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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 The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is proud to partner with New Orleans & Company to welcome two of the world’s most prestigious culinary competitions-the Bocuse d’Or Americas and the Pastry World Cup Americas-to New Orleans as part of the 2026 LRA Showcase. On Saturday, July 25, attendees can experience the Pastry World Cup…
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Latest News The restaurant industry has never stood still. From online ordering and mobile payments to kitchen automation and digital marketing, operators have continually adapted to meet changing consumer expectations. Today, artificial intelligence is driving the next evolution-and it’s happening faster than many realize. That’s why the Louisiana Restaurant Association is excited to welcome internationally…
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Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) will welcome thousands of restaurant and hospitality professionals from across Louisiana and the Gulf South to the 73rd Annual LRA Showcase, July 25-26, 2026, in Hall I of the New Orleans Morial Convention Center. Designed exclusively for industry professionals, the LRA Showcase features hundreds of exhibiting companies showcasing…
Read MoreLatest 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…