MRA to Partner with MDA and Travel Michigan to Promote State Culinary Tourism
LANSING – Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) president and CEO Rob Gifford announced that the MRA will partner with the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) and Travel Michigan on a new project initiated by the MDA on culinary tourism in Michigan.
The MDA will provide leadership in forming a Michigan Culinary Tourism Alliance in partnership with the MRA and Travel Michigan. The project will be funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) with matching funds provided by the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, a program of the MDA. Linda Jones, Program Manager of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council will coordinate the work of the Alliance and oversee the federal grant agreement.
“We are excited to be a part of this project” said Gifford. “Many of our members are already actively supporting local producers and offering a unique Michigan experience when people dine as they travel throughout the state. With the coordinated efforts provided through this grant, we will expand these experiences and help make Michigan known as a travel destination that allows people to fully experience the bounty of our great state.”
“With agriculture and tourism as Michigan’s second and third largest industries, it makes sense to connect existing efforts to promote Michigan as a rewarding travel destination for educational and healthy food experiences”, said Koivisto. “The economic development boost that can arise from this collaborative effort will be significant.”
The goals of the project are to (a) increase sales and profitability for Michigan specialty crops through increased menu offerings of local products at Michigan restaurants, and (b) to promote Michigan as a destination for culinary travel experiences.
Members of the food, beverage and tourism industries who wish to become involved in the project, are encouraged to contact Sherri Goodreau at goodreaus@michigan.gov or 517.241.3415. Members of the public and allied industries are encouraged to sign up to be a fan of the “Michigan Culinary Tourism” page on Facebook as well.
The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice community. Founded in 1921, the MRA represents more than 4,500 Michigan foodservice establishments. The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 423,600 people and creating more than $13.1 billion in annual sales. For more information please call 800-968-9668.
Copyright 2010 by Michigan Restaurant Association 800-968-9668 .
