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GETTING BETTER: The retail version of the Lincoln MKT gets a good plug from HispanicBusiness.com, with a menton of its turbo-charged 3.5L V-6 engine, O-60 mph acceleration in 6.9 seconds via a 6 speed automatic transmission, fuel economy of 16 city/22 highway, 355 horsepower, and $44,300 to $49,200 pricetag. We can say with certainty that the 2013 Lincoln MKT Town Car (exclusive livery version) will have a stronger engine, bigger wheels, more durable features, all-wheel drive, comparable horsepower, and a much cheaper pricetag. Complete, exclusive details to come in the February 2012 edition of LCT Magazine -- with a first distribution Feb. 13 on the trade show floor of the 2012 International LCT Show at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. -- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
This year's LCT awards show proves to be the best spot to celebrate operator achievements and provide a positive place to unify the industry. It's a hotpsot for networking and mingling with a diverse mix of operators from around the country, and a chance to meet top industry executives and NLA board directors one-on-one. Check out the latest on the industry's "annual rally" that sets the high bar and moves the chauffeured transportation industry forward.
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WHO'S GOT YOUR BACK? Amid the clutter of industry events, coalitions, and groups, no trade association has the resources, the reach, and the ROI that the National Limousine Association can provide. Here are seven facts why the NLA is good for limousine businesses and for industry unity. -- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
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U.K. limo seller and news website
Limo Broker Ltd. has been revealed as the official sponsor of the UK’s largest online beauty contest,
Miss Limo. This year’s pageant which will see one girl plucked from thousands of hopefuls to take home the title of Miss Limo 2012.
The final of the Miss Limo competition will be held at the
Celtic Manor Resort, South Wales, on Jan., 7 2012 as part of the
Transport Broker Awards. The last Miss Limo competition attracted nearly 1,500 entrants. Judging from the response from potential contestants, the event’s organizers believe this year’s contest will be even bigger.
As the official sponsor of the Miss Limo 2012 awards, Limo Broker will crown the winning contestant and present her with a cash prize, an all-expenses paid professional photo shoot, and have a custom website created for the winner to provide a foundation for Miss Limo 2012’s career as a professional model.
The future Miss Limo 2012 also will be the face of a secret project, created in association with Limo Broker, which will be revealed on the night of the final. Very little is known about the new product as all details are being kept tightly under wraps. A brand new
Miss Limo website has been launched in preparation for this year’s upcoming awards ceremony with in depth contestant profiles, high definition images, and video clips from previous awards ceremonies. Source: Limo Broker
— Michael Campos, LCT assistant editor
2012 INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW: An feature article in Thursday's Wall Street Journal leads off with some interesting stats about the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, site of the next LCT Show Feb. 13-15, 2012.
Why is some form of the Lincoln MKT on THREE covers of LCT Magazine this year alone?
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PRINT V. DIGITAL: The June/July 2011 issue of LCT Magazine doesn't need much of a preview since it's already in the mailboxes or in the mail. With the advent of LCT's new web site, we now have reason to post far more magazine content online, where you'll find much of this issue divided among eight primary topic channels.
Look for cover stories on getting destination management and convention business and the DaBryan debut of the Lincoln MKT stretch limousine.
You'll find two key types of content on LCTMag.com: articles and news. The articles consist of magazine features and departments and exclusive online features; news consists of all items posted and blasted via LCT E-News.
We can now post more than one photo per item, so look for a more visually stimulating website.
A complete guide to the new LCTMag.com is here.
Also in the June/July issue is a complete schedule for the LCT Leadership Summit, now just two months away in Miami Beach. Get updates at the Leadership Summit website.
Coming up on LCTMag.com later this month will be content from the August issue. LCT is finishing up the annual Black Book issue with a Who's Who of operators ranked according to the number of owned/leased vehicles.
We'll also bring you a gallery of operators throughout the industry who share some of their best fleet practices and business approaches. -- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
FACTS NOT FEAR: May is always a month with benefits in LCT Land — the kind of benefits not even our morbidly obese public sector can deliver.
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International Fleet Directory Puts You on the Map!
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PREVIEW AND ARTICLES from the April 2011 issue of LCT MAGAZINE. . .
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EMPTY SPACE: The legendary operator was missed by many at the 2011 International LCT Show —the first industry trade show since his death on Nov. 19, 2010.
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SHOWBOUND: The latest issue of LCT Magazine will appear in time for its Feb. 14 debut on the vendor exhibit floor of the 2011 INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW. There’ll be plenty of extra copies, so you’ll have a last-minute Valentine’s gift alternative if you need one. . . .
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LCT MARKETING AWARD? If we could give one for BEST SHOW PROMO, it would undoubtedly go to David Bastian of Towne Livery in Orchard Park, N.Y. . .
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WHY DON'T MORE VENDORS DO THIS? For the third year in a row, livery vehicles sales manager David Bastian of
TOWNE LIVERY of Orchard Park, N.Y. has promoted his booth at the
INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW with a YouTube video that goes viral. It's a great way to get attention and drive traffic.
TOWNE LIVERY ILCT VIDEO HERE. -- M.R.
JANUARY 2011 LCT:
LCT Magazine kicks off the New Year with a cover devoted to the next generation Lincoln limousine vehicle and the team behind it bringing it to market.
The 2013 Lincoln MKT livery version debuts in less than six weeks at the
2011 INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW at the
PARIS LAS VEGAS. Operators from around the worldwide will have a chance to sit in the prototype and sample the stretch version, which will bring a more futuristic bullet look to the traditional stretch limousine.
As with any new vehicle, we are seeing some enthusiastic embrace of it; some wait-and-see skepticism; and a few cases of panicky clinging to the last version of the Lincoln Town Car Executive L. The track record for new vehicle models generally is one of gradual acceptance that turns to strong devotion over time.
LCT Publisher Sara Eastwood-McLean touches one of the many hot button issues of the chauffeured transportation industry in a column asking why operators must pay
TAXES ON CHAUFFEUR TIPS.
Don’t forget to register for the
2011 INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW with theme of "Driven To Succeed." Pre-registrations as of this week are double the number at this time last year, with the Show still six weeks away. We’re sensing a lot of penned up demand for networking and shopping the trade show floor that LCT’s unparalleled industry events offer.
We look forward to seeing our readers and attendees. Thanks to all who have hung in there with us during the last two difficult years. Happy New Year and many wishes for rebound successes in 2011.
— Martin Romjue, LCT editor
LCT posts memorial photos of veteran operator and industry mentor DEAN SCHULER, who died Nov. 19, 2010. A memorial event and party was held in New Orleans on Dec. 2.
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NOV/DEC 2010 LCT PREVIEW:
Today we finish up the first-ever Customer Service/Concierge themed issue of LCT Magazine. The articles and coverage point to a simple message: Vehicles mean nothing if they're not backed up with memorable, reliable customer service.
LCT Summit keynote speaker SCOTT DEMING showed attendees at our conference in Chicago how the strongest brands are those that create an emotional connection with customers; if you give them something that makes them feel good or enhances their self perception and image, they'll be back. Deming is featured in an article about customer "love letters," where clients tell operators why they valued their service. We'll also feature an up-and-coming Southern California operator who puts those principles into packaged reality.
Posted @ LCTMAG.COM now you can find the following helpful guides to improving customer service: MAKE IT MORE THAN A RIDE shows how building up and leveraging connections and chits makes or breaks your service; 10 WAYS TO CHARM THE CONCIERGE gives you step-by-step advice on winning over high-end hotel and resort business from those with the power to decide. [A valet may be an operator's natural enemy, but the concierge can be a best friend].
Next up is an abbreviated product review of the 2011 TOYOTA AVALON, a vehicle that lacks for nothing in the luxury department and could help pave the way to wider use of practical, affordable, sensible luxury livery vehices. The Avalon is another sign that chauffeured vehicle choices are growing.
Also @ LCTMAG.COM is the return of MARKETING TIPS from Create-A-Card Inc.'s marketing guru, Arthur Messina. Don't forget to take the latest LCT WEB POLL on the HOME PAGE as well; this month we want to get a sense of the regulatory landscape. We'll have more Nov/Dec content posted by Dec. 1. Your copy of the Nov/Dec issue is about to be sent to the printer, then bundled, sacked, and delivered in time for Thanksgiving.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
DEADLINE FRIDAY, OCT. 15: We're waiting. . . . for last-minute entries to LCT's 2011 OPERATOR OF THE YEAR AWARDS, LCT MARKETING AWARDS, and ASSOCIATION AWARD OF EXCELLENCE. FORMS HERE. DETAILS HERE.
OCTOBER LCT:
By now, you should have your copies of the October issue of LCT Magazine and realize we've devoted pages of ink and paper to the latest technology trends, products, and services. Of course, we can get away with that since we've also featured several articles on LCTMAG.COM, with more to come later this month.
The first round of FEATURED ARTICLES include:
A TECH PRODUCT SAMPLER; why GPS IS FOR EVERYONE; the TOP 5 TECH MISTAKES that operators make; and how to SAFELY GO ZOOM.
The relevance of technology was brought home during the LCT Leadership Summit last week where I hosted a technology panel with experts from Event Ground Global, ZoomSafer, EnterpriseGPS, and the ever-present LIMOS.COM. The point being that technology has become so cheap and accessible, you can't do without it if you want to survive and get out ahead.
We've also posted a new WEB POLL QUESTION, and are expecting a last minute wave of OPERATOR OF THE YEAR submissions, due Oct. 15. And it's never to early to get ready for the global industry extravaganza of the year: the 2011 INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
SEPTEMBER 2010 LCT:
The latest issue has arrived or is about to drop in. September is always the BIG BUS month for LCT, since the issue features our annual bus and van product gallery. This year, our parent company hosts the BUSCON CONFERENCE & EXPO in Chicago as LCT is brings back its elite-level LEADERSHIP SUMMIT in Chicago Sept. 28-30, just down the street from BusCon.
