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ABA President & CEO Fred Ferguson
More than 2,800 bus and tour professionals headed to the City of Brotherly Love for the recent 2025 ABA Marketplace, the annual show presented by the American Bus Association (ABA). The four-day event took place February 1-4 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
It also marked the first Marketplace under the guidance of new ABA President & CEO Fred Ferguson, who joined the association last year after the retirement of Peter Pantuso.
“Marketplace was unlike any show I've ever been to,” said Ferguson. “The private motorcoach and group travel industry is composed of a lot of small businesses, most of which are multi-generational, so you have this family feel where everyone knows each other. But Marketplace is also thousands of seven-minute appointments spread out over four days where these very small, fragmented businesses of operators and suppliers are able to essentially do a year's worth of sales meetings during the event. They're booking a lot of business.”
The event featured thousands of appointments between operators and suppliers
In addition to a vast array of products and services on its massive show floor, including all the major bus manufacturers, the event featured dozens of educational sessions, ABA council meetings, and networking events in and around the Philly region. In fact, Ferguson says that the event’s impact on the city was estimated to be $4.8 million.
“Philadelphia was an amazing host. It’s right on the I-95 corridor, where many legacy ABA members are, and there was a pretty impressive grassroots movement amongst operators, city council members, and the local Chamber of Commerce to get ABA to come to Philly. We worked very closely with Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau CEO Gregg Caren, who came to almost every one of our events and was always helpful. It was a really fun experience,” said Ferguson.
Attendees enjoy the Afterglow Party at the Hard Rock Café
Although the optimism from attendees was high, thanks to a strong return of tour business across the country, the event also coincided with the announcement of tariffs on Mexico and Canada by the Trump administration. As manufacturing is shared across the borders—parts like engines and transmissions are made in the US and shipped to Canada where the bus is assembled—the industry could be impacted with higher prices on metal.
“The biggest buzz at the show was the trade disputes between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Currently, there is no motorcoach manufacturing in the United States, but just north of the border in Canada, Prevost and MCI are two of the largest motor coach manufacturers. The proposed tariffs on Canadian imports of 25 percent are going to raise costs for the operators in significant ways, but we’re facing a double whammy when Canada announced that they're going to retaliate against the US with tariffs of their own,” said Ferguson.
Bus Industry Safety Council Chair Jeff Shanker of Black Tie Transportation
In a show of unity, Ferguson was joined by representatives from trade organizations Motor Coach Canada and United Motorcoach Association in a discussion on how they are working with elected officials to bring attention to the issue.
“As associations focused on the industry, both north and south the Canadian border, we're standing united, we're going to talk to Congress and the Executive Branch, and we're going to represent our industry together. The stronger our voice can be, and the more united our voice can be, the greater impact we can have with our lobbying and advocacy,” Ferguson said, who added that current efforts are going well and that the association is also taking the fight to the hospitality industry at large.
In fact, recent data released by the American Bus Association Foundation (ABAF), the research arm of the association, in conjunction with Tourism Economics found that motorcoach sales were up a solid 20 percent year-over-year in Q4 2024. You can read the report here.
“We’ve been meeting with members of Congress to talk about the tariff policy and have been featuring that number,” said Ferguson about the ABAF report. “Group travel is collectively a $100 billion a year industry. But in the larger landscape, we’re not as big as the airlines, hotels, and other industries, so the more we can join arms and speak as one, the more we can break through that noise and better represent our membership. That collaboration is extremely important.”
The 2026 ABA Marketplace is scheduled for January 10-13, 2026, in Reno, Nevada. Additional photos from this year’s event are available here.
Visit buses.org for more information.
[02.18.25]
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We’re just days away from the CD/NLA Show in Las Vegas, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t time to still register. Last-minute attendees are still encouraged to join us on the Strip at the Paris Hotel & Casino on February 23-26 for what promises to be the event of the season. We have four days jam-packed with education, networking, after-hours events, and our largest show floor in years. Click here for your last opportunity to save some money before the price increases onsite!
With attendee and vendor excitement reaching fever pitch—and through-the-roof preregistration numbers—we’re on track for our biggest and best show ever. We’ve got a wide spectrum of programming, ranging from cutting-edge education to highly anticipated returning networking events, that will knock your socks off. Special thanks to our sponsors, including Title Sponsor Volvo, for their part in making this a show for the ages.
One popular returning favorite is Affiliate Central Global Forum (sponsored by Volvo). We’ll have close to 100 tables on display, representing operators and markets worldwide who are looking to expand their networks and exchange business with you. We provide the forum, you set the pace and conversation. If making fresh connections is why you come to the show, then you've just found your can't-miss event.
And if you’re looking to capture a global perspective of the industry, look no further than our International Meet & Greet on Monday at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by Cardel Group, Global Alliance Worldwide, and VanDelden Limousine Service, this perennially well-attended mixer is specifically designed to make our international community feel a bit smaller and intimate. Use your time efficiently because this session is always overflowing with interested affiliates!
The opportunities to spend time with your fellow operators aren’t just limited to “typical” working hours, though. Meet us on the show floor on Sunday evening for our Opening Night Party. Sponsored by Titus Leasing, you’ll mingle with attendees and vendors in our massive, packed-to-the-gills exhibit hall for a night of drinks, laughs, great conversations, and fun entertainment. And then join us on Tuesday night at 10:00 p.m. for our Bon Voyage Party, sponsored by VIP Global and Motive. It’s a new night and new location as we bring the fun to the spectacular Cheri Lounge, a rooftop venue in the Paris Hotel that has to-die-for views of the Strip, including the iconic Fountains of Bellagio and its famous water show. Both of our after-hours events will offer light eats, entertainment, and, of course, an open bar.
