HOUSTON, Dec. 17, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Colliers International, which last year called the Port of Houston "The Irreplaceable Port" among North American ports, now has named it the "Gulf's Darn Profitable" (GDP) Port.

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"What can be said about the Port of Houston that we haven't already said?" noted Colliers, a commercial real estate services firm with offices in 62 countries. "Not only is it Colliers' view that that it's the 'Most Irreplaceable Port' in North America, it's proven to be quite profitable."

While the "Irreplaceable" designation was bestowed last year based on the vital nature of the port's physical aspects, the latest award recognizes the Port of Houston Authority's operational excellence. The report says that the port is not only "vital to U.S. energy interests, it's highly profitable."

In a Dec. 15 year-end report, the firm noted operating revenue and net income at the Port Authority have been up significantly this year. Citing problems being experienced by other ports, it said port leadership and operational efficiency are cornerstones to port profitability.

"In 2013, Houston has been firing on all cylinders," the Colliers report said. "It takes more than great physical facilities and deep water to be a great port; it takes a great port director and board of directors. Houston has both."

Colliers' North American Port Awards recognize achievement, innovation and long-term thinking by state and city port authorities.

About the Port of Houston Authority

For nearly 100 years, the Port of Houston Authority has owned or operated the public cargo-handling facilities of the Port of Houston – the nation's largest port for foreign waterborne tonnage. The port is an economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the nation. It supports the creation of more than one million statewide jobs and more than 2.1 million nationwide jobs, and the generation of economic activity totaling more than $178.5 billion in Texas and $499 billion across the nation. For more information or to access the 2012 annual report, visit the Port Authority website at: www.portofhouston.com.

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