The two biggest trade associations in the for-hire passenger transportation industry announced today that they are in earnest discussions to merge in 2020.
The National Limousine Association (NLA) and The Transportation Alliance (formerly known as the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association) have been in exploratory merger talks for several months to outline the operating framework of the combined organizations. Now, with the initial support of both boards behind them, the groups will continue to advance their discussions.
“This would be a win for our combined membership and a win for industry vendors,” said Terry O’Toole, president of The Transportation Alliance. “With our associations merged, we see a bright future where our members save money, where our vendors can meet under one roof, and where our unified messages are amplified like never before.”
Terry O'Toole, President of the Transportation Alliance
Gary Buff, President of the National Limousine Association
“From the first discussion, both associations approached this as a true merger of equals,” said Gary Buffo, president of the NLA. “That spirit of cooperation has brought us to this exciting point today. We each bring significant strengths to the table that, when you add them together, create an impressive and powerful organization serving as the voice of our industry.”
The boards of both organizations have reviewed and approved in principle the structure under which the new organization will operate.
Each organization hosts annual conferences and trade shows. Both groups expect to address the possible merger at their respective upcoming meetings. The NLA hosts a membership meeting at the Westin Boston Waterfront on Oct. 14 during the Chauffeur Driven Show from 13-16. The Transportation Alliance hosts its convention and expo, Mobilize 2019, at Bally’s Las Vegas on Oct. 16-19.
About The Transportation Alliance: Established in 1917, The Transportation Alliance is a nonprofit trade association that represents the owners and managers of for-hire transportation services (taxicab, limousine, sedan, TNC, shuttle, brokers, paratransit, and nonemergency medical fleets). The Transportation Alliance’s member companies operate more than 100,000 passenger vehicles and transport more than 900 million passengers annually. Visit thetransportationalliance.org or contact John Boit at boit@melwoodglobal.com for more information.
About the National Limousine Association: The National Limousine Association is a nonprofit organization responsible for and dedicated to representing the interests of the private driver transportation industry at the global, national, state, and local level. It is the unified voice of this industry, linking transportation industry professionals from owners and operators to suppliers, manufacturers, and regional and state limousine associations. With more than 1,000 NLA members, the Association is committed to exceeding expectations with regards to professionalism, transportation efficiency, and safe riding. Visit limo.org or contact Matthew Berritt at matthew.berritt@evins.com for more information.
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