The
Oklahoma Restaurant Association, founded in 1933 when a small group of
74 restaurant and cafeteria operators met to discuss issues within the
industry, has now grown to include more than 4,500 member restaurant
units and foodservice entities. These members are truly a cornerstone
in Oklahoma’s economy. As the state’s largest private-sector employer,
Oklahoma’s foodservice industry employs over 144,000 people or 9.2% of
the total job base, according to a report by the National Restaurant
Association. Research shows that one-third of all adults have worked in
the foodservice industry at some time during their lives. These jobs
lead to a continued growth in disposable personal income that, in turn,
leads to more people dining out. And people are definitely dining out;
in 2008, the ORA expects Oklahoma Eating and Drinking Place sales to
reach $4.5 billion this year. Additionally, within Oklahoma every
dollar spent in these establishments generates an additional $1.27of
sales for other industries in the state. Each additional $1 million
spent in eating-and-drinking places in Oklahoma generates an additional
50.2 jobs in the state.
The
ORA is recognized as one of the largest and most effective organizations
in Oklahoma. With a strong presence at the state capitol, the ORA constantly
monitors regulatory and legislative issues. Member services include sanitation
training, video and reference lending library, alcohol server training,
group insurance programs, customer service seminars, a full color magazine,
newsletters, special bulletins and the state's largest trade show.
As
we grow to meet the needs of our members in this changing industry, the
ORA will continue to fulfill and maintain the visions of the original
founders. We will be the representative voice and protect the interests
of Oklahoma restaurateurs.
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