The sun may have been hot, but the vibes were cool when the industry returned to South Florida on June 14-17 for the annual CD/NLA Executive Retreat. As always, we fully expected positive energy in full force—but we didn’t anticipate the high bar that was set by our engaged group of operators. From never-miss-an-event attendees to new, fresh faces, the industry’s best and brightest were on hand at the famed Fontainebleau Hotel and eager to learn and network with their peers and potential new business partners. Special thanks to our Platinum Sponsor Lancer Insurance for their part in making our return to Miami an unforgettable event.
From our opening night dinner party on Sunday evening to the last session on Tuesday afternoon, it was evident that our attendees were connected, dialed in, and excited to be part of the retreat. Latin rhythms and fusion cuisine were at the heart of our opening night dinner party at Shiso in Miami’s artsy Wynwood district. Our group had a great time dancing, networking, and chilling out at the rooftop restaurant.
The energy continued into the classroom on Monday morning as we kicked off our educational programming with a pair of sessions from sales expert & consultant Victor Antonio. The best-selling author and sales authority shared his insight with humor and real-world know-how. From the value of the all-important upsell to hiring a dedicated salesperson, Antonio’s multi-part seminar had a rapt audience of eager-to-learn operators. The group discussions and interactive exercises empowered attendees with the skills to deliver exceptional sales techniques back at the office.
“I walked away with practical ideas and insights that I could immediately apply to my business. The CD/NLA Retreat offered a great balance of relationship-building and actionable takeaways. If you’re shy or just getting back into networking, this is a fantastic event to get your feet wet in a comfortable environment while making authentic connections that can last well beyond the retreat. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally,” says Michelle Miller of Elite Coach.
Prior to a lunch break on Monday (mmm, Mexican), networking was the name of the game, as attendees got to meet many of the event’s vendor sponsors during a Meet-and-Greet session. This gave operators a chance to chat one on one with our generous sponsors while they enjoyed a selection of appetizers. In addition to Lancer, many thanks to Gold Sponsors Complete Fleet Livery Sales, Driving Transactions, First Class Customs, GroundWidgets, MCI, Nations Bus Sales, Twillory Uniforms, and Volvo.
Miami’s exotic Little Havana was the locale of our Monday night dinner reception, as our attendees got a slice of vintage Cuba at Old’s Havana for an unforgettable evening of authentic Cuban cuisine, live music, and nonstop atmosphere. While our guests enjoyed a scrumptious buffet and open bar (how about those delectable mojitos?), salsa dancers Alfredo and Nancy ignited the dance floor with their smokin’-hot grooves. And some of our attendees even joined in the action throughout the outdoor venue!
One of the appeals of the CD/NLA Executive Retreat is the opportunity for more in-depth and interactive education, and this was no more evident than in our Tuesday morning programming. Moderated by Ken Lucci of Driving Transactions, the CEO Strategic Challenge Roundtable Competition allowed groups of operators to compete through navigating best practices among theoretical business challenges. The competition was fierce and furious as each team tested their operational acumen as while industry judges evaluated their strategies. In the end, table 9—consisting of Jay Gogel of My Limousine Service, Greg Feorene and Michelle Miller of Elite Coach, Danielle Smith of Lancer Insurance, Juan and Kelly Lopez of Montely, Gala Garcia of All American Limos, and Barry Gross of Santa Fe Valet—emerged on top to win some fabulous prizes, a champagne toast, and those valuable bragging rights.
Our daytime slate came to a close after lunch on Tuesday, as we introduced a new panel discussion session to the Executive Retreat. Moderated by CD President Chris Weiss, Real Talk: Fireside Chat with Industry Leaders featured three industry leaders as they offered up their insight and experiences with topics faced by all operators. Michelle Miller of Elite Coach, Charlie Murray of Total Transportation, and Jeff Nyikos of Leros Transportation Group shared candid perspectives on the state of the industry, as well as topics ranging from pricing increases to autonomous vehicles. To add to the laid-back vibe of the session, cocktails—including sangria and those legendary mojitos—were served to our guests.
“What sets the Executive Retreat apart is the intimate atmosphere. Unlike larger conferences, it provides the opportunity to spend real quality time with some of the industry’s top leaders and decision-makers. The conversations, relationships, and connections built throughout the event are incredibly valuable. I also appreciate that the retreat is focused more on creating meaningful experiences and fostering relationships rather than packing every minute with educational sessions. It strikes the right balance between business, networking, and enjoyment,” says Modaser “MD” Nazir of Stay Classy Transportation.
Last, but far from least, was a private boat tour on Wednesday morning. Our attendees took part in the Foxsea Tiki Catamaran Adventure, which zipped them around Miami’s sparkling blue waterways. This four-hour cruise aboard a 50-foot catamaran included drinks for our participants, lunch, a live DJ, and a stop at a sandbar for off-the-boat fun.
Don’t forget: the 2027 Executive Retreat is in Paris, France, and registration is open. To join us on our June 6-9 excursion overseas, simply click here. We’re pleased to offer a discounted rate of $999 until the end of the month.
If you missed the retreat, don’t worry. Plans are full speed ahead for the fall as our show will return to the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center just outside of Washington, D.C., on October 25-27. Of course, we also take the Executive Retreat across the Atlantic to Paris on June 6-9, 2027—and we can’t wait! Visit cdnlashow.com to register or for more details.
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