USA Today, June 25, 2002, p.10A (letters)

On behalf of the 858,000 restaurant locations and 11.6 million restaurant employees across the country, I take issue with the thoughtless and unqualified remarks regarding restaurant employees and the industry as a whole in a recent article (06/25/02 "Record Number of Teens Just Say No to Summer Jobs").

Many individuals, particularly teenagers, recognize the tremendous opportunities the restaurant industry provides — for a year or a career. It is the cornerstone of the economy and of career opportunities. In fact, contrary to the charges in your story that teens are shying away from working in restaurants, the restaurant industry is the largest private sector employer in the country and employs more teenagers than any other industry: 2.4 million. Why? Because the restaurant industry provides a first job opportunity, the skills needed to succeed in any job or career, flexible hours, competitive income, and a fun work atmosphere not only for young people, but for people of all ages and backgrounds.

The restaurant industry is a gateway to success. Nine out of ten salaried workers started out as hourly employees. Salaries for foodservice managers are growing at a rate twice as fast as the median salary for all managerial positions. And, many restaurant industry employees learn the skills needed to eventually own their own business.

This summer alone, the industry will add 352,900 jobs to the nation's work force, underscoring the restaurant industry's essential role as the cornerstone of career opportunities.

Sincerely,

Steven C. Anderson
President and Chief Executive Officer
National Restaurant Association