It was three days of new ideas , new business opportunities , new connections and New Orleans . It was the 2023 Final Mile Forum . Hundreds of carriers , shippers and vendors supporting the final-mile came together to learn , meet and get an advanced look at the products that will impact our industry . And it was right in the middle of Mardi Gras .
“ This was a unique line-up and a great opportunity to network and connect with thought leaders across the industry and generate valuable insights into market , carrier and customer needs ,” said one participant .
The first day was a mix of recreation , sight-seeing , helping first-timers jump in , connecting with shippers and highlighting the importance of a diverse and inclusive final-mile industry . Some connected with old and new friends over a friendly game of golf at the English Turn Golf & Country Club . Others spent the time learning about the City of New Orleans with a tour of the French Quarter .
By late afternoon the New Attendee Reception and Ambassador Meet and Greet was in full swing . Thirty first-time conference attendees heard from Quincy Jackson , founder of Jackson Carrier Services about the impact the conference has had on her business . Then first-timers were paired with Ambassadors who would help them navigate the conference , connect with those in the industry and sow the seeds of new business .
The Power Hour showcased the diversity of our industry . Board member Ruth Ospino introduced Ellen Voie , founder of Women in Trucking . She talked about the ways unconscious bias can limit the final-mile sector ’ s ability to make the most of all of the talent in this industry .
Voie also led a panel of three carriers who have personal experience maximizing the diversity of their organizations : Pete Punwani , Global Executive Solutions Group , Noah Alvarez , Alvy Delivers and Quincy Jackson , Jackson Carrier Services .
2023 CLDA FINAL MILE FORUM
Capping off the first day was an elegant Grand Opening Reception in the Exhibit Hall sponsored by Openforce . As conference participants sampled the foods of New Orleans , they toured the Exhibit Hall , renewed old friendships , made new connections with carriers and shippers and learned about the newest products and services supporting our industry . spring 2023 I customized logistics & delivery Magazine 45