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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 Congratulations to longtime Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) member and passionate advocate of the LRA Workers’ Comp program, Henry L. Coaxum, Jr., on his 40th anniversary as a McDonald’s franchisee! Henry began his journey with McDonald’s as a manager trainee in 1984, rising to become the owner/operator of three restaurants in New Orleans. His…
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Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is proud to congratulate longtime member, Jacob’s Andouille, for being named Best Andouille in the Best of the River Parishes contest for the fourth consecutive year. This honor highlights the enduring legacy of Jacob’s Andouille and its significant contribution to LaPlace’s status as the Andouille Capital of the World. LaPlace, Louisiana, has earned…
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Latest News NFSM Week 4: Inside the Health Dept.’s Response to Foodborne Outbreaks: What Should You Expect? Even in the most well-run restaurants, a foodborne outbreak may occur. An outbreak is when multiple people get sick from eating the same food. Many foodborne outbreaks in restaurants are identified from customer complaints of illness to the…
Read MoreLatest News Drago’s: An American Journey recounts the inspiring saga of the Cvitanovich family, pioneers of Drago’s Seafood Restaurant in Metairie, Louisiana. From humble beginnings to culinary legends, Drago and Klara Cvitanovich embody the immigrant experience and entrepreneurial spirit, fleeing post-World War II Europe with little but determination. Through unwavering dedication, they introduced their iconic dish,…
Latest News With a renewed spirit, the LRA held its annual chapter leadership conference in Baton Rouge on January 24. The topics covered everything LRA-related, from advocacy to the education foundation, as well as events and goals. LRA Chair Alan Guilbeau and Director Stephen Hightower (Chapter Leadership Chair) led a dialogue that sparked creativity in…
Latest News By Bruce Grindy, Chief Economist, National Restaurant Association In the 12 months ending November 2023, average wholesale food prices declined 5.6%. That marked the seventh consecutive 12-month decline – and the largest year-over-year drop in more than 7 years. The recent slowing of growth followed an 18-month period of double-digit gains – including…
Latest News Mardi Gras Ushers in Upgrades to Meal Service for 8th District The largest free show on earth, as we know, is not without its costs. With nearly 1 million visitors pouring in for the 2024 Mardi Gras Season, the public safety measures are vast, largely unknown or underestimated. The agencies that are on…
Latest News Restaurants sales are forecast to exceed $1.1 trillion in sales this year, marking a new milestone for the industry that will employ over 15.7 million people in the United States by the end of 2024. This is all according to the National Restaurant Association 2024 State of the Restaurant Industry Report. Key findings from…
Latest News The Payment Card Settlement is the biggest antitrust class-action settlement in history and sets aside at least $5.54 billion and a maximum of approximately $6.24 billion for millions of U.S. merchants who for years paid artificially inflated Visa and Mastercard interchange fees. Why it matters: If your restaurant accepted Visa and/or Mastercard at any time between January…
Latest News Louisiana ProStart Program’s recent Educator Training held at The University of New Orleans Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Program (UNO HRT) was a dynamic and enriching event. The day commenced with an opening session led by Jonathan Baynham, LRAEEF Executive Director, and Mistica Maples-Adams, LRAEF Program Manager, setting the tone for an engaging program.…
Latest News As we head into the holidays, bookings for seasonal celebrations are robust, already approaching and even exceeding pre-pandemic levels in some areas. The last thing you need is a foodborne illness to ruin your customers’ holiday revelries, not to mention your restaurant’s sales and reputation. Whether a company cocktail party or a catered…
Latest News 2024 What’s Hot Culinary Forecast from the National Restaurant Association predicts top menu trends for next year Swipe. Like. Crave. More and more, the line between restaurant menus and home cooking is blurring, thanks to social media like TikTok where restaurant dishes become viral sensations and in the right culinary hands popular social…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) Greater Baton Rouge Chapter gathered November 15 at the elegant Ruffino’s De La Rhonde Hall for an evening of celebration, recognition, and honor. The 2023 Awards Night brought together esteemed members, industry professionals, and friends to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of individuals who exemplify excellence in the culinary and…