FEATURE ARTICLES in this issue highlight the theme of this season, with a feature on DETAILS OF BUSCON and the LEADERSHIP SUMMIT. It's not too late to register for either, and if you call either me (310) 533-2489 or show director Kristen Messeneo (310) 533-2576, you can still get a registration discount. We also have published a SUMMIT WHO'S WHO of attendees.
Other articles this month include ways BUS OPERATORS CAN LEARN FROM LIMO OPERATORS, and a simple guide to HANDLING VEHICLE ACCIDENTS. The Publisher's Page covers the SWING TOWARD START-UPS and the need for operators to cooperate with competitors to succeed.
We're wrapping up the October TECHNOLOGY issue over the next few days, which should be circulating by early October. This issue in particular will spell out in simple detail how the latest technologies and innovations can save your business time, money, and overhead.
We look forward to seeing so many of you as possible at the Summit -- attendance caps out at 200, so if you haven't REGISTERED, please hurry to get in on the industry's most enjoyable and intense educational and networking event.
--- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
LCTMAG.COM: We would like operators to tell us their primary motivation for buying green fleet vehicles. Please take a few seconds to answer our
MONTHLY WEB POLL @ LCTMAG.COM (In center of home page). Thank you.
AUGUST 2010 100 LIST IN THE MAIL:
This year's LCT BLACK BOOK takes on an intriguing dimension as Lincoln and Cadillac prepare to roll out new livery base models in the coming year or two. As usual, LCT features the 100 largest industry fleets in the here and now, but the bigger question is, what will these fleets look like in the future? Big changes are coming, and operators need to get ready, says LCT Publisher Sara Eastwood-McLean in her BLACK BOOK PUBLISHER'S PAGE.
Also in this issue: An overview of where Lincoln and Cadillac stand in their pending plans for successor models to the Lincoln Town Car Executive L and the Cadillac DTS, both of which will be discontinued after the 2011 model year. The generational shift in industry vehicles could usher in a shake up of vehicle alliances and preferences as other automakers position themselves to vie for the chauffeured luxury vehicle market. ARTICLE TO BE POSTED IN EARLY AUGUST.
FLEET MANAGEMENT: As the saying goes, it's not how many vehicles you run, but what you do with them and how well you run them that counts. To that end, LCT contributing editor Jim Luff explores the pros and cons of contracting out your maintenance services versus hiring mechanics in-house. FIX IT OR BRING IT INTO THE SHOP.
MERCEDES-BENZ ADDS ANOTHER SPRINTER: The new mini-bus/van is emerging as a durable mainstay of fleet operators looking to efficiently meet the demand for more group ground transportation. SPRINTING DOWN THE STREET.
KIDS & LIMOS: Operators are finding an evergreen market for school field trips in limousines, whether to reward academic achievers or just give kids an exciting break. What better way to reach future potential customers and their parents while creating community good will? SCHOOL HOUSE LIMO ROCKS!
DON'T MISS: The August MARKETING TIP from Create-A-Card Inc., our ever-growing BACKLOG OF LCT ARTICLES, and of course, the always nosey LCT WEB POLL.
And we hope to see you at the LCT LEADERSHIP SUMMIT happening near the BUS CON EXPO in Chicago Sept. 28-30!
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
BLOG OFF:
LCT Blog will take a brief break until Tuesday, July 6 for more important matters, such as celebrating life and freedom in the great U.S.A.
Despite economic and political difficulties, there are many reasons to hope and give thanks. YOU CAN'T SING IT ENOUGH. .
SLICE OF BUSINESS LIFE: The five operators participating in LCT's Great Limo Race just posted their latest progress reports on their businesses on the
GREAT LIMO RACE BLOG. It is encouraging to see the optimism and ambition among smaller operators in such challenging times. You can follow them collectively on the blog, or just pick one contestant and see the unfolding story through July 2011. Get to know operators
DEBBIE TALBOTT,
RICARDO GARZA,
BECKY LARAMEE,
BRAD GREGORY, and
GEORGIA BERG, and be sure to post comments or advice. -- M.R.
MEETINGS, CONVENTIONS, & MOVING BIG GROUPS: With the June/July 2010 issue, LCT Magazine ushers in what we hope will be a cool, comfortable summer with a gradual warming of industry revenues. . .
First up, the recession and post-recession quarters have been active for operator dealmaking, as operators pursue opportunities to buy, sell, and merge. LCT contributing editor Jim Luff reports on tips and guidelines operators should follow
WHEN CLOSING A DEAL.
In keeping with our first-ever issue theme of Meetings & Conventions, LCT looks at the post-recession state of the meetings industry, which has taken some heavy hits since the last quarter of 2008. How should operators handle the changing demands of meeting planners and get their business in the current economic environment? LCT associate editor Nicole Schlooser looks at what
CLIENTS EXPECT FROM MOTORCOACH SERVICE.
If you can imagine another industry taking a heavier hit than chauffeured transportation, look no further than charter jets. But the FBO/charter jet market shows
SIGNS OF A COMEBACK, and none too soon for this evergreen chauffeured market.
Also, we’ve posted the latest update from
LCT’s GREAT LIMO RACE, which unfortunately did not make the print edition but is now posted at lctmag.com. Be sure to check out the
LIMO RACE BLOG, where you can find continuing updates from the five operator/contestants vying to be the most successful start-up by July 2011.
Given the slower summer months, our next issue will be the LARGEST FLEETS/BLACK BOOK issue for August.
— Martin Romjue, LCT editor
DEADLINE NEARS: As the Friday, May 28 deadline approaches for the LCT 100 LARGEST FLEETS LIST, we wanted to dispel some myths and misconceptions about the list that keep some operators from participating. The list is part Who's Who, the only ranking of operators based on fleet numbers, and an industry reference.
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LCT's first-ever reality- race among five relatively new operators takes shape on the new
GREAT LIMO RACE BLOG as the contestants being posting regular updates on their businesses and progress. Comments and advice are welcome.
MAY 2010 LCT MAGAZINE:
LCT's most popular issue of the year should be in your hands or about to land in mailboxes; a preview of content is now posted at LCTMAG.COM home page and under ARTICLES.
In this issue, LCT provides an OVERVIEW OF THE INDUSTRY, a look at the latest trends in SOCIAL NETWORKING AND MEDIA, a sampler of CHARTER & TOUR survey results, a profile of ULTIMATE CUSTOM COACH, and as usual, a business message from the LCT PUBLISHER. Complete findings and lists of course are in the print issue; extra copies are available for $40 each by calling (310) 533-2432 9 a.m. to 5 p.m PDT/ Noon to 8 p.m. EDT on weekdays. Ask for Melba.
Also posted, a NEW LCT WEB POLL question at the center of the home page and a MONTHLY MARKETING TIP courtesy of Create-A-Card Inc.
This year, LCT cleaned up and updated much of its database given the sheer volume of company and vendor changes throughout the industry this year. Our directories will soon be posted and continuously corrected/updated at LCTMAG.COM.
If you have any ideas for future survey questions or particular findings/stats you would like to see in the 2011 FACT BOOK, please e-mail me at martin@lctmag.com.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
LCTMAG.COM:
A new round of FEATURE ARTICLES from the March/April issue of LCT have been posted on LCTMAG.COM; the articles loosely revolve around the theme of operators who succeed on their terms in tough times. Despite the economic shellacking of the past year, you can always find businesses that bloom where they're put, or with what they have.
The PUBLISHER'S PAGE looks at sales strategies for operators going forward; a new WEB POLL asks a rather politically incorrect question (be honest); and we've posted a new MARKETING TIP.
Next month -- in the MAY 2010 ISSUE OF LCT -- we present our annual Fact Book & Industry Guide. Look for dramatically updated listings that have coincided with a complete overhaul of LCT's industry database. We've also selected the survey statistics more closely, focusing on those that are most relevant to operators. Some sections will be shorter; others, longer. Also, we'll have a complete Fact Book database available online within a few months with regular updates.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
CONNECTIONS PAY OFF: The mother-daughter team that runs Reprise Limousine in Exeter, N.H. does a lot of things right, as their latest recognition shows.
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FORMALS & ILCT POST-SHOW ISSUE PREVIEW:
The March/April 2010 issue of LCT Magazine has been drop-kicked over to the presses, and will soon rebound to all the mailboxes beyond. This issue revolves around the entire "formals" theme of weddings, proms, and funerals.
LCTMAG.COM FEATURES include: Finding limo/bus transportation for WEDDING GUESTS; handling all the hazards of PROM SEASON; and how to train your chauffeurs for FUNERAL LIMO DUTY. Funerals offer a consistent market for operators, especially as more funeral homes outsource their livery vehicle needs.
Our second big theme is the 2010 International LCT Show. We've already covered the Show in LCT E-NEWS and have plenty of photos up at LCTSHOW.COM, so our annual print coverage this year brings you eight pages of show round-ups, four photo galleries, and the launch of LCT's first-ever, reality-based Great Limo Race.
Also, don't forget to check out the latest LCT WEB POLL and Create-A-Card Inc.'s MARKETING TIP.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
LCT MARKETING AWARDS: Two of the marketing items that won awards last week -- Best Business Card by Overland Limousine of Kansas City and Best Brochure/Info Packet by Partners Executive Transportation of NYC -- were designed by Create-A-Card Inc. of St. James, N.Y., which has gained momentum in the chauffeured transportation industry as the source for marketing consulting and expertise. See designs. . .
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SHOW ISSUE:
LCT posts select features today from the February 2010 edition of the magazine, which was distributed early at the International LCT Show last week in Las Vegas.
