Blog

Members Only Electric Co-op

Energy prices have recently declined but your electricity bill has increased. Over the past several years, we have all experienced significant increases in our electric bills after Delmarva raised rates in 2006. The DRA is now offering members the opportunity to save 5%-15% off of your Delmarva Power bill for a limited time through participation in an electricity aggregation group. Meetings have been scheduled throughout the state for more information:

  • Friday, February 6th 10am Stanley Tavern, Wilmington
  • Wednesday, February 11th 10am Cultured Pearl, Rehoboth

You may also download and return the forms below to the DRA office no later than February 16th, 2009.  There will be a nominal fee of $50 to join the buying group. For more information contact the office at 302-738-2545.

Legislative Outlook

Can You Say Deja vu?

As we begin the 144th session of the Delaware General Assembly, many of the faces and dynamics have changed but some of the same issues the DRA were successful at defeating or keeping at bay last year will most likely return to the table in 2009.

Addressing the looming budget deficit has been the top priority of legislators and all indications are that proposed tax increases, minimum wage and alcohol issues are all fair game this year.

Combined with a newly charged democratic leadership, member involvement is more important now more than ever.

DRA board and staff have been meeting with newly elected officials in Dover to share the issues important to the industry. Communicating with legislators about your business is the best way to begin to develop a relationship with your elected official.

The DRA will monitor any legislation as the session progresses and will communicate any issues to the membership. To find your legislator click on http://legis.delaware.gov/

NEW! Member Exclusive Benefit

Free Financial Check-up

Do you often wonder if you are spending too much on food or liquor but not enough on advertising?  The DRA in partnership with its accounting firm, McBride Shopa & Company will offer members a free financial comparison based on data from the National Restaurant Association’s Industry Operations Report for 2008.

This side-by-side comparison will show operators their variances so they can compare their numbers to the national averages. The report will also include suggestions for increased efficiency.

Beginning as early as next year, the DRA will be able to compare data using Delaware averages. “This is a valuable tool for those of us who want to know how we stack up against others in the industry,” said Jeff Cook, owner of 2 Fat Guys Restaurant and Catering in Hockessin. “We had access to comparisons when we worked for a chain. Now individual restaurants will be able to take advantage of what the chains provide their stores and it will be a great tool to help us operate more profitably.”

All data will be kept confidential. Members will receive this report for free. Non-members will be charged $199 for the report. If you are interested in this report, please contact the office at 302-738-2545 or email Jean Lloyd at McBride Shopa & Company at jlloyd@mcbrideshopa.com

SYSCO Supports DRA at Spring Trade Show

Sysco Eastern Maryland is pleased to support the DRA by having members sign up for the 10 cents for every case shipped allowance at Sysco’s 27th Annual Food and Foodservice Supply Show Sysco Invitation. The show will take place on Tuesday, March 24 and Wednesday March 25 at the Ocean City Convention Center. Show hours are Tuesday 11 am – 7 pm and Wednesday 9 am – 5 pm.

By signing the attached Hotel-Motel Donation Form and attending the show, SYSCO will donate 10 cents for every case a member buys back to the DRA.

Please email the DRA at carrie@delawarerestaurant.org or fax form back to 302-738-2546 before March 1st.