LRA Showcase: Kitchen Counter- Cost Chaos: Winning the Margin Game in a Tariff-Tangled Market

Description

Inflation may still be with us, but 2025 brings fresh challenges—particularly the rising impact of new tariffs on imported goods. In this timely and tactical session, Carrie Collins of Ben E. Keith returns to help operators sharpen their cost management playbooks. 

From negotiating smarter vendor contracts to strategically sourcing alternative U.S.-grown ingredients, this session will explore how to optimize prime costs without compromising value. Attendees will leave with fresh ideas for bulk purchasing, cost-effective menu engineering, and navigating the complex world of tariffs.

Key takeaways include: 

• How new tariffs are reshaping the cost landscape—and what it means for your bottom line 
• Smart strategies for negotiating better vendor contracts and pricing agreements 
• Tips for sourcing U.S.-grown alternatives to offset supply chain disruptions 
• Menu engineering techniques to maintain value perception while protecting profits

NOTE: Registration to this event is free and available to LRA restaurant members as part of their showcase registration. Non LRA restaurant members who register for this event will have to register for the showcase and pay the price of admission.