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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…
Read MoreLatest 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…
Read MoreLatest 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 The insights shared in the State of the Restaurant Industry 2025 report, presented by the National Restaurant Association, offer a detailed overview of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. It’s crucial for restaurateurs to understand how generational shifts are influencing staffing, spending behaviors, and dining preferences post pandemic. With industry projections indicating…
Latest News Parade Season Compliance: Key Tips for 2025 As the parade season kicks in the coming weeks, expect heightened compliance measures from regulatory authorities, particularly those involved in public safety. Fire Marshal Compliance The Fire Marshal will be on the lookout to ensure premise capacities are adhered to. Deputy marshals will be present in…
Latest News Immigration enforcement can be a daunting situation for any restaurant. If U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrive at your establishment, it’s crucial to remain calm, follow legal procedures, and protect your business and employees’ rights. These best practices were presented by the Restaurant Law Center in partnership with Fisher Phillips LLP…
Latest News Just like a simmering pot of red beans on a Monday, the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is a trusted staple in the hospitality industry-reliable, consistent, and always there when you need it. For generations, restaurants across the state have counted on the LRA for advocacy, education, and support, ensuring their success just as…
Latest News The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (WLF) have informed us of a temporary closure of oyster harvesting in Area 3. This precautionary measure comes after Alabama health officials raised concerns about a potential foodborne illness. Out of an abundance of caution, harvest from Area 3 has…
Latest News The White House has announced that President Trump will implement new tariffs effective February 1: 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico 10% on imports from China There are no known exclusions or exceptions at this time. It remains unclear under which legal authority these tariffs will be enacted, and legal challenges may…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is proud to announce that Fleur du Coeur: A Culinary Tribute, held January 13-19, raised $100,000 for the Greater New Orleans Foundation New Year’s Day Tragedy Fund. The weeklong dining promotion was organized by a group of local restaurateurs and bar owners to support victims, families, and the…
Latest News Businesses that accepted Visa and/or MasterCard payments between January 1, 2004, and January 25, 2019, are eligible to file a claim in a significant antitrust settlement. This includes nonprofits, closed businesses, and those that have declared bankruptcy. The settlement, estimated at $5.5 billion, aims to compensate merchants for alleged overcharges on interchange fees…
Latest News The NRA’s policy team has been hard at work protecting restaurant operators from regulatory and legislative changes that could negatively impact their businesses. By collaborating with industry allies and leveraging the strength of its members, the Association is addressing key challenges in areas such as alcohol regulations, corporate transparency, sodium reduction, and workplace…
Latest News The conversation about eliminating income taxes on tips is back on the table with the reintroduction of the No Tax on Tips Act of 2025. Initially championed by President Trump during his presidency, the bill aims to provide relief to tipped workers by allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned income. Reintroduced…