CLDA Annual Meeting May 11-14 to Highlight New Business Opportunities Washington, DC - The CLDA Exchange is a new addition to this year’s CLDA Annual Meeting in May. It will pair shippers looking for carriers with carriers looking for business during the association’s Annual Meeting May 11 to 14 at the Green Valley Ranch Resort in Las Vegas, NV. The CLDA Exchange allows shippers to meet directly with over 400 owners and executives of regional and local first and last mile delivery providers to discuss business opportunities.  On Thursday, May 12, there will be open tables where shippers will meet with last-mile providers that can provide solutions to their needs.  On Friday, shippers can pre-schedule meetings with individual carriers.   The conference will also offer private, reserved meeting rooms where specific shippers can meet  individually with carriers. “We know national shippers are looking for solutions to deliver on that final-mile and those who attend these conferences have the answers.  It’s why we created the CLDA Exchange,” says CLDA President Kirk Godby.  “It’s all about connecting the two for the common good of their businesses.”  Aside from business opportunities, the CLDA Annual Meeting will continue to deliver educational sessions focused on increasing company profit and operations.  Those sessions will include: How CLDA Carriers Can Participate The Multi­Billion Dollar LTL Opportunity – This session will include executives of LTL carriers who will explain the emerging trend of providing LTL final mile services by partnering with first and final mile delivery providers.  Panelists will share information on their needs and how they select last-mile delivery partners. Shipper Carrier Relations –This highly interactive panel of shippers will discuss and answer questions regarding trends, challenges, and opportunities in today’s business environment.  They will share their thoughts on the economy, fuel volatility, ecommerce, technology, M&A, and the impact on the supply chain of the “Amazon effect.” How to Compete in the Digital Age – This presentation will offer tips on leveraging the new “collaborative economy” and offer ways to retain customers and drivers who may jump to app-based delivery companies.