From the Desk Banner
 
 
Restaurants continue to face burdensome challenges from COVID-19, and the National Restaurant Association is committed to working on solutions to help the industry rebuild and prosper in the months ahead.
 
During our recent Fall Board Meeting, Association and Foundation Board members, state restaurant association leaders, and members of the Association and Foundation teams gathered virtually to discuss the plans and programs on tap to assist restaurants devastated by COVID-19.
 
To help the industry meet its challenges, we are focused on three primary objectives aimed at reaching policymakers, restaurateurs, and guests.
 
1. Policy engagement. Our Public Affairs team continually advocates for critical changes to expand financial assistance, such as the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act, which was signed into law in June. The team also developed a “Blueprint for Restaurant Revival” that asks Congress to make significant legislative changes that would support restaurants of every size and operation model across the country.
 
2. Restaurant Revival campaign. This initiative, funded and developed in partnership with several of the Association’s allied members, seeks to educate consumers about the steps restaurants are taking to protect employees and guests from exposure to coronavirus and to assure them it’s safe to dine out.
 
3. ServSafe Dining Commitment. As part of the Restaurant Revival initiative, the commitment is a pledge that participating restaurants take — through their state restaurant associations — stating they are:
 
  • Following the Association’s safe reopening guidance,
  • Adhering to local public health requirements, and
  • Employing ServSafe-certified staff members.
Additionally, plans are underway to increase the tools and solutions available to restaurateurs in 2021. This includes expanding the Association’s ServSafe suite of programs and broadening the reach of the Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance, which helps members develop a comprehensive and integrated approach to diversity and racial equity in their businesses. The Association will continue to focus on federal and state legislative actions that will help the industry recover financially, as well.
 
Going into 2021, the Association and Foundation are well positioned to continue supporting the industry at the highest levels. We will focus on areas where we can affect the most change with the resources we have, ensure the path forward, while advancing and supporting our industry.
 
 
Tom Bene Signature