What We’re Looking Forward to at ILCT Show 2008

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:

NYC “Green” Rules Increase Interest on the Subject:    There will be two seminars this year especially relevant to those affected by New York’s upcoming fleet regulations. During “Ford's Sustainability Initiatives,” Jim Murray and Doug Walczak of Ford Motor Co. will give details on what’s happening with the manufacturer in flex fuel, advanced diesel technology, hybrid (e.g., Mariner Hybrid Livery package), plug-in hybrids, and fuel cells. In “Equipment Marketing: How to Sell Green,” Stephen Qua, Company Car & Limousine will lead a discussion on the topic with Y Fray of ECOLIMO, Craig McCutcheon of Rosedale Livery Limited, and Justin Raymond of Green Ride Global. This seminar will outline everything you need to put in place – in addition to the vehicles – to promote and sell "green" chauffeured transportation service profitably.   

Summit: State and International:    There will be more international operators attending this year than ever. Limousine association presidents and NLA members from outside North America are being encouraged to participate. Operators have wanted to build a global networking opportunity for a long time; this should be interesting since  chauffeured transportation offers vast opportunities in developing countries as global wealth flows across borders and grows.

Lively Keynote Speakers:    Vince Poscente presents “Life in the Fast Lane: Transform Your Workplace Performance!” How can an operator find the inner strength to get motivated when facing a tough, stressful, and competitive business environment? Learn how to ignite your passion about your life, your business, and the choices you make.

In “Going Beyond the Obstacles: The Art of Getting What You Want,” Francine Ward talks about overcoming adversity after having battled drug addiction and homelessness, and how she turned her life around by creating a life regimen that anyone can live by. Ward's philosophy is simple, but profound: set a goal for where you want to be, create a plan for making it happen, don't let obstacles get you down, ask for help along the way, and baby step your way to success.

Family Business Transition – How to Pass the Baton:    This panel – composed of business family members – will share how the baton of leadership has been passed (is being passed) in their limousine companies.  Whether you imminently are poised to turn over the helm of your company to offspring or your children taking command is still years away, you will be better off for hearing these insights. Rick Brown of La Costa Limousine will moderate. The panelists include: Jon Epstein, Royal Coachman Worldwide; Brandon Stein and Ron Stein, Exclusive Sedan Service of North Hollwyood, Ca.; and Scott Tinkler of Aventura Worldwide Transportation in Miami.

Industry Awards Gala:    Everyone who is anyone in the chauffeured transportation industry will join together for an evening of glitz and glamour to celebrate and applaud those who made the greatest contributions to the industry in 2007. The evening includes a cocktail reception, dinner, awards and a live auction.

Award Categories Include:

Association Award of Excellence

Best Direct Mail

Best Sales Brochure

Best Print Advertisement

Best Company Promotional Item

Best Web Site Homepage

And the most prestigious awards in the entire industry. . .

LCT 2008 Operators of the Year