Join NCRLA for the New Bern edition of the NCRLA Hospitality Summit Series, a regional gathering designed to connect restaurant and lodging leaders with policymakers, industry experts and timely insights.
The New Bern Summit will feature a timely fireside chat with Rep. John Bell IV and public policy expert Dan Gerlach, moderated by NCRLA President & CEO Allen Thomas. The conversation will explore the post-election landscape, what’s ahead for North Carolina’s hospitality industry and key issues anticipated during the upcoming legislative session.
Rep. Bell was honored with NCRLA’s Hospitality Champion Award at the 2026 Stars of the Industry Awards in recognition of his leadership and advocacy for hospitality businesses across the state. Gerlach works with NCRLA on research and strategic guidance related to tax policy, hospitality-related revenue issues and other key policy matters.
The Summit will also feature Jay Crews, founder and CEO of Hospitality CIO, who will share an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing impact on the restaurant and lodging industries. His session will offer insights into how hospitality businesses can better understand emerging AI technologies and their potential applications.
The Summit brings together NCRLA members, prospective members and key stakeholders for meaningful dialogue, real-time updates and practical takeaways, while creating opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders from across the region.
The summit will take place on Monday, November 9 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel New Bern Riverfront.
