CHICAGO — The National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show will feature the most up-to-date and innovative equipment and technology designed to enhance productivity, streamline operations and cut back on costs,
Attendees to the show, held May 16-19 at McCormick Place in Chicago, will see the latest trends including energy-conserving equipment, labor-saving technology and multi-functional kitchen tools throughout the exhibit floor, in special pavilions, via hands-on demonstrations and in targeted free education sessions. "The right kitchen equipment and technology are crucial components to the success of any restaurant to streamline operations and save money," said Lorna Donatone, convention chair for the NRA Show 2009 and president, School Services, at Sodexo Inc. "This economy demands that operators make efficient use of their resources to satisfy ever-changing customer demand and maximize productivity." According to NRA research, the top trends in restaurant kitchens include the use of environmentally friendly equipment and practices; improving productivity and efficiency; equipment/technology that maximizes food quality and shelf life; and kitchen design to maximize staff flow, storage and safety. NRA Show 2009 will include the Kitchen Innovations (KI) Awards, which will showcase the most cutting-edge kitchen equipment on the market as judged by an independent expert panel. Additionally, the Technology Pavilion will highlight the latest technology available, including POS systems, wireless technologies, ordering and delivery, inventory control, customer relationship management, electronic and online marketing and other products.