Seeking further networking? Then look no further than the Chauffeur Driven Advertiser Meet & Greet on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by GNet, this invitation-only event is our way of thanking the many advertisers of Chauffeur Driven, whether it’s in the magazine, our affiliate directory, e-newsletter, or on CD’s website.
At this exclusive get-together, we’re proud to include representatives and decision-makers from EmpireCLS Worldwide, RMA Worldwide, Dav El/BostonCoach, Commonwealth Worldwide, Carey, Hoffmann Family of Companies, Leros Transportation Group, Music Express, BLS, and Fortis. What’s more, this year, you’ll have the chance to meet and engage with the contributors to the magazine. In addition to the CD editorial team, we’re pleased to present many of columnists and industry experts including James Blain of PAX Training, Matt Daus of Windels Marx, Mark Kini of Boston Chauffeur, Ken Lucci of Driving Transactions, Joe Guinn of Limo & Bus Compliance, Tom Holden of Transportation Advisors, Jeff Shanker of Black Tie Transportation, Phil Shetsen of Bona Vita Benefits, and Mike Zappone of EOS/Leros Transportation Group. Each will be on-hand to answer questions, give advice, or just talk shop. If you’re not a current Chauffeur Driven advertiser, please contact Chris Weiss at chris@chauffeurdriven.com to find out how to get on the invite list. Affiliate Sponsors and those doing Affiliate tables will automatically be added to the invite list as well.
Keynote Speaker Molly Fletcher
We are pleased to present Molly Fletcher as our esteemed Keynote on Monday at 11:15 a.m., sponsored by Driver Schedule. You might not know her name, but you’ll definitely know her work as the “female Jerry Maguire” who has negotiated contracts for the likes of Hall of Fame pitcher John Smoltz, PGA TOUR golfer Matt Kuchar, broadcaster Erin Andrews, and basketball championship coaches Tom Izzo and Doc Rivers. From trailblazing sports agent to renowned performance and training expert, bestselling author, and acclaimed international speaker, you too will be inspired by her message to Unleash Your Potential.
EOS Implementer Lacey Hayes
EOS Implementer Mike Zappone
Lastly, you aren’t going to want to miss our Wednesday morning Bonus Workshop: Fuel Your Business Growth and Take Command. Delivered by Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) professional implementers Lacey Hayes and industry veteran Mike Zappone, this highly interactive workshop will teach scalable methods that support sustainable development, streamline operations, and align your team with a common vision that moves toward your ultimate destination.
Please note that there is limited seating for this session, so you must preregister. RSVP today to secure your spot and ensure you receive the exclusive workbook. Instruction and workshops of this caliber would typically cost thousands of dollars, but this is included with your show pass. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to join committed industry leaders who are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work.
Visit cdnlavegas.com for more information.
[02.17.25]
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- Category: Industry News
Limousine Connection has announced a bold new strategic partnership with Beverly Hills Car Rental and Luxury Line Limousine Services. This collaboration unites three premier companies, expanding fleet options and elevating service offerings to deliver an unparalleled, seamless luxury travel experience across Southern California.
Alongside this milestone partnership, Limousine Connection is introducing key leadership updates that strengthen its position in the high-end transportation market.
Founder Chris Hundley, who launched Limousine Connection in 1978, will transition to the role of executive partner, continuing to provide strategic guidance and uphold the company’s legacy of excellence that has been central to its operation since day one.
According to a press release from the company, Kyle Davidson will join as their new CEO and CFO. Davidson has more than 15 years of experience in luxury transportation, including leadership roles at Carey and Dav El/BostonCoach. He brings a data-driven, analytical approach to operations and a dynamic strategy for this new venture.
“Chris Hundley’s vision and commitment have shaped Limousine Connection for nearly five decades, and we’re thrilled to have him continue to guide the company as executive partner,” said Davidson. “The strategic partnership with Beverly Hills Car Rental and Luxury Line Limousine Services, combined with the extensive experience of our team, allows us to deliver unparalleled luxury transportation solutions to an even wider audience.”
Kristin Hundley, a valued leader with 13 years at Limousine Connection, will continue as director of operations. She remains instrumental in driving operational excellence across all departments while expanding her focus on cultivating new and existing client relationships.
“By joining forces, we now have a larger fleet, enhanced resources, and a broader range of luxury vehicles to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said Kristin. “We’re excited about what’s ahead.”
To support this growth, Kaelee Givot joins as account executive, focused on client relations and expanding the groups and events division. Givot brings extensive experience in event management and is poised to deliver tailored solutions for clients looking at luxury transportation for flagship events, corporate summits, and large-scale productions.
Charles Gonzalez will serve as general manager, overseeing daily operations to maintain seamless service delivery. Vanessa Jermpee will lead the accounting department, ensuring financial systems remain aligned with the company’s expanding scale and operational needs.
This partnership also brings together Fred Golestani and David Sajasi, the owners of Beverly Hills Car Rental and Luxury Line Limousine Services, with more than 40 years of combined experience in the luxury car industry. Their vast knowledge and passion for delivering high-end vehicles with exceptional service will further elevate the company’s offerings, according to the press release.
“This partnership is a game-changer,” said Golestani. “By combining our fleets, experience, and resources, we’re not just expanding our capabilities—we’re taking luxury transportation to a new level.”
Limousine Connection’s headquarters will remain in North Hollywood, providing 24/7 live dispatch and reservations. The company will also maintain satellite offices in Beverly Hills and at LAX, ensuring clients have convenient access to luxury transportation services wherever they are.
Visit limousineconnection.com for more information.
[02.14.25]