By The Pollack Group
A recent study has found that about 17% of America’s restaurants have already permanently closed in 2020. Though there is some relief in sight as the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine roll out across the country, that percentage is certain to increase. As restaurants continue the challenging, ongoing process of reopening their dining rooms, protecting the health and safety of employees and guests is a priority. Most states require restaurant employees to wear a face covering; they also encourage employers to provide them with masks and other PPE.
On December 14, agency client Barco Uniforms announced a multifaceted program with National Restaurant Association and ServSafe® to donate and distribute 20,000 reusable face masks to restaurant operators across the U.S. This year, Barco expanded its product line to support essential workers and everyday heroes who do their part to keep their community safe, including those in the foodservice industry.
ServSafe’s safety training and certification program is sponsored by the National Restaurant Association, the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises one million restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of 15.6 million employees. Operators who sign up for the ServSafe Dining Commitment can receive 25 free masks and purchase additional protective apparel for foodservice directly from Barco.
Through the agency’s longstanding partnership in The Worldcom Public Relations Group, the agency was able to connect directly with National Restaurant Association and helped shepherd both parties to finalize an agreement. The announcement has garnered significant media interest, but most importantly, it has real-world repercussions that may help save more lives.
