Farouk Rajab, President and CEO, RI Hospitality Association.

By Farouk Rajab, President/CEO, RI Hospitality Association

The hospitality industry is a cornerstone of Rhode Island’s economy, employing tens of thousands of individuals and contributing significantly to the state’s cultural and tourism identity. Yet, it is also one of the most heavily regulated—and taxed—industries in the country.

This forces those who run businesses in it to navigate a complex web of rules and requirements that influence every aspect of operations. In this environment, the need for active advocacy has never been more critical. As an industry, we must recognize the importance of being at the table when decisions that impact our future are being made. If we fail to participate in these conversations, the policies and regulations shaping our businesses may not reflect the realities we face every day.

The hospitality sector has always been uniquely vulnerable to external forces. Over the past few years, we have endured unprecedented challenges, from the pandemic and its ripple effects to labor shortages, supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer preferences. As we prepare for the policies and priorities of the next presidential administration, proposed measures such as tariffs aimed at reshaping trade dynamics could significantly impact the cost of goods, food and essential supplies—further complicating our ability to operate sustainably.

These challenges are compounded by a growing regulatory environment that directly affects everything from how we hire and train our teams to how we market and sustain our operations. These shifts underline the necessity for industry professionals to stay informed and engaged—both nationally and locally and to advocate for balanced solutions that safeguard businesses and communities alike.

Advocacy is not simply about protecting our own interests; it is about ensuring that the industry as a whole is heard, understood and considered. When legislators and policymakers make decisions without input from hospitality professionals, the resulting regulations often fail to account for the operational and financial realities of running a hospitality business.

This can lead to unintended consequences that hinder innovation, stifle growth and even threaten the survival of small businesses. By participating in advocacy efforts, we have the chance to educate decision-makers about the vital role our industry plays in the state’s economy and to offer solutions that promote both growth and sustainability.

The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) leads the industry in uniting businesses to present a cohesive, impactful voice. Collective action is essential because individual voices, while important, are amplified when joined with others.

Through RIHA, we have been able to make meaningful progress, whether it is advocating for workforce development programs, pushing for tax incentives to ease staffing challenges or working with regulators to streamline compliance requirements. These victories demonstrate the power of engagement and underscore why it is essential for more members to get involved.

Our industry has always been resilient, resourceful and deeply connected to the communities we serve. Advocacy is a natural extension of these qualities. By engaging with legislators, participating in Association initiatives and sharing our stories, we can influence policies that allow our businesses to grow while preserving the unique character of Rhode Island’s hospitality landscape.

The work we do in our restaurants, hotels, event spaces and tourism businesses is about more than just profit; it is about building an industry that sustains livelihoods, fosters connections and contributes to the vibrancy of our state. Now is the time to step up.

The challenges we face are significant, but so are the opportunities to make a difference. Advocacy ensures that our industry’s perspective is not only heard but respected and acted upon. By taking a seat at the table, we help to create a brighter, more sustainable future for hospitality in Rhode Island. Together, we can ensure that our businesses continue to thrive and that our voices remain a powerful force for positive change.

The post RIHA Column: Hospitality Professionals Take a Seat at the Table appeared first on The Beverage Journal.