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Delivering unparalleled service demands unwavering dedication and constant refinement. That’s why we’ve completely redesigned our in-house chauffeur training program as a comprehensive, company-wide refresher.
From five-star hospitality and elite-level etiquette to advanced defensive driving and immersive real-world training, every element is crafted to ensure our team delivers a seamless, elevated experience—every time.
Every 5-star review tells a story of quick thinking and genuine care—like when a chauffeur “suggested an alternative for the Amalfi Coast and made our day fantastic” or went “above and beyond” to ensure every need was met with thoughtful attention. Our chauffeurs don’t just drive—they create moments of comfort and connection that linger long after the ride ends.
This year marks 11 years since EmpireCLS became the first global ground transportation company to partner with PACT (formerly ECPAT-USA) to combat child trafficking.
Through employee training, policy integration, and ongoing advocacy, we remain committed to protecting children. We train our teams to spot and prevent exploitation and proudly support PACT’s mission to ensure every child grows up free from harm.
We are incredibly proud and honored to be named this year’s “Specialty Partner of the Year” at the Global Travel Collection Partner Awards—an accolade voted on by GTC’s esteemed network of travel professionals. Additionally, we are tremendously honored to be a finalist nominee for “Best Specialty Partner” at the upcoming 2025 Virtuoso Global Travel Awards.
Being recognized by both GTC and Virtuoso reflects the indelible partnerships we’ve built over the years with the industry’s most respected professionals. Deeply grateful for their trust, we remain committed to helping shape the expertly curated experiences that define luxury travel.
Wherever summer takes you—whether it’s a private vineyard day trip along the California coast, a seamless transfer from your hotel to the Monte Carlo cruise port, or a spacious luxury vehicle accommodating your entire family for a retreat in Spain—EmpireCLS ensures your journey is polished and entirely on your terms. With chauffeured service in over 1,000 destinations, we handle every transfer with care and precision, so you can focus on savoring every moment.
There’s a certain magic to leisure travel in the summer—the way the days stretch just a bit longer, inviting spontaneity, indulgence, and connection. Whether it’s a long-awaited family reunion, a vineyard escape, or a Mediterranean cruise with curated stops along the way, the journey should be just as seamless and memorable as the destination.
At EmpireCLS, we’re more than a ride—we’re your behind-the-scenes support and your assurance that every transfer is handled with precision and care.
The days your cruise begins and ends shouldn’t feel stressful or rushed. With service in over 1,000 destinations worldwide, EmpireCLS meets you wherever your itinerary leads—whether you’re disembarking in Miami, Monte Carlo, or Sydney.
Our global reach allows us to support both the start and finish of your cruise experience. Maybe you’re flying in the night before and want a direct transfer from your hotel to the port. Or perhaps you’re spending an extra day exploring the city—shopping in Cannes, dining in San Juan, or taking a final beach stroll in Honolulu—before heading to the airport.
Our services are especially valuable on embarkation and disembarkation days, when ports buzz with travelers and timing is key. Heading out for a final day of sightseeing before your flight? We’ll handle your ground transportation, assist with luggage during pickups and drop-offs, and ensure your transfers are seamless—so you can savor every last moment of your journey.
Imagine a late summer morning: the sun just warm enough, the breeze laced with salt air, and a private vehicle waiting just outside your resort. You’re headed inland—away from the bustle—for a wine tasting led by a second-generation vintner, where rosé is poured into cut-glass stemware as stories are shared between sips. It’s not just about the destination—it’s about arriving unhurried, in comfort, and on your schedule.
Whether you’re visiting a coastal art village, an exclusive wellness retreat, or a historic estate tucked into the hills, our professional chauffeurs provide discreet, reliable service that lets you stay present in the moment. No maps. No stress. Just refined ground travel that fits into your day effortlessly.
Summer often brings people back to one another—cousins meeting at a resort after years apart, multigenerational families gathering for a week at a private estate, or old friends reuniting for an annual summer tradition. These are the trips that matter most, and they come with their own beautiful complexity.
