At Your Service, Winter 2021

AT YOUR

Official Magazine of North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association

SERVICE Manteo to Murphy Highlights

Inside NCRLA’s first virtual Manteo to Murphy PAC fundraiser

Winter Legislative Update

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PLUS Social Media Tips for 2021

A renewed fight for hospitality

Spirit of Hospitality Winter 2021, Vol. 10, Issue 1 NCRLA.org

It’s Time for Open Enrollment.

UnitedHealthcare offers exclusive members-only pricing and benefits, including: • Medical coverage • Dental and vision insurance • Disability, life and critical illness insurance

Contact your broker today or visit us at restauranthealthcare.org for more information.

Benefits and programs may not be available in all states or for all group sizes. Components subject to change.

These plans have exclusions and limitations. Contact your UnitedHealthcare broker or the company for more details.

Insurance coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates. Administrative services provided by United HealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates. Health Plan coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina, Inc. ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc.

Contents

NCRLA EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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STEVE THANHAUSER, CHAIR Angus Barn, Ltd. PATRICK AIELLO Ecolab JIM BELEY The Umstead Hotel & Spa ANDY CLARK US Foods DAN FREELAND Concord Hospitality Enterprises PHIL FRIEDMAN Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina

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TIM GOSS Firehouse Subs

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JOEL GRIFFIN Griffin Stafford Hospitality, LLC DORIS HUEBNER F & D Huebner, LLC

Features

BURNEY JENNINGS Biscuitville Fresh Southern

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10

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Social Media Tips for a SociallyDistanced World

Winter Legislative Update

The Giving Spirit of Hospitality

Manteo to Murphy PAC Fundraiser Exceeds Goals

The Sweet Biscuit Inn Stays Connected During COVID

NCRLA members and event sponsors make this virtual event a success

One business’s story of working with NCRLA and EMPLOYERS Insurance

Your business’s social media content is more important than ever

Latest news from the North Carolina General Assembly

Despite their own hardships, NC hospitality businesses continue to help others in need

RUSS JONES Davidson & Jones SCOTT MAITLAND Top of the Hill Restaurant, Brewery & Distillery AMBER MOSHAKOS LM Restaurants TOM PASHLEY Pinehurst Resort AKSHAT PATEL, EX-OFFICIO Comfort Inn – Choice Hotels NISHITH “NISH” PATEL Beacon IMG, Inc.

In Every Issue 6

Continuing to Fight Letter from NCRLA Chair Steve Thanhauser and President & CEO Lynn Minges

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Welcome New Members Welcome to our latest members from across North Carolina

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Benefits of Membership How NCRLA gives your business a competitive advantage

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At Your Service | Winter 2021

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Member Moments Recognizing leaders from across North Carolina’s hospitality industry

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À la Carte A sampler of hospitality-related news stories

SHAUNAK PATEL Parks Hospitality Group VINAY PATEL SREE Hotels, LLC GONZA SALAMANCA Gonza Tacos Y Tequila TOM SASSER Burke Hospitality BILLY SEWELL Platinum Corral, LLC JASON SMITH 18 Restaurant Group CHARLES THOMPSON The Inn on Biltmore Estate LANCE TRENARY Golden Corral Corporation

Thank You to Our Corporate Sponsors

Corporate Sponsors support the endeavors of the North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association in a variety of ways, including event sponsorships, advertising, and more. NCRLA thanks those who help make the association strong.

PLATINUM

TITANIUM

DIAMOND

SILVER

GOLD

View our Corporate Sponsorship opportunities at NCRLA.org

‘tis the

sipping season Enjoy it with our trio of spirits.

If you ask us, our spirits are a year-round treat, but for those looking to get in the spirits this season, might we suggest our Southern Star Standard Bourbon, Double Rye and Double Shot? C’mon, we know you wanna!

Our straight bourbon whiskey is now on sale

for $34.95

750 ml was $39.95

Also available in 50 ml for $1.95 NC Codes 66-731 750 ml | 21-549 50 ml

Our double rye is now on sale

for $29.95

750 ml was $34.95

Our Double Shot is now on sale

for $19.95

750 ml was $24.95

Also available in 50 ml for $1.45

Also available in 50 ml for $1.45

NC Codes 66-734 750 ml | 21-554 50 ml

NC Codes 66-733 750 ml | 21-548 50 ml

SouthernDistilling.com 211 Jennings Road, Statesville NC 28625

Winter 2021 | At Your Service

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Continuing to Fight The past nine months have rocked the hospitality industry to the core. Restaurants and hotels across North Carolina continue to struggle due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we watch rollbacks and closures in cities and states across the country, we remain concerned about the rising number of COVID cases in North Carolina and what that will mean for our hotels and restaurants.

No matter what happens, NCRLA will continue to advocate for you and to stand up for North Carolina’s restaurants and hotels as we have done since COVID-19 first struck our state. The partnerships that we maintain with elected officials and policy makers within the administration are key to our industry successfully navigating this historical crisis.

There is no playbook. Our public officials are working hard to balance the health and safety of our communities with the economy. They are looking for No matter what happens, solutions. By having a seat at the table, NCRLA plays NCRLA will continue to an active role in working with the administration to advocate for you and to create solutions that address specific problems. Our partnership with the governor’s office and NC DHHS stand up for North Carolina’s led to the creation of the guidance for reopening restaurants and hotels as we restaurants and for operating meeting and event have done since COVID-19 spaces safely. Our Count On Me NC training and consumer awareness campaign has expanded widely first struck our state. and is tied directly to the statewide health protocols.

This national model program is helping to ensure that our state’s citizens are engaged and play an active role in keeping each other safe. It helps businesses operate safely and builds consumer confidence in visiting participating restaurants and hotels.

