Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 18, 2023
Media Contacts:
Michael Odom or Ben Curry
Marx Layne & Company 248-855-677 |
Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association Opens Nominations for Stars of the Industry Awards, Introduces Two New Publicly Voted Categories
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) has officially opened nominations for the highly anticipated Stars of the Industry Awards. This prestigious event recognizes exceptional leaders within Michigan's hospitality industry who have demonstrated professionalism, creativity, and commitment to enhancing the industry's image. New this year, the MRLA has introduced a new style for two new categories, "Bartender Star of the Year" and "The Resort Star of the Year," with winners of these categories being determined through public voting.
"We take great pride in honoring the exceptional leaders and contributors who work very hard to elevate our industry in Michigan," said Justin Winslow, President and CEO of MRLA. “So many individuals within our industry continue to make a positive impact on guests while helping to shape the future of hospitality. We eagerly anticipate joining together as an industry to show our appreciation for their collective hard work while celebrating their individual achievements.”
Nominees for the Stars of the Industry Awards are put forward by their industry peers or members of the public, with winners being selected by a distinguished panel of industry leaders. For the first time, two categories, “Bartender Star of the year” and “The Resort Star of the Year,” will be chosen by the public, by the fans, and by the guests that repeatedly support the MRLA’s members.
There is no cost to submit a nomination, however, nominees are required to have a minimum of two years' experience in the hospitality industry and be employed by restaurants, hotels, or other supporting businesses that are MRLA members.
The deadline to submit nominations for Bartender Star of the Year and The Resort Star of the Year is 5 p.m. on Mon., August 7. All other nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Wed., October 11. To complete the Awards Nomination Form, individuals must submit a letter of recommendation and support materials. Visit https://www.mrla.org/starsnomination for details.
The winners in each category will be announced during the Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner on November 9, 2023, at Saint John's Resort in Plymouth. The Stars of the Industry Awards encompass a diverse range of categories, each highlighting excellence in specific roles within the hospitality industry. The categories include:
For a more detailed description of each category and the nomination process, please visit https://www.mrla.org/stars.html.
About the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association
Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice and lodging community. Founded in 1921 as the Michigan Restaurant Association and now known as the MRLA, the Association represents over 5,500 Michigan foodservice and lodging establishments. The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 450,000 people and generating nearly $44.6 billion. For more information, visit www.mrla.org and www.detroitrla.org.
"We take great pride in honoring the exceptional leaders and contributors who work very hard to elevate our industry in Michigan," said Justin Winslow, President and CEO of MRLA. “So many individuals within our industry continue to make a positive impact on guests while helping to shape the future of hospitality. We eagerly anticipate joining together as an industry to show our appreciation for their collective hard work while celebrating their individual achievements.”
Nominees for the Stars of the Industry Awards are put forward by their industry peers or members of the public, with winners being selected by a distinguished panel of industry leaders. For the first time, two categories, “Bartender Star of the year” and “The Resort Star of the Year,” will be chosen by the public, by the fans, and by the guests that repeatedly support the MRLA’s members.
There is no cost to submit a nomination, however, nominees are required to have a minimum of two years' experience in the hospitality industry and be employed by restaurants, hotels, or other supporting businesses that are MRLA members.
The deadline to submit nominations for Bartender Star of the Year and The Resort Star of the Year is 5 p.m. on Mon., August 7. All other nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Wed., October 11. To complete the Awards Nomination Form, individuals must submit a letter of recommendation and support materials. Visit https://www.mrla.org/starsnomination for details.
The winners in each category will be announced during the Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner on November 9, 2023, at Saint John's Resort in Plymouth. The Stars of the Industry Awards encompass a diverse range of categories, each highlighting excellence in specific roles within the hospitality industry. The categories include:
- Hospitality Star of the Year
- North Star Award: Employee of the Year
- Restaurant Manager of the Year
- General Manager of the Year
- Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year
- Women in Hospitality Leadership Star Award
- Heart of the House Award
- CVB Star of the Year
- Sustainability Recognition Award
- Guest Experience Star of the Year
- Bartender Star of the Year (publicly voted)
- Engineering + Operations Star of the Year
- Room Attendant Star of the Year
- Sales and Marketing Star of the Year
- The Seasonal Operator of the Year
- The Resort Stat of the Year (publicly voted)
- HR Professional Star of the Year
- Allied Partner Award
For a more detailed description of each category and the nomination process, please visit https://www.mrla.org/stars.html.
About the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association
Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice and lodging community. Founded in 1921 as the Michigan Restaurant Association and now known as the MRLA, the Association represents over 5,500 Michigan foodservice and lodging establishments. The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 450,000 people and generating nearly $44.6 billion. For more information, visit www.mrla.org and www.detroitrla.org.
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