National Restaurant Association Changes Dates for 2012 Show

CHICAGO -- The 2012 National Restaurant Association (NRA) Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show is moving to May 5 to 8 from its previous dates of May 19 to 22, to avoid overlap with the Global G8 and NATO Summit that will take place May 15-22, NRA reported. The show will still be held in Chicago's McCormick Place convention center.

"The NRA’s primary goal is provide our exhibitors and attendees an environment that is conducive to business," said Dawn Sweeney, president and CEO of the National Restaurant Association. "Discussions with the Chicago Mayor’s Office, the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau and the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority have made it clear to us that the security and logistics requirements for the G8 and NATO Summit will significantly restrict movement within Chicago during that time. Therefore, after carefully considering a number of options, we’ve come to the conclusion that keeping the 2012 NRA Show in Chicago, but moving it to earlier in May will provide the best opportunity for our industry to have a productive and enjoyable 2012 Show."

The co-located International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event will also move up two weeks to May 6 to 7.

The NRA's annual Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show brings 58,000 foodservice professionals and an average of $100 million to Chicago, as well as more than 60,000 jobs to support the show, according to the announcement. The show has taken place in Chicago since 1950.

Questions about attending or exhibiting at the 2012 NRA Show can be directed to the National Restaurant Association Convention Office at (312) 853-2525.