EmpireCLS offers tailored solutions for groups of all sizes. Need multiple car seats for toddlers, but also space for eight adults and their luggage? Our late-model luxury vans and SUVs are equipped to handle it all—safely, comfortably, and with the elegance you expect. From airport pickups to hotel transfers to an evening out on the town, we’re the silent coordinator in the background, ensuring everyone arrives together, on time, and stress-free.
Summer is fleeting, but it doesn’t have to feel rushed. At EmpireCLS, we create the space for leisure to unfold the way it should: unhurried, polished, and fully present. Whether you’re cruising international waters or discovering hidden corners closer to home, we’re here to ensure you arrive in style—and remember the journey just as fondly as the destination.
At EmpireCLS, our chauffeurs are more than drivers—they are employed professionals, expertly trained in chauffeured hospitality and trusted to represent our brand at the highest level. Every journey is a reflection of our commitment to service at the highest standard. And at the heart of that experience is the chauffeur.
Through a rigorous, in-house training program, our chauffeurs master more than driving—they are trained in the art of chauffeuring, which combines discretion, awareness, emotional intelligence, and hospitality held to Forbes Five-Star standards. They’re prepared to anticipate your needs before you speak, and they know how to adapt quickly and calmly when plans change.
From weather disruptions and unexpected delays to re-routed journeys and special requests, EmpireCLS chauffeurs are equipped to respond with grace and professionalism—ensuring every client feels supported, cared for, and at ease.
This elite level of service has earned our chauffeurs a 98% five-star rating—a true testament to their unwavering dedication to delivering nothing short of exceptional service in each ride.
But perhaps most powerful of all are the words of the travelers themselves:
“Samuel was the best! So professional, so kind, so polite, so patient! He treated us like we were his very own family and provided everything we seemed to need when we needed it! Thank you so very much for providing us with your calm demeanor and safe, comfortable ride from the moment we met him! Thank you, Samuel, for treating us like your family when we were tired and a bit exasperated from travel! We sincerely appreciate everything you provided for us when we needed you! You blessed our hearts overwhelmingly.”
“Nino was the most amazing driver. We had to deviate from our original plans due to unforeseen road closures going to Naples. He suggested an alternative for the Amalfi Coast and made our day fantastic.”
“If there were 10 stars, Leonard would deserve them! He was so professional, but importantly, such a tremendous human being. This is a person I would want working with me every day! Leonard represented Empire in the highest way and made sure to engage in a calm, relaxing manner, which is so important when rushing off a plane at JFK and looking for a relaxing ride home. I don’t think 50 stars would cover the kind of person Leonard is—such a conscientious, amazing driver. I’ve been in an Empire car many times, and by far Leonard was the absolute best! Thank you, Leonard, and thank you Empire.”
“Jordan was my driver and he went above and beyond! Not only did he help me in and out of the car, make sure I was comfortable, and had everything I needed, he was also very communicative with the expectations of the drive, which helped me feel at ease and well taken care of. The car was clean and smelled incredible, and Jordan was professional, kind, and a delight to chat with. I am sad that not everyone could have him as their driver and wish he could drive me everywhere. Thank you for everything!”
“Irma was amazing. She was incredibly kind and a safe driver. She made the entire experience go smoothly (which I sorely needed after an hour waiting in line at customs), and I couldn’t have asked for a better driver than her.”
These stories are proof that EmpireCLS hospitality isn’t scripted—it’s the quiet confidence of knowing you’re in capable hands, the warmth of being cared for, not just served, and the difference between simply getting there, and arriving with ease, peace of mind, and even joy.
At EmpireCLS, our chauffeurs don’t just follow protocol—they understand the moment, anticipate needs, and bring an authenticity that transforms each ride into something greater than expected—so much so that many passengers request the same chauffeur time and again, seeking the comfort of a trusted, established connection.
When clients speak of our service, they speak of how they felt: heard, valued, completely cared for.
Book your next ride with EmpireCLS and experience chauffeuring the way it was meant to be: intuitive, thoughtful, and exceptional.
