GRA Weekly

August 3, 2023

This week's newsletter is brought to you by GRA Corporate Partner OrionStar USA

CREDIT CARD SWIPE FEES

Update on Credit Card Swipe Fees

Thank you to everyone who contacted Senate offices last month regarding the Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA). Our champions in the Senate were able to secure a commitment that the Senate will vote on adopting the CCCA before the end of the year.

This is a significant achievement, but our work is far from over. We know the big banks and credit card companies are committed to fighting this legislation because it would bring an end to their duopoly and ever-increasing swipe fees. That’s why it’s essential that we continue our outreach to Senate offices, educating them on why CCCA matters to restaurant operators and asking for their support on CCCA when it comes up for a vote.

In the coming weeks, we will share more ways you can help build support for CCCA. In the meantime, please take a moment to contact your senators here if you haven’t already, and please continue to encourage your members to do the same. More can be found at www.restaurantsact.com.

CONCESSIONS OUTREACH

ATL Airport Concessions Outreach

The City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of Contract Compliance and the Department of Aviation (Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport) Concessions Management unit is hosting a Concessions Outreach event.

Participating businesses will:

Learn about contracting opportunities with Airport Concessions.
Gain insight into the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) certification process.
Meet and network with industry professionals.
Engage with lending institutions.

The program will feature representatives from the City of Atlanta, the Airport, the Georgia Department of Transportation, Invest Atlanta and other financial institutions. The event will be held at the Georgia International Convention Center.

Thursday | August 10

QSR EVOLUTION CONFERENCE + NEXTGEN RESTAURANT SUMMIT

QSR Evolution Conference + NextGen Restaurant Summit

The QSR Evolution Conference and the NextGen Restaurant Summit will explore emerging full-service and quick-service restaurant brands and address the needs of these restaurant operators.

Immerse yourself in the QSR and FSR world and find a carefully curated agenda filled with engaging sessions, insightful panels, and inspiring keynotes.

Keynote speakers are:

Andrew Cathy, CEO, Chick-fil-A
Christian Charnaux, Chief Growth Officer, Inspire Brands
Trevor Haynes, President - North America, Subway
Chris Tomasso, CEO, First Watch

GRA Restaurant Members will receive 10% off of their registration using the code: GRA10.

September 6-7 | Atlanta

GRA ADVOCACY UPDATE

GRA Testifies at Senate Workforce Committee

Last week, the Senate Study Committee on Expanding Georgia’s Workforce met in Savannah to discuss labor practices within Georgia. Scott Bierman testified on behalf of the GRA, speaking on labor shortages and workforce development initiatives within the restaurant industry. Restaurateur Jamie Durrence of Daniel-Reed Hospitality voiced concerns within his own work and emphasized a focus on small businesses as the committee works toward final recommendations for the state senate. Other testimony included representatives from Gulfstream, Georgia Ports Authority, and the Savannah Chamber of Commerce. For more information about the study committee click here.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Introducing the Restaurant Ready Program: Join Us as a Volunteer!

The Restaurant Ready program is dedicated to equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the restaurant and foodservice industry. To achieve this mission, we are reaching out to GRA members who share our passion for giving back to the community and shaping future talents. If you're interested in making a positive impact and supporting this initiative, we invite you to volunteer with us!

We have various opportunities available for volunteers, catering to different levels of commitment and involvement. You can participate as a guest speaker during our informative lunch and learn sessions, share your industry expertise and insights. Alternatively, consider volunteering your time to conduct mock interviews for current Restaurant Ready program members, helping them hone their interviewing skills and boost their confidence. Another option is to lead a skills training session, where you can impart valuable knowledge and expertise to aspiring professionals.

In May, we announced our partnership with Clubhouse Atlanta. Their first program session is set to kick off at the end of August, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for enthusiastic individuals seeking a career in the foodservice industry.

If you want to make a difference and partner with the Georgia Restaurant Association Foundation and the Restaurant Ready program, please contact Katie Ashley. Together, we can create a brighter future for aspiring talents and contribute to the growth and success of the restaurant and foodservice industry!