Departments of health and revenue offer guidance on selling grocery items
As restaurants continue to re-evaluate their business models amid the coronavirus outbreak, many are now selling grocery or pantry items.
Here’s how to sell groceries and pantry items in Washington state – the right way.
Governor previews state’s recovery plan
Gov. Jay Inslee announced Tuesday that it is unlikely that many of the current restrictions to stem the spread of the coronavirus will be lifted on May 4. Guidance for specific industries will be provided by the state for when and how they will reopen and will include opening in phases, physical distancing, screenings and more. Read more here.
Has your commercial landlord worked with you during the coronavirus crisis?
The Washington Hospitality Association knows there are growing needs for lease abatement. We want to better understand your needs. Click to fill out our quick survey that will help us advocate for you with lawmakers.
City of Spokane launches small business loan program
Spokane’s Community, Housing and Human Services Board is investing $100,000 in small businesses during the Stay Healthy, Stay Home Order. Find out if you are eligible for these loans and how to apply for them here.
Tell Congress: Restaurants need a Blueprint for Recovery
The National Restaurant Association prepared a Blueprint for Recovery that outlines how Congress can improve the industry’s chances for survival. Centered around a $240 billion Restaurant and Foodservice Industry Recovery Fund, this plan would provide dedicated government funding, tax credits and more to help restaurants prepare for current and future challenges as they recover. Tell Congress you need relief.
Just expanded: Pierce County small business loans
The Pierce County Emergency Small Business Relief Loan Program that used to be for businesses with 10 or fewer employees has been expanded to 20 or fewer employees. Loan amounts have been increased to $20,000. Also, the program is now for all of Pierce County, not just the unincorporated parts. Click here to learn more and apply – it’s first-come, first-served.
TRAINING
Free online ServSafe courses available through April 30
Courses are available to download from the National Restaurant Association ServSafe program, including online training and assessment and ServSafe Takeout and Delivery: COVID-19 Precautions, a training video featuring:
- An overview of coronavirus and details about its transmission
- Review of five-step handwashing process
- Respiratory hygiene practices to reduce the spread of the virus
- Keeping guests safe through heightened cleaning and sanitizing
- Guidelines for single-use gloves
- Packaging considerations for takeout and/or curbside pickup
- Guest contact precautions during takeout
Free training and education for lodging employees
The American Hotel and Lodging Education Institute is offering access to free training and educational courses to help hotel employees continue their education and stay connected to the job during the coronavirus crisis. Click here.
Additional Training Available
Food Allergies
Restaurant Certifications
Hotel & Lodging Certifications
Sexual Harassment Prevention
INDUSTRY ROUNDUP
Finding the Helpers: Zips donates 240 hot meals to House of Charity (KXLY)
Puget Sound economy may require social distancing for foreseeable future to recover (KOMO 4 News)
Seattle’s FareStart is upping its game to feed those in need (The Seattle Times)
West Seattle restaurants join together to help those in need (Q13 Fox)
‘It’s devastating for all of us’ COVID-19 challenges hospitality industry (KXLY)