The cover of Limos.com's Doug Anderson and T.J. Clark was relevant this year given how Internet use is changing the way operators do business; their clients are what Anderson calls GTD customers — "Get Things Done”: affluent, always connected, and busy. Operators must reach and capture these customers through online venues and aggressive digital marketing.
Inside, you'll find a debut feature of TransportationWorld.com, a reservation/booking site of pre-selected vendors that matches them with customers in all major metro areas. The site drives customers to operators.
The issue also has profiles of the 12 Operator of the Year finalists, except this year, instead of just being a profile, the articles include tips for success from the finalists that each operator can use. Congratulations to the four OOY winners: Red Bank Limo, ETS International, Lindsey Limousine, and Leros Point to Point.
Posted FEBRUARY FEATURES @ LCTMAG.COM include advice on pursuing LATINO MARKETS; how party-hoppin' CLUBBER BUSES can be a strong revenue stream; and why America's generation of young adults could be the BIGGEST BOOST to private charter buses since the advent of seniors vacation tours.
Also, a Create-A-Card Marketing Tip, LCT Web Poll, and Sara's PUBLISHER'S PAGE now posted.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
LAS VEGAS: Here's a random round-up of info items from this week's International LCT Show, including award winners, favorite quotes, and a nugget from Scott Solombrino. . .
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LCT EDITOR Martin Romjue anticipates the "talk of the town" at the International LCT Show in Las Vegas, starting this weekend. . .
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ACQUISITION: Operator John Olinger bought the company of operator Eric Weiner on Jan. 13, forming a Providence-based powerhouse in the New England chauffeured transportation market. The deal, arranged by industry business consultant Tom Mazza, was announced “on the eve of the LCT Show.” That’s good timing for some strong buzz, giving showgoers even more to talk about in the wake of the Dav El/Hertz deal. . .
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FIRST IN LINE: Cadillac Professional Vehicles offers a new round of incentives on its chauffeured vehicles just in time for the International LCT Show in Las Vegas, starting Monday. The incentive announcement from Cadillac captures the message of all exhibitors and vendors: SPEND, SPEND, SPEND. . .
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OPERATORS: Are you planning to buy either a 2010 or 2011 model year Lincoln Town Car Executive L for your fleet? See poll at the middle of the LCT Home Page.
MODEL PROMOTION: David Bastian, commercial sales manager, of
Towne Livery (Towne Automotive Group), has taken a bold approach to promoting his dealership; a YouTube video pointing potential clients to the
TOWNE LIVERY EXHIBIT at the
International LCT Show Jan. 25-27 in Las Vegas.
ANOTHER VERSION HERE. LCT Publisher Sara Eastwood-McLean cites it as an
outstanding example of how an exhibitor should be self promoting at this event. -- M.R.
HAPPY NEW YEAR/DECADE:
We've posted a FEW MORE FEATURES from the December/January issue of LCT Magazine, all related to the theme of more efficient money-saving group travel.
Most notable is LCT's annual OUTLOOK FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL. 2010 portends at least a slightly more active year than 2009, one of the most devastating to the sector.
As travelers look for more practical ways to get around, COMMUTER MOTORCOACHES are seeing a lot of success in the San Francisco Bay Area.
And with more consumers opting for shorter vacations or staycations, LCT offers 10 CHARTER IDEAS that could spur creativity among charter and tour operators.
FEBRUARY 2010: LCT will distribute its annual "SHOW ISSUE" early at the 2010 INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW in Las Vegas, now just a few short weeks away on Jan. 25-27. The issue will feature the 12 finalists for LCT's 2010 Operator Of The Year Awards along with their tips for success. Don't forget to register for the Show by Jan. 8 to take advantage of room discounts at the Palazzo Resort Hotel & Casino.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
ANNUAL HIATUS: LCT Blog and E-News will be taking its annual break for the Christmas season. Blog posts will resume Jan. 4; E-News will be back with a special "top stories" edition on Dec. 31. We leave you with some industry high notes. . .
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HOLIDAY CLOSER: The Greater California Livery Association gathered for its last function of the year Monday night, celebrating the approach of 2010 much more than the passage of a rough 2009. . .
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WICHITA FALLS, TX --
Prime Time Limousine is one of the latest companies to get a
BUSINESS PROFILE in its local newspaper. Such articles may sound simple to the industry, but the P.R. value is immense, since such articles help educate the moving public about the benefits of chauffeured transportation. If you haven't pitched every local newspaper, Web site, and city guide in your area, resolve to do so in 2010. -- M.R.
STRADDLER ISSUE: We finally finished a historic edition of LCT Magazine today and sent it off to the presses moments ago; the Dec. 2009/Jan 2010 issue not only straddles two decades, but it debuts a redesigned look and format for 2010 and beyond. You'll find the new and improved LCT eases the info flow.
This issue, which should be in your hands in time for Christmas, includes LCT's annual new vehicle model guide, business travel outlook, creative pricing strategies, fabulous photos and take-home tips from the 2009 LCT Eastern Conference, and some of the 10 best charter tours nationwide. We'll be posting more features on Dec. 31, but for now, you can check out the following MENU OF FEATURES at www.lctmag.com:
STRIVING FOR SATISFIED CUSTOMERS: The effort never ends. Veteran operator and LCT contributing editor Jim Luff describes a a balanced approach to making sure your customers keep coming back.
PACING YOUR PRICES: It's getting cutthroat out there as clients become more price sensitive and operators still must maintain minimal profit margins to keep their businesses going. How do you adjust your pricing in a tough market?
TAKING HER BACK: When economic times were flush, many operators ditched the wedding market and went almost 100% corporate. Well brides still reign in good times and bad, so some operators are now trying to win them over again and reconnect with the market segment that got them started in this industry.
GRACIOUS PRACTICES: LCT's savvy and seasoned publisher, Sara Eastwood-McLean, puts forth some useful principles on how to appreciate your customers and give people what they crave the most: Recognition.
LCT WEB POLL: How confident are you about your revenue picture headed into a new year with glimmers of recovery? Take poll right on the home page.
GET REAL BEFORE CHRISTMAS: Just add registration to the 2010 International LCT Show in Las Vegas to your holiday TO-DO list. Get it out of the way and look forward to the industry's premiere global event on Jan. 25-27, 2010. What better way to get rid of the post-holiday blues?
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
PASSINGS: The recent funeral of New York operator Fred Boyce brought out the best in livery as his fellow operators from the Nassau Suffolk Limousine Association found an appropriate way to honor their colleague.
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RESTON LIMOUSINE: Operator/entrepreneur Kristina Bouweiri recently was honored by Toyota dealers in the Washington, D.C. area. . . Look for her Perspective article in the December/January issue of LCT Magazine.
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No matter where you work or what industry you swim in, these familiar lyrics can be too easily forgotten. They apply everywhere, all the time.
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MAINTENANCE: This week LCT.com went live with its fourth web channel, or micro-Web site, devoted to the topic of MAINTENANCE. The channel will draw upon content from the magazine, other fleet-related publicaitons run by Bobit Business Media, and industry suppliers.
The channel joins a digital content suite of three other channels launched earlier this year, DRIVING GREEN, TECHNOLOGY, and FINANCE & INSURANCE. The combination of the four channels, the weekly E-News edition, LCT Blog, and the Web site reaffirms that LCT Magazine is THE ONE AND ONLY B2B information provider that offers consistent digital content for the chauffeured transportation and charter and tour industries. No other publication matches our output or content. And in case you wonder, the name "Rehab Center" does not refer to nor implicate any industry alcoholics. Rather it was a working name that will be replaced with the more simple moniker of maintenance. -- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
ISSUE ON ITS WAY: LCT's combined Oct/Nov issue brings annual coverage of development in Technology and Finance & Insurance. For technology articles, please visit the TECHNOLOGY CHANNEL in the next few weeks. Coverage of finance, insurance, and leasing can be found on the F&I CHANNEL.
ON LCTMAG.COM THIS MONTH, see the LATEST MAGAZINE FEATURES:
Check out the 27 steps to BUILDING A STRONGER AFFILIATE BUSINESS.
Learn the most effective ways to PREVENT VEHICLE THEFTS AND BREAK-INS.
See the VINTAGE LIMOUSINE perfect for weddings without all the vexations.
Chalmers Automotive has adapted a Mercedes-Benz chassis for MULTIPLE MINI-BUS MODELS.
Finally, LCT Publisher Sara Eastwood-McLean gets downright MYSTICAL ABOUT THE STATE OF THE INDUSTRY. Don't forget to subscribe to LCT Magazine's "weekly newspaper in your e-mail box," LCT E-NEWS. -- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
I learned a lot of things the easy way at LCT East. . . .
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DEADLINE NOW: Submissions for the 2010 Operator Of The Year Awards, Association Award of Excellence, and LCT Marketing Awards are due THURSDAY, OCT. 15 by 5 p.m. PDT/8 p.m. EDT. Submissions can be sent to Martin Romjue, LCT Editor, 3520 Challenger St., Torrance, CA, 90503, or if in PDF form, can be e-mailed to Martin@LCTmag.com. DOWNLOADABLE FORMS HERE. This deadline already has been extended from Oct. 1.
SEMI BLOG-BREAK: We'll be posting sporadically on LCT Blog until Oct. 12 because of the upcoming LCT Eastern Conference, where the industry will gather Oct. 6-9. Watch for a few more posts on Monday and some updates from the conference. We'll resume a normal schedule again the week of Oct. 12.
AT THE CONFERENCE: If you are coming to LCT East, and I can't imagine why not, be sure to stop by the LCT Magazine booth to meet/greet one or more editors. Ideas offered face-to-face tend to get more traction. We'll also be all over the place.