Every year in the United States, an estimated 250,000 children fall victim to sex trafficking—a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation.
Eleven years ago, EmpireCLS became the first global ground transportation company to partner with PACT (formerly ECPAT-USA) by signing The Tourism Child-Protection Code of Conduct. This groundbreaking set of voluntary business principles helps travel and tourism companies prevent child sex trafficking.
Founded in 1991, PACT is the leading U.S. organization dedicated to ending the commercial sexual exploitation of children. As part of the global ECPAT network, PACT collaborates across industries—particularly in travel and tourism, sectors that are often unknowingly exploited by traffickers—to provide companies with the tools and training needed to recognize trafficking and take action.
Since 2014, we have introduced robust companywide policies and procedures designed to protect children:
EmpireCLS proudly sponsored the 2025 Freedom Awards: Making a Lasting ImPACT, an event honoring individuals making meaningful strides in child protection and the prevention of trafficking. The evening powerfully reaffirmed our shared commitment with PACT to safeguard children.
Protecting children from trafficking requires constant vigilance, education, and action. Our 11-year partnership with PACT exemplifies how the private sector and advocacy groups can unite to make a difference. At EmpireCLS, we remain dedicated to safeguarding children, empowering our employees, and inspiring industry-wide change.
In the world of luxury travel, there’s an unspoken rhythm—a cadence shaped by the seamless choreography of service. Behind every effortless itinerary is a network of professionals working in harmony. At EmpireCLS, we’re proud to move in step with the world’s leading travel agencies, whose advisors curate unforgettable experiences and shape each journey with purpose. That’s why this year’s recognition from two of the industry’s most prestigious names is especially meaningful.
EmpireCLS is delighted to share that we’ve been named “Specialty Partner of the Year” at the 2025 Global Travel Collection Partner Awards, held during the ARRIVE conference in Phoenix. As the world’s largest network of international luxury travel agencies, Global Travel Collection brings together the industry’s most discerning travel advisors—experts who craft superior adventures for leisure travelers, corporate leaders, and the entertainment world alike.
“What makes this prestigious award even more special is that it’s voted on by the travel advisors of GTC, and we couldn’t be more humbled and grateful to be the recipient,” said Gary Stevens, Vice President of Sales at EmpireCLS. “We deeply value the trust GTC advisors place in our team to deliver a consistently elevated level of service for their clients.”
Angie Licea, President of Global Travel Collection, captured the spirit of the event, saying, “What makes these awards stand out is the mutual admiration behind them: our advisors lifting up our partners, and our partners shining a light on our advisors. It’s more than recognition—it’s a reflection of the trust, teamwork and excellence that power GTC.”
The GTC Partner Awards celebrate the advisors and partners who redefine what’s possible in luxury travel. To be chosen by this community is a reminder of why we do what we do: not just to move people from one destination to the next, but to be part of something bigger—a global ecosystem of excellence, care, and connection.
Adding to this incredible moment, we’re thrilled to share that EmpireCLS is also a finalist nominee for “Best Specialty Partner” at the 2025 Virtuoso Global Travel Awards, held in August during Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas.
Virtuoso is a premier global network of luxury travel advisors renowned for crafting extraordinary, personalized journeys that transform planning travel into an art form. This nomination is a powerful recognition of our team’s unwavering commitment to serving Virtuoso advisors and their discerning clients— building on the momentum from our consecutive Virtuoso award wins for “Highest Annual Growth of a Specialty Partner” in 2024 and 2025.
To be recognized by both GTC and Virtuoso with these distinguished honors reflects the meaningful partnerships we’ve built over the years with the travel industry’s most respected professionals, and we remain deeply grateful for their trust and support.
Thank you to the GTC and Virtuoso communities. We are honored to be your luxury chauffeured transportation partner—dedicated to delivering unparalleled experiences, every mile of the way.
There is a distinct moment that sets the tone in every luxury experience. At a five-star hotel, it is the way the doorman greets you at your arrival with a seamless gesture. On a private flight, it is the unspoken rhythm of service, tailored to your preference. At EmpireCLS, that moment happens curbside—when your chauffeur opens the door and, without a word, makes it clear: everything has been thought of.
