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In every industry, there are unsung heroes whose dedication and commitment shape the landscape from behind the scenes. Alan Guilbeau, 2024’s newly appointed Chair of the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA), is one such individual whose remarkable journey in consumer products, food service, and distribution has left an indelible mark on Louisiana’s culinary community.

Born and raised in Kenner, Guilbeau’s upbringing was steeped in the values of hard work and perseverance. His father’s career with Jack’s Cookies and Budweiser instilled in him a deep appreciation for the intricacies of business, while his mother’s clerical work inspired a sense of organization and diligence that would serve him well in his future endeavors.

After graduating from Bonnabel High School, Guilbeau joined his father at Budweiser, where he began his career in earnest. Over the years he held various roles within the company, going from keg route driver to package salesman to route supervisor, and eventually rising to the position of pre-sale division manager. It was during this time that Guilbeau honed his skills in sales, distribution, and team leadership, laying the foundation for his future success.

“My career focus went from bringing life to the festivities for hospitality businesses, to rejuvenating night owls for their morning meetings,” joked Guilbeau.

From the Party to Perky

In 2009, Guilbeau embarked on a new chapter in his career, joining New Orleans Roast Coffee & Tea and PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans under Ballard Brands as Vice President of Business Development. Here, he played a pivotal role in expanding the brands’ reach beyond coffee shops and into restaurants, hotels, and convenience stores. Guilbeau’s strategic acumen and unwavering dedication were instrumental in driving the growth and success of these beloved Louisiana brands.

Roastmaster Felton Jones has worked with Guilbeau for 25 years and commends him on his role as LRA Chair this year. Jones noted that, “This position will give more people in our industry the chance to know Alan and see what he brings to the table.”

“He taught me everything I know about sales and I taught him everything I know about manufacturing, and through that experience we built New Orleans Roast together,” said Jones. “Alan sees the potential in people that they don’t yet see in themselves.”

All in From the Beginning

Outside of his professional roles, Guilbeau has been deeply involved with the LRA, serving as the Northshore Chapter President and Chair of the LRA Education Foundation. His passion for programs like ProStart, inspired by his son’s participation at Covington High School, underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talent.

In addition to his professional achievements, Guilbeau’s personal life has also been intertwined with the culinary world. His daughter’s career as an administrative law judge for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and his recent marriage to his wife Kelly, who is VP of Marketing at the Salad Station and volunteers with the LRA Education Foundation, further illustrate his family’s deep connection to the industry.

As Guilbeau assumes his role as Chair of the LRA, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a genuine desire to serve the community. He emphasizes the importance of membership recruitment, the support of the LRA Workers’ Comp program, and access to essential training resources like ServSafe for food safety and alcohol training.

​In the face of challenges such as the post-pandemic recovery, Guilbeau’s quiet determination and unwavering commitment to service will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Louisiana’s vibrant restaurant industry. As we celebrate his journey of passion and service, let us be inspired to follow in his footsteps and make a difference in our own communities.