The National Restaurant Association (NRA) has a significant presence in Chicago, with its annual trade show being one of the most prominent events in the restaurant and foodservice industry.
## National Restaurant Association Show
The NRA Show, held annually at McCormick Place in Chicago, is the largest foodservice trade event in the Western Hemisphere[1]. This four-day event showcases the latest innovations in food, beverage, equipment, technology, and more across 900 product categories[1].
## Show Highlights
The 2024 NRA Show will feature:
– Hundreds of new exhibitors
– A revamped education schedule with expert-led sessions
– Keynote presentations by industry leaders
– Demonstrations by celebrity chefs
– Networking opportunities
One of the notable sessions will be “Technology’s Pivotal Role in Growing the U.S. Restaurant Industry,” presenting highlights from the Association’s latest tech trends report[1].
## Chicago Office
The National Restaurant Association maintains a Chicago office, located at:
233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 3600
Chicago, IL 60606-6383[10]
This office can be reached at (312) 585-8275 or (800) 765-2122[10].
## Industry Impact
The restaurant industry plays a crucial role in Chicago’s economy. As of 2021, the restaurant industry in the United States employed 14.5 million Americans and generated sales of $799 billion[4]. The NRA’s presence in Chicago through its annual show and local office contributes significantly to the city’s hospitality and convention sectors.
## Educational Initiatives
The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), the philanthropic arm of the NRA, offers various programs to support workforce development in the industry[17]. These initiatives, while not specific to Chicago, have a national impact and likely benefit the city’s restaurant scene as well.
The National Restaurant Association’s strong ties to Chicago through its annual show and local office underscore the city’s importance in the national restaurant and foodservice landscape. The association’s activities in Chicago contribute to industry innovation, networking, and economic growth in the region.
