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On the Radar: Latest Trends & Updates
Here, you'll find timely updates, industry insights, and exciting announcements about our association and the vibrant restaurant community we serve. Stay informed about upcoming events, important initiatives, and key developments that impact our industry. We’re thrilled to keep you connected and engaged with the latest happenings in the world of hospitality.
Latest News The latest workforce technology report from the National Restaurant Association highlights trends shaping the industry. While many insights come from large national chains, independent restaurants, multi-unit operators, and franchisees often have different needs and financial constraints. Here’s how LRA members can leverage workforce technology in a practical and cost-effective way. 1. Streamlining Employee…
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Latest News By Stan Harris, President & CEO, Louisiana Restaurant Association Mar 18, 2025 At the Louisiana Restaurant Association, we are the trusted advisor for Louisiana’s restaurant industry. Advocacy is at the heart of our mission, ensuring that our members have a voice in decisions that impact their businesses. As engaged citizens and business owners,…
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Latest News As the restaurant industry navigates an evolving economic landscape, new trade developments are already making waves. In January, U.S. imports soared to a record high of $329.55 billion, up from $293.36 billion in December, as businesses rushed to bring in goods ahead of the anticipated tariffs. The U.S. trade deficit also spiked to…
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Latest News The Trump Administration’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement, led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is exploring food policy changes that could impact restaurants nationwide. With a focus on improving public health, MAHA aims to increase transparency in the food supply, promote “better for you” ingredients, and scrutinize…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation (LRAEF) is investing in the future of the hospitality industry by awarding $60,000 in scholarships to its 2025 LRAEF Scholars Class. These scholarships provide vital support to Louisiana students pursuing careers in the restaurant, foodservice, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Honorees will be recognized at Serving the Future:…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) Workers’ Compensation Self-Insurance Fund (LRA WC) has appointed Dustin Hebert as its new General Manager. With over 20 years of experience and a family legacy in insurance, Hebert is well-prepared to lead the program’s continued growth and support Louisiana’s hospitality industry. Serving Louisiana’s Hospitality Industry Since 1982 Founded…
Latest News How Digital Innovation is Reshaping Front and Back-of-House Operations Technology is transforming the restaurant industry, helping operators tackle rising labor costs and ongoing workforce shortages. These insights were presented in the State of the Restaurant Industry 2025 webinar by Hudson Riehle, SVP of Research and Knowledge, and Chad Moutray, VP of Research and…
Latest News From Snacking to Sustainability, What Drives Younger Diners? Consumer habits are evolving rapidly, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the transformation of the restaurant industry. These insights were highlighted in the State of the Restaurant Industry 2025 webinar, presented by the National Restaurant Association. With these two generations now outnumbering Gen X and…
Latest News The restaurant industry continues to evolve, balancing opportunity with cautious optimism in 2025. These insights were presented in the State of the Restaurant Industry 2025 National Restaurant Association. With industry sales projected to reach $1.5 trillion and employment expected to grow by 200,000 jobs to 15.9 million, operators face challenges in recruitment, labor…
Latest News The insights shared in the State of the Restaurant Industry 2025 report, presented by the National Restaurant Association, offer a detailed overview of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. It’s crucial for restaurateurs to understand how generational shifts are influencing staffing, spending behaviors, and dining preferences post pandemic. With industry projections indicating…
Latest News Parade Season Compliance: Key Tips for 2025 As the parade season kicks in the coming weeks, expect heightened compliance measures from regulatory authorities, particularly those involved in public safety. Fire Marshal Compliance The Fire Marshal will be on the lookout to ensure premise capacities are adhered to. Deputy marshals will be present in…
Latest News Immigration enforcement can be a daunting situation for any restaurant. If U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrive at your establishment, it’s crucial to remain calm, follow legal procedures, and protect your business and employees’ rights. These best practices were presented by the Restaurant Law Center in partnership with Fisher Phillips LLP…
Latest News Just like a simmering pot of red beans on a Monday, the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is a trusted staple in the hospitality industry-reliable, consistent, and always there when you need it. For generations, restaurants across the state have counted on the LRA for advocacy, education, and support, ensuring their success just as…