Let’s Make a Reservation: Chicago Restaurant Recovery
One year ago, restaurants across the globe prepared for a looming uncertainty, unlike anything faced before. The ever-shifting guidelines and restrictions for dining establishments created disruption and innovation at a dizzying speed.
By now, the business community is familiar with the downturn narrative: restaurants struggling to pay rent, permanent and temporary closures, furloughed workers and layoffs galore. However, the unique food and beverage ecosystem in Chicago provides hope for the future. According to Pitchbook, in 2019, the number of food and beverage companies headquartered in Illinois increased from 84 up to 373. Industry veterans from corporate fixtures are moving into the food startup space, providing keen guidance to new ventures which are already benefitting from changed consumer behavior. Crain’s reports that acquisitions and new venture capital in Illinois are infusing the food and beverage space with activity and innovation.
With vaccination efforts in full swing and warmer weather on the horizon, how will Chicago’s local eateries come back from this unprecedented time? Join us on March 11th as our Food & Beverage Forum presents an expert panel of industry leaders and business owners to provide first-hand insight on the toll COVID-19 has taken on Chicago’s dining scene and what we can do to strengthen its return.