FLD “FRANKLY SPEAKING” TO KEEP CLIENTS, PARTNERS IN THE KNOW

At FLD, we know our clients, partners and associates in the fleet space can’t be everywhere all the time and that’s why we’ve kicked off “FLD Frankly Speaking,” a new initiative that keeps those close to us informed, in the know, and up to speed about the most important comings and going’s in the fleet space. For our first communication, we’ve overviewed the highlights of th recent NAFA I & E for those who were unable to make it to this year’s conference in Pittsburgh. 

Thoughts on this year’s NAFA I & E

The FLD team along with their trustee sidekick “Frank” attended last week’s NAFA I & E in Pittsburgh — the first major fleet conference since the pandemic — and came back with some interesting insights for those unable to attend:

  • With corporate travel hobbled, the I & E felt thinly attended with several major FMC’s, service providers and the throng of government fleets absent.
  • The Expo floor was missing many past exhibitors including usual stalwarts Firestone, Donlen, Masterrack, Toyota and others.
  • The CAFM bootcamps and testing that are usually a huge draw have been permanently moved online. Convenient for test takers, but disappointing for sponsors and service providers who count on their attendance to grow business. Undoubtedly will hurt future attendance by killing-off a major portion of the “institute” aspect. Suggesting they at least keep in-person boot camps as this offered the best opportunity for peer discussions that drive camaraderie and community.
  • A panel on “The Future of Fleet Upfitting and Maintenance” was hosted by GM and included two FMC panelists and one fleet manager. Why NAFA doesn’t include industry experts — a problem pre-Covid — from companies that actually provide these services is a real head scratcher.
  • For 22 years, the I & E has hosted a 100 best fleets award for public fleets only. Rumor is they are entertaining a private/corporate fleet awards next year, but whether that happens is anyone’s guess.
  • To no one’s surprise, OEM’s who spoke acknowledged difficulties from the ongoing chip shortage. Also notable was the fact that they all seemed unsure when the situation may improve.

At FLD, we know our clients, partners and friends can’t attend every trade show or fleet event, so we like to keep them in the know by sharing insights and perspective gleaned by our expert staff, and our roving observer — “Frank” — who’s always got his ear to the ground and his eyes focused on what’s coming next!