Recently, we joined state restaurant associations across the nation in a two-day conference on COVID-19 response and recovery, and we hosted meetings with our Charlotte and Asheville chapters. We spoke to a conference of local and county officials coordinated by the UNC School of Government, and the NCRLA Government Affairs Committee met to begin development of our advocacy agenda for the upcoming 2021 legislative session. On November 20, NCRLA members Cheetie Kumar (Garland, Raleigh) and Jason Smith (Cantina 18, Raleigh and Harvest 18, Durham) stood with NC DHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen at the bi-weekly COVID press briefing and shared tips on how families can celebrate the holidays safely at home by employing safety protocols used in restaurants every day. They also reminded viewers that restaurants and event venues are good considerations for hosting gatherings with family and friends in a safe and responsible way during the holiday season.

Please continue to take good care of yourself, your team members, and your guests.

With dining room traffic and hotel stays slowing in some places, make sure you have your to-go holiday family meals planned and promoted, revisit your off-premise strategy, and look for ways to drive more online visitors to augment business and last-minute bookings.

Don’t forget to visit NCRLA.help regularly, where you’ll find the latest news and resources for North Carolina’s restaurants and hotels. Together, we will rise to this challenge and continue fighting for a stronger industry.

Lynn Minges NCRLA President & CEO

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At Your Service | Winter 2021

Steve Thanhauser NCRLA Board Chair

At Your Service Volume 10, Issue 1 An official publication of the NC Restaurant & Lodging Association © 2020 STAFF President & CEO LYNN D. MINGES Chief Operating Officer/ Membership Development/ Health and Safety Regulations/ ALYSSA BARKLEY, IOM Director of Government Affairs ISABEL VILLA-GARCIA Director of Communications MARGO METZGER Database Manager & Membership Coordinator NATALIE COX Special Events & Project Manager LAURA HAYDEN General Counsel & Lobbyist FRANK GRAY Editor SHANNON FARLOW Designer TRACIE EUBANK BUSINESS OFFICE 222 North Person Street, Suite 210 Raleigh, NC 27601 Phone: (919) 844-0098 Website: NCRLA.org For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, contact Special Events & Project Manager Laura Hayden at lhayden@ncrla.org.

Published by Farlow+Co, LLC

/NCRLA @NCRLA Or search North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association

THANK YOU Donors Strengthen the Voice of NC’s Hospitality Industry

Government decisions impact virtually every aspect of the hospitality industry, from the way food is prepared to how it is taxed. As a result, it is important to support candidates who understand that a healthy hospitality industry translates into a stronger North Carolina economy.

With your donations, NCRLA maintains two funds to help advance good policy and protect your bottom line from onerous government mandates.

1. The NCRLA Political Action Committee (PAC) backs the political campaigns of candidates who understand the issues affecting our state’s hospitality industry. Contributions must be from personal funds and are limited annually. Learn more at NCRLA.org/PAC.

2. The NCRLA Advocacy Fund, our newest tool, helps strengthen our political prowess. Contributions may be from a business or personal account. There is no limit and they are not subject to public disclosure.

NCRLA will use these funds for special advocacy initiatives allowed by law. Learn more at NCRLA.org/ advocacy-fund.

2020 PAC CONTRIBUTORS Gold

Platinum Lance Trenary, Durham Van Eure and Steve Thanhauser, Raleigh Amber Moshakos, Raleigh Billy Sewell, Jacksonville

Bob Luddy, Raleigh Suzanne Landis, Southport Platinum Corral Employees, Raleigh Silver

Burney Jennings, Greensboro | Maurice Jennings, Greensboro | Joy Moshakos, Cary | Mindy Wharton, Cary Rachelle Wolford, Raleigh | Scott Brewton, Pinehurst | Cam McRae, Kinston | Nishith Patel, Matthews Brad Hurley, Morrisville | Tad Dolbier, Boone | Tim Goss, Charlotte | Phil Friedman, Charlotte | Gonza Salamanca, Raleigh

Bronze

Contributor

Stephanie Poley, Raleigh | Joel Griffin, Charlotte Vinay Patel, Charlotte | Daniel Freeland, Raleigh

Scott Maitland, Chapel Hill | Jim Beley, Raleigh | Jeremy Miller, Kitty Hawk Matthew Walker, Arlington | Adrianne Shelley, Clayton Jason Smith, Raleigh | Joseph Jacobs, Raleigh

2020 Advocacy Fund Contributors ($100+) Tim Goss, Firehouse Subs | Kevin Drum, Drum & Quill | Billy Sewell, Platinum Corral | AAHOA Josh Cooke, Raise-the-Grade | The Umstead Hotel & Spa | Doris Huebner | Phil Friedman Gonzas Tacos & Tequila | Biltmore Farms | Hilton Corporate | Marriott Corporate | Phil Friedman, Salsaritas Jeremy Miller | Burney Jennings, Biscuitville Fresh Southern | Scott Brewton | Stephanie Poley | Amber Moshakos Sterling Webster, Hilton/Ramada OBX

Become a Donor: Contact Isabel Villa-Garcia at ivilla-garcia@ncrla.org or 919-861-0942.

Under North Carolina law, we are required to report the name, mailing address, employer, and job title of any individual who contributes more than $50 to the NCRLA Political Action Committee in any election cycle. The law requires that contributions to the PAC, including purchases of silent auction items, be made by individuals, not by corporations.

Welcome New NCRLA Members Together, we can protect and advance the hospitality industry.

Go to NCRLA.org/membership to learn more about NCRLA and to download a membership application.

Allied Coastal Beverage Co., Farmville Cape Fear Distillery, Elizabethtown DoorDash The University of North Carolina at Greensboro — Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality, and Tourism Department, Greensboro DHW CPA’s Foye Group Lodging Aloft Charlotte Uptown at the Epicentre, Charlotte Courtyard by Marriott, Matthews Restaurants Ole’s Guacamole Inc., Swannanoa TBD Restaurant Group, Raleigh The Hotel Tavern, West Jefferson

TRUST, QUALITY, GREAT TASTE AND SO MUCH MORE Butterball is synonymous with turkey, but it doesn’t end there. We stand for reliability. We stand for always having your back. And we stand for helping you serve the dishes diners crave, made with delicious turkey that’s always raised in America. Trust the brand that’s always given you and your guests more.

