Insider | Fall 2023

The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Marketing and Operations Conference, a premier hospitality event presented by Sysco, is returning for the fourth year this fall.

We are thrilled to host this event in Greenville on October 16 with a diverse group of entrepreneurial and executive-level hospitality experts. Bringing you leading industry trends, best practices, topnotch speakers and unparalleled networking, we’ve made sure there’s a seat for everyone at our table. This year’s conference will feature two keynote speakers and 18 innovative forums led by the brightest professionals in hospitality.

Each forum is packed with hot topics and powerful messages designed to spark new ideas.

Tracks include: human resources, technology, general management, beverage, marketing & hotel/lodging. Throughout the conference, connect with the industry's game changers for valuable takeaways and new business prospects.

GREENVILLE ▪ OCT. 15-17

It’s that time of year when many of us are working on, or finalizing, next year’s budget. Although it’s often looked at as a grueling task, revisiting the P&L details of the past year can provide a fresh look to redirect priorities and reinvest in our resources. There are still some of those opportunities through the end of 2023, but also a few you will want to include in your budget for next year!

With this in mind, I hope that you will consider the following:

• SCRLF's Hospitality Leaders Golf Tournament presented by US Foods on September 11 at The Reserve at Woodside, Aiken

Not only a great time to network with fellow members and sponsor partners, but also to support a great cause to raise money for students seeking careers in the hospitality industry. All proceeds from the golf tournament benefit the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to promoting the future of the state's hospitality industry and workforce development.

• Community Conversations

We will again host five events around the state to have a casual, but frank, conversation with local elected officials on the state of the industry and how we can all work together to protect and enhance the industry. Check the events calendar at SCRLA.org/events for exact dates and locations.

• 2023 Marketing and Operations Conference presented by Sysco, October 16-17 at the Hyatt Regency Greenville

This year’s conference has something for almost everyone in your organization, with two dynamic keynotes, 18 breakouts and a chef and bartender showcase to top off the day on Monday. On Tuesday we will join the SC Travel and Tourism Coalition for an additional day with a guest lunch speaker followed by two panels to discuss legislative priorities with invited legislators. Please join us - consider it our “statewide community conversation”.

If you miss any of these for 2023, please make sure you budget for them, and the events below for 2024:

• Restaurant Week South Carolina – January 11 -21

• SCRLA Annual Meeting – January 22

• AHLA On the Road – April 23

This will be the first time for this event to be hosted in South Carolina and promises great content for all sectors of our membership. Mark your calendar to attend this afternoon event, enjoy Columbia’s restaurant scene for dinner, and stay over to attend Hospitality Day the next day!

• Hospitality Day at the Statehouse – April 24

Our industry’s signature legislative day is a popular event for our elected leaders and their staff – a great time to not only have your voice heard but to also enjoy amazing food from across the state!

AHLA's Hotels on the Hill and NRA's Public Affairs Conference dates will be announced soon, but be sure to budget to travel to Washington for these important events where you can hear state of the industry updates and later meet and communicate with our delegation on issues impacting your business.

These are all great investments in ensuring the well-being of your business, but we also continue to look for value-add and cost savings on your business expenditures. If you have not already, you owe it to your company’s bottom line to talk with our many partners to receive earned tax credits, to save on insurance, workers comp, payroll processing, purchasing... we have vetted partners offering to assist you with all of these and more and we are happy to make the introduction for you.

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

Susan H. Cohen President & CEO

MEET YOUR SCRLA TEAM & EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Susan Cohen President & CEO

Douglas OFlaherty Chief Operating Officer

Hank Davis VP of Governmental Affairs & Community Development

Lenza Jolley VP of Membership & Development

Chris Patel Membership Services Manager

AnnMarie McManus Meetings & Events Manager

Christal VanWickler Bookkeeper/Education Coordinator

Victoria Tobin

Executive Director, Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association

Carl Sobocinski

Chairman Table 301

Tony Tam Vice Chairman IMIC Hotels

Sam Agee Treasurer Gateway Hospitality

Michael Frits

Immediate Past Chairman DoubleTree by Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort

