With on-point education and speakers, an action-packed show floor, and electric nightlife, we’ve put the wraps on the 2022 CD/NLA Show, held November 13-16 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center just outside of D.C. Many thanks to all our attendees, exhibitors, speakers, moderators, mentors, committee members, and sponsors—including Title Sponsor Ford Pro—for making the show such a rousing success!
Nearly 1,100 industry professionals from around the globe were in attendance, which not only gave us the opportunity to meet countless new faces, but also let us reconnect and spend time with many of our long-standing industry friends and peers. And, we couldn’t be prouder of the overwhelmingly positive feedback we’ve received—both during and after the show.
Our stellar CD/NLA Show Education Committee—led by co-chairs Jason Sharenow of Broadway Elite Worldwide and Tracy Raimer of Windy City Limousine & Bus—put together a curriculum that was loaded with timely and valuable sessions that proved to be beneficial to operators of all sizes and markets. Whether it was learning to manage a remote workforce, getting the low-down on M&A, understanding the fundamentals of DEI, or even taking part in our numerous conversation-stirring morning roundtables, the D.C. show was loaded with immediate takeaway designed to improve your operation. Also thanks to Education Sponsor United Private Car as well as Coffee Sponsor Buffalo Limousine and A/V Sponsor Amaren for making it all possible.
“You could tell from the first session on opening day that the organizers spent time and care planning this event. Total fireworks. I returned home inspired with new ways to grow and improve my limo business,” says Sean O'Connor of White Sands Transportation.
“The educational seminars were excellent. The content and experts on the subjects were amazing along with their delivery,” says Len Joseph of On The Town Limousines.
But, as always, networking was the name of the game, as opportunities to share and learn among peers were in abundance. Dedicated events like our bustling Affiliate Central Global Partner Forum (sponsored by Volvo), perennial favorite Operator Mentoring Program, and our always-popular Women in the Industry Networking Event were all met with raves from our attendees. Moreover, the Association Summit highlighted the advocacy and efforts made on behalf of the industry by the leaders from industry associations around the country. With this lineup, and ample opportunities for some face-to-face time during breakfast or at the Gaylord’s bars & restaurants, CD/NLA Show veterans and newcomers alike made some fresh connections.
“The Women in the Industry Event was so amazing, and I cannot say how inspiring it was as a first-time attendee. I felt supported and welcomed by everyone. I cannot wait to go to Vegas,” says Syreeta Norman of Basic Black Transportation.
The networking and camaraderie continued into sundown as our always-popular nightlife events raised the roof. On Sunday evening, attendees were welcomed onto the show floor for an opening night soiree that not only offered previews of the vehicles, products, and services available at the convention, but also some fun courtesy of magicians, jugglers, and even George Washington! The following night, guests headed to a ballroom wearing the colors or jersey of their favorite sports team for our Monday Night Tailgate Party. While most CD staffers were bummed to see their beloved Philadelphia Eagles lose against hometown Washington Commanders, it couldn’t put a damper on the electric vibe of the party. Thanks to ANB Trans and U.S. Sedan Services for sponsoring the event.
“Best show ever! I had an incredible experience at the CD/NLA Show at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. It was inspiring to meet so many new owners and operators and it was comforting to see so many friends and familiar faces. I couldn't think of a better way to have spent the last four days! Thank you to everyone who worked hard to make it so memorable. I can hardly wait to see you all in Vegas!” wrote Tiffany Hinton of Motev on Facebook.
“The best CD/NLA Show I've attended so far,” raves Neil Davies of Secure Ground Transportation.
If you missed this fall’s CD/NLA Show in National Harbor, have no fear. Things are already revving up for the return of the CD/NLA Show in Las Vegas! Join us March 5-8 at the spectacular MGM Grand Las Vegas Hotel & Casino for four days of world-class education and networking, and stay tuned to cdnlavegas.com for upcoming details.
We’ll have a recap and photo gallery in the next issue of Chauffeur Driven.
[11.22.22]