REMINDER: Deadlines for the 2010 LCT Operator Of The Year Awards, LCT Marketing Awards, and LCT Association Award of Excellence have been extended until Thursday, Oct. 15. That should allow plenty of time to get last-minute packets to us post-conference. DOWNLOADABLE FORMS AND INSTRUCTIONS HERE. Thanks to all who have submitted entries so far; they're looking good and I can tell we've got some tough decisions ahead. We'll be mum on finalists this year right up until the International LCT Show in Las Vegas on Jan. 25-27, 2010, where all the winners will be annouced at a dinner gala the evening of Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010. -- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
STEP UP, LADIES: One of my favorite events at the International LCT Show in Las Vegas is the women’s event.
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SEE IT ALL @ LCT EAST: The trade show floor at LCT East will have it all, including some NEVER BEFORE SEEN vehicle debuts!
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BRIEF REPRIEVE: What with all the excitement and anticipation of attending the
LCT EASTERN CONFERENCE, we realize getting submissions and packages together for the 2010 LCT Operator Of The Year and LCT Marketing Awards can be a bit challenging. So, we've extended the deadline to Oct. 15.
DOWNLOAD FORMS HERE. Send to LCT Magazine, 3520 Challenger St., Torrance, CA, 90503. Questions: Martin Romjue, editor,
martin@lctmag.com.
TALE OF TWO OPERATORS: Operators George Jacobs of Windy City Limousine in Chicago and Bill Atkins of Red Bank Limo in Tinton Falls, N.J. are at opposite ends of the fleet size scale but both report revenue increases of 20% year over year. During a bad recession. And both are coming to the LCT Eastern Conference.
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LCT EAST: If you don't show up, your competitors may wonder what's wrong. This will be the place to get the scoop on industry know-how, trends, and networking. And the keynote speakers will be talking about BUSINESS finance matters, not personal finance advice you can get on CNBC.
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DEADLINE OCT. 1 for LCT's annual OOY Awards, Marketing Awards, and Association Award of Excellence.
Download forms here. Nominees and winners to be announced at the
2010 International LCT Show in Las Vegas.
UPDATE: Attendee registrations to the LCT Eastern Conference are slightly ahead of last year's so far, a good sign after a difficult year industry-wide. Speakers and sessions this year will emphasize business success and finance, not personal finance, and the conference is the first to the table with an organized framework for speed networking. The deadline for discounted rooms at the Mohegan Sun Casino & Resort has been extended to Monday. Join LCT for the premiere industry event on the East Coast -- located halfway between Boston and New York City.
CONGRATULATIONS:
To our East Coast Editor Linda Moore and Philadelphia Regional Limousine Association President Philip Jagiela. Linda and Philip wed last Saturday, Sept. 12. No limo was needed as the ceremony and reception were held in Philip's backyard.
The Jagielas live outside Philadelphia in Shamong, N.J. Philip Jagiela also owns and operates Aries Limousine Service, based in Southampton, Penn.
WHEN A STRETCH IN NY WAS $32/HR: LCT came across this archived feature from 1981 about a limo company called Dav El, founded by David Klein. Of course, the company is now known as Dav El Chauffeured Transportation Network, the second largest operator in the U.S. Current owner and CEO Scott Solombrino bought it in 1987.
KENTUCKY LIMOUSINE ASSOCIATION: The KLA has spent the last few months putting together a simple statement about itself, purpose, goals, and positions.
POSITION PAPER HERE. Helpful to members and legislators alike, such papers can help any industry organization focus clearly on specifics. Note the KLA's official opposition to the Employee Free Choice Act; such clear, bold statements against harmful measures are needed in the anti-business, anti-free market climate developing in many state capitals and in Washington, D.C. as desperately grabby politicians ignore busniess constituents at their peril. -- M.R.
SEPTEMBER 2009 LCT PREVIEW: The print edition is heading toward subscribers, but we just couldn't wait to release some of it ahead of snail mail. In this month's issue, readers will find the timely topics of OPERATORS WHO LOWBALL and the importance of devising a NETWORKING PLAN, preferably at the LCT Eastern Conference just one month away.
The features on lowballing and networking reflect two different approaches to coping with a recession; the first approach is for short-term gainers and desperadoes, the second for those serious about building long-term business. While lowballing is legal and competitive, unless it's done by a gypsy operator, the old rule still applies for operator and client alike: You reap what you sow, and you get what you pay for. Those rules also apply to networking, joining industry associations, and attending LCT events: What you put in, is what you get out.
The other two articles on www.lctmag.com feature revenue opportunities with DOUBLE-DECKER BUSES, and LCT Publisher Sara Eastwood-McLean's latest take on industry trends. Main point: Think PEOPLE MOVING, not just luxury pampering on wheels.
About the Cover: Royale Limousine Manufacturers of Haverhill, Mass. has repositioned itself with two innovative vehicle lines that meet changing demands and tastes in chauffeured transportation.
Finally, the 2010 OPERATOR OF THE YEAR FORMS, are now posted on the LCT home page. Just download, fill out, attach to supplemental materials, and send to me at Martin@lctmag.com. We know it's been a rough year and everyone understands -- but don't neglect a shot at gaining industry prestige and the opportunity to help others with your successes. Entry deadline for OOY, LCT Marketing Awards, and LCT Association Award of Excellence is Oct. 1.
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
PROGRAMMING NOTE: LCT will be visiting operators at the National Business Travel Association convention in San Diego this week; we'll have a report in Wednesday's LCT e-news.
Despite tough economic times, more than 25 chauffeured transportation companies will be exhibiting at NBTA. No posts here Tuesday. Blog columns by Jim Luff and Linda Moore will appear per usual Wednesday morning.
AN ERROR, A FALSE ACCUSATION, AND AN EXPLANATION: Dish of the day on LCT's Black Book: 100 LARGEST FLEETS. . .
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RETRACTION RHYMES WITH CONTRACTION: Either way, it's painful. . .
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LARGEST FLEETS ISSUE: By now, LCT's Black Book August issue should have reached most of our subscribers. We know this because we've received the first "complaint eruption" about fleet numbers certain companies report. Think of it as a hallowed annual industry tradition --- the chauffeured transportation version of a FIGHT CLUB! But the buzz just works to our benefit.
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KEEPING IT SIMPLE: In the interest of following the K.I.S.S. rule, Keep It Simple Stupid, LCT is re-labeling this blog and our e-newsletter. Like many organizations, we've had the whole discussion of branding with distinct names versus using one name and a generic label. So this blog will become. . . Drum Roll. . . LCT BLOG. Our e-newseltter, Driving Force, will be named. . . LCT E-NEWS. But we can assure you we won't insult anyone by labeling the montly print edition of LCT, "MAGAZINE." -- M.R.
LCT RELEASES CONTEST PROMO:
The 2010 International LCT Show delivers a “New Reality” come January, as the industry heads into a new decade of permanent shifts and sweeping changes. Be among the first Operators Of The Year for the “teens decade,” 2010-19. What better way to lead the new reality of the chauffeured transportation industry than to get recognized as a top operator — or at least showcase your media-savvy approach as part of the annual LCT Marketing Awards.
Twelve operators will be selected as finalists; with four announced as winners on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010.
OOY and Marketing Awards entry forms are available in the following places:
1) JUST CLICK HERE, download, fill out, and send in with your supplemental materials;
2) Check your August issue of LCT Magazine heading to mailboxes now. Forms on pp. 94-96.
3) Frequent links here on LimoCentric and in LCT’s weekly e-newsletter, Driving Force.
DEADLINE: Oct. 1, 2009. Questions/information: Martin@LCTmag.com.
DEADLINE OCT. 1, 2009: Hands down the most prestigious business awards in the chauffeured transportation industry. Winners get recognition, publicity, and industry exposure.
DOWNLOAD FORM HERE and send to LCT Magazine.
LCT BLACK BOOK: Who's Who/100 Largest Fleets. The August issue is in the mail with the industry's only annual rankings of the 100 largest fleets. Much has happened in the economy and the industry since August 2008; this year's list takes on a new format in showing who's up, who's down, who's on, who's off, and who's hiding out.
We figured this year would be a good time to go black -- as in black vehicles, black economic times, and staying in the black as the new high-standard of industry survival and success.
SIGN OF HARD TIMES: Find out in the print issue which two leading chauffeured transportation companies declined to provide any specific fleet numbers. What's up (or down) with that?
-- Martin Romjue, LCT editor
DEADLINE IS OCT. 1: LCT Magazine posts its entry forms for Operator Of The Year, Association Award of Excellence, and Marketing Awards starting today as a downloadable PDF format.
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BUT NO LURID SECRETS HERE: The process of putting together LCT's annual fleets list this year and talking with operators nationwide about their fleets reaffirm what industry success and excellence are all about in this debilitating economic environment.
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HERE WE GO AGAIN: Tom Mazza makes a good point about the LCT 100 List when you get past all the breathless smack talk. But we've already thought of it. . .
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NEW COMMENT SYSTEM FOR LCT: The latest content upgrades at
LCTmag.com allow you to comment on news articles, features, AND LimoCentric blog posts. The comment option appears as a click-link at the bottom of each article/post. This is not only a good way for to offer varying viewpoints but to help set the record straight, or at least your version of it.
FRIENDLY WARNING: Find out why every single reader comment ever posted on LimoCentric will disappear on Monday, July 6 @ Noon PDT. . .
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WEB-SPECTACLE PREVIEW: See the latest content from the July 2009 "MAINTENANCE" issue of LCT Magazine. Select stories are now available on our multi-layered WEBsite, INCLUDING our first-ever WEBXclusive feature article.
The magazine won't hit your mailboxes for another, err, two weeks or so, but you can get acquainted with the following content:
- 10 Things an operator learned from doing his own maintenance
- What to look for when browsing used and repo limos and fleet vehicles
- Basics to keeping a bus in top running shape
- A global operator's advice on navigating the econ-storm
- LCT Publisher Sara McLean's primer on low maintenance success
Just click on the website or go straight to features.
