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Learning About the Future of Fleet at the 5th Annual Merchants Fleet Summit

The summit offered educational sessions on upfitting, vehicle tech, and the importance of effective communication as a fleet manager.

September 20, 2024
Learning About the Future of Fleet at the 5th Annual Merchants Fleet Summit

Merchants Fleet Vice President of Operations Steven Curt (far right) with Fleet Summit attendees.

Photo: Merchants Fleet

2 min to read


Merchants Fleet held its 5th annual Fleet Summit on Sept. 10-11, 2024, at their corporate headquarters in Hooksett, NH.

Attendees experienced upfitting innovations, technology advancements, and strategic networking opportunities with top industry leaders through educational sessions by Merchants' vendor partners.

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The event attracted over 200 attendees who had the opportunity to engage with experts and connect with peers from across the fleet industry who share Merchants' mission.

Kirk Hoffman, interm Co-CEO and CFO, meets with Fleet Summit sponsors. 

Photo: Merchants Fleet

"Merchants is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in fleet management," Kirk Hoffman, interim Co-CEO and chief financial officer of Merchants Fleet, said. "Our goal is to empower our clients by providing them with access to the latest innovations, expert insights, and essential connections that will enable them to operate their fleets with greater efficiency."

In its fifth year, the industry flagship event is designed to foster in-depth discussions and hands-on experiences that directly address the daily challenges fleet managers are facing. 

On stage, Brad Burgess, interim Co-CEO and senior vice president of sales and marketing at Merchants Fleet, addresses Fleet Summit attendees.

Photo: Merchants Fleet

"This year's summit is about providing our clients with the knowledge and tools they need to stay ahead in an industry that's undergoing significant transformation," Brad Burgess, interim Co-CEO and senior vice president of sales and marketing at Merchants Fleet, said.

"We're bringing together the brightest minds in the business to discuss the latest innovations, tackle the most pressing challenges, and build meaningful connections that will help our clients thrive in today's competitive environment," Burgess continued.

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2024 Fleet Summit Highlights

In order to facilitate connections between fleet managers, OEMs, and professionals from across the industry, the summit provided networking opportunities and client-centered discussions.

On stage, Kevin Sullivan of Sullivan Communications leads the keynote presentation.

Photo: Merchants Fleet

Kevin Sullivan, former White House communications director and senior vice president for corporate communications and media relations at NBC Universal, delivered an interactive keynote address on the importance of effective communication in driving innovation and change within fleet management.

Attendees had the chance to engage with the latest upfitting technologies and vehicle options, guided by industry experts. This hands-on experience allowed fleet managers to evaluate the solutions that best meet their operational requirements.

Fleet clients attending one of the many daily educational sessions.

Photo: Merchants Fleet

While upfitting was a focus, the summit also included a Ride and Drive experience where attendees could test various fleet vehicles for a firsthand experience with the latest offerings.

Sponsors of the event include Stellantis, Bridgestone, Alliance Fleet, Adrian Steel, Geotab, MotorQ, Bollinger Motors, Driverge, and more.

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