Advocacy in Action | March 27, 2025
National Restaurant Association: Public Affairs Conference
The CRA supports you on a local, state and national level. Each year, we represent Connecticut at the Restaurants Act Public Affairs Conference.
Next week, President & CEO, Scott Dolch, alongside CRA Members, Board Members and Executive Committee are travelling to Washington, D.C. to attend the Conference. The group will meet with our federal delegates to discuss federal issues such as immigration, tax initiatives and more. Our objective is to meet with stakeholders who has a say in our industry, as well as meet with our peers from across America.
Price Increases on Key Commodities
The National Restaurant Association reports that the restaurant industry is currently grappling with significant price increases in key commodities such as eggs, beef, and coffee. These surges are attributed to factors including Avian Flu, economic dynamics, and drought conditions in South and Central America.
Bill Lapp, president of Advanced Economic Solutions, advises operators to remain flexible, anticipating potential ingredient cost increases and considering necessary menu adjustments. Specifically, he notes that coffee prices have nearly tripled over the past two years, rising from $1.50 to $4 per pound. Lapp suggests that while switching from Arabica to the less expensive Robusta beans might be a cost-saving measure, operators should be cautious, as such changes could impact customer perception and brand appeal over time.
The Impact of Proposed Tariffs on the Spirit Industry
Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods could significantly impact the distilled spirits industry. Canada and Mexico are major markets for U.S. whiskey exports and key suppliers of tequila and Canadian whiskey.
Retaliatory tariffs could hurt American distillers while increasing costs for U.S. consumers and hospitality businesses reliant on imports. Industry experts warn of economic ripple effects, including job losses and decreased competitiveness in global markets.
| Read Here |
Bill Tracker
The Connecticut Restaurant Association actively monitors a wide range of legislation throughout each legislative session. It's important to note that the introduction of a bill does not guarantee its passage.
The CRA Bill Tracker gives you a sense of the breadth and variety of legislation we track throughout session, as well as an overview on the status of each bill. This webpage is updated weekly, and we will keep you informed on any movement through our Advocacy in Action emails and text alerts.