Two Punta Gorda-based companies are among the finalists in the Florida Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural Coolest Thing Made in Florida competition — a contest designed to celebrate innovation and manufacturing excellence across the state.
Baby Barrier and Supertrak, the only nominees from Charlotte County, each offer products built with safety in mind. Baby Barrier manufactures mesh pool fencing designed to prevent children and pets from falling into swimming pools. Supertrak is a local dealer for Canada-based Zeal Motor and distributes the Fat Truck, an amphibious, all-terrain vehicle used in rescue and emergency situations.
Both companies operate out of Punta Gorda, with Baby Barrier shipping its fencing products nationwide from a warehouse and Supertrak located near the Punta Gorda Airport.
Supertrak President Tom King said the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission deployed a Fat Truck during Hurricane Ian to cross the Peace River. The vehicles have also been used to rescue residents during flooding from hurricanes Helene and Milton. Zeal Motor, Fat Truck’s manufacturer, provided both vehicles and personnel to assist Punta Gorda police during post-storm relief efforts.
In addition to providing critical vehicles, Zeal Motor and its Punta Gorda Supertrak dealer have led the way in organizing a large-scale training event to support the Florida National Guard in rescue operations using amphibious vehicles.
“Our team of experts worked closely with the State Guard to conduct specialized training, ensuring their personnel are fully equipped to operate our cutting-edge vehicles during high-risk rescue missions,” a Zeal Motor official said. “This training reflects our commitment not only to delivering innovative technology but also to empowering first responders with the skills needed to save lives in extreme conditions.
“Their support has been crucial in ensuring that first responders have the resources and expertise to navigate difficult terrain and assist those in need.”
Baby Barrier owner David Flury said he was very appreciative and surprised to learn that he and partner Michelle Walter were chosen to represent the county.
“Most of our customers are from Florida and California,” he said, noting that most customers are based in warm-weather states, such as Florida and California, where pool safety is a major concern.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4, and the second leading cause for ages 5 to 14. The barrier fencing, Flury said, is used not only to protect young children but also pets.
Voting for the Coolest Thing Made in Florida contest runs through July 1. Supporters can vote once per product each day at CoolestThingMadeInFlorida.com. The top vote-getters will advance to a bracket-style competition beginning July 15.
“This contest highlights the kind of ingenuity and impact that often starts right here in our local manufacturing facilities,” said Kay Tracy, director for Charlotte County Economic Development. “We’re proud to see Charlotte County businesses making waves across the state and beyond.”
