IRA on Extreme Cold, Recovering Business

IRA President & CEO Sam Toia shared the below recommendations for restaurants addressing the extreme cold weather this week with Nation's Restaurant News:

• For restaurants remaining open during this time, we encourage operators to be mindful of their neighbors and surrounding community, and call 311 if any issues arise,
• Restaurants should keep their thermostats turned up to the minimum requirement of 68 degrees during hours of operation, and higher if possible to account for the extremely low temperatures and the affect they may have on HVAC systems.
• Ensuring that sidewalks and all entryways are clear of snow and ice is also extremely important to the safety of both guests and employees.
• Transportation may be delayed, so team members should allow for plenty of travel time to work and be advised to dress in their warmest winter clothing for their commute.

Click here to read more from Nation's Restaurant News.Review the Illinois Emergency Management Agency's guide to winter weather and extreme cold

The Daily Journal also quoted Toia in their piece on how businesses recover from periods of extreme weather. 

“While the resulting loss in revenue hurts any operation, we are optimistic that the predicted rising temperatures — coupled with consumers interest in getting out of the house to visit their favorite restaurants — will create renewed demand,” said Toia. 

Click here to read more from The Daily Journal