Empire State Bagel

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At Your Service | Winter 2021

Butterballfoodservice.com

©2020 Butterball Foodservice

Trust Butterball, and we’ll all get through this together.

Ways to Win at Social Media When the World is Social Distancing

By Kelly Propst, Largemouth Communications One of my favorite memories of dining out prior to COVID-19 was how it made me feel. I remember the dimly lit dining room and flickering candles, the server’s warm smile, the gentle clink of fresh plates delivered, and familiar sound of ice water being topped off. While it’s near-impossible to replicate that feeling through digital channels, there are ways restaurants can connect with consumers from afar.

In many cases, I am a fan of a restaurant brand long before I walk through the doors. The same goes for the majority of consumers. Upserve’s 2019 State of the Restaurant Industry Report suggested 90 percent of guests research a restaurant online before dining — more than any other business type.

As the hospitality world continues to stir, leveraging social media platforms can help bridge the gap while social distancing.

Seek community and collaboration.

Over these past several months, we’ve seen the hospitality community come together to support one another in unique ways. For example, Preeti Waas, the owner and head chef of Indian-American

café Cheeni in Raleigh, opened up her professional kitchen to local female chefs free of charge. Each week they create a unique meal and sell it through Cheeni’s website, and Waas uses social media channels to promote the dish.

Engagement is more important than ever.

According to Hootsuite’s Digital 2020 report for April, almost half of internet users (47 percent) report spending longer using social media compared to their pre-lockdown behaviors. While not everyone should go out and create a Tik Tok account, the use of video on social has a strong impact. In fact, social video generates 12 times the shares than text and images combined. Think of ways to incorporate more informal video into your social feed, whether it is an outdoor dining area walk-through on Instagram Stories, or a boomerang of employees showing off their Count On Me NC certifications.

Vulnerability is okay.

It’s no secret 2020 was hard on everyone.

Rather than hiding emotions or struggles from your audience, consider ways to be more candid. According to Sprout Social,

86 percent of Americans say transparency on social media is more important than ever before, which means they’re willing to take their business to a competitor if they see a lack of transparency. If consumers can get to know and relate to the people behind the establishment, and the thoughtful safety measures or creative business strategies being put in place, they may be more inclined to visit.

Whether people grab and go or linger at their tables for a while — the world is aching to get back to “normal.” Utilize social channels to connect with your community and help them feel at ease in your establishment. Help them remember that we’re all in this together.

90% Almost half of internet users report spending longer using social media compared to their prelockdown behaviors.

The percentage of guests who research a restaurant online before dining — more than any other business type.

47%

For more information on how you can maximize your social media efforts, visit LargemouthPR.com or contact us at info@largemouthpr.com or (919) 459-6450.

Winter 2021 | At Your Service

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Winter Legislative Update Congress Passes COVID-19 Relief Deal

Congress passed a $900 billion COVID-19 relief bill on Dec. 21 that provides shortterm economic assistance to the country.

The bill includes several items that will benefit restaurants, bars, and hotels — most importantly a second round of access to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), with unique provisions aimed to assist the hospitality industry. It targets restaurants, bars, and hotels with several provisions, including enhanced PPP loan size, enhanced access to PPP, and a one-year extension for Troubled Debt Restructuring (TDR) relief. This will allow for banks to continue to work with borrowers to gain additional forbearance and debt relief through the end of 2021. Other provisions that will benefit hospitality businesses include the deductibility of business expenses paid with PPP loans, enhancement of the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), extension of the augmented Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), and increased tax deduction for business meals. The NCRLA team, with help from our members and association partners, has been working around the clock since May, pushing Congressional leaders to provide additional COVID relief for the hospitality industry.

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NC Alliance for Hospitality Jobs Posts Victories in 2020

Each of the candidates supported by the North Carolina Alliance for Hospitality Jobs (NCAHJ) won their elections in 2020. NCRLA’s leadership developed NCAHJ four years ago to strengthen the voice and political influence of North Carolina’s hospitality industry. Created under Section 527 of the Tax Code, NCAHJ is allowed to engage in elections and attempt to influence campaigns for public office. Fundraising efforts and investments from across the hospitality industry over the past three years have enabled the Alliance to engage in the 2020 General Election. The Alliance is governed by a board of directors comprised of NCRLA members. This year, the board supported eight candidates, both Republican and Democrat. You can find the full list of candidates backed by NCAHJ at NCRLA.org.

NCRLA Ready to Work with Divided Government

North Carolina will still have a divided government in 2021 with Democrats controlling the Governor’s mansion and Republicans controlling the legislature.

Republicans kept their majorities in the House and Senate, but they do not possess a supermajority in either chamber. House Republicans gained

seats, while Senate Republicans lost two seats due to redistricting. Policies of the last 10 years under Republican control are expected to continue. NCRLA looks forward to working closely with lawmakers from both parties to advance the needs of North Carolina’s hospitality industry.

NCRLA to Continue Fighting for Hospitality Funding

The 2021 legislative long session will begin January 13. Issues that will shape the upcoming session include COVID-19 relief for businesses, redistricting, and the state budget. Due to the ongoing pandemic, lawmakers will face a significant budget deficit. In 2020, the state received federal COVID funds, but did not allocate for a dedicated program to aid the hospitality industry. Legislative leaders will likely wait to see if Congress passes another round of COVID relief before appropriating funds. Giving direct cash instead of loans is critical to the survival of North Carolina’s hospitality industry. NCRLA will continue to fight for additional COVID relief for restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality businesses.

ABC Reform Becomes Harder to Pass NCRLA supports further ABC reform to help ease the system for permitees and increase the availability and variety of

for occupancy taxes and opposes any increases beyond that limit. NCRLA does not support any new meals taxes or increase in the four counties that do have meals taxes. Taxes should not unfairly target one industry.

