01/26/2024
My fellow operators,
As I drive into 2024, the opportunities for success seem abundant.
Corporate/ business travelers seem to not be backing away from chauffeured car. The airlines are still struggling with cancellations and on time issues and the world seems to be struggling with staffing issues.
Chauffeured car has been a steady reminder that service sells and excellent service is in demand.
Consolidations, mergers, closings and business model changes stand as clear signals to watch as our industry struggles, but remains a viable industry with challenges and victories ahead.
We have to remain the reliable choice of decerning clients.
We need to lead by example and not get sucked into the nonchalant crowded field of the “acceptable”.
Safety must always be at the top of the list.
Training chauffeurs is a must as they reflect where and what our industry is. Butlers, concierges, tour guides and most of all safe, reliable drivers of our current and potential clients.
A recent article concerning AirBNB’s business model reminded me how easily we were and continue to be played by the TNCs and that the continued business model they use rolls right by the legislators tasked with keeping the consumer safe. Our industry complies with safety mandates, hefty and rising insurance costs, crappy choices for “the right” vehicle and younger workers unwilling to enter into a profession of service.
We stand in a rare place in society. Polite, suit wearing chauffeurs willing to continue a tradition of service. Opening doors, speaking when spoken to. Accommodating and patient.
These are tough characteristics to teach and maintain in a new world dominated by a touch on an APP. But as those of us still in this business know, doing what we do works.
