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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 President Trump has announced a 90-day pause on broad-based tariffs, while simultaneously increasing tariffs on Chinese imports. For the restaurant and hospitality industry, this temporary delay does not mean we’re in the clear. If anything, it introduces more uncertainty into an already volatile economic environment. Uncertainty Is the Real Threat The biggest challenge…
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Latest News Just like a crawfish boil brings people together, the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) and the National Restaurant Association (NRA) create a network of support, advocacy, and resources that strengthen Louisiana’s restaurant industry at every level-local, state, and national. A recent survey of restaurateurs nationwide by the NRA revealed that LRA members are more…
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Latest News At the Louisiana Restaurant Association, we frequently receive questions from our members regarding sales tax exemptions for non-profit organizations. Many assume that being a “tax-exempt” organization automatically means exemption from all taxes, but that is not the case. This clarification comes from the Louisiana Department of Revenue Attorney, Tax Policy and Planning, and…
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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…
Latest News The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (WLF) have informed us of a temporary closure of oyster harvesting in Area 3. This precautionary measure comes after Alabama health officials raised concerns about a potential foodborne illness. Out of an abundance of caution, harvest from Area 3 has…
Latest News The White House has announced that President Trump will implement new tariffs effective February 1: 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico 10% on imports from China There are no known exclusions or exceptions at this time. It remains unclear under which legal authority these tariffs will be enacted, and legal challenges may…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is proud to announce that Fleur du Coeur: A Culinary Tribute, held January 13-19, raised $100,000 for the Greater New Orleans Foundation New Year’s Day Tragedy Fund. The weeklong dining promotion was organized by a group of local restaurateurs and bar owners to support victims, families, and the…
Latest News Businesses that accepted Visa and/or MasterCard payments between January 1, 2004, and January 25, 2019, are eligible to file a claim in a significant antitrust settlement. This includes nonprofits, closed businesses, and those that have declared bankruptcy. The settlement, estimated at $5.5 billion, aims to compensate merchants for alleged overcharges on interchange fees…