NRA Show Sees Surge in Dealer Attendance

Last month’s 97th annual National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago saw a record set for exhibit space and a 6% uptick in total registration—including a 9% jump in dealer/distributor attendance.

The May 21-24 show brought together a diverse range of industry segments, including 98 of the top 100 restaurant brands. The more than 67,000 total registrants hailed from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. Retail registration soared by 21%, while the dealer/distributor and restaurant/foodservice operator registration categories grew by 9% and 4%, respectively.

Show organizers report that with more than 680,000 sq.ft. of exhibit space, the sold-out show exceeded the previous show footprint by 7%.

In addition to exhibits on the McCormick Place show floor, including the KI Awards pavilion, more than 80 educational sessions were held. Highlights included “Signature ’16: Turn the Tables,” in which NRA President/CEO Dawn Sweeney took a close look at the local food movement; explored the evolution of guest experience with Red Robin’s Denny Marie Post; and addressed the benefits of conveniently connecting diners and restaurants with Uber Everything’s Jason Droege.

The 2017 edition of the NRA Show will be held on May 20-23 at McCormick Place.