HB 2 Compromise Has Expired

available products. Although NCRLA will continue to push ABC reform, given the current makeup of the General Assembly and the loss of ABC reform’s biggest champions — Rep. Chuck McGrady and Senator Rick Gunn — we expect this to be a very tough, uphill battle.

will continue to advocate for workforce development funding during the long session. However, an amendment will be needed since it is not expected that the Foundation will be able to raise matching funds as it has in previous years due to COVID-19.

Governor Roy Cooper Approves Cocktails-To-Go

NCRLA to Explore Tax Credits for PPE and Upfitting

Governor Roy Cooper has allowed cocktails-to-go by executive order, enabling restaurants and bars to sell mixed beverages (MXB) to-go/delivery during the pandemic state of emergency.

With the help of our members, NCRLA fought long and hard — for nine solid months — for this small business relief measure. From the General Assembly to the ABC Commission to the Governor’s Office to the Council of State, NCRLA advocated tirelessly on a near daily basis to achieve this milestone to help save restaurants and bars.

NCRLA to Explore Property Tax Flexibility and Reevaluation

Property tax is administered at the local level, but dictated by state legislation.

Property tax valuations this year are not accurate because hospitality businesses have faced devastating losses due to COVID-19. NCRLA plans to explore the viability of pushing special authority for local municipalities to reevaluate property values and allow for greater flexibility in payment.

Amendment to ProStart Funding Needed

NCRLA has long advocated for funding from the General Assembly for ProStart.

In 2018, NCRLA was successful in securing funds from the General Assembly for workforce development with a matching funds requirement. NCRLA

Hospitality businesses have had to incur a number of extra operating expenses during COVID-19. NCRLA will explore the viability of a state tax credit for business expenses that includes purchasing PPE for staff, plexiglass and other safety barriers, as well as outdoor dining needs to help mitigate the costs of retrofitting restaurants and other businesses.

Expect Franchisee/Franchisor Reporting to Be an Issue

In 2019, legislation was filed to require all franchisors to report all franchisee sales numbers to NC DOR. NCRLA fought back on this issue given the impossibility of reporting and the joint employer implications this would have. NCRLA was able to have this bill sent to be studied.

However, we expect it to return this session.

The US Supreme Court decision this summer in the Bostock case holds that federal law prohibiting employment discrimination on the basis of “sex” includes discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

This is now the law of the land for employers with 15 or more employees.

In North Carolina, the HB 2 compromise expired on December 1. However, separate preemption of regulating access to bathrooms did not expire. Local municipalities can still pass ordinances providing additional employment protections (small businesses under 15 employees for example). NCRLA is in contact with the NC League of Municipalities and Metro Mayors Coalition, and we continue to work with a coalition of business entities to prevent a situation like HB2 from reoccurring.

Minimum Wage Increase Unlikely in NC

Election night saw minimum wage increases in Florida and Portland, Maine.

Raising the minimum wage is expected to be a priority at the federal level for the incoming Biden Administration. Although a minimum wage increase is unlikely to be taken up by the Republican majority in North Carolina, this is an important issue that NCRLA will continue to follow closely.

NCRLA to Fight Increases in Occupancy and Meals Taxes

As with the state level, local governments are expected to face much larger budget deficits in 2021. Given this pressure and the limited ability of local governments to raise taxes, we expect municipalities will try to secure funding from every source that they can. We anticipate that local governments will file multiple bills seeking to use meals taxes and occupancy taxes, not for their intended purpose, but for general funding. NCRLA will closely monitor this situation. NCRLA strongly supports the current guidelines

School Calendar Likely to Remain the Same

NCRLA supports protecting the current school calendar law. We expect multiple bills to be filled on this issue. Given that Senator Rabon and Senator Berger retain leadership in the Senate, it is unlikely to change.

Winter 2021 | At Your Service

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THANK YOU

for Helping Hospitality Workers!

In March, NCRLA established the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund to provide immediate financial assistance to the tens of thousands of cooks, servers, dishwashers, housekeepers, and others who have had to live paycheck-to-paycheck due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thanks to the dedication and support of the donors below, we have raised approximately $1.3 million to support North Carolina’s hospitality workers.

Thrive/Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC

Brewery Bhavana

Red Hat

Brooks Bell and Jesse Lipson

Burney Jennings

Noreen Allen

Coastal Credit Union Foundation

Kellie Falk

Tara Baird

Truist

Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Grant

Lisa Salzman

Duke Energy Foundation

Theresa Phillips

Maggie Handest

Interfaith Food Shuttle

Sandra Hoskins

Raleigh Wine Shop

Bank of America

Elizabeth Turner

Rush Hour Karting

Russ Jones, Seby Jones Foundation

Wicked Weed

Steve Thanhauser

Healy Distributing

The Benevity Community Impact Fund

Michael Forno

Emily Ballard: Porch Project

Austin Chappell

James McManus

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

CityPlat

Associa Cares, Inc.

EMPLOYERS

James and Mary Leatherberry Foundation

Abbey Wood

TSYS

Grubb Management

Kelly Soderberg

Asheville Strong

Gabrielle Bratton

Triangle Community Foundation

NC Spirits Association

Horn & Heel

Kate Brandon Sutton and James E. Sutton

Sunday Supper

Duncan Stephenson

Cambridge & Associates

Investors Management/Child Trust (Lance Trenary)

Stephanie Cornell

Southern Plated

Charles Purvis

George Smedes Poyner Foundation

Whole Foods

Brad Bankos: East Cut Sandwich

Whitley Law Firm

Long Beverage

Better Place Fund of Triangle Community Foundation

Parker Bryan Family Law

Republic National Distributing

Cecile Noel c/o The Noel Foundation

Heaven Hill, Inc

NC Alcoholic Beverage Control Law Enforcement Officers Association

Raleigh Art Gal: Elizabeth Altenau

Carolina Hurricanes

Brown Forman Raleigh Denim Person Street Pharmacy

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Tri-Arc The Hunter and Erica Heniser Charitable Fund of the Ayco Charitable Foundation

Pacific Western Biscuitville/Springer Mountain Farms UDM Systems

The Giving Spirit of Hospitality:

Helping Those in Need

Hospitality professionals are known for taking care of people. It’s what we do. Although our industry has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitality businesses across North Carolina are stepping up and helping those who are less fortunate. Despite their own struggles, hospitality leaders continue going above and beyond, doing whatever they can to support their local communities and charitable organizations. They embody the undying spirit of North Carolina hospitality. While we don’t have room here to list them all,

we wanted to spotlight some of these businesses and individuals who are making a tremendous impact in the lives of others.

NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund

The NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund has raised more than $1.3 million for our state’s hospitality workers, including tens of thousands of cooks, servers, dishwashers, housekeepers, and others, who have been out of work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

We want to thank everyone — private individuals, groups, small businesses, companies, and organizations — who have supported this grassroots effort.

The NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund is making a difference in the lives of those who have worked so hard to serve North Carolina’s communities.

The fund is operated through the NCRLA Foundation, the association’s longstanding nonprofit arm that has provided financial assistance to hospitality employees and students for more than a decade.

Recent donors who have given to hospitality workers in a big way include:

Tito’s Handmade Vodka Tito’s Handmade Vodka has raised more than $30,000 for the fund to date — and they’re continuing their efforts. For every 750ml bottle of Tito’s Handmade Vodka purchased during the month of December, Tito’s will donate $1 to the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund.

Coastal Beverage Company, Inc.

The Coastal Beverage Company generated more than $11,300 for the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund through their Coastal Cares program thanks to the help of several suppliers, including MolsonCoors, Yuengling, Constellation, New Belgium and Sercy. The Coastal Beverage Company also donated more than $1,000 that was raised through their Paper Pints program.

New Belgium Brewing Company

New Belgium Brewing Company has graciously donated $10,000 to the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund.

HOSPITALITY WORKERS STILL NEED YOUR HELP! Thousands of North Carolinians from the restaurant and hotel industries remain without jobs or a source of income. In order to ensure that all qualified applicants receive assistance, the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund is continuing to request donations.

Learn more and donate at NCRestaurantRelief.com.

Winter 2021 | At Your Service

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Triad Chefs Host a Virtual Culinary Event for March of Dimes

Some of the Triad’s most talented chefs, including NCRLA member John Bobby of Bobby Boy’s Bakeshop and Brad Semon of Painted Plate Catering, took part in the Triad March of Dimes Signature Chefs event on November 20. This year’s virtual event included an interactive, livestreamed auction along with a six-course boxed gourmet meal for two that was enjoyed by participants at home.

The March of Dimes Signature Chefs events support the March of Dimes as they work to nourish all aspects of motherhood — from prenatal to postpartum by fueling change and ensuring all pregnant moms have access to care, addressing inequity in maternal health, and strengthening moms, babies and families. Learn more at signaturechefs.org/triad.

MANTEO TO MURPHY PAC FUNDRAISER EXCEEDS GOAL The annual Manteo to Murphy PAC fundraiser is vital to sustaining our advocacy efforts across the federal, state, and local levels. Thanks to the many event sponsors and NCRLA members who supported this year’s virtual event, we are happy to report that we exceeded our fundraising goal of $50,000 by raising nearly $55,000 to support the NCRLA PAC and the National Restaurant Association PAC. NCRLA created the Best of Manteo to Murphy cookbook as a way to thank sponsors and attendees for their continued support.

Each recipe featured in the cookbook was formulated exclusively for Manteo to Murphy attendees by some of our state’s most talented culinary artists.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS Hosts Van Eure and Steve Thanhauser, Angus Barn Lance Trenary, Golden Corral Platinum Kevin Drum, Drum & Quill • Tommy Haddock, Tri-Arc Food Systems • Doyle Parrish, Summit Hospitality Group • Phil Friedman, Salsarita’s • Amber Moshakos, LM Restaurants

NCRLA Members Feed the Homeless in Asheville

Cúrate owners Liz and Katie Button have been spearheading the new Feed Our City program in Asheville. Based on the World Central Kitchen model of chef José Andrés, the program provides hot meals to the hungry by employing restaurant chefs and staff who have been laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic. Feed Our City, which is operated by nonprofit Asheville Strong, aims to distribute 1,500 meals each week to locals in need. Cúrate owners, chefs, and kitchen staff have been leading Asheville’s pilot program for several months.

“We provide them with 600 meals a week,” Matt Brown, chef at Bodega

by Cúrate, said. “That allows us to bring staff back we wouldn’t normally be able to bring back, pay our vendors and keep things going while things are the way they are.”

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Gold Burney Jennings, Biscuitville • Tim Goss, Firehouse Subs Silver Pepsi • Bob Luddy, CaptiveAire Bronze Patrick Aiello, Ecolab • Suzanne Landis, Oliver’s On the Cape Fear • Susan Adzick, McLane Foodservice Cocktail Scott Maitland, TOPO Distillery Thank You to each of the chefs and mixologists who created recipes for the Best of Manteo to Murphy cookbook!

BISCUIT LOVE:

One Inn's Clever Idea to Keep Connected During COVID-19 When Susan Shah and John Meyer purchased The Sweet Biscuit Inn in January 2020, they were thrilled at the prospect of owning their own bed and breakfast in beautiful Asheville, NC. For Shah, it was a return to her roots, having grown up in Asheville and worked in the hospitality industry for years.

And for Meyer, it was a chance to make a living doing what he loved to do: cooking and gardening.

They had two months to get their feet wet before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States. “We were very worried.

Of course, it was very unexpected,” Shah said. “But we didn’t think it’d be longterm.” Meyer added, “Everyone was affected, so we did what we could do and just rolled with it.”

Even during the toughest of times, opportunities sometimes arise. Since they couldn’t connect with people as much face-to-face, Shah and Meyer took advantage of another form of connection: their online community. Prior to the couple becoming innkeepers in January, The Sweet Biscuit Inn already had a well-established, loyal fanbase of former guests who had enjoyed the B&B’s hospitality. So, Shah and Meyer decided to tap into that fanbase as a way to keep connected with people during the pandemic and serve up a fun distraction.

