On Wednesday, August 12, the Wisconsin Limousine Association (WLA) held their monthly membership meeting via afternoon conference call. The operators on the line discussed current events in the Midwest—and their effects on the luxury ground transportation industry—as well as business in the face of the pandemic.
WLA President Larry Epstein of Gallant Knight Limousine welcomed the members, and shared that business is trickling back slowly but surely. Ultimately, he’s seeing a great deal of last-minute retail-type requests, which have kept his vehicles on the road. When discussing retail work, Director Paula DeBiasi of Chicago Coach Works said that she is seeing a number of clients requesting shorter cancellation windows.
ILLBA Executive Director Paula DeBiasi
As also the Executive Director of the Illinois Limousine & Bus Association (ILLBA), DeBiasi offered a recap of that association’s Zoom called held the previous day. The “relaxed session” focused on tools you can use to keep your customer base captivated. The members also dedicated time to reputation management, specifically what gets shared on Facebook, as it can impact your business in your community and beyond. ILLBA is planning another Zoom meeting in September.
The big news affecting Midwestern operators was the decision to shift this week’s Democratic National Convention to an all “virtual” event. Although it was expected to be scaled back, it was hoped that it would provide some much-needed economic relief to area businesses. Original plans called for the convention to be held at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.
WLA’s next conference call is planned for September 9.
Visit wisconsinlimo.org for more information.
[08.17.20]