News & Information
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| For Immediate Release |
Contact: Andy Deloney |
| January 29, 2007 |
517/377-3931 |
Michigan Restaurant Association elects officers for 2007
Jeff Lobdell of Grand Rapids will lead the MRA
LANSING – The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) today announced the election of its 2007 officers to lead the organization, which represents more than 4,500 Michigan food and beverage service establishments.
Jeff Lobdell was elected to serve as President, Jim Eggl was elected to serve as Vice President and Bob Fish was elected to serve as Treasurer.
Jeff Lobdell operates Restaurant Partners, Inc., based in Grand Rapids. Restaurant Partners is associated with some of the best known restaurants in Grand Rapids and Traverse City: Bagel Beanery, Beltline Bar, Sundance Grill, Boone’s Prime Time, and The Omelette Shoppe and Bakery are known to be some of the most powerful foodservice brands in West Michigan with flavors ranging from light breakfast to Tex-Mex cuisine.
“I look forward to leading the MRA in our continued efforts to represent, promote and lead Michigan’s restaurant industry,” Lobdell said. “I appreciate the trust and confidence the members have placed in me. It is truly an honor to serve.”
Jim Eggl, MRA’s newly elected vice president, owns and operates two well-known and acclaimed restaurants: Hector and Jimmy’s restaurant and bar in downtown Milford, and Gravity Bar and Grill, a recent addition to Milford’s fine dining scene. Fish, the new treasurer for the association, co-founded East Lansing-based Beaner’s Gourmet Coffee and Global Orange Development LLC, the franchisor for the Beaner’s brand.
“In today’s uncertain economy, owning and operating a restaurant is a tough, competitive business,” said MRA Executive Director Rob Gifford. “I’m confident with the dynamic group of business leaders on our board, the MRA will continue to represent and fight for the best interests of Michigan restaurateurs – whether by offering reduced insurance rates for members or by making our voice heard on local and state issues.”
Founded in 1921, the Michigan Restaurant Association represents more than 4,500 Michigan foodservice establishments. The foodservice industry plays an integral role in Michigan’s economy, employing more than 436,000 people and creating more than $11.3 billion in total annual sales. For more information, call (517) 482-5244.
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