Engaging Customers

Enter The Sweet Biscuit Inn’s inaugural “best biscuit recipe” contest. In April, Meyer and Shah announced they were running a contest to find the best biscuit recipe out there. “We made it the easiest contest ever,” Shah said. “It didn’t even have to be an original recipe from the person sending it in. If they found a recipe that looked good online, we’d bake it and judge it.”

The rules were simple: send in a biscuit recipe, whether it was original to you or one you found online that sounded particularly tasty. Meyer and Shah would bake it, taste it, and then judge the winners based on which recipes were the best. “It started out as us wanting to build our biscuit repertoire,” Meyer laughed.

With the name, ‘The Sweet Biscuit Inn,’ the contest was right in their sweet spot.

And surely, it couldn’t hurt to be able to serve their guests’ favorite recipes when they next visited!

The contest quickly became about so much more than simply accumulating biscuit knowledge. “We sent off the email announcing the contest at 6:00 am and were worried that no one would respond,” Shah said. “But by 7:00 [am], we saw that we had multiple responses already!” It turned out that people were excited to participate, eager to share in something wholesome as the world dealt with an unprecedented threat.

“Not everyone who responded even shared a recipe,” Shah said. “Some Winter 2021 | At Your Service

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to remain resilient. EMPLOYERS® is committed to

so many few months, small businessestown, recover that from challenges, people just over senttheuspast stories.

We with were reallyhelpinginsmall a tourism we have so many overwhelmed by all the kindness we were groups set up that we can go to for help,” businesses particularly affected. How do you sustain and celebrates businesses getting creative to remain shown, all the empathy.”

Shah said. “We can have meetings on a brick and mortar business and preserve your sense strong. The Sweet Biscuit Inn in Asheville is the People became invested in the contest Fridays, drink a glass of wine over Zoom! of community when is forced to keep their perfectItexample. to find of out community.” how biscuits and were eager toeveryone find out which recipes gives Read us aonsense won.distance?

In the Fortunately, end, thepeople winner was anways brought people This together senseamidst of community, kindness, and are still finding a global pandemic. amazing recipe for strawberry biscuits support has helped The Sweet Biscuit with lemon icing. They posted it to the Inn stay in operation and maintain good EMPLOYERS is America’s small business insurance specialist, supporting workers when they they had inn’s website, along with several runnersretention of their staff.

While needall it most. us in celebrating our policyholders’ enjoy thestaff biscuits! up, allowing the Join ravenous contest to success let go and of some members at the followers to enjoy it vicariouslyhttps://sbrc.employers.com and beginning of the COVID-19 shut down, maybe even try it at home. “We’re so they were able to hire most of them grateful for the all the connections we back. However, as business returns, made during April in spite of the shut Shah and Meyer continue to emphasize down and for the recipes that we enjoyed their employees’ health and safety as a baking throughout the month,” they top priority. “We want to make sure our wrote in their blog post, appropriately employees are treated with the same www.employers.com entitled, “Biscuit Love in the Time of kindness as our guests,” Meyer said. That Corona.” means strictly adhering to COVID-19 regulations and being empathetic to their Help from NCRLA employees’ needs.

The love and kindness Shah and Meyer This deference to their employees’ have felt “in the time of Corona” hasn’t well-being has allowed Shah and Meyer just come from their patrons and to avoid making many changes to payroll. biscuit contest entrants. They have If an issue did arise, though, they would been indebted to various communities have no problem going to their workers’ and organizations in the Asheville and compensation provider for help. “We greater North Carolina areas as well. The have an amazing agent,” Shah said, North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging speaking of EMPLOYERS Agent Tim Sharp Association (NCRLA) specifically has with North Carolina’s Towe Insurance provided them a great deal of support Service, stating that she and Meyer would over the last few months. “They’ve been be very comfortable reaching out to him great,” Shah said, “they’ve provided a lot for anything they needed. of info during a time when figuring out Clearly, the kindness they have shown what to do and what rules to follow is and received extends to their relationship hard.” She is speaking specifically of the with their agent as well. “I have known ever-evolving regulations for businesses Susan for more than 20 years,” Sharp said. to operate under as the pandemic “She and I have developed a relationship progresses. of trust over those years and she has NCRLA’s resources and support graciously favored us with her business.” have also cohered well with advice and Sharp, a lifelong resident of Wilson, guidance Shah and Meyer receive from NC has been an independent agent and other organizations, such as Explore agency owner of Towe Insurance Service Asheville and the Asheville Bed and for more than 30 years. With that kind Breakfast Association. “We’re lucky, being of tenure, he knew exactly what kind

16 At Your Service | Winter 2021

Employers NCRLA - Spread Ad 17.5”x 11.25” 1046-202026

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken so much from

of insurance coverage Susan and John needed for a place as special as The Sweet Biscuit Inn. “I told them that EMPLOYERS® has been our preferred workers’ comp market for hospitality accounts due to their combination of extremely competitive pricing, flexible payment options, technology platform, and, of course, excellent claim service,” Sharp said. “I also told them that EMPLOYERS has the endorsement of NCRLA. These features help us to confidently present an EMPLOYERS proposal to our valued clients.”

Another reason Sharp could so confidently recommend EMPLOYERS was that he felt kindness and empathy were at the heart of how they do business.

“COVID-19 has obviously devastated the hospitality industry. It has been a relief to Towe Insurance and our clients that EMPLOYERS understands their situation and has provided us with guidance regarding the pandemic and online tools to quickly reduce payrolls and delete locations mid-term, as well as perform audits online,” Sharp said.

EMPLOYERS endeavors to provide that level of support to all its workers’ comp policyholders, regardless of the circumstances around the COVID-19 pandemic. With offerings such as their robust Return-to-Work Program, PrecisePay premium accuracy tool, and up-to-the-minute safety content and awareness, EMPLOYERS strives to make people’s lives easier, helping them back on their feet in times of trouble. EMPLOYERS and its agents are also members of their policyholders’ communities, and actively participate in and experience the ups and downs their communities face.