Members

Heidi Vukov, Croissants Bakery & Bistro

Jonathan Sullivan, Beaufort Inn

Chad Patterson, Raldex Hospitality

Gil Smith, US Foods

Kirk Watkins, Ruth's Chris Steak House Greenville

Restaurant Week + Harvest Hope Forge Partnership to Eliminate Hunger and Food Insecurity

Regional Restaurant Week campaigns are upon us and we are excited to introduce a new summer campaign in Spartanburg. Restaurant Week Greenville and Restaurant Week Spartanburg were held August 24 thru September 3, while Restaurant Week Midlands will be held October 5-15.

During these 11-day campaigns, participating restaurants feature exciting new dishes, along with fan favorites and multi-course menus.

However, Restaurant Week is about more than just incredible meals at an incredible value. Restaurant Week and Harvest Hope, South Carolina's largest food bank, are forging a partnership to eliminate hunger and food insecurity. Participating restaurants in both Greenville and the Midlands will donate a portion of all Restaurant Week proceeds to Harvest Hope.

By rescuing nutritious food from stores and distributing it to food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens, Harvest Hope provides more than 20 million meals on average to neighbors in 20 counties across the state. Harvest Hope also runs an emergency food pantries in Columbia and Greenville where anyone in need can get a week’s supply of groceries for free.

Legislative Trends: Reducing the Age to Serve Alcohol

Labor shortages are one of the main issues facing the restaurant industry today. According to a recent poll, 62% of operators say their restaurants do not have enough employees to keep up with demand. Policymakers have struggled to address these labor market issues in the restaurant industry. However, one practical policy solution that is gaining momentum since the COVID-19 pandemic is reducing the minimum age to serve alcohol in restaurants.

It is important to note that reducing the age to serve alcohol is not the same as reducing the age to pour. The law distinguishes between “pouring” and “serving” activities. Serving alcohol consists of taking the alcohol from the bar to the customers. Pouring alcohol means an employee can dispense alcohol and serve it. Recent legislative changes have not focused on reducing the age to dispense alcohol, which varies across jurisdictions.

Currently, the majority of states require employees be at least 18 years old to serve alcohol. Maine was one of the first to lower the age to serve below 18 to age 17. In 2017, Arizona followed suit and lowered the age to serve from 19 to 18. In 2022, more states followed the example of

Arizona and Maine, including Alabama, Michigan, and Ohio.

More recently, Iowa enacted a new law in May of 2023 that expands the ability for minors to work. Under the new law, employees as young as 16 can now serve alcohol in restaurants. Importantly, the law also requires these minor employees working with alcohol attend sexual harassment prevention training.

This wave of new legislation is largely welcomed by the restaurant industry for two major reasons. First, it allows for a new pool of potential employees to work in restaurants. Second, it improves workflow in restaurants that serve alcohol. Restaurants in states with higher minimum server age face a more complicated environment for serving alcohol to patrons. This lower minimum age removes the cumbersome process where some servers cannot serve alcohol and improves efficiency.

In sum, we are likely to see more states in the future to consider and possibly implement public policy reducing the age to serve.

September is National Food Safety Month

This September, join ServSafe in celebrating National Food Safety Month as we spill the tea on all things food safety! Each week we will be busting myths, breaking down complex concepts, and cracking the code on common food safety practices.

Plus, enjoy 20% off all certifications and trainings during National Food Safety Month using code SAVE20 at checkout. Set your staff up for success with the most trusted food safety training in the nation. Set your staff up for success with the most trusted food safety training in the nation. Terms and conditions apply.

Save the Date for Restaurant Week South Carolina

Established in 2010 by the SCRLA, Restaurant Week South Carolina is an 11-day celebration of our state’s vibrant culinary scene. Restaurant Week gives local, regional, and national food lovers the opportunity to enjoy amazing values during brunch, lunch and/or dinner at a number of participating restaurants. Restaurant Week’s goal is to position South Carolina as one of the top culinary destinations in the nation by increasing awareness of the many dining opportunities available in the state, as well as stimulating business and revenue for restaurants. Get involved in our winter campaign by visiting SCRLA.org/restaurantweeksc today!