That moment isn’t left to chance—it’s the product of a thoughtful, disciplined commitment to a philosophy we refer to as the art of chauffeuring.
“Chauffeuring is far more than just driving – it’s an art rooted in precision, discretion, and anticipation. Elevating chauffeur training means instilling a mindset of excellence, where every detail counts and every ride is transformed into a seamless luxury experience. The art of chauffeuring is my passion – and it’s the very DNA of EmpireCLS.”
— David Seelinger, Chairman & CEO, EmpireCLS
Our chauffeurs do not simply provide transportation—they serve as trusted ambassadors, embodying our values in every client interaction. That level of responsibility demands exceptional professionalism. For that reason, each candidate is carefully selected through a process that includes comprehensive background checks, personality assessments, and behavioral screenings.
Training extends well beyond technical instruction. With our proprietary in-house training program, EmpireCLS University, chauffeurs are immersed in a service philosophy modeled after Forbes Travel Guide standards. Here, they develop not only advanced driving skills but also the emotional intelligence and awareness needed to deliver refined, intuitive service. Whether transporting executives, families, entertainers, diplomats, or private aviation guests, chauffeurs are prepared to adapt to the moment with discretion and poise.
EmpireCLS is honored to be the preferred ground transportation provider for some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, including Four Seasons Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, The Peninsula Hotels, and The Waldorf Astoria. These five-diamond properties do not choose vendors—they select partners who reflect the same exacting standards across every guest touchpoint. Our chauffeurs help shape those experiences, serving as an extension of the five-star standard set by these prestigious hotels.
To uphold this trust, we relaunched our EmpireCLS University training program in 2025 with a focus on raising the bar across every area of service. The updated curriculum places greater emphasis on anticipatory hospitality, elevated etiquette, and safety.
Safety remains a core pillar of our service. All chauffeurs are trained in the Smith System of defensive driving and benefit from DriveCam safety monitoring and enhanced risk mitigation strategies. In addition to classroom instruction, our program now includes two full days of on-the-road immersion. Trainees shadow top-rated senior chauffeurs at high-pressure destinations such as airports, landmarks, five-star hotels, and key business districts, learning to navigate unpredictable conditions with confidence and professionalism.
The learning does not stop at graduation. Four weeks after program completion, each chauffeur receives a personalized performance review designed to reinforce strengths, address areas of opportunity, and ensure continued growth. This feedback loop reflects a broader truth at EmpireCLS: excellence is not a checkpoint—it is an ongoing pursuit.
Clients do not come to us simply for transportation. What they receive is a seamless, elevated experience—one that feels intentional, polished, and designed around their expectations. That level of service begins with the chauffeur and is defined by consistent excellence. In every moment—opening a door, handling a delay, adjusting to a client’s mood—they meet that expectation with grace, discretion, and intent.
This work requires more than skill behind the wheel. It demands presence, awareness, and a deep understanding of service at its highest level. It is a discipline shaped by repetition and pride—and it defines everything we do at EmpireCLS.
From curbside to destination, the EmpireCLS promise is unwavering excellence. Journey with us and experience the art of chauffeuring at its finest.
What does it mean to redefine luxury travel and make a lasting impact?
For EmpireCLS, it is about growth, sustainability and community. Over the past year, we have expanded into new locations while making significant strides in enhancing the sustainability of our fleet. But progress is not just about expansion—it is about making a difference. From supporting local communities to earning industry accolades, we are committed to shaping the future of travel. This Spring issue marks the launch of E.T.A., our quarterly newsletter, bringing you the latest updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes looks at our journey.
With over 40 years of servicing Hollywood’s most luminous red-carpet events, 2025 was one of our biggest yet. This season we proudly delivered premier chauffeured services for some of the world’s most prestigious award shows, including the Grammy Awards, Golden Globes, the Oscars and SAG Awards. Our high-profile event services didn’t stop there with Super Bowl, Austin’s SXSW and others turning to our expert M&E logistics team, ensuring that VIPs arrived in unmatched comfort and style.
