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Three Ways to Turn the Summer Slump into a Power Play
Jun 3, 2025
From high-profile eateries to neighborhood favorites, the news has been constant: restaurants are closing their doors just ahead of what’s traditionally the slowest season of the year for the industry. The mounting costs of operating a brick-and-mortar business—sky-high rents, rising insurance premiums, inflated food and labor costs, utility bills, service fees, and even credit card processing charges—are forcing operators to reevaluate what it means to be resilient in this climate.
The headwinds are real—and they’re not easing. For some, the tipping point is local: the city or parish they operate in, policy shifts, or circumstances beyond their control. For others, it’s simply a matter of math that no longer adds up.
“In many cases, we’re seeing multi-unit operators make the difficult decision to shutter one or two locations to focus their resources on a single concept,” said Stan Harris, President and CEO of the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA). “Some are saying, ‘I’m not going to make any money six months of the year, and I won’t make money the other six either.’ But that realization is leading to a more resilient approach to doing business.”
In response to this challenging landscape, the LRA is stepping up its efforts to support members—not just with encouragement, but with actionable programs and resources tailored to this moment. Here’s how members can take advantage of opportunities this summer to regroup, retool, and prepare for a stronger second half of the year:
1. LRA x DIRECTV for Business Webinar: Sports Playbook, Part 1 – June 10
On Tuesday, June 10, from 9:30–10:30 a.m., the LRA will host Sports Playbook, Part 1: How Collegiate Sports Can Fill Your Seats and Boost Your Sales in partnership with DIRECTV for Business. This free webinar will explore how restaurants and bars can leverage the power of college sports to drive guest traffic during slow periods. Learn how to tap into fan loyalty, market game-day specials, and create a dynamic sports-viewing atmosphere that brings guests back again and again. LRA members will also hear about exclusive DIRECTV packages and pricing available to them. Register today here. INSERT LINK
2. New Orleans Restaurant Week – June 16–22
Returning June 16–22, 2025, New Orleans Restaurant Week, presented in partnership with New Orleans & Company, brings together long-time favorites and new culinary voices for a week of value-priced, multi-course menus. Timed between Father’s Day and Fourth of July, the promotion is a welcome boost during the tropical temps and slower foot traffic of early summer. The sign up window has closed, however, we encourage our associate members to dine out during this week! Visit: neworleans.com/restaurantweek
3. LRA Showcase – August 2–3 in New Orleans
Authentically Louisiana is the theme of the 2025 LRA Showcase, taking place August 2–3 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. This premier event for the restaurant and hospitality industry features an expansive show floor with new and returning vendors, cutting-edge products and services, and interactive experiences like live cooking demos, a cocktail competition, and the Great American Seafood Cook-Off. LRA restaurant members receive complimentary admission; associate members are encouraged to exhibit and connect directly with thousands of potential customers and collaborators. Visit: LRA.org/attendees
A Time to Refocus
The LRA is listening to the needs of its members and responding with resources, connections, and ideas to help businesses navigate the tough times. Whether you’re streamlining operations, seeking inspiration, or building a more strategic future, there are tools available right now to help.
The summer slowdown doesn’t have to be a setback—it can be a reset. And the LRA is here to help restaurants come out better on the other side.