NUMBER OF OPERATORS: Here we go again -- one of this industry's red-flag-in-front-of-bull issues. A research report issued today is way off, both from the estimates of LCT and its leading competitor. . .
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SIGN OF THE TIMES: The National Business Travel Association and may yet merge with the Association of Corporate Travel Executives. Key paragraph from Business Travel News:
"While the two organizations had discussed such a merger many times previously, the current economic reality appears to have made this most recent effort more substantial than prior discussions. It wasn't clear if the economy could continue to sustain two competing organizations, as some supplier sponsors supporting both organizations were seeking relief from the dual expense."
MISTAKES HAPPEN: Ahem, the Dallas Morning News gets us wrong in a story about Premiere Transportation Services of Dallas, a 2009 Operator Of The Year Award winner. . .
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BOOKING FACTS: Each year as LCT’s Fact Book lands in mailboxes, this industry seems to love to reengage a healthy mudfight over statistics and numbers, whether it’s total operators in the U.S., profit margins, fleet sizes, or just about any measuring stick applied to the chauffeured transportation industry. . . .
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LCTMAG.COM: We've posted some preview information from our leading industry Fact Book today @ lctmag.com. The 2009-10 Fact Book documents through a statistically valid survey what has happened to the chauffeured transportation industry and how it's holding up during the worst recession since WWII.
Also posted today are findings from the first-ever Limousine Environmental Action Partnership benchmark green vehicles survey, and advice from LCT Publisher Sara Eastwood-McLean on navigating through difficult times.
The 2009-10 Fact Book also features the first-ever comprehensive snapshot of the charter and tour industry.
Look for more Fact Book highlights next week on all three of our web channels -- TECHNOLOGY, DRIVING GREEN, AND FINANCE & INSURANCE -- and in the Driving Force e-newsletter.
Print Fact Books are being mailed out. . .
LAST MINUTE LIMO PEOPLE: Thanks for all the diligent submissions for LCT's 100 Largest Fleets List; many are coming in with complete insurance and/or vehicle registration information attached. We're planning some new twists to the list this year, including ditching the term "TOP." It was never meant to imply a quality ranking; just quantity. LCT will still accept surveys postmarked May 30 along with early Monday morning fax-n-online stragglers. -- M.R.
LCT’s Top 100 Fleets survey is circulating through the industry as we speak and will be compiled after the May 29 survey deadline. The list will be published in the August issue. Of course, the more accurate the better. So now’s your chance to sound off.
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COMING NEXT WEEK: Coverage of recent decision by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to bar Avis WeDriveU from chauffeured transportation service. Such a major setback for Avis in the limousine industry's largest metro market could be the knockout punch against the WeDriveU business model. See anti-Avis strategies below, courtesy of Joe Jordan, president of the Limousine Association of Houston.
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RANDOM PHOTOS & FACTS: LCT offers a few items and shots from the April 21 Greater California Livery Association's Expo near Los Angeles International Airport.
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Of DUNKIN' DONUTS AND BASKIN ROBBINS! CEO behind iconic American brands to deliver keynote address at premier East Coast industry event. . .
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S.O.S. FOR THE PALATE: What happens when the Chauffeured Sage of Boston stages a food fight at an authentic Italian restaurant in Nancy Pelosi’s “Cali-fone-ia” district?
Last night, between bites of grilled salmone, chicken cacciatore, antipasti, insalate, and spumoni, the Greater California Livery Association got a taste. . .
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LETTER FROM CANADA: Alberta operator and LCT supporter Dave Brodoway recently sent us a message on how he's applying what he learned at the International LCT Show to his operations. It's heartening to see an operator defying recessionary odds and actually gaining market share. . .
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PASSINGS: Our thoughts and prayers are with H.A. Thompson and his family as they mourn the loss of his wife, Lucille. H.A. is founder and owner of Rose Chauffeured Transportation in Charlotte, N.C., a 2008 LCT Operator of the Year Award winner. H.A. has one of the most optimistic and generous personalities in the industry, evident in his seminars, articles, and conversations. H.A. offers a tribute below. . .
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MACRO BLAME: The chauffeured transportation industry may occupy only a small sliver, or niche, of the overall private sector, but what happens among industry behemoths, such as banks, automakers, and financial institutions, often directly affects the fortunes of everyone from operators/owners to chauffeur/entrepreneurs. So it's important to maintain an accurate perspective of WHY the domestic and global economies are oozing away faster than a California mudslide. It also helps to point fingers at
WHO AND WHAT CAUSED THIS. -- M.R.
EXCELLENCE EXTRAORDINAIRE: I had the privilege of re-presenting the 2009 LCT Association Award of Excellence (Association of the Year) to the board members of the Greater California Livery Association last night before their first meeting of the year. LCT first announced the award during its annual gala in Las Vegas on Jan. 27, with GCLA President Alan Shanedling accepting it then. This was an honor long overdue. A panel of judges from the NLA Liasion Committee selected the GCLA from a group of three finalists that also included the Limousine Association of Houston and the Georgia Limousine Association.
Last night, the award was presented for the benefit of the membership which turned out in force at the Proud Bird restaurant near LAX. The GCLA stands at the cutting edge of industry advocacy in that it represents operators in the state with the most chauffeured transportation activity, and a state with a government that serves up operators with some of the most formidable regulatory and legislative hassles in the nation. California is often labeled a trrendsetter, and that certainly is the case with the GCLA; its success sets a model standard for other industry associations nationwide in advancing regulatory fairness and warding off crippling taxes, fees, and bureaucratic policies. Congratulations to the GCLA as the chauffeured transportation industry faces one of the toughest years in decades in a state with one of the most incompetent and wasteful governments. -- M.R.
LIMO IT UP, SURVIVORS: The latest post-Show figures from LCT Magazine reveal more than 2,300 attendees registered for the 2009 International LCT Show held Jan. 26-28 in Las Vegas. 62% pre-registered, while 38% pleasantly surprised us on the spot. Attendees hailed from 47 states and 28 nations.
As a staff, we couldn't be more thrilled with such solid turnout. Yes, it's down compared to last year. But then there has been an economic and political sea change since then, and given a media-fueled Depressionesque debacle, such turnout at our show should be considered phenomenal. The ILCT Show also hosted 94 exhibitors on 100,000 square feet of trade show floor space. What's more, consider that the 2,300 registrants come from an overall smaller pool of industry participants than what existed in March 2008. It goes without saying that there has been at least a nominal contraction in chauffeured transportation. So once LCT Magazine gets the latest nationwide operator total from our Fact Book survey, we'll know the true ratio of success.
Best of All: LCT proves once again that its content and trade show franchise is the dominant, unparalleled player in the chauffeured transportation industry worldwide. For us, that's sure easy to digest. -- M.R.
STAY TUNED: The annual LCT Fact Book survey will be coming out pretty soon, and we look forward to reading operator statistics and comments. There will be a few changes this year on the questionnaire:
- Not just how many fleet vehicles do you have, but how many are owned, leased, and/or exclusive independent contractor vehicles
- New questions about your green vehicles and practices
- Revised fleet and market segment questions to cover corporate meetings and events, motorcoaches, minibuses, bachelor/bachlorette parties, and limo/party buses
- Not just do you use the Internet for marketing, but more details on how this is done
We also ask if you're doing any commercials on local cable TV channels. You never see chauffeured transportation companies doing TV spots on major networks during prime time, but if you'd like to see an example of a limousine commercial
scroll down to the bottom of this webpage and take a look at how Silk Limousine in Elmira, N.Y., markets its services. -- J.L.
ILCT SHOW: Jim Luff shares fond memories from the 2009 International LCT Show. Exhausting, but well worth it.
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AN LCT SHOW GREEN MOMENT: A green operator told me about two products he's looking into:
microGreen Oil Filter (which reduces maintenance costs and improves fuel efficiency) and
Blade (a tailpipe filter that reduces emissions). It's an interesting facet of a green program - it's not just buying a hybrid or using less paper in your office. There are more aftermarket products on the market now that can reduce your CO2 emissions, extend your mileage capacity, and improve performance. Exclusive Sedan Service in North Hollywood, Calif., has been getting good results using Blade. Another interesting note: Travelocity has created a
Green Directory, which features environmentally-friendly hotels and destinations, a listing of possible green marketing alliances for your company. -- J.L.
DOOM AND GLOOM WAS NOT IN THE ROOM. LCTers are back from the International LCT Show, which given the circumstances, surprised even the skeptics. . .
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BUS SHOWCASE: Buses were the center of attention on the show floor at this week's International LCT Show.
Galaxy Coach, based in Santa Ana, Calif., participated for the first time and showed off a mini coach designed to look like a medium-sized motorcoach. And nearly every coachbuilder/manufacturer had some sort of bus to exhibit, especially shuttles and mini buses built on Freightliner, Ford, and GMC chassis. These will usually hold 25 to 35 passengers, and several have been designed as party/limo buses. Operators expanding into buses are getting attention in the press - from LCT (now called Limousine, Charter & Tour - read more about it later today in Driving Force) and from newspaper reports.
Reston Limousine Service, based in Sterling, Va., is good at promoting its bus marketing programs. Bus business was a subject of high interest at this year's LCT Show, and it will continue to grow. -- J.L.
ILCT UPDATE: Two hours ago, the winners of this year's LCT awards were announced.
In the 1-10 vehicle category: Leader Chauffeur Services, Kansas City, Mo., Bruce Heinrich
11-30 vehicles: Corporate Transportation Solutions, Sacramento, Calif., Chris Quinn
31-50 vehicles: Premier Transportation, Dallas, Eric Devlin
51+ vehicles: International Limousine Service, Washington, D.C., Richard Kane
Association of the year: Greater California Livery Association
For the marketing awards, Leros Point to Point won three while finishing in the top three finalists for the 51+ vehicle category.