As part of our corporate-owned expansion in 2024, EmpireCLS proudly opened new offices in Las Vegas and Austin. Las Vegas, which includes a fleet of 81 luxury SUVs, strengthens our presence in the entertainment capital. Meanwhile, the Austin location positions us to grow in a rapidly expanding market, further supporting our commitment to delivering exceptional service wherever our clients need us.
In 2023, we revolutionized our fleet by introducing electric vehicles. Today, nearly 100% of the gasoline-powered sedans in our Los Angeles fleet have been upgraded to EVs, underscoring our unwavering commitment to a greener future. We are proud to announce that in just two years, this shift has eliminated 1,440 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
Maintaining the largest EV fleet in the chauffeured industry, our lineup currently includes cutting-edge models such as the Cadillac LYRIQ, Lucid Air, and Genesis G80—each offering over 300 miles of luxury travel on a single charge.
Earlier this year amid the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, EmpireCLS was driven by a profound duty to act. We contributed to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and provided support to over 500 firefighters and first responders with water bottles and meals. Our LA team’s efforts during this crisis highlight the strength of unity in times of need. EmpireCLS remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting the recovery and rebuilding of our city.
At luxury travel network Virtuoso’s U.S. Forum, we proudly accepted the 2025 award for “Highest Annual Growth by a Specialty Partner”, earning the prestigious honor for the second consecutive year. In 2024, we earned recognition as a Forbes Travel Guide Preferred Luxury Chauffeur Provider, the only chauffeured service to receive this honor. We were especially honored with the 2024 Angel Award for our dedicated support of cancer patients through compassionate transportation.
These accomplishments strengthen our commitment to setting the standard for luxury travel while making a lasting impact.
EmpireCLS Worldwide Chauffeured Services has built a reputation for reliability, the largest late-model fleet, and outstanding customer service in the luxury transportation industry. Over the years, we have expanded into exciting new locations, including glamorous Las Vegas, dynamic Chicago, and the up-and-coming Austin. This strategic growth strengthens our presence in key markets and ensures we maintain consistency and the highest level of service nationwide.
New York, the city that never sleeps, is home to the EmpireCLS headquarters, where our journey began. For decades, we have been the trusted choice for discerning clients seeking dependable and luxurious chauffeured transportation. Our deep understanding of the city’s dynamic landscape ensures seamless journeys, whether navigating the bustling streets of Manhattan or providing timely airport transfers.
On the sunny West Coast, Los Angeles—a city synonymous with luxury and entertainment—has been an integral part of the EmpireCLS legacy since 2001. Embracing LA’s innovative spirit, we have made sustainability a priority by ensuring that all SUVs in our fleet are fully electric. Amidst the city’s energy, glamour, and high-profile events, every journey with EmpireCLS is designed to be as stylish and unforgettable as the city itself.
In both locations, our partnerships with esteemed five-diamond hotels such as the Beverly Hills Hotel, Four Seasons New York, the SLS Hotel, and Hotel Bel-Air have made our services the top choice for celebrities, executives, and discerning travelers.
Chicago, renowned for its iconic skyline, jazz music, and vibrant arts scene, is a cultural and architectural beacon in the Midwest. From the historic architecture of the Loop to the lively streets of Pilsen and world-class museums, Chicago pulses with creativity and character.
Inspired by the city’s potential and demand for premium transportation, we opened our corporate-owned office in 2021 to offer residents and visitors seamless luxury chauffeured services. Whether it’s a smooth ride from O’Hare International Airport, a scenic tour along the Magnificent Mile, or attending a performance at the Chicago Theatre, our professional chauffeurs navigate the city’s diverse neighborhoods and busy streets with expertise, ensuring timely arrivals and departures.
Las Vegas, with its dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, and renowned casinos, epitomizes excitement and luxury. As a destination attracting millions annually for business conventions and leisure, the demand for premium chauffeured transportation is paramount.
