2020 has undoubtedly been the most challenging year we have ever faced as an industry. Throughout the last 10 months of the pandemic, the IRA has worked to be there every step of the way for the restaurant and hospitality community by providing resources, guidance, and crucial advocacy.
We have seen unparalleled levels of engagement from restaurants that have made their collective voices heard at the local, state, and federal levels. Restaurants have stepped up to lend a helping hand to those in need like never before. Operators have pivoted their business models, and gone to incredible lengths to keep their team members and customers safe. Illinois’ foodservice community has proven its resiliency and solidarity again and again.
I recognize, of course, as all of you do, that we are nowhere near where we need to be as an industry. Eating and drinking places in Illinois lost 31,000 jobs in November alone, the most of any state in the country. We expect a minimum of 20% of restaurants to never reopen in Illinois. My team and I fully recognize the grave situation facing restaurants, bars, caterers, suppliers, and all hospitality businesses. The latest action from Congress is a step in the right direction for restaurants, but much more help is needed in the form of direct grants made available through the RESTAURANTS Act. We will remain vigilant in our push for additional financial support for your businesses in 2021.
The Association was also honored to expand the mission of the IRA Educational Foundation to support industry workers in need. Since early November, the Foundation has provided more than 350 foodservice workers $176,500 in IRAEF Restaurant Employee Relief Fund grants, with more to come in the new year. In the fall, the IRA raised money for the Employee Relief Fund by celebrating our vibrant culinary scene through Chicago Gourmet, presented by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. This year’s event successfully pivoted to a new format with intimate dinner gatherings and virtual demonstrations. Thank you to everyone that has donated so far to make this Fund a reality. Please consider donating what you can, and encourage your team members to apply for relief as well.
We could not accomplish all our work without the support of our members, Officers, Board of Directors and all our corporate sponsors, who stepped up to support us through this extremely difficult time. A special thank you to IRA Chairman Greg Schulson, whose tireless dedication and commitment to this Association and industry has led us through this crisis.
In 2021, you will continue to see our Association working to protect, promote, and provide relief to the state’s restaurant and hospitality community - which has been our core mission for over 100 years now. Know that you have the IRA in your corner - then, now, and always.
Thank you for the opportunity to lead the Association for the past eight years. As always, please reach out to me or the IRA team anytime.
Onward to a brighter 2021 for us all. I hope you have a safe and happy holiday season.
