#United States #Washington #National Restaurant Association #Restaurant Impact #Made in Restaurants

National Restaurant Association Celebrates the Impact of the Restaurant Industry in America

On September 9, 2026, the National Restaurant Association unveiled a new national initiative named 'Made in Restaurants.' This program is designed to commemorate the integral role that restaurants have played in shaping individuals, developing skills, nurturing careers, and strengthening communities across the United States. It serves as a reminder that restaurants are not merely places to grab a meal, but vital social hubs and economic engines driving local and national growth.

At the heart of the initiative is the understanding that for millions, their earliest lessons in teamwork, responsibility, leadership, and service began in the restaurant sector. As highlighted by Michelle Korsmo, the association's President and CEO, 82% of restaurant employees believe their jobs in the industry prepare them for future opportunities. This affirmation underscores the transformative environment that restaurants cultivate.

Four Dimensions of Impact

The 'Made in Restaurants' campaign intends to delineate the multifaceted influence of the restaurant industry across four key areas:

1. Community Cornerstones: Restaurants are where connections are formed, and memories are woven. They serve as essential gathering places for family and friends, where communities can establish stronger bonds.

2. Economic Powerhouses: The restaurant industry is a significant contributor to the U.S. economy—creating jobs, generating revenue, and nurturing local businesses. According to the research, the industry represents approximately 6% of the annual GDP in the country.

3. America's Training Ground: Many individuals have their first job experience in restaurants. This environment imparts foundational work-life skills, preparing future leaders equipped to tackle challenges and seize opportunities in various sectors.

4. Career Catalysts: The restaurant industry offers clear paths for career advancement. Many start in entry-level positions and eventually rise to management roles, demonstrating the potential for long-term success within the field.

The launch of this initiative is complemented by the storytelling campaign 'Where I Started,' which features impactful narratives of individuals whose careers began in the restaurant industry. Through their personal experiences, these stories illuminate how the skills gained in restaurants have been beneficial throughout their professional lives—whether they stayed in hospitality or transitioned to other fields. For instance, actress and podcaster Beth Behrs credits her early work as a waitress for instilling in her the essential skills that she applies in her acting and podcasting endeavors today. She poignantly remarks how the restaurant industry has profoundly shaped her and many others' career trajectories.

As the campaign rolls out, it seeks to amplify discussions surrounding the significant yet often unacknowledged contributions made by this industry to American culture and economy. With annual revenues exceeding $1.5 trillion and more than 15.7 million employees working in diverse restaurant roles, the sector is undeniably a cornerstone of American life.

Furthermore, the initiative garners support from key industry partners including The Coca-Cola Company, DIRECTV for BUSINESS, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, and Taco John's, all of whom recognize the vital importance of celebrating and supporting the workforce behind the meals served in communities across the country.

As Korsmo stated, “Restaurants are the heart of America. They are where communities come together, where entrepreneurs build businesses that strengthen neighborhoods, and where countless individuals first learn vital life skills.” This initiative, by showcasing the intrinsic value restaurants provide, aims to foster a deeper societal appreciation for the contributions they make toward not just individual careers, but the collective fabric of American society.

To learn more about this initiative and to view the stories of those who have been shaped by their experiences in restaurants, visit www.MadeInRestaurants.org.

About the National Restaurant Association

Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association serves as the foremost business organization advocating for the restaurant industry. With over 1 million restaurant and foodservice operations and a workforce of 15.7 million, the association collaborates with state partners to uphold interests through advocacy, education, and food safety initiatives. They are responsible for major events and programs, including the industry’s largest trade show and comprehensive food safety training programs.

Through initiatives like 'Made in Restaurants', the association aims to continue its mission of supporting and uplifting the restaurant industry, ensuring that it remains a fundamental part of American life.