The National Restaurant Association (NRA) has launched a new national initiative called "Made in Restaurants," aimed at celebrating the restaurant industry's profound impact on individuals, careers, and communities. Michelle Korsmo, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association, emphasized that restaurants are far more than just places to eat; they serve as essential gathering spots, economic drivers, and environments for skill development. The initiative is built around first-hand stories and economic research to showcase these multifaceted contributions.
The "Made in Restaurants" initiative focuses on four key dimensions: restaurants as Community Cornerstones, fostering connection and memory-making; Economic Powerhouses, generating over $1.5 trillion in annual sales, contributing approximately 6% of the national GDP, and supporting 15.7 million jobs; America's Training Ground, where individuals acquire crucial work and leadership skills; and Career Catalysts, offering clear pathways from entry-level positions to leadership roles and long-term success. Notably, 67% of U.S. adults have worked in the restaurant industry at some point in their lives, making it a significant national training ground.
A key component of the launch is the "Where I Started" storytelling campaign, featuring individuals who began their professional journeys in restaurants, such as actress Beth Behrs, who attributes her current skills to her past restaurant job. The NRA also released new research indicating a perception gap about restaurant careers: 96% of current employees are satisfied and see advancement opportunities, while only 54% of outsiders agree that the industry offers good long-term career prospects. The initiative aims to bridge this gap by showcasing real-world value and career mobility, with 42% of current employees aspiring to own or operate a restaurant someday. The initiative is supported by founding partners including The Coca-Cola Company, DIRECTV for BUSINESS, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, and Taco John's.