SCRLA UPDATES

HOSPITALITY LEADERS GOLF

Tee Up for Scholarships on September 11 at the Hospitality Leaders Golf Tournament

The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Foundation invites you to participate in the 2023 Hospitality Leaders Golf Tournament, presented by US Foods, at The Reserve Club at Woodside in Aiken on Monday, September 11.

The essence of The Reserve Club is the Reserve course, a superb Nicklaus Design. Upon its completion, the course was named by Golf Digest as one of the “Top Ten Best New Private Courses in America in 2003.” It has continually been named one of South Carolina’s top courses ever since. The course boasts a beautiful 6,995yard layout featuring rolling terrain with plush fairways and picturesque vistas. Golfers enjoy a relaxed pace of play around this breathtaking layout – a scene that only a true architect could create. From the first tee shot to the last putt, golfers are mesmerized by the beauty of the

layout and thrilled with the playability of the course. No matter your skill level The Reserve Course is a joy to play and keeps you wanting to come back more and more.

All proceeds from the tournament benefit the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Foundation, the only charitable foundation in the state dedicated to building a strong, committed workforce for our industry through scholarships, school-to-career programs, and professional development.

There are a variety of ways to get involved with this exciting event. From diverse sponsorship opportunities available to playing in the tournament yourself, we hope to see you there! Learn more at SCRLA.org/events.

2023 Scholarship Recipients

In 2023, the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Foundation provided $11,000 to scholarship recipients across the state.

MAKALA LEAR USC

MARIE WHELAN GTC

MARIA VAL DE GATO USC

MAYCIE HETU GTC

MIRSHA AROMERO HGTC

SARAH BROWER HGTC

ISABELLE MOCK JWU

AVYANN LITCHFIELD HGTC

JAMESA HATCHER LANDER

ALEXIS NAUSS JWU

JAMES CALL USC

AYANNA MARSHALL USC

JOHN LYDA CI OF AMERICA

E. THOMPSON JWU

JOHANNA CLARK COFC

SANDREA WELCH USC BEAUFORT

VICTORIA RIDDLE USC BEAUFORT

Join us in Greenville for our 4th Annual Marketing & Operations Conference presented by

OVERVIEW

The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Marketing and Operations Conference, a premier hospitality event presented by Sysco, is returning for the fourth year this fall.

We are thrilled to host this event in Greenville on October 16 with a diverse group of entrepreneurial and executive-level hospitality experts.

Bringing you leading industry trends, best practices, top-notch speakers and unparalleled networking, we’ve made sure there’s a seat for everyone at our table. This year’s conference will feature two keynote speakers and 18 innovative forums led by the brightest professionals in hospitality.

Each forum is packed with hot topics and powerful messages designed to spark new ideas.

Tracks include: human resources, technology, general management, beverage, marketing & hotel/lodging. Throughout the conference, connect with the industry's game changers for valuable takeaways and new business prospects. MARKETING & OPERATIONS

200+ ATTENDEES EACH YEAR 20 SESSIONS

We will wrap up the conference with the Chef & Bartender Showcase, a social networking event featuring the best and brightest talent the South Carolina Upstate has to o er, serving tasty treats perfectly paired with live entertainment.

Learn more about this new addition to the 2023 MOC under the platinum sponsorship opportunity.

INTERESTED IN SPONSORING THIS YEAR’S CONFERENCE?

There are limited sponsorship opportunities ranging from $1,000 (Marketplace Vendor) to $10,0000 (Platinum Sponsor).

2023 MOC AGENDA 2023 MARKETING & OPERATIONS CONFERENCE

HUMAN RESOURCES

How AI is Changing Human Resources • Chase Samples, Jackson Lewis

Integrational Communication: Understand Behaviors in the Workplace that Lead to Stronger Communcation Methods • Kamber Parker, The YoPro You Know Leveraging Your Employee Bene ts • Sara Bray, United Healthcare

MARKETING

Developing a Cult Following • Donna Tu le, Whataburger Panel: Engaging Social