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- Category: Industry News
The Greater Miami Limousine and Bus Association (GMLBA), a newly formed organization representing the chauffeured transportation industry in Miami, has officially launched.
GMLBA President Oguzhan “Oz” Akgun
Led by industry veteran Oguzhan “Oz” Akgun, founder of Limo Miami, the GMLBA is dedicated to addressing the evolving challenges facing the industry, including regulatory changes, technological advancements, and changing customer expectations.
With a strong membership base of more than 75 operators, suppliers, manufacturers, and affiliates representing over 300 permitted vehicles, the GMLBA is poised to make a significant impact on the local market. The association's inaugural meeting was held on August 13 at The Miami Beach EDITION, and attracted a large turnout, demonstrating the growing demand for such an organization.
Akgun was elected president and brings a wealth of experience and a passion for driving positive change to the GMLBA. In his inaugural address, Akgun emphasized his commitment to advancing the industry and ensuring the highest standards of service. He outlined four key initiatives:
- Advocacy: GMLBA will work closely with local and state governments to advocate for policies that benefit the private car transportation industry, ensuring that members have a strong voice in legislative matters.
- Safety & Compliance: GMLBA will prioritize safety and regulatory compliance by providing members with the latest training techniques and resources, helping them stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape.
- Sustainability: As environmental concerns grow, the association is committed to exploring and implementing sustainable practices within the industry, including the adoption of eco-friendly technologies.
- Professionalism & Education: GMLBA will elevate professionalism by offering continuous educational programs, certification opportunities, and best practices workshops, empowering members to excel in their roles.
The GMLBA is dedicated to informing, educating, and professionalizing its members, ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of the chauffeured transportation sector in Miami.
Visit gmlba.org for more information.
[09.03.24]
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Have a 2024 event that you’d like to share? Let us know! Send an email to susan@chauffeurdriven.com or rob@chauffeurdriven.com and we’ll add your meeting/conference to our list of events in the monthly magazine, in our weekly newsletter, and on our website.
SEPTEMBER
9/17
CLA Breakfast Meeting (Denver)
cololimo.org
ILLBA Coffee With ILLBA (online)
illba.org
LANJ Member Meeting (Princeton)
lanj.org
9/18
PRLA Meeting (King of Prussia)
prlainc.org
9/24
NELA Golf Tournament (Marlborough, Mass.)
nelivery.org
9/30-10/2
TTA Mobilize 2024 (Dallas, Texas)
thetransportationalliance.org
OCTOBER
10/7-10/11
IATR 37th Annual Conference (Fort Lauderdale)
iatr.global
10/13-10/16
CD/NLA Fall Show (Gaylord National/ D.C. Area)
cdnlashow.com
10/22
MLA General Meeting (Baltimore)
mdlimoassoc.org
[09.03.24]
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- Category: Industry News
L to R: Matt Miller from Misty Thunder Limo, David Bastian of Towne Livery, Buster Bison, LBTOUNY President Kevin Barwell of Giorgio's Chauffeured Transportation, and Jimmy and Stephanie Wolf of Chautauqua Limousine
The Limousine, Bus, Taxi Operators of Upstate New York (LBTOUNY) returned to Shalen Field in Buffalo, N.Y. on Tuesday, August 20 for their annual membership meeting/baseball outing. Sponsored by Towne Livery Vehicles, the event welcomed members from throughout the upstate region, along with family and friends, to watch minor leaguers the Buffalo Bisons take on the Omaha Storm Chasers.
“Overall, it was a great night. The outcome of the game could have been nicer if the Bisons had won. But it was a lot of fun to socialize and network. The operators had a chance to step back and discuss the market and where bu 
L to R: James Barwell of Giorgio's Chauffeured Transportation, Ed Reed of Executive Transportation, Mark Chrisifulli of Haylor, Fryer & Coon, and Mike Ziotkowski of Aces Limousine
The meeting was held in a private suite overlooking third base, and the members and guests were treated to a visit by mascot Buster Bison. However, prior to the first pitch, the association had the opportunity to discuss their recent legislative victories and challenges.
“We talked about what we just went through in regard to the Schoharie Accident and everything that followed,” says Barwell. “The state had about 30 different laws that they wanted to enact, and we were able to get 75 percent knocked out. The “sunset” period on limos was probably the biggest one that passed, but you can’t win every battle.”
The Sunset Laws that recently went into effect remove any stretch limousine off the streets after 10 years or 350,000 miles.
“Then, we discussed what we’re going to start looking at in the future—namely, insurance reform. In the upstate region, the rates are becoming astronomical. We have an operator that was told it would be $70K to insure one bus. That’s a death sentence. Upstate, $70K is illogical to stay in business. We’re going to have to raise our rates so high that people won’t use our service. All we’re doing is trying to provide safe transportation to people,” says Barwell.
In the coming weeks, Barwell says the LBTOUNY Board will meet to strategize a plan to introduce insurance issues to state legislators.
“We’ve been fighting significant issues for the past 12 years. Initially, we were fighting stuff related to the bus industry. Then we took on the rideshare companies so we could get an even playing field. Then it was the Schoharie accident—now, it’s insurance,” he says.
Barwell is hopeful that they will get the attention of the state legislators in the coming year.
Visit lbtouny.com for more information.
[08.27.24]