, Pallet Jack Relay, Pick Pack Hurdle and the Box Put.

The games were developed in Louisville, and two years ago they were expanded to Hebron, Kentucky. Games are also held in Atlanta and Indianapolis. The top three teams from Louisville, Cincinnati, Atlanta and Indianapolis will participate in the inaugural Global Games in September.

The opportunity to be the host city for the young games is an exciting opportunity, said Monroe Director of Development Kevin Chesar.

“It is an excellent opportunity to for us to showcase our new developments, such as IDI’s Monroe Logistics Center, that will lead to further economic growth and employment opportunities within Monroe,” he said.

Lowe said it has been a challenge to find companies to host the games because building vacancies are difficult to predict and determine. He said the games need to be held in a large, open area. IDI is an Atlanta-based company focused on industrial real estate developments in several markets throughout the country. They’ve built and manage distribution facilities in Monroe, West Chester Twp. and Kentucky.

Lowe said the location for next year’s games — which has interest from companies not participating this year — will be determined around June 2013.