Contact: Camille St. Onge, 360.480.2770
OLYMPIA, Wash.—The Washington Restaurant Association announced today the launch of their iPhone app that is available in the Apple App store. The WRA is the first restaurant association in the U.S. to launch an iPhone app.
“We’re constantly looking for ways to help our members be more successful,” said Anthony Anton, Washington Restaurant Association president and CEO. “Our iPhone app will put critical information in the palm of the busy restaurant operator’s hand.”
Mobile apps are an effective way of providing smartphone users with an organized experience that addresses the challenges of browsing the web through a smaller device. With more than 85 percent of mobile users expected to access the Internet in 2011, it was vital for the WRA to be cognizant of these trends and the tools members are using. Therefore the WRA partnered with Talus Mobile, based in Bellevue, Wash., to develop the WRA app.
“Being a business owner today is tougher than ever and restaurateurs really need a partner like us working for them,” said Anton. “Being first to market amongst our peers is reflective of our commitment to our members.”
Plans are underway to scale out the WRA’s application to other mobile devices, such as Android. However, with 100 million iPhones sold through March 2011 and a nearly 400,000 apps available, Apple continues to lead the way in user adoption and ease-of-use.
What does the WRA iPhone app do?
Convenient access to WRA news and information—everyday there is something new on the Association’s website, as well as multiple member communications that go out every week. The app provides the latest details on important industry developments and policy changes that affect restaurants in Washington state.
Easily find and take advantage of WRA programs and services—busy restaurant owners generally spend more time with their phones than they do with their computers, and the WRA’s app understands this. Member discounts, training opportunities and resources are regularly updated and pushed to the iPhone, so members are able to take full advantage of available benefits.
Join, renew or learn more—the iPhone app makes it easy for members to renew, or non-members to join the WRA. All of the transactions are secure, and member information is sent directly to the WRA. Non-members will also be able to learn more about the Association through its Membership section.
Discover WRA Events—for active members, the Events area provides a simple interface for learning about upcoming events. Regional and statewide meetings are included, as well as major activities such as Hill Climb and the ProStart Invitational.
Stay on top of government affairs— the WRA boasts one of the very best govenrment affairs programs in Olympia, and now members will have one-click access to developments and insights during and after the legislative session. Action alerts, bill tracking and legislative priorities can all be found on the app.
The Washington Restaurant Association, in its 81st year, is the leading business association for the restaurant industry — the largest private employer in the state with an average workforce of nearly 200,000. In Washington, the more than 12,500 restaurants annually generate $12.2 billion to the state economy and contribute $635 million in state taxes. Washington restaurants are vital to our economy, community and careers.
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