NRA Show To Stick With Chicago Through 2021

Apparently, the first 63 years have gone pretty well. The National Restaurant Association announced Oct. 1 that its annual Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show and International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event will remain in Chicago through 2021.

After thorough review of options, the NRA signed a new five-year agreement with the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority and Choose Chicago to keep the industry’s largest trade show at McCormick Place.

Dawn Sweeney, NRA president and CEO, cited the city’s central location, its business facilities, renowned restaurants and vibrant culture as major factors in the decision. She also referenced the changes made to benefit exhibitors last year, at a time when the association was rumored to be looking at convention space in Las Vegas and Orlando, Fla. “Along with everything Chicago offers, the labor reforms enacted provide greater opportunities to take advantage of what McCormick Place has to offer our customers than ever before.

“We also know our continued growth directly translates into clear and measurable benefits for Chicago. Continued cooperation from Chicago’s labor unions has made this agreement possible and has also fueled significant growth in our use of exhibit space—a 12.4% increase over 2010.”