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The CD/NLA Show continues to be the main event for operators and owners in the livery industry, something that we all look forward to this time of year. The 2022 edition of the trade show organized by Chauffeur Driven and the National Limo Association, and sponsored by Ford-Lincoln Livery Vehicles and Volvo, was no exception. Held in the luxurious Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, this year’s show was also bolstered by fresh energy. 

“It was crystal clear that the industry was more than ready to get back together after two years away, and we can’t thank you enough for your enthusiasm for the event.”

Chauffeur Driven, April 2022 

What Was on Program for 2022? 

Like every year, the most recent CD/NLA Show included a great lineup of educational sessions, networking opportunities, vendor expos, and social events.  

Learning 

It’s no surprise that attendees to the livery trade event were eager to get advice and share ideas about how to face the biggest challenges impacting the industry these days. Educational and training sessions touching on how to improve business, deal with rising gas prices, and find reliable drivers in the midst of a labor shortage were well attended. Here’s a short list of the sessions offered and topics covered: 

  • State of the Industry Discussion moderated by CD President Chris Weiss  
  • Recruiting and Retaining Top Performers 
  • How to Prepare to Buy or Sell a Company 
  • Sales Strategies for 2022 
  • Pros and Cons of Expanding with Retail Work 
  • Latest Fleet Vehicle Options on the Market 
  • Importance of Setting Cannabis Policies 

The program of sessions was organized by the CD/NLA Education Committee which is led by Jason Sharenow of Broadway Elite Worldwide and Tracy Raimer of Windy City Limousine & Bus.  

There were also some great opportunities for attendees to brainstorm solutions and discuss challenges. Attendees were invited to participate in the Small Operator Roundtable and Corporate Travel panel discussion and pose questions during the Client Panel session. 

Networking 

Each year the CD/NLA show is a popular livery convention because it is such a good environment to make new connections with other owners and operators. For the March 2022 edition, this was more true than ever. Attendees were really excited to see their old friends and meet new colleagues after not being able to congregate for the past two years due to Covid restrictions

It was clear from the atmosphere, that operators were actively looking to gain new partners and expand their business networks. Here are some of the well-attended networking events that gave operators the chance to shake hands and share business cards: 

  • International Meet & Greet  
  • Affiliate Central Global Partner Forum 
  • Women in the Industry Event 
  • Happy Hours 

Investing 

The energy, excitement and pent-up demand was also evident on the exhibition floor. Participants were eager to learn about the latest technology solutions and vehicles available on the market with the more than 75 livery industry vendors participating on the main show floor. As operators are really looking to replenish their fleet, vehicles were in high demand this year. Participants were eager to see what bus, motorcoach, and OEM exhibitors had to offer with the newest models designed for our industry. 

CD/NLA is also an annual opportunity for owners and operators to invest in growth. Software and digital platforms with the potential to help livery businesses run smoother and leaner attracted a lot of interest. For example, LimoLive21 had three representatives working non-stop for the first two days in Las Vegas as visitors to our booth. The situation was similar for most of our fellow exhibitors too.  

Socializing 

There was no shortage of opportunities to have fun and mingle with industry peers. After long days of learning and networking, participants were ready to kick up their heels. The theme for CD/NLA’s 2022 Opening Night Show Floor Soiree was carnival, featuring live entertainers, acrobats, magicians, fortune tellers, actors, and caricature artists. Attendees had fun snapping pics together in the photo booth. The second night rocked with a Totally Awesome ’80s Party, where everyone dressed up in their favorite 80s-inspired attire and danced to the upbeat deejay set. 

There were also some nice prizes to be won. The winner of the $350 Gift Card Basket drawing was Taral Patel. Taral owns Blue Hen Limousine and is new to the livery industry. The LimoLive24 Current Member Gift Card Basket drawing winner was Kristie Carter of Aadvanced Limousines

Upcoming Livery Industry Conventions & Events 

The industry is definitely in comeback mode and the year is not over yet. Mark your calendars for the following industry appointments: 

Be sure to stop by the LimoLive24 booth to find out how we can help your operations with call management, booking integrations, and upselling. 

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