Foodservice Distributors Implore Congress to Act, Save Our Nation’s Restaurants

IFDA responds to National Restaurant Association survey that shows nearly 100,000 restaurants already closed due to COVID-19 crisis
 
Statement by Mark S. Allen, President & CEO of the International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) in response to the National Restaurant Association’s latest survey that found the restaurant industry has experienced nearly 100,000 closures tied to the coronavirus pandemic. In addition, the survey found that 40% of operators think it is unlikely their restaurant will still be in business six months from now without additional relief from the federal government. 
 
“With forty percent of all restaurant owners reporting they may have to close their doors within six months without federal assistance, IFDA implores Congress to take action. Funds tied to previous federal support programs have dried up and as fall approaches, outside dining options will be limited in cold weather states which further threatens the restaurant industry. We stand with our partners at the National Restaurant Association and ask Congress to pass a second round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding that allows forgiveness for both operating expenses, like inventory and supplies, as well as payroll. Allowing restaurants to use PPP funds to pay suppliers helps pay for the food and supplies they need to keep their kitchens cooking.”
 
About IFDA
The International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) is the premier trade organization representing the $303 billion foodservice distribution industry and the 350,000 people it employs. This industry ensures a safe and efficient supply of food and products to more than one million restaurants and foodservice outlets in the U.S. every day. For more information, visit www.ifdaonline.org.
 
Contact: Meghan Cieslak, mcieslak@ifdaonline.org, 703-962-9950