Last year, we launched a corporate-owned office, EmpireLV, to enhance the Las Vegas experience with top-tier chauffeured services that match the city’s opulence. Whether attending high-profile events, exploring the Strip, or requiring reliable airport transfers, our fleet of meticulously maintained late-model vehicles, professional employee chauffeurs, and dedicated Meetings & Events Team ensures an unparalleled service experience.
For over 40 years, we have dedicated ourselves to setting the standard in luxury chauffeured transportation, continuously improving our services to deliver unparalleled experiences. Being consistently recognized and awarded for our commitment is both an honor and a testament to the high standards we uphold. Yet, our mission goes beyond just setting the bar in luxury chauffeured travel—it is about using our success to give back to the communities that have supported us, making a positive and lasting impact.
At the 2025 Virtuoso U.S. Forum, held at the Pier Sixty-Six Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we were proud to accept the award for “Highest Annual Growth by a Specialty Partner”—marking our second consecutive year receiving this prestigious award.
We were first honored with this award in 2024 at the Virtuoso U.S. Forum held at the Waldorf Astoria in Orlando, Florida. That initial recognition marked a significant milestone in our growing alliance with Virtuoso’s esteemed global network.
Serving the Virtuoso network is a privilege, and we are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of Virtuoso’s agencies and travel advisors, whose collaboration and trust have been instrumental in achieving these milestones.
One of our most distinguished achievements last year was being named the Forbes Travel Guide Preferred Luxury Chauffeured Provider for 2024. As the only chauffeured transportation provider to receive this prestigious recognition, we take immense pride in setting the standard for excellence in our industry.
At the heart of our success is an exceptional team of highly trained employee chauffeurs, who undergo rigorous training modeled after the hospitality standards of five-star hotels. Their dedication ensures that every journey is a seamless luxury experience defined by professionalism, attention to detail, and personalized service.
As we continue to innovate and elevate our offerings, we remain dedicated to exceeding expectations and ensuring that every journey with EmpireCLS is nothing short of extraordinary.
Throughout the years, we have proudly supported numerous charitable initiatives, from contributing to the Corporate Angel Network and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to partnering with organizations such as The Humane Society, ECPAT-USA, Art for Life, and Any Soldier. Whether through financial contributions, in-kind services, or active participation in fundraising efforts, we remain dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
One of the most rewarding aspects of our philanthropic efforts has been our partnership with the Corporate Angel Network (CAN), an organization that helps cancer patients access life-saving treatments. Our contribution lies in providing safe and comfortable chauffeured ground transportation to and from airports, ensuring that patients have a seamless journey as they travel to these essential, often remote, treatment facilities.
Recognizing the impact of its partners, CAN presents its Angel Award each year to organizations that play a pivotal role in furthering its mission of arranging complimentary flights on corporate aircraft for patients in need. We are truly honored to have received this award, which acknowledges our role in supporting such an important cause. It is especially meaningful to us, as it highlights our unwavering commitment to assisting cancer patients in their fight for recovery and motivates us to continue making a positive, lasting impact in their lives.
Our hearts go out to the Los Angeles community currently facing unimaginable challenges from the devastating wildfires. The magnitude of this tragedy has deeply impacted us all and we hold in light everyone affected. As a company deeply rooted in the LA community, EmpireCLS is committed to supporting those on the front lines. To aid in the relief efforts, we have made a donation to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. The courage and dedication of these brave firefighters are truly an inspiration, and we’re honored to play even a small role in ensuring they have the resources needed.
Last week our LA based team worked together to deliver thousands of bottles of water to various shelters accepting donations. We also worked with our local food vendor to prepare and deliver hundreds of freshly made burritos to firefighters in Altadena. This week, we are providing meals for over 500 firefighters stationed at Will Rogers State Beach.
As Los Angeles rebuilds, EmpireCLS remains steadfast in our commitment to support and strengthen our community. Through ongoing partnerships with local organizations and charities, we stand ready to serve and assist in the recovery efforts. Our dedication to the city we proudly call home extends far beyond transportation – it’s about being there for our neighbors when they need us most.
Standing in solidarity with our Los Angeles family.