When times are at their toughest, you realize that it’s kindness and community that will get you through. And maybe some really good biscuits. That’s what Meyer and Shah learned anyway. By banding together and showing each other kindness, we can all go farther and endure so much more. “I’ve just loved how supportive people have been through all this,” Shah said. “We have an incredible community here, and so far, running The Sweet Biscuit Inn has been a very fun and fulfilling experience for us.”

Learn more information online about The Sweet Biscuit Inn, NCRLA, or EMPLOYERS.

INSPIRED BY YOU EMPLOYERS® has worked with restaurant and hospitality owners for more than 100 years, so we’ve seen the level of care you have for your employees and communities. That inspires us. That’s why we strive to give you the same level of care and dedication in the following ways: Small Business is Big Business — Our focus is smaller businesses because they make America run.

Together is Better — We work closely with agents and policyholders to help them be more successful. And we 100% support the NCRLA! Everyone Needs a Hand Sometimes — EMPLOYERS donates to emergency relief funds for employees in the restaurant and hospitality industries.

Thoughtful Innovation Wins — We continually develop solutions that make workers’ compensation policies easier and better for policyholders and agents, solutions like EACCESS, 20-second quotes, and PrecisePay. Workers’ compensation helps people hurt at work get back on their feet.

It’s about businesses taking care of employees, and it’s why EMPLOYERS works hard to take care of you.

Copyright © 2020 EMPLOYERS. All rights reserved. EMPLOYERS , America’s small business insurance specialist , EACCESS , and PrecisePay are registered trademarks of EIG Services, Inc. Employers Holdings, Inc. is a holding company with subsidiaries that are specialty providers of workers’ compensation insurance and services focused on select, small businesses engaged in low-to-medium hazard industries. The Company operates throughout the United States, with the exception of four states that are served exclusively by their state funds. Insurance is offered through Employers Insurance Company of Nevada, Employers Compensation Insurance Company, Employers Preferred Insurance Company, and Employers Assurance Company, all rated A- (Excellent) by the A.M. Best Company. Not all companies do business in all jurisdictions.

See www.employers.com for coverage availability. ®

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COMPLIMENTARY NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP Receive benefits offered through the National Restaurant Association, including industry trends, services, and more. Call 800-424-5156 or visit Restaurant.org/Membership/Tools-Solutions.

FOOD SAFETY & ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING Nationally recognized and accredited foodservice sanitation, alcohol server, and allergen training for managers and employees.

20% discount on all ServSafe products.

Call 919-844-0098 or visit NCRLA.org/servsafe-certification-courses.

DISASTER RELIEF INCENTIVES AND FEDERAL HIRING INCENTIVES Did your business lose revenue, products, or experience inadequate shift coverage because of Hurricane Florence? Then you may be eligible to earn up to $2,400 for each employee retained. Synergipartners.com/ncrla

WORKER'S COMPENSATION EMPLOYERS is the Provider of Choice for NCRLA. They offer low minimum premiums for all NCRLA members, including flexible and affordable payment plans.

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BUSINESS DISCOUNTS WITH AHLA NCRLA members who elect to join American Hotel and Lodging Association receive exclusive discounts on staffing solutions through Hcareers, STR reports, music licensing, and more. Call 202-289-3100 or visit AHLA.com to access research, statistics, and cost-saving solutions.

STR Exclusive discounts on various customizable regional reports and industry profiles, including the STR Report.

Call 615-824-8664 or visit STR.com.

CREDIT & DEBIT CARD PROCESSING/ PAYROLL SERVICES Benefit from payment processing solutions, loyalty programs, fair pricing, and more. Plus, enjoy superior service that’s available 24/7 with the most reliable data security solution in the country.

Call 888-963-3600 or visit HeartlandPaymentSystems.com.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT/TRAINING Workforce development and training solutions to help meet your needs.

Mentorships and job placements are available. Call 919-844-0098 or visit NCRLA.org/foundation/prostart.

CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Class Action Capital specializes in the early identification of class action settlement opportunities for restaurant and hotels. Learn more at 914-200-0020 or ClassActionCapital.com/ncrla.

HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS Get easy access to healthcare coverage and other valuable resources and tools. Receive an exclusive 5% discount on group health plans. Call 301-865-7058 or visit UHCTogether.com/forms/NCRLA/form41146.gsp.

STAFFING SOLUTIONS Receive a 20% discount on the AHLA Career Center, powered by Hcareers, the nation’s leading hospitality job board. Visit AHLA.com and click “Career Development.”

LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE Restaurants, bars, and taverns, receive 20% off your liquor liability insurance with Hospitality Insurance Group (HIG). Keep your local insurance agent or use one of theirs. Visit HMIC.com and click on the contact tab, or call 508-366-1140.

STREAMLINED ALCOHOL PAYMENTS Simplify alcohol purchase payments, ensure compliance, and track purchase data securely with Fintech. 50% off setup fees and ongoing preferred pricing. Visit go.fintech.com/NorthCarolinaRLA.

MUSIC LICENSING Broadcast Music, Inc. is the bridge between songwriters and the businesses and organizations that want to play their music publicly. Save up to 20% on annual fees. Call 888-689-5264 or visit BMI.com.

REBATES ON RESTAURANT SUPPLIES Leverage Dining Alliance's buying power to negotiate chain-like supplier contracts and get rebates on items you already buy. With $9.5 Billion in buying power, 350+ manufacturer contracts, and 165K+ rebated line items, join the largest restaurant GPO in the US. Contact us at info@NCRLA.org to learn more.

222 NORTH PERSON ST, SUITE 210 | RALEIGH, NC 27601 | 919.844.0098 | NCRLA.ORG

Member Moments Proudly Recognizing North Carolina’s Hospitality Leaders Golden Corral Continues to Celebrate Military Heroes During COVID-19

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Golden Corral continued their annual Veterans Day celebration of active duty and military veterans by handing out free meal and beverage cards in November. Military personnel and veterans can redeem their cards once for lunch or dinner through May 31. For 20 years, Golden Corral has served nearly six million complimentary meals to military personnel and generated nearly $17 million in guest contributions to support community-based service initiatives for veterans through DAV (Disabled American Veterans).

