Did you know B.C. has over 12,000 restaurants? As part of Family Day celebrations, the province is recognizing restaurants, and the people who own and work in them, by proclaiming Feb. 11-17 the first-ever Restaurant Week in B.C.

Why It Matters:

British Columbia has a distinguished restaurant industry, noted around the world for its exceptional value, innovation, quality and cultural diversity. The new Family Day statutory holiday provides a great opportunity for families around B.C. to get out and enjoy our province's vibrant restaurant industry.

The restaurant industry plays a vital role in B.C.'s economy, employing more than 170,000 people in B.C. and generating more than $10 billion in annual sales.

The province would also like to acknowledge the B.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association (BCRFA) for its work to promote B.C.'s restaurant industry. The BCRFA has been the voice of the food and restaurant industry for over 40 years and represents over 3,000 members.

Quotes:

Minister of State for Small Business Naomi Yamamoto -

"Restaurant Week is a great way to celebrate B.C.'s diverse restaurant industry and the many people who work in it. This industry is made up of passionate and creative entrepreneurs, and during Family Day, we encourage everyone to get together with their loved ones and support the many people who own and operate restaurant and food establishments in B.C."

BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association president Ian Tostenson -

"We applaud the B.C. Government in working with our industry to create the first province -wide Restaurant Week to coincide with Family Day. Encouraging families to get out together and enjoy the diverse offerings of our industry helps to strengthen community ties and the local economy."

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 356-8177