Washington (WA)

Founded in 1929, the Washington Restaurant Association (WRA) is the leading business association representing the state’s hospitality industry.

The WRA, which includes an Education Foundation, responds to member needs by providing a variety of programs that help businesses succeed. This includes educational classes, such as food safety and alcohol server training, and many business assistance programs, such as a workers’ compensation program, health insurance and financial and legal consultation.

In addition to these programs, the WRA provides government relations services. The association directly represents members through lobbying efforts with the state Legislature and has one of the most sophisticated and effective grassroots lobbying organizations in Washington state.