National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago Guide

QSR’s guide to the 2008 National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show

In the face of 2,150 companies exhibiting goods and services in 890-plus categories, navigating the 2008 NRA Show might a bit overwhelming—if you didn’t have this handy guide. We culled through the events and educational sessions so all you have to do is show up on time and enjoy what the event has to offer. With 74,000 attendees expected, it will pay to be prepared.

When: Saturday, May 17 – Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Where: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL

Exhibit Floor Hours:

Exhibit Hall Level 1 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Level 3 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Reports from the Floor

Educational Sessions

NRAEF Announces Salute to Excellence Award Winners

[2008-05-23] The awards gala kicked off the 89th National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show, last Saturday.

From the Floor: WFF Recognizes Sodexo

[2008-05-19] The organization awarded its Jackie B. Trujillo SOAR Award at the WFF Annual Leadership Luncheon at the NRA Show.

From the Floor: John McCain Speaks at NRA Show

[2008-05-19] The presidential hopeful was received well by the pro-McCain crowd, blaming high food prices on unfair farm subsidies.

From the Floor: Jim Skinner Calls for Industry Collaboration

[2008-05-19] McDonald's CEO stresses collaboration in the restaurant industry in combating issues such as employee turnover, menu labeling, and food safety.

From the Floor: The Power of Word of Mouth

[2008-05-18] NRA education session shows operators how to tap into viral marketing.

From the Floor: Scientist Calls for Proactive Approach to Sustainability

[2008-05-17] The dean of the department of animal science at Michigan State University, calls on industry leaders to create comprehensive, long-term solutions for sustainability.

From the Floor: NRA Show Starts Off Strong

[2008-05-17] The show's highlight will be a speech by presidential hopeful John McCain (R-Ariz.) on Monday at 10:14 a.m.

From the Floor: Merchant Warehouse Ensures Safer Credit Card Encryption

[2008-05-17] Using the new solution, MerchantWARE, a restaurant’s POS system never stores or transmits any unencrypted credit card information.

QSR Covers the National Restaurant Association Show

[2008-05-16] QSR offers strategic guidance for those attending the four-day event in Chicago, and daily coverage of the show for those who can't be there.