“Our annual Military Appreciation event may look a little different this year, but that will not keep us from safely celebrating those who defend our country and our freedom,” said Lance Trenary, president and chief executive officer of Golden Corral. “Over the past 20 years, honoring America’s heroes has been a privilege that our restaurant teams look forward to all year. We were not going to break that tradition, so we adapted our program to allow the active military and veterans in our communities to come in to enjoy a free ‘thank you’ meal over a more extended period of time to accommodate social distancing.”

McDonald’s Restaurants Pitch in to Help NC Families

McDonald’s restaurants across North Carolina are helping families in need.

McDonald’s is partnering with CocaCola to offer insulated beverage sleeves that are designed to hold 30-ounce McDonald’s cups. The red sleeves are available to purchase at participating McDonald’s restaurants for $5 each. At least half of the proceeds from the Sleeves for Support initiative will go to help families through Ronald McDonald Houses in North Carolina. McDonald’s restaurants are also helping restock Salvation Army food pantries throughout the state.

Renaissance Hotel Brightens Holidays for Kids in WNC

The Renaissance Hotel in Asheville is bringing the holiday spirit to kids in western North Carolina by hosting a Toys for Tots drive. Elmo and Santa Claus were on hand to help the Renaissance Hotel kick off the drive on November 16. In addition to the Renaissance Hotel, there will be approximately 200 Toys for Tots collection boxes spread throughout the western part of our state. Collection boxes will be picked up early this year because items will have to undergo extra sanitization due to COVID-19. The goal of the drive, which also includes a radiothon that was held at Asheville Outlets, is to help 8,000 children in the area.

Biscuitville Matches 2019 Breakfast After Dark Donations Although Biscuitville Fresh Southern® was forced to cancel its annual “Breakfast After Dark” fundraising event due to COVID-19, the company decided to match last year’s donations.

Normally, Biscuitville restaurants expand their hours during the event, reopening from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A 20-percent portion of the food and beverage sales during those hours are donated to schools and other nonprofit organizations in local communities throughout the Triad, Triangle, Charlotte, Virginia, and Fayetteville areas. In 2019, Breakfast After Dark raised more than $23,000. This year, Biscuitville is matching that number

and donating it to participating nonprofits. Biscuitville is also giving each new organization a $100 Biscuitville gift card to help in assisting those in need.

“This year is very different in the wake of COVID-19. Because of this, we decided that a drive-thru only event simply wouldn’t live up to the standards we’ve set for the Breakfast After Dark fundraiser in years past,” Biscuitville President Kathie Niven said.

“No one is more disappointed than we are, but we are pleased to honor the organizations that participated last year by helping them continue their efforts in 2020.”

Winter 2021 | At Your Service

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À La Carte

A sampler of hospitality news stories

Remembering Those We Lost in 2020 North Carolina lost several renowned hospitality leaders in 2020.

Tom Ruff passed away on August 18. Ruff was a member of the NCRLA board from 2002 – 2009 and played an integral role in the merger of the state restaurant and lodging associations. He served in a number of leadership roles, including NCRLA Chair in 2007. Former NCRLA Board Chair Ted Rhodes, Jr. passed away on August 24. Rhodes received the Griff and June Glover Award in 2006 for his dedication and distinguished service to North Carolina’s hospitality industry. Restaurant pioneer and Biscuitville founder Maurice Jennings passed away on September 19 at the age of 86. Jennings opened the first Biscuitville restaurant 45 years ago. Restaurateur Mickey Ewell passed away on October 6. The former NCRLA Chair and 2009 NCRLA Restaurateur of the Year started a string of successful eateries and launched the careers of several industry leaders.

NC Restaurants Participate in National Ad and Social Media Campaign The National Restaurant Association kicked off a new holiday ad and social media campaign on November 20 called “Let Restaurants Do the Cooking.” The campaign encourages families to plan their holiday meals with the help of their favorite local restaurants.

You can watch the national commercial on the National Restaurant Association’s YouTube channel. North Carolina restaurants that are participating in Count On Me NC were promoted nationally during this campaign. Learn more about the industry-leading Count On Me NC COVID-19 health and safety training at CountOnMeNC.org.

COVID Relief Now Coalition Tells Congress “Economic Relief Can’t Wait” The COVID Relief NOW Coalition, which consists of more than 300 major public and private sector groups, including NCRLA’s partners at the American Hotel & Lodging Association and the National Restaurant Association, released a new ad on November 30 imploring Congress to pass additional COVID economic relief. The “Economic Relief Can’t Wait” ad is running across digital platforms including Twitter, YouTube, Google, connected TVs, and other online sites. “The election is over, and now it is time for Congress to do their job by prioritizing the many businesses and employees in the hardest-hit industries,” said Chip Rogers, president and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), one of the coalition’s founding members. “Millions of jobs and the livelihoods of people who have built their small business for decades are just withering away because Congress has offered no relief since March. These businesses will not survive until a vaccine is widely distributed. America’s hotel industry is on the brink of collapse. We can’t afford to let thousands of small businesses die and all of the jobs associated with them be lost for years to come.”

SYSCO Eliminates Minimum Delivery Requirements, Offers Services to Support Restaurant Industry Amid the shifting tides of the foodservice market occurring due to COVID-19, Sysco is looking to be a steadying force for its customers. Sysco has unveiled plans to eliminate minimum delivery size requirements for clients regularly scheduled delivery days as part of its Restaurants Rising campaign. The announcement went into effect November 16 for all FreshPoint, Newport Meat, Buckhead Meat, and US Broadline customers, and will continue into the winter as foodservice operators prepare to take on new seasonal challenges.

Although helpful for its small and large clients, Sysco’s announcement will especially benefit independent restaurant operators who are planning ahead for changes in demand due to winter weather and COVID-19 restrictions. Learn more at Sysco.com.

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