Food Industry Alliance (FIA) COVID-19 Update

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Food Industry Alliance of New York State (FIA) website.

March 26

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The last two weeks have presented unprecedented challenges that impact our individual daily lives, our industry and our state and nation’s economy.  As we navigate these uncharted waters, the FIA team is working around the clock each day to provide our members with the necessary developments and information they need to continue operating effectively to ensure the communities they serve have the food and medicine they need.

 The FIA team is discussing issues daily with the Cuomo Administration, with NYC government officials and other local leaders.  While each day presents a new set of challenges, FIA is proud to have made an impact in public policy for our members across New York in getting vital regulatory relaxations, improved communication and guidance across all levels of government.  

 Equally as important, in times of chaos and confusion, certain themes emerge that have an impact on perspective in the aftermath.  Lawmakers, policymakers and the general public are seeing the strength, resiliency and the plethora of moving parts within our industry.  “Thank you Grocery Workers” is a common narrative on social and traditional media.  The investments in communities and the necessity of our industry has never been more apparent and spoken widely with recognition. No longer is this just advocacy speak.  This is real life and our hope is that this public awareness extends beyond the duration of this public health crisis.

 Further, this crisis has shed light on the numerous layers of regulations and redundancies that impact our industry and business as a whole in New York.  There often are direct conflicts between municipal, state and federal regulations on myriad of issues, which has been a significant source of confusion as the industry endures this crisis.  These redundancies must be given serious analysis post health crisis and FIA will be engaging at the state and local level on a number of them.  

 Another point of pride during this time is the relationship our industry has with other industries.  FIA has been working with the restaurant industry to help with the dramatic downscaling of their operations.  We also have been discussing and coordinating daily with NY’s craft distillery industry to help boost hand sanitizer supplies for our retail employees to use.  The collaboration and coordination within New York’s business community has been essential navigation these uncharted waters.

 Our website is updated daily (www.fiany.com) with the latest developments and resource/guidance documents that emerge.  I encourage all stakeholders of the retail food industry in New York to visit daily for the essential regulatory news and information. 

 I and my team have never been more proud to represent our members.  We will all emerge stronger when this is over and the value and strength we have shown will only bolster our essential standing across New York.

 I wish you all the best and to stay safe during this difficult time.

Mike Durant

President and CEO, Food Industry Alliance, NYS