Day two of the LCT Show went through smoothly. The atmosphere has been very positive, which has been great to see given the economic downturn pressures. Exhibitors were more than pleased that operators came to their booths to do business. While there were less this year than last year, those in attendance are here to understand their equipment purchasing options, and to network with each other. Most operators and exhibitors sent less people this year to save money and keep work flowing back at the home office. Operators have found the same to be true for customers, especially corporate accounts who might only need three cars instead of six for a staff meeting. -- J.L.
VEGAS BABY: Less people are in attendance than last year, but for the ones who showed up, they're serious about doing business. There are less operators here, but the exhibit hall is packed with coachbuilders, buses, tech services, insurance, finance, etc. And for the operators in attendance, there's a lot of networking and serious discussions about what's going on in their market. Except for rare exceptions, the operators that we've talked to are down 30% to 40% in revenue right now, and some down about 50%. This all hit the fan in late November/early December. Scott Solombrino gave his usual dark and serious economic warnings and motivational tips during his keynote speech. For the operators and suppliers in attendance, the mood is mainly upbeat and positive. They're glad to see each other and have a lot of hope that their businesses will make it through this dark time. In other news, Ron Sorci, CFO of Aventura Worldwide, was elected president of the NLA, and Richard Kane is taking on the first vice president role. -- J.L.
2009 INTERNATIONAL LCT SHOW: We're off to the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas for the 25th annual LCT trade show and conference, the largest and most valuable chauffeured transportation business event in the world. We are expecting you there. Four out of every 10 attendees register onsite, so there are plenty of mintues left to make the correct last-minute decision: SHOW UP AT THE SHOW.
The airline tickets are cheap, the Vegas hotels have cut room rates, and everyone is looking for a good deal and a good time. Don't follow the crowd: Act like it's 1999, not 2009. And who knows -- the ideas and insights offered at the show may keep your business running until. . . 2019?
We'll also be unveiling a new LCT, with hundreds of copies of our historic, keepsake February 2009 issue being distributed on the show floor. Show up and learn about the exciting plans and future ahead for the LCT franchise, and why you need to be a part of it.
Finally, we'll post a blog item or two from the show, but then mabye we won't. After all, if the whole industry is there networking and connecting, who needs to be reading a blog? But we'll have plenty of posts and breaking news upon our return on Thursday, Jan. 29. Keep those limos, sedans, SUVs, and buses on the move. -- M.R.
INAUGURAL UPDATE: 10,000 buses stretching across 85 miles... 5,000 portable toilets... $8,249 for a seat at the swearing-in ceremony being sold by an online broker.
Click here to read more stats from Reuters on yesterday's extravaganza.
FACTS & RUMORS: The editors and event staff at LCT are practically breathless with amusement over industry rumors about how our show is tanking, cratering, plummeting -- just fill in your hysterical verb -- because of the recessionary economy. So far, we've heard such whoppers as "Only 400 people are coming and Krystal has pulled out!" or "I hear people are bailing right and left!" or "The show is being cut back!" Well, how about, "Limos are falling from the sky and landing on the Venetian!" (OK, we made that last one up).
OH, PLEASE. Enough, now. These industry moronics must stop. We're seeing a belated uptick, or SURGE, in registrations that should yield a respectable, if not outright successful, turnout considering the bleak and challenging global economic circumstances. Bottom line: This show will lack nothing.
FACT: We're rapidly approaching 100 exhibitors/suppliers
FACT: All major coachbuilders and livery vehicle makers will be there
FACT: About 40% of attendees register on site and/or same day.
FACT: Networking events, educational sessions, trade show floor hours, amenities -- all the same or better as last year
FACT: January shows get later registrations because so many people procrastinate until after the holidays
FACT: Our Show is sandwiched between the Presidential Inauguration and the Super Bowl
FACT: Wanna survive the recession? Better hitch your star to the strong horse: LCT & ILCT.
DETROIT ROCK CITY: Hybrids and electrics are the center of attention at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Environmental Leader
put together a summary of green offerings, including the Honda Insight, Chevrolet Volt, 3rd generation Toyota Prius, and Ford's plans for upcoming model years. The Big 3 (especially GM) have been emphasizing hybrids and AFVs in its media coverage and promotions, as have major foreign automakers (especially Honda, Toyota, and Mercedes Benz). When the alt-fuel vehicle movement began right after federal environmental legislation was adopted in 1990, it was full speed ahead until the mid-1990s, when affordable gas prices and the mass market production and discount offerings of pickups and SUVs took over Detroit and moved Toyota and other automakers in that direction. It's more than ironic to see Detroit and the global auto industry in an economic vice grip, but this time, green vehicle offerings are the primary focus. -- J.L.
HEADS UP: LCT Magazine breaks new ground in the February issue with its "Class of 2009" Operator of the Year finalists. Be sure to check out the one-page profiles and scene-setter photos of each finalist. Four of these 12 will walk away Tuesday, Jan. 27 with. . . .
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And Limo Operators? About 3,500 attendees are expected to show up this week at the Charlotte Convention Center for the American Bus Association's annual Marketplace event. This is the first time Charlotte, N.C. will host this event in Marketplace's 28 year history. The attendee numbers are very similar to what's expected in less than three weeks at the
International LCT Show. The ABA expects attendance to be down a bit but good given that recessionary pressures have increased on operators very recently, as they have in chauffeured transportation. Operators will send less people this year but they're not going to bail out. The benefits of making the trip are there now more than ever, as is the chance to get out of the office and blow off some steam. -- J.L.
Registering before the end of December for the International LCT Show will save you $80, which gives you a few more bucks for holiday gifts. We're looking forward to connecting with operators, coachbuilders, tech companies, insurance and finance companies, and association officers. A big chuck of attendees are coming from other countries. These are highly stressful times for the industry - all the more reason to attend and get reinvigerated, educated, and well networked with affiliates and suppliers. We'll see you soon - this is happening Jan. 26-28.
Read all about it and register soon.
TV STARS: Limousine operators do a ton of charitable volunteer work in this country. They tend to be quite pleased, as do their staff, with reactions they get from community members who adore getting free limo rides. The ABC show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" provides you with a very good opportunity to add to an experience that people will love and never forget. You'll feel good about it and many times will get publicity.
Local papers love to cover the stories, and you can mention this in your own company news and websites.
If interested, you can email the show's management. Looking forward to hearing all about it. -- J.L.
AND THE WINNER IS: Being nominated for, and winning, awards offers excellent publicity opportunities for operators. You'll see press releases launched on companies getting the nod from LCT Magazine and Limousine Digest. Another good opportunity is winning local business newspaper awards. Ultimate Class Limousine once again won the Long Island Business News award for
Best Limousine Firm. US Limousine and M&V Limousines were runners up. And for the seventh year in a row, Greene Classic Limousines has won the
Atlanta Business Chronicle award for top ranked local operator. How do you win these awards? Apply for them, as you would for LCT's Operator of the Year, and do a complete, professional job. Think of it as submitting for a corporate contract. -- J.L.
NO HOPE LEFT FOR LIVERY? The Obama-inaugural-mania appears to have consumed available chauffeur and livery vehicle services in the greater Washington, D.C. area. A
DCExaminer.com article interviews Richard Kane, CEO of International Limousine Service of Washington, D.C., and Richard Alexander, owner of RMA Limousine in Rockville, Md., about the avalanche of requests for high-end luxury vehicles. That's good for chauffeured transportation, but politically speaking, does anyone from the incoming Obama adminstration or its ranks of supporters care to pedal into D.C. on a bike? Wouldn't that be making a positive green statement? For a political clique that seems so serious about going green, they sure don't hesitate to ride around in the black. -- M.R.
WEB TREND: Online social networking has become a big deal - for making business and personal contacts, getting the inside scoop on news stories and market trends, promoting your business, learning more about solutions to complex problems, and other good reasons for getting involved. In chauffeured transportation,
In the Left Lane and the
Limos.com forum, are active locations for people in the industry to make good use of their time online. LCT's Events department has just set up two online group discussions to promote its upcoming International LCT Show and to give those attending an early bird start for networking and connecting before going to Vegas to meet each other. One is through
Facebook and the other through
Linkedin. Online networking takes up more time for busy people, but its value increases every day.
COUNTDOWN TO THE TOP TWELVE. . . In about 24 hours, the industry will learn the finalists for the 2009 LCT Operator of the Year Awards. Aside from being the leading awards in the chauffeured transportation industry, winning one means an operator has finally arrived. Past winners use the awards to tremendous marketing effect -- an inestimable asset during a recession -- and serve as experts and leaders in the industry. Four of the 12 finalists announced tomorrow will become Operators of the Year after a panel of six judges scores all finalists in the following business categories: 1) staff/chauffeur training; 2) Industry and community involvement; 3) Use of technology; 4) Customer service; 5) Safety performance; 6) Media and marketing.
The finalists will be announced on Driving Force, LCT's weekly e-newsletter, on Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 12, and will be posted on www.lctmag.com. Operators of the Year will be divulged and celebrated on Tuesday night, Jan. 27, 2009, at the annual LCT Awards Gala at the International LCT Show at the Venetian Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.
COMING WEDNESDAY: Who are the TOP TWELVE for 2009? Look for the 2009 LCT Operator of the Year finalists to be announced Wednesday on Driving Force, LCT Magazine's weekly e-newsletter. Three finalists in four categories -- 1) 1-10 vehicles; 2) 11-30 vehicles; 3) 31-50 vehicles; 4) 51+ vehicles -- will be named as contestants for the most prestigious and widely recognized awards in the limousine and chauffeured transportation industry. Each finalist will be profiled in the February 2009 issue of LCT Magazine and recognized at LCT's annual Awards Gala at the International LCT Show 2009 in Las Vegas on the night of Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009. The FINAL FOUR winners will be revealed at the banquet.
