Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
In a comprehensive discourse, Joe Monastero, the Chief Operating Officer for the Texas Restaurant Association (TRA), dug into the innumerable factors shaping the Texas and United States restaurant industries, contrasting them with international markets. The occasion was none other than the prestigious President’s Dinner for the Texas Restaurant Association’s (TRA) Legislative Wins.
Monastero underscored Texas’s monumental position as the world’s ninth-largest economy and its influence on global culinary trends and innovations. The Lone Star State has exhibited remarkable resilience and growth during the pandemic, witnessing an uptick in the number of restaurants and revenue. However, the road ahead is peppered with challenges such as inflation, cost management, and workforce dynamics, signaling a pivotal moment for adaptability and forward-thinking.
He said, that amidst the challenges thrown by the pandemic, the TRA emerged as an example of unity and adaptation. The association successfully navigated through the difficulties, offering solid support to the community. Monastero extended his appreciation to local chapters, individual members, and staff, whose collective efforts were instrumental in fortifying the restaurant industry, particularly in regions like McAllen.
While Texas remains a pillar of economic growth and job creation, the national economy paints a contrasting picture with a projected drop in real GDP compared to consistent job additions. This contrast illustrates the volatile and unpredictable economic landscape that economists and industry leaders, like Monastero, are navigating.
With the restaurant industry at a crossroads, Monastero emphasizes the importance of acclimating to the new normal. The sector must address ongoing challenges while continuing to innovate and evolve. Texas, given its unique position and strengths, bears both the advantages and responsibilities of steering the national restaurant industry toward a prosperous future.
Leadership is a resounding theme throughout Monastero’s presentation. He commends various individuals, including Dr. Emily Williams Knight CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association and Education Foundation, who have played pivotal roles in representing and guiding the industry. Furthermore, he celebrates the sector’s community engagement, with 84% of restaurateurs actively giving back through various philanthropic activities, underscoring the sector’s symbiotic relationship with societal well-being.
Monastero sheds light on TRA’s significant legislative accomplishments, particularly during the 87th and 88th sessions, attributing the success to a unified team with a shared passion for hospitality. He highlights key legislative achievements aimed at regulatory consistency and operational efficiency, reflecting TRA’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment.
The ongoing challenges surrounding employee recruitment, training, and retention take center stage. Monastero discusses innovative solutions and partnerships aimed at fostering employee well-being, including the introduction of Teladoc, an affordable healthcare solution for restaurant employees and their families.
Acknowledging the importance of nurturing future talent, Monastero recognizes programs like Strides in McAllen ISD for their contribution to culinary education and workforce development. This emphasis on education reflects TRA’s holistic approach to ensuring a sustainable future for the restaurant industry.
Through his insightful discourse, Joe Monastero paints a comprehensive picture of the restaurant industry’s current state, challenges, and future trajectory, offering a blend of statistics, real-world examples, and strategic foresight. His call to action underscores the importance of unity, adaptability, and innovation in navigating the intricate landscape of the restaurant industry in Texas and beyond.
The President’s Dinner served as a platform for reflecting on industry achievements, discussing prevailing trends, and strategizing on enhancing association membership. The core idea revolved around unity and collective strength, with a clear message — joining the organization and possibly stepping into a board member role is a way forward for those wishing to express their concerns and impact the industry.
Monastero concludes with a rallying cry for unity and collective advocacy, encouraging participation in the TRA to amplify the voice of the restaurant industry. This conclusion encapsulates TRA’s mission to champion the interests and sustainable growth of the restaurant sector in Texas.
