Founded in 1929, the Washington Restaurant Association is the leading business association representing Washington 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 as well as 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 the state.

Washington restaurants are the cornerstones of the economy, community and careers. With a workforce of 199,000 employees, the restaurant industry is the largest private employer in the state. The 12,500 Washington restaurants annually contribute $11.9 billion to the state economy and generate $635 million in state taxes.