DIGEST THIS: While we won't publish the state of the industry presentation from the recent Limousine Digest Show in the pages of LCT Magazine, we just can't resist spinning a speech given by two LCT advisory board members and then scooping our competitor. . . .
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LIMOUSINE DIGEST SHOW: Say, what? Limousine Digest mentioned on an LCT blog? Call it the unthinkable, but LCT Editor Martin Romjue traversed the annual trade show and conference at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, N.J. this week. While the two trades have been swapping complimentary staff convention passes for years, neither tends to write about the other. Let's just say LCT Magazine is secure enough in its limousculinity to take a risk and report on its competitor's show. . .
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National Limousine Association President Richard Kane emailed out this letter to the industry asking for financial support donations for operators in Houston and Baton Rouge, La., impacted by Hurricanes Ike and Gustav.
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IS IT A CONTROVERSY YET? LCT Magazine Editor Martin Romjue addresses the latest industry kerfuffle which is now referred to as simply, “The Pole Factor.” Please click on. . .
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Here are a few to look at, and stay tuned for an upcoming issue of LCT Magazine, with lots of show photos, and coverage of the first-ever Green Fleet event.
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FOURTH-ANNUAL EVENT HELD ITS OWN: Despite economic setbacks and operator fears, the LCT Eastern Conference scored a coup of sorts: More than 600 attendees. Given the challenging circumstances, that figure points to a lot of hope and optimism. While plenty of operators nationwide are taking some business hits, many of the operators at LCT East reported either flat or rising revenues. The trade show floor maintained steady traffic throughout the event, and the seminars this year served up specific, targeted information for improving operations and finding new ways to pursue markets and make more money. (NOTE: Obviously, these observations were made, and conversations held, before Monday's horrific global market meltdown).
Key industry trends crystallized at the show: 1) Unprecendented regulatory and political challenges on the horizon; 2) fast-moving acceptance and demand for greener vehicles; 3) a recognition of the central role that online marketing, media, and communications will play in future chauffeured industry marketing and transactions.
Based on attendee behavior, we concluded the networking and social functions were a success. LCT-sponsored events repeatedly prove to be the most relaxed, informative, and creative networking "portals" for savvy 21st Century chauffeured transportation operators. See you at International LCT Show 2009 in Las Vegas. -- M.R.
I'm in my hotel room right now in Chicago, getting ready for Green Fleet tomorrow and Tuesday. I'ven been watching news coverage of the Texas hurricane, hoping for the best and wondering how operators I know are doing right now. Probably in another city waiting to drive back to Houston and sift through the damage. Galveston was drenched in flooding and other areas hit including Lake Charles, Louisiana. Here in Chicago, we've been drenched in rain, connected to the hurricane. Streets have been flooded out; I went to interview Sal Milazzo, one of the Windy City Limousine owners, this morning at their sharp looking new HQ. Some of the streets have been completely flooded out, so we had to take an alternate route to the office.
LCT East went well. A few less people than last year - about 600 this time. But the ones who made it are doing well and were glad to be there. Operators love to hang out with each other and talk shop, no matter how busy and crazy their work days can be. And it was great to be at the Mohegan Sun again. We'll cover LCT East more this week, and Green Fleet, here in LimoLicious, and in the November issue of the magazine. --Jon LeSage
The Twycross Zoo in Lorain, Ohio, wanted to thank six local limousine operators for providing rides to disabled kids from the Saxon Hiss Special Needs School. The kids were very excited to ride in limos and visit animals. The zoo's website
covered the event with a photo to get the word out on something very positive being given to the community.
Steve Mallen, Owner of Select Chauffeurs said, "I am really grateful to All Star American Limousines, Capital Limousines, Heartbeat Limousines, Home James Cars, and Special Occasion Cars for their support, by providing their limousines free of charge. We are also grateful to Brownhills Glass for kindly sponsoring the entrance costs. Without their help I would not have been able to take so many children for the trip to Twycross Zoo."
There's a lot coming up very soon: LCT East at the Mohegan Sun, and then right after that, I'll be flying over to Chicago to attend the first-ever
Green Fleet Conference. I'm looking forward to learning more about the fuel and vehicle options that affect operators and will be covering it online and in LCT Magazine. Green Fleet is being put on by Automotive Fleet, a sister publication here at Bobit Business Media. It will mostly be made up of corporate and government fleet managers and auto manufacturers and suppliers promoting their green programs. This should be good - I used to cover that industry and know that fleet managers have been bringing alternative-fuel vehicles into their fleets since the early 1990s and have a lot of experience with every thing you can think about: CNG and LNG, propane, hybrids, hybrid electric, hydrogen fuel cell, ethanol, and in the '90s - methanol. I can't wait - maybe I'll see you there.
-- Jon LeSage
If you're transporting clients next week to the Republican convention and they ask you about sightseeing during downtime, you might want to take them to
CivicFest, which shows off the history of the presidency, democracy, and Minnesota. A selling point: you get to see a real, historic presidential limousine. CivicFest runs August 29 through September 4 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
Read on for information on booking and getting a discount through today, and Mohegan Sun room rates. We're all very much looking forward to attending the 4th annual LCT Eastern Conference.
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TRANSPROTECTION: One of LCT's first Canadian OOY finalists was
profiled recently in the Calgary Herald, a newspaper in Calgary, Alberta where
Transprotection Security Services is based. Owner Judy McBride, pictured here with LCT Publisher Sara McLean, ranked among three finalists for the first-ever Canadian Operator of the Year Award that was announced at the LCT Canada Conference July 20-21 in Toronto. The OOY award went to Global Alliance of Toronto, owned by Joe Ironi, with McBride and Craig McKutcheon of Rosedale Livery Ltd. of Toronto as finalists.
One minor correction: The article incorrectly mentions that McBride was chosen among 100 entries; there actually were about 100 ATTENDEES at the conference, but the three finalists were chosen from a much smaller pool of actual Canadian ENTRIES to the OOY Awards.
Congratulations to Judy McBride and her unique, high-end chauffeured transportation concept.
The
Concours d'Elegance in Pebble Beach is usually considered the most pristine, well orchestrated annual display of classic, vintage vehicles fully restored and shown off. This Monterey County Herald news story offers a photo slide show and video, if you're interested. Some of these classics sell for millions of dollars, and get sold for more dollars later. Classic cars have been growing in popularity in this country, and some of our readers have a few in their fleets - perfect for weddings and other special occasions.
Working the Democratic and Republican conventions is like having the Super Bowl in your city. You can make a lot of revenue and gain new clients, but you can also face a lot of problems. This is one of the main reasons operators should join state limousine associations. Officers and members from the Limousine Association of Colorado and the Minnesota Chauffeured Transportation Association have attended organizing sessions put on by convention planners and government agencies involved with the upcoming Democratic convention (Denver, Aug. 25-28) and the Republican convention (Minneapolis-St. Paul, Sept. 1-4). The associations are quite clear on state and federal transportation rules that control the events, and can negotiate with local government to resolve problems before they happen and inform members on what needs to be done to get through the conventions successfully.
LOOKING FOR LIMOS: The impending limousine deficit at the Democratic National Convention serves as grist for a lot of ridicule and blogger Schadenfreude. . . .
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LCT Managing Editor Jon LeSage is looking forward to attending
Green Fleet Conference 2008, which is happening right after LCT East: Sept. 15-16 at Hyatt Regency Chicago. Participants will include corporate and government fleet managers, auto manufacturer fleet sales and marketing teams, and green vehicle associations. Topics include saving money in operating costs, ways to make your facility eco-friendly, and a preview of upcoming green fleet vehicles. This first-ever event is being sponsored by partner publications at Bobit Business Media including Automotive Fleet. The conference presents a great opportunity for LCT to become more knowledgeable about the products, market trends, regulations, and fleet management issues that our readers very much care about. Visit the website to learn more and get info on registering and attending the event, if interested. You can also let Jon know about the fact that you'll be there by emailing him at jon@lctmag.com.
Websites for companies in the hospitality industry are getting better and better. And if you're thinking about attending LCT East Sept. 11-12, or just looking for a great place to stay, visit the Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino
website. This site was completely revamped and upgraded this year, and really stands out. As we've written about in LimoLicious and LCT Magazine, having a memorable, highly usable website is more important now than ever.
It isn't just about winning an award - being a finalist can offer great promotion to operators who end up in the top three. TransProtection Security Services was very recently named a finalist at the Canadian Operator of the Year awards dinner in Toronto. Read on for the company's press release and staff photo.
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Most operators buy used fleet vehicles to lower their acquisition costs - Town Cars and Cadillacs, stretch limos, vans, SUVs, and buses. This inspired LCT to start up the
Car Consignment Corral at the upcoming LCT Eastern Conference. This will be an outdoor used vehicle display and a chance for operators and dealers to buy and sell. Should be fun, and a good opportunity. And it's another reason to attend the 5th annual LCT East at the popular Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, Conn.
The 40th annual National Business Travel Association (NBTA) convention is happening right now in Los Angeles, and LCT editors are attending.
Click here to read all about it - speakers, seminars, press releases, etc. EmpireCLS put out a press release on its green program, and there are other announcements to look at.
It's coming right up again: the 5th annual LCT Eastern Conference at the Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino in Uncasville, Conn. The LCT Events department has just put out this press release with information on the two-tier conference line-up, designed for small and start-up operators and larger fleets.
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Ontario Association: It was great for LCT editors to meet officers and members of the Ontario Limousine Owners Association, who were in attendance this week at LCT Canada. Some of these people have been well known (Craig McCutcheon and Joe Ironi) and other officers were met for the first time (Casey Jason and Phil Bozzelli).
