National Restaurant Association Cancels May Event

Gathering stipulations have forced the cancellation of the National Restaurant Association 2021 Show, organizers announced today, Feb. 26.

The show was previously scheduled for May 22-25 at McCormick Place in Chicago.

Throughout Illinois, gatherings remain limited to no more than 50 people—a figure that falls woefully short of traditional event attendance numbers, with more than 2,300 companies alone expected to attend in 2021.

“While this order could be modified prior to expiration, McCormick Place has indicated their ability to reopen for large events is currently prohibited by the state regulation and they do not anticipate changes prior to June that would allow an event of our size and scope to occur in May,” the association wrote in its announcement.

Meanwhile, the association said it is offering free digital resources.

“While we can’t do business or learn together in-person just yet, we are dedicated to helping our industry through this exceptionally challenging time,” said Tom Cindric, president of Winsight Exhibitions, which organizes the show. “And when we reunite next year, May 21-24, 2022, it will be in an environment unlike anything any of us have ever experienced—an environment filled with renewed energy and unmatched connection as the restaurant community seeks new products, concepts, innovation, and thought leadership to reimagine foodservice.”

For information about transferring current registration fees, hotel cancelations and more, visit www.nationalrestaurantshow.com.

Yesterday, The Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management’s also announced that it was delaying its 2021 National Conference.