Ground Transport Group had the pleasure of attending the vibrant LPHCA AGM & Roadshow held at the London Heathrow Marriott Hotel. This annual event, hosted by the Licensed Private Hire Car Association (LPHCA), brought together industry leaders, licensed Private Hire Vehicle and Taxi operators, and stakeholders for a day filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and engaging activities.
Insightful Presentations and Discussions
The LPHCA AGM & Roadshow, under the chairmanship of Steve Wright MBE, featured a robust agenda with informative presentations and panel discussions on key industry topics:
- VAT on Fares Consultation: Understanding the implications with industry tax expert Gary Jacobs of Eazitax.
- USA Perspective: Insights from Matt Daus, President of the International Association of Transportation Regulators, providing valuable regulatory information.
- A Viable National Licensing Scheme: Proposed by James Button, President of the Institute of Licensing, aimed at streamlining licensing standards.
- Difficulties with Industry Medical Requirements: Steve Wright covered the D4drivers speaking slot on medicals, emphasising updates needed for medical requirements and their impact on licensing processes.
- Transport for London (TfL) – New Regulations and Future Plans: An overview of upcoming changes and initiatives affecting operators and drivers.
- Women in Our Workplace – An Answer to Driver and Staff Shortages?: A special panel discussion on increasing female participation in the sector.
Engaging with Industry Stakeholders
Throughout the day, we seized the opportunity to engage with clients who travelled from across the UK to attend the event. We facilitated productive face-to-face meetings, forged new connections within the Private Hire Vehicle and Taxi sectors, and networked with industry suppliers.
Our exhibition stand proudly showcased the Ground Transport Group’s capabilities, including:
- Transport News: Keeping industry professionals informed with topical articles and insights on the latest industry developments.
- Trade Directory: Connecting fleets and suppliers seamlessly within the transport sector.
- Marketplace: Providing a platform for buying and selling products & services tailored for transportation professionals.
- Events & Jobs: Listing upcoming events and job opportunities specific to the transportation sector, offering networking opportunities and valuable career prospects.
Sweetie Fun at LPHCA AGM & Roadshow
A highlight at the LPHCA AGM & Roadshow was the eagerly anticipated sweetie competition hosted by the Ground Transport Group. Attendees gathered around a large jar filled with sweets, aiming to guess the exact number for a chance to win a sweet £250 cash prize. While the precise count of 572 sweets proved elusive, the closest estimate earned a commendable £100 cash prize, adding a delightful twist to the event.
Congratulations to Gary Jefferies from Bynx, whose guess of 600 sweets was the closest to the actual count, earning him the £100 cash prize.
A special mention to our runners up:
- Steven Farrier, Alpha Airport Cars Havant Ltd – Steven guessed 632 sweets.
- Simon Hill, CMAC – Simon guessed 421 sweets.
Thank you to all participants for making this sweet competition such a delightful part of the day! We would like to say a big thank you to the Licensed Private Hire Car Association for organising a wonderful event, and look forward to attending the next one!