Click here to visit the association website, see a list of officers and board members, read the Official Limousine rental guide for Ontario, view a list of sponsors, and other info. This is the biggest industry association in Canada, and does a lot of service work for members.
LCT editors took pictures of Canadian attendees, speakers, Canadian Operator of the Year award nominees and winner, and other cool stuff. If you want to see more photos and read more about LCT Canada, look forward to the upcoming September issue. For now, here are a few...
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LCT CANADA was a feast for a foodie. Learn some new menu terms to impress those chauffeured luxury clients. . .
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BACK FROM TORONTO, Martin Romjue, editor of LCT Magazine, sounds off on the first-ever LCT Canada event and confronts those questions that could drive one to drink . . .
(PHOTOS ON THE WAY THURSDAY AND FRIDAY)
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WE'RE BACK: Jim Luff shares his "behind the scene" experiences from LCT Canada. Our conference for Canadian operators was filled with surprises starting with a 5:00 a.m. hotel fire.
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ECB LAYOFFS: Executive Coach Builders of Springfield, Mo., recently laid off 33 employees, although 25 may return to work soon, according to a report in the
Springfield News-Leader newspaper. The coachbuilder employs 200 workers. The layoffs also were mentioned on a country music
station website in Springfield. ECB, to be profiled in LCT's August issue, is the second-largest coachbuilder worldwide and has reported strong sales the first half of this year. But the latest economic negatives -- Fannie & Freddie wobbles, higher inflation, gas prices, and stock market declines -- are taking their toll on business across the transportation industry. One veteran industry operator says the downturn is the worst in three decades. All the more reason to get aggressive, creative, and adaptive.
The National Business Travel Association's annual convention and exposition is coming right up: July 27-30 in Los Angeles. We've been told about 30 chauffeured transportation companies will be exhibiting during the trade show and more will be walking the floor. This is a great opportunity for meeting key corporate travel decision makers.
Visit the website to learn more and register, if interested. Speakers include Alan Greenspan, Alec Baldwin, and Craig Ferguson. Sounds quite entertaining.
OH CANADA: The LCT staff hits the road later this week for our first Canadian Operators conference. Jim Luff discusses the value of attending industry shows and shares his excitement about this show.
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Contributing editor Jim Luff shares his perspective in a behind-the-scenes look at LCT's annual planning session, business meeting, and team building.
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JUNE GCLA MEETING: One of the leading concerns among operators at the June Greater California Livery Association meeting near LAX is the prevalence of illegal operators in California. One operator along the Central Coast reported counting about 25 illegal limousine and sedan operators in his local phone book.
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YOU GOTTA BE IN PICTURES: We hear that blog visitors love to see nice photos of themselves, associates, friends, and people they've met before - with big smiles and colorful backgrounds. Thanks very much to Create-A-Card for shooting and sending out these photos, and to Valera Global for taking some fine ones on Bob Mackasek's new camera. Leadership Summit is a popular event - take a look and see why, along with listening to some Caribbean background music.
GCLA AGENDA: A lot of ground was covered and many issues highlighted at the monthly Greater California Livery Association meeting last night near LAX, but as is often the case at such events, the cocktail conversation proves more insightful and delicious. We will get to the serious stuff a bit later so we can troll through the Hollywood goodies gutter first.
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MEETINGS, MEETINGS, MEETINGS: Jim Luff on why he spends four hours on the road just to attend GCLA meetings. As he says, "there just is no substitution for face to face development of friendships over a glass of wine."
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Wanna seem some
good photos from the last LCT Eastern Conference? The next one is coming up soon, Sept. 11-12, if you want
more details. And before that, the first ever
LCT Canada is happening. We are looking forward to both!
SOUTH BEACH RETRO COOL: As the LCT staff peruses the pictures from the Leadership Summit this week, there is one that stands out: LCT Publisher Sara McLean and Alexander Rhalimi, president and CEO of
Casablanca Coach Chauffeured Transportation Worldwide of Boston.
Seems as if Alex best captured the Miami style and spirit this week among the 100-plus attendees during the opening night luau at the Ritz-Carlton South Beach.
Look for a profile on Alex and his company in a future issue of LCT Magazine.
Here are a few of the interesting tips and pointers we heard during LCT Leadership Summit...
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SUCCESSFUL SUMMIT: We took plenty of photos at the LCT Leadership Summit in Miami Beach and wrote down lots of names. To see a sampling from a two-page hot-shot spread in the upcoming August issue of LCT, please click below. (We'll contact you if we have a photo worth some blackmail). Enjoy. . .
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GIVE US MORE MIAMI HEAT: "Do we really have to go back? Can't we stay longer? Why can't we make it a week?" LCT Editor Martin Romjue sounds off on the industry's premiere event.
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Well, we're finally back from LCT Leadership Summit and ready to post some more LimoLicious! Operators loved the Ritz Carlton South Beach, seminars, beach volleyball and WaveRunner rides, and festive outings to Lucky Strike, Mansion night club, and dinner at Mango's Tropical Cafe. We've presented a few of the photos here for you to see - more coverage will come out soon.
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JIM LUFF SAYS: "Anyone who has spent any time in this business knows that when you run a 24/7 operation, the hands on the clock mean nothing. The phone can ring at any hour." Luff talks about how important it is to vacation and "completely unplug and get away from it all."
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Classic limousines, hearses, and ambulances are historically documented and shown off for crowds by the Professional Car Society. And the organization is packed with upcoming events. Did you know that the Alexander & Royalty Funeral Home is hosting its 9th Annual Ice Cream Social and Volunteer Chapter Meet on June 6-7 in Harrodsburg, KY?
Click here to see colorful, historic photos and find out what else is happening in this professional community.
FRENCH FANCIES: While we're wallowing in all things French today, here is another reason why the American limousine and livery industry owes some allegiance to the descendants of Lafayette and De Gaulle. Check out the
origin of the limousine.
Marci Shimoff is a keynote speaker at this year’s LCT Leadership Summit, which takes place June 1-3 at the Ritz-Carlton South Beach in Miami. Her bestselling book, Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out, immediately soared to #1 on many national bestseller lists including Amazon and Barnes and Noble.com, and has debuted at #2 on The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal bestseller lists. She's also a featured teacher in the international film and book sensation, The Secret. Click here for more information on Marci and the other dynamic speakers at the up-and-coming Leadership Summit. You can also register for the Summit on this website - if interested, sign up soon, as the maximum number of operators that can attend is filling up.
If you've never done it before, attending the NLA's once-a-year Day on the Hill is a thing of wonder. You get to walk through underground tunnels to meet with members of Congress and their key staffmembers... you get to smell and feel the history of the country's legislative center... you'll feel like you're making a difference informing decision makers about issues of great concern to chauffeured transportation companies. Go the
NLA website for details and a registration form.
Just in case you were planning on attending this show from the U.S., or have other reasons to go to Canada: "Effective January 31, 2008 U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers will no longer accept oral declarations of U.S. or Canadian citizenship from those traveling by land or sea," according to Consular Services at the U.S. Mission in Canada. To read more, visit this
website.
Have you ever heard of LCT Canada? If the answer is no, that might be because it's brand new. LCT Canada's first-ever conference is coming up July 20-21, 2008, at Toronto Hilton. This 2-day conference will feature educational seminars with topics such as Canada's governmental incentives for the industry, business basics, marketing, green fleets, and more. Toronto-based Rosedale Livery Ltd. is an official sponsor. LCT's event department has started a new website for the conference -
click here to visit.
ELABORATE ENVIRONS: A recent limousine trade show in the United Kingdom sponsored by the British trade magazine, The Chauffeur, did not match the all-inclusive International LCT Show 2008 in size and attention, but it did put itself on the map with flair.
A popular attraction at the show was the gallery of large limo party mobiles, all tricked out with other-worldly interiors full of colors and lights. These limousines make livery fun, and provide an escapist form of on-the-road entertainment. We hope this segment of the LCT industry remains viable and prospers. Such vehicles add diversity and a dash of daring to an industry that should never allow itself to become drab. Click on this link and scroll down to click on: View our pictures of luxurious limousine interiors to see the full gallery.
We at LCT believe the tricked out mega-limos are perfect for all types of events and rentals beyond the traditional bachelor and bachelorette parties, and could provide opportunities for new clients: 1) children’s birthday parties; 2) bar mitzvahs and bat mitzvahs; 3) high school football and basketball games; 4) youth “road-trip” slumber parties (pick-up everyone in pajamas and ride around for the evening); 5) graduation service; 6) rock concert trips; 7) a "reward ride" for good school report cards.
Keeping kids occupied and away from a steering wheel is an all-around winner for everyone. Elaborate limousines not only make that possible, but also keep it real, cool, rad, hip, etc.
-- posted by Martin Romjue
WHO’S LOOKING OUT FOR YOU? The keynote speaker at the Greater California Livery Association Expo in Orange, Ca., on April 15 could have qualified as a stand-up comic, a motivational speaker, or even a ball-park heckler.
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Here are some of the memorable moments from today, Day One of the International LCT Show at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas:
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PROGRAMMING NOTE: The LCT staff and bloggers will all be at the ILCT Show 2008 in Las Vegas March 16-19. We may have a few posts from the Show of any breaking news, but we'll each be sure to post our Show roundups on Thursday, March 20 when we return. We hope to see many of you there. Feel free to bend our ears, drop us a few lines, send some e-mails, leave a few messages, pull up in a limo and chat. . . whatever it takes it keep us in the loop.
The countdown has begun to… the International LCT Show, coming up next week. As we editors prepare to attend and cover this action-packed event, several scheduled programs stand out:
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Brandan and Ron Stein (pictured left to right), owners of Exclusive Sedan Service in North Hollywood, Calif., know how to have a great staff meeting. Winners of the Operators of the Year award last year, the Steins love to work hard and blow off some steam surfing at some of Southern California's finest beaches. Kowabunga!