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“We’re very excited about the acquisition. Scott Greenwald and Ken Schapiro have done a great job building an excellent team that provides first-class service. We look forward to continuing that same service while providing AAA customers access to a much larger diverse fleet and worldwide network,” said Leros Point to Point COO Michael Basso.
With the addition of AAA Worldwide Transportation, Leros Point to Point will be adding 30 vehicles and 50 employees, and will operate a diversified fleet of over 375 vehicles within the New York tri-state area consisting of sedans, SUVs, vans, minibuses, and full-size motorcoaches. The combination of Leros Point to Point and AAA Worldwide Transportation will create an extremely competitive organization positioned for greater growth, and with the financial strength to better manage market challenges and weather economic volatility. The winning combination of joint resources will allow both companies to provide a more flexible and efficient customer service model.
AAA Worldwide Transportation GM and Partner Scott Greenwald, said: “It is a great feeling knowing Leros Point to Point is committed to excellence. Ken and I know our customers will enjoy the more diverse product offerings while continuing to receive that personal touch.”
This, of course, is Leros Point to Point’s second acquisition in less than a year. In November 2018, the company announced their purchase of Royal Coachman Worldwide in Denville, N.J. Basso shared his experience with that acquisition during a panel devoted to M&A during May’s Chauffeur Driven Executive Retreat in Austin, Texas.
Visit leroslimo.com for more information.
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After kicking things off with an open-bar cocktail hour, PRLA President Johnny Donohoe of Sterling Limousine welcomed the group, which included operators spanning the Northeast corridor. Pledging to keep things short and casual, Donohoe then welcomed association Treasurer Bob Euler Jr. of King Limousine, who delivered some excellent news in regard to the organization’s financial situation. After settling with their former lobbyist, the PRLA’s coffers are in the black and the outlook for the future remains positive.
Euler also provided an overview of recent developments with the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) and the Philadelphia International Airport. First, he informed the operators that there is a “crackdown” in place at the airport. In April, more than 20 chauffeurs were ticketed for solicitation and parking in the cell phone lot. As the chauffeurs are the ones receiving tickets, as opposed to the operation, Euler encouraged members to be vigilant so that any unpaid tickets don’t penalize the companies down the line. Also, he revealed that the PPA is proposing levying $2.50 per trip fee on TNCs. While parity with Uber and its ilk is far from imminent, the PRLA Board supports of this fee, which puts them on a path toward a level playing field.
Next, Secretary Tracy Salinger from Unique Limousine introduced sponsors Jay Snead from Prevost/Volvo and Ryan McTiernan from Lancer Insurance, who each spoke briefly about the services they offer the industry. Salinger then told attendees that the PRLA was donating $500 to a GoFundMe set up for Statement Limousine in Sheffield, Ohio, whose operation was devastated by a fire. She encouraged members to donate as well.
After Donohoe made his closing remarks, longtime PRLA member Dennis Adams of Celebrity Limousines bid the group an emotional farewell, as he is retiring and heading for warmer climates. Finally, the meeting concluded with a raffle of a pass to the 2019 Chauffeur Driven Show in Boston. The winner was Tyrone Gale, who is returning to chauffeured ground transportation after a short break away from the industry.
PRLA’s next meeting is scheduled for September 25, at a location to be determined.
Visit prlainc.com for more information.
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Cowley stated the following:
“As the Pennsylvania Bus Association has been doing great things for the industry, I am excited about this opportunity to bring my energy and skills into the mix. My initial primary goals are to increase awareness of the value of the association to operators, and to enhance the existing programs and processes for the benefits of the members.
A little more about me: I have been actively involved in the related activities of the bus industry since the early ‘90s, and also serve as the executive director of the Greater New Jersey Motorcoach Association. My initial introduction was through Charter Partners. We managed a very large purchasing program for transportation clients throughout the mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions. I was involved in the development of an industry peer group called Motorcoach Partners with Integrity (MPI). During my involvement with MPI, I have facilitated all aspects of group management. I developed several cooperative purchasing programs, including the purchase of fuel and other common supplies. From an educational value perspective, I have organized events for our members’ safety leaders, drivers, mechanics, human resource personnel, and the owners.
I also bring experience working with a board of directors. I currently serve as the secretary for the Cooperative Partnership Insurance Company, domiciled in Vermont. I have fulfilled this role since 2005. Part of my responsibilities include generating board and committee agendas, meeting material development and distribution, including post-meeting material, follow-up on deliverables, coordinating meeting arrangements, and corresponding with state legislators and attorneys. I have my bachelor’s degree in business administration, and an accounting degree.
I am looking forward to making some positive changes in addition to the initial primary goals stated above. In line with the PBA objectives, these will include recruitment of additional members and enhancing communications to bring more value to the membership. Further, these initiatives will include implementation of consistent, informative communications utilizing email, tapping into social media, enhancing the website and databases, exploring industry topics for educational purposes, and interaction with other transportation industry leaders and contacts.”
PBA was founded in 1923 and represents motorcoach operators, associate members, and travel supplier members.
For any additional information, contact Bailey at either jbailey@baileycoach.com or 717.718.0490, ext. 117.
Visit pabus.org for more information.
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