The Show in 2 Days
1. Get Your Badge
Security is tight at this show, and no one gets in without a badge. If you’ve already registered online, you can pick up your badge by just showing your business card or driver's license to the people at the badge pick-up desk. Name tag colors represent industry categories like vendors, operators, suppliers, and press. The barcodes allow vendors to scan your information into their system for following up at a later date.
2. Go to Class
While the wild fun of the show floor might be calling you, resist the urge and go upstairs to where all the breakout panels are held. Since the different panels only run from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day, it’s best to visit these in the morning. This year’s classes are packed with industry leaders and celebrities. For Day 1, we suggest tackling something in expansion and sustainability—two of today’s hottest topics. Plus, there’s a breathtaking view of the lake across from the classrooms that shouldn’t be missed.
3. Meet on the Floor
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and grab the first free bag you can find. You’ll quickly tire out and be glad you have extra room for all the freebies and info packets you’ll pick up. For Day 1, get a free showroom floor guide at the front entrance of the show. In it you’ll find a listing of every vendor and their booth numbers. Make a list before you start walking of who you want to see and where they’re located. Leave your browsing for Day 2. And always come hungry!
4. Network
Even though the show closes at 5 p.m., the opportunities don’t stop there. Vendors, agencies, and attendees host countless off-site events in the evenings at area restaurants and sporting venues. Use this time to network with other industry insiders and see a bit of Chicago.
5. Shake Hands with a Celeb
As the biggest foodservice show in the world, the NRA Show boasts an impressive lineup of celebrity chefs and industry leaders. Pencil in at least one of the following: a keynote address, a book signing, or a chef demonstration. If you have a camera, some even pose for photo ops.
6. Browse the Floor
This event attracts attendees and visitors from all 50 states and more than 100 countries and showcases more products, services, innovative ideas, and other growth opportunities than any other industry event. Take it all in by walking the aisles of booths and seeing what fresh ideas you can apply to your operation. Don’t miss QSR’s daily iPad and iPhone giveaway at booth 4861!
7. Have a Drink
The International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event is only open for two days, but it makes the perfect afternoon destination for Day 2. The showcase has its own set of education sessions and vendors offering free samples. Attendees must be 21 to enter.
8. Ship it Home
Before heading home, join the show veterans at one of the most popular places in McCormick Place—FedEx on the ground floor. Over the last 48 hours, you’ll have collected countless pounds of information and free samples. Rather than lug it all on the plane with you, ship it to your office, and the box will arrive a few days later without any hassle.
