Worcester Business Journal

20 Worcester Business Journal | January 13, 2025 | wbjournal.com BY MICA KANNER-MASCOLO WBJ Staff Writer T o say the transportation industry has changed during the 40 years Shrewsbury-based Knight's Airport Limousine Knight's keeps a personal touch as transportation becomes more inhuman has been in business would be an understatement. e rise of rideshare apps, which began popping up in the late 2000s/early 2010s, had customers ditching taxis and limousine services in favor of rides they can access at the click of a button. But for Knight's, the rise of the likes of Uber and Ly have not had an affect on business. "People wanted to try it out, but we're noticing people are coming back full force. ey like the fact that we're a reputable company and they know ex- actly who's driving them," said Michelle Neiduski, Knight's customer service manager. "at's something that's really working to our benefit." e secret to that fidelity is Knight's reputation of safety and reliability. Not only have all Knight's drivers passed the Criminal Offender Record Informa- tion background check required for all rideshare drivers in the state, but they have also completed U.S. Department of Transportation physical examinations and are randomly drug tested. ere are cameras on board all vehicles and drivers must complete ride-alongs with seasoned drivers before they can work on their own. "People still want us. ey're very loyal," said Neiduski. One way customer habits have affected Knight's over time, though, is through its clients' preference for dig- ital booking and communication. As travelling has become more accessible, people are travelling more oen and are more independent, said Neiduski. "ey are expecting a little bit more, and of course, we're growing with everybody else. We're listening to their request and trying to expand on that," she said. Knight's makes sure to keep its web- site updated, adding more options to allow clients to manage their travel on their own, but the company still gives its ever-personal confirmation calls the day before customer rides. Making these rides comfortable and pleasant are critical for client retention. Knight's ensures its drivers are able to adapt to the needs of their riders. For example, paying attention to body language to pick up on if the customer wants to talk or not. If the drivers fore- see a time restraint or a delay, they will communicate that. "We want everything to be prompt, we want it to be safe, and we want to keep them coming back," Neiduski said. n BEST HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDER Winner: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts*, in Worcester Notable runners-up: Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, in Canton; Tufts Health Plan, in Canton; Fallon Health, in Worcester Blue Cross Blue Shield develops services, benefits, and plans aimed at easing the burden of rising health- care costs and improving the care for members. More than 80% of Massa- chusetts doctors and hospitals take part in its Alternative Quality Contract program, which is a global payment model that has served as a blueprint for health plans across the country. Website: www.bluecrossma.org Top executive: CEO Sarah Iselin Founded: 1937 Employees: 4,308 total; 3,302 based in Massachusetts n BEST COLLEGE FOR BUSINESS EDUCATION Winner: Nichols College*, in Dudley Notable runners-up: Clark University, in Worcester; Worcester State University; Assumption University, in Worcester Nichols College earned business accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business in 2023, a designation achieved by 6% of institutions worldwide. This certification validates the college's strengths as a business school and promising future as an institution dedicated to graduating successful students. Within six months of graduating, 95% of graduates were employed or in graduate school. Website: www.nichols.edu Top executive: William Pieczynski, president Founded: 1815 Employees: 370 n BEST YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK Winner: Young Professional Women's Association*, in Worcester Notable runners-up: Helping Young Professionals Excel in the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber, in Westborough; Worcester Young Businessmen's Association, in Worcester The Young Professional Women's Association creates opportunities to engage and empower local women by building a welcoming culture and support system. Events are created with the goal of supporting the community and local entrepreneurs. Women in the YPWA are positioned to contribute to the region's economy, hold leadership positions in businesses and nonprofits, and influence policy to strengthen society. Website: www.ypwaworcester.com Top executive: Katherine Aguilar, president Founded: 2013 Employees: 0, as all participants are volunteers n BEST EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CONSULTANT Winner: Sullivan Benefits*, in Marlborough Sullivan Benefits offers customized strategies tailored to each client's needs by simplifying complex employee benefits, from compliance B E S T O F B U S I N E S S E M P L O Y E E S E R V I C E S BEST LIMOUSINE SERVICE Winner: Knight's Airport Limousine*, in Shrewsbury Notable runners-up: Joey's Limousine Service, in Worcester; Le Limo, in Shrewsbury Website: www.knightslimo.com Top executive: Michael Hogan, president; Tom Hogan, CEO Founded: 1985 Employees: 150+ CEO Sarah Iselin Nichols College

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