The Show floor of the 2003 Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Show was alive with the hustle and bustle of thousands of restaurateurs from around the state making deals and meeting with hundreds of foodservice industry vendors and suppliers.
Thousands of attendees turned out for the two-day Show at the Novi Expo Center on Oct. 14 & 15.
"This year's MRA trade show was bigger and better than anyone could have imagined," said MRA Executive Director Rob Gifford. "It's one of the few opportunities that restaurant owners and operators from around the state have to take care of all of their business needs in a one-stop marketplace."
In addition to the great show floor specials and deals available, participants also had the opportunity to gain some firsthand knowledge from some of the greatest experts in the business.
Chris Sullivan, founder of Outback Steakhouse, kicked-off the two-day event with some riveting tricks of the trade for future and current restaurant operators during his Tuesday morning keynote speech. Sullivan spoke to the crowd about the importance of not only being a good business operator, but also about the importance of being a responsible and active community member and building relationships with local and elected officials.
"When you understand that people are the most important part of this business, then you have a much better chance for success," Sullivan said. "Our industry is about building relationships. You've got to have stability, and that stability is a major factor in why these (Outback operator) partnerships work."
In addition to the Show's wide variety of educational seminars on marketing tips, laws and regulations, and human resources, chef demonstrations were another featured highlight. Renowned chefs, including Angus Campbell of Grand Rapids Community College, Tim Coonan of Hathaway House and Stable, and Ted Teeter of P.F. Chang's China Bistro, all shared some backhouse secrets and indulged attendees with mouth-watering cooking demonstrations.
It's never too early for vendors and suppliers to start gearing up for next year's Restaurant & Lodging Show. Foodservice vendors who want to secure their spot now for the Show can contact Brian Starrs at the MRA at 800-968-9668 or bstarrs@mramail.org.
