Restaurant Revolution: How the Industry Is Fighting to Stay Alive
As a result, of the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant industry that emerges from the global pandemic will likely look fundamentally different from the one that existed in early March. How will the COVID-19 crisis change the landscape of the industry, and what do restaurants need to do to survive? And, what should consumers, desperate to return to their favorite restaurants but wary about whether it is safe to do so, expect?
HEALS vs. HEROES Acts: Ag Industry Groups React
The American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Farmers Union, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture all reacted to ag provisions in the GOP COVID-19 package known as the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability and Schools (HEALS) Act and compared it to the House-passed HEROES Act.
Many Restaurants Have Closed, Others Aren't Sure How Long They Can Weather Coronavirus
As the pandemic drags on, many businesses have outlasted federal financial relief and initial enthusiasm to adapt to a stay-at-home way of life. Recovery appears further away than many restaurants believe they can hold on. The restaurant industry already had a reputation as a challenging market with low margins and high turnover. The latest survey by the Colorado Restaurant Association found that 56% of restaurant members fear that if coronavirus conditions don't improve, they'll permanently close within three months.
Young Farmers and Farmers of Color Shut Out of COVID Federal Assistance
Across the country, young farmers, first-generation farmers, and farmers of color say they have been left out of coronavirus relief for the agricultural industry. The oversight, which they say has left them on an unstable financial footing, threatens to cut off a promising growth area of small-scale farms and younger farmers against a wider backdrop of consolidation and aging of American agriculture.
California P3 Is Putting Idle Restaurants to Use by Fighting Food Insecurity
California launched High Road Kitchens to address the idle status of restaurants and the tremendous need for food relief at the same time. Using grants and subsidies, High Road Kitchens incentivizes independent restaurants to reactivate their businesses as meal providers for hunger relief.
Why the HEALS Act Will Not Do Enough To Save Independent Restaurants
On July 27, Senator Mitch McConnell proposed the HEALS Act, which includes the next round of coronavirus aid. But the Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC) claims it will not do enough, and continues seeking support and pushing for signatures on the RESTAURANTS Act. The IRC shared a statement in response to the Senate's proposed HEALS Act, which does not provide direct aid to independent restaurants and bars.
Over $2.3M Awarded Through New York Forward Loan Fund
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that more than $2.3 million has been awarded to support 61 businesses and residential landlords with COVID-19 related costs and expenses through the New York Forward Loan Fund. Of the 61 loans, 54 were provided to minority- and women-owned businesses. Applications are still being accepted and businesses from qualifying industries, including agriculture, construction, food services, retail, education services, manufacturing and transportation.
Check Out the Regenerative Food Systems Investment Forum on September 15-17!
On September 15-17, hundreds of people from across the global regenerative food systems and investing communities will gather virtually to learn, build connections, and move investment in this space forward. The program is designed to equip participants for successful participation in this investment space, as well as provide ample time to develop strategic business relationships.
|