RIHA Hosts 21st Annual Economic Outlook Breakfast

The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) hosted its 21st annual Economic Outlook Breakfast at the Rhode Island Convention Center on Sept. 4. The forum provided updated information and trends affecting the hospitality industry locally, regionally and nationally, and provided the necessary facts to plan budgets, strategies and marketing steps for 2025 and beyond. Panelists discussed opportunities for growth, challenges and how the market in Rhode Island compares with the regional and national economic forecast for 2025, specifically as the industry continues to face supply chain disruptions, staffing shortages and rising costs. Speakers included Chad Moutray, Vice President, Research and Knowledge Group, National Restaurant Association, who covered restaurants and food service; Laura Napier, Vice President, Pinnacle Advisory Group, who covered hotel and lodging; and Heather Singleton, COO, RIHA/RI Hospitality Education Foundation, who reported on workforce development.

: The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) hosted its 21st annual Economic Outlook Breakfast at the Rhode Island Convention Center on Sept. 4.

: Farouk Rajab, President/CEO, RIHA; Cheryl Twiss, Director of Sales, The Chanler at Cliff Walk; and Heather Singleton, COO, RIHA/RI Hospitality Education Foundation.

: RIHA’s Cindy Stepanian, Director of Operations and Traci Dufresne, Director, RI Hospitality Education Foundation.

: Johnson & Wales University’s Leslie Kosky, Associate Professor and Certified Hospitality Educator and Michael Sabitoni, Department Chairperson, International Travel/Tourism Studies and the Food & Beverage Industry Management Program.