How do you create welcoming spaces in your business? Understanding what this means for hospitality establishments and their customers is key to serving the needs of local communities. We speak with leading bartenders and business owners about how they are creating welcoming spaces and putting into practice inclusion through their approach to food, cocktails, and the in-establishment and out-of-establishment hospitality experience

The virtual event will include panel discussions and interactive chats. There will also be areas for networking and engagement for attendees.

No industry has been hit harder during the pandemic than the restaurant industry. According to the National Restaurant Association, more than 110,000 bars and restaurants in the United States closed for business last year, including 2.5 million jobs lost. Black-owned establishments have been disproportionately impacted.

Studies have shown Black businesses declined by 41% nationwide, and Black-owned restaurants in the New York City area alone saw their revenue drop 70% to 80% since the start of COVID-19.

With the odds appearing evermore against them, Black-owned establishments persist. It’s more imperative than ever to stand in solidarity and share their stories so others can learn how to navigate in a COVID world. In partnership with Jim Beam, we are convening entrepreneurs that successfully iterated or pivoted to survive and drive growth.

If the gaps that exist for Black-owned businesses are not filled, our business ecosystem and our communities will suffer. This dire situation is authentic for Black-owned bars and restaurants. Together with Jim Beam, we’ll be hosting a virtual pop-up event to discuss the trends shaping the future of bar service while bringing entrepreneurs and those thinking about the industry’s future together to listen to and engage with influential voices.

Creating engaging virtual events that connect people in and outside of your community has never been more relevant or an opportunity than today. By convening virtually, Black-owned establishments can reach a wider audience, expand their reach while increasing brand visibility, and generate more revenue. Together with Jim Beam, we will show how establishments can sustain cultural impact and relevance to local spots “everyone” knows while redefining trends reaching new audiences.