Support Our Restaurants
There was a very poignant PSA released on television and online last month that speaks to all of the moments that restaurants have played in our lives. The video is part of Restaurants Canada's campaign, "Picture Your Life Without Restaurants," which is a reminder of all of the very special occasions we have shared thanks to the food and beverage industry.
Restaurants are where we have celebrated birthdays and anniversaries, perhaps had a first date, gotten engaged, or simply enjoyed time with friends or family at the end of a long week. Dining out is more than eating for sustenance - a meal can bring people together in a place where cherished memories are created, feeding not only your body but your soul.
As our entire tourism industry continues to struggle through the lengthening period of this pandemic, Restaurants Canada is reporting that Canadians have already seen 10,000 restaurants close across the country, losing over 850,000 jobs... with more anticipated. Most restaurants in Canada and certainly in our region are owner-operated and each one that closes is the end of a dream for an entrepreneurial spirit who worked tirelessly to help create our special moments.
#RestaurantsAreFamily Toolkit
Now is the time to show support for restaurants by taking action. You can take part both as an individual and by encouraging your community to take a stand.
The toolkit provides you various ways to get involved.
1. Pledge your support on SupportRestaurants.ca
2. Post photos of restaurant moments on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn
3. Include the “SupportRestaurants.ca” URL and hashtag, #RestaurantsAreFamily, in all your social posts
Restaurants Canada has provided a social media toolkit to make it easy to spread the word to your staff, your customers, and your community about how they can support restaurants during this time.
Supporting Thompson Okanagan Restaurants
In British Columbia, we are fortunate that regulations have allowed restaurants to stay open in autumn and winter and we can still support restaurants by dining "within our bubble." Alternatively, for those that may not feel comfortable dining out, many offer special take-out menus, ready to heat meals, or meal prep kits which you can prepare with their quality ingredients, offering through pick up and delivery options. Even the purchase of gift cards will help give hope for future days.
Dine Around British Columbia Starts February 5
The BC Restaurant & Food Services Association (BCRFA) is once again coordinating the popular Dine Around event from February 5 - to March 7, 2021. Participating restaurants will offer three course menus costing $15, $25, $35, $45, or $55 per person. Some restaurants will offer the option to ‘take-out’ their Dine Around menu. Registration is still open for restaurants to participate.
This is one fantastic opportunity for locals to support the restaurant industry.
Every Meal Counts
As you are able, take the time to enjoy a meal or a Dine Around menu this month. This is an industry that survives on small margins and none of the current changes and pivots will make up for what once was or will sustain them for the long term. However, each time you choose to support them you are helping make a difference.
Our collective efforts can make can help ensure our dining options continue to be there now and for the future.
- The TOTA Team
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