By Tatiana Vieira, International Contributor
In this day and age, life is hectic and as the new insight report from Wharton says: we are on the move and we need to adapt to a new global economy. It's not only the reports elaborated by great thinkers that highlight a more competitive future; players in the restaurant industry are entering new markets every day. This past week The Cheesecake Factory announced its first international expansion, highlighting its plan to open 22 new stores in the Middle East.
In another article, Robert Neuwirth described how businesses in the African meta city of Lagos, Nigeria are becoming global and receiving products from many countries, including the U.S. How can restaurant operators in the Middle East, Africa and all around the world survive and thrive if they are not in tune to what is happening in the U.S. marketplace?
The U.S. is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and the recent economic crisis never changed that fundamental characteristic of American society. By attending the 2011 National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show and its sibling the International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event (IWSB), global leaders of today and the innovators of tomorrow will connect with restaurant, catering and lodging professionals from throughout the U.S. and around the world to power-up their businesses with new products, technologies and strategies that are changing the foodservice industry.
NRA Show 2011 will once again roll out the red carpet with features exclusive to international attendees:
● International Back of House Restaurant Tours – these exciting half-day tours offer an insider’s view of some of Chicago’s most celebrated restaurants. Tours are for registered international visitors only. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis.
● International Trade Center (ITC) - this dedicated area that provides private business meeting rooms, import-export counseling, translation services, and assistance locating the products and exhibitors related to international attendee business needs.
● Priceless social events such as the International Reception bring together key trade executives, exhibiting companies interested in expanding their operations, and key industry leaders from around the world.
● More than 70 free education sessions – presented by the industry’s top experts will address today’s challenges and deliver innovative solutions to take home and immediately put to work and improve the operation.
● Specialty Pavilions – American Food Fair, Conserve Solutions Centers, Food Truck Spot, Franchise Pavilion, International Cuisine Pavilion, Kitchen Innovations Pavilion, Organic & Natural Pavilion, Smart Design and the Technology Pavilion will help attendees easily find the latest food & beverage, equipment & supplies, technology, décor, “green” solutions and more from around the world.
You never know who will have the next big idea, but it’s guaranteed to be at NRA Show 2011 and IWSB in Chicago – the NRA Show will be held May 21-24, IWSB will take place May 22-23 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. Early bird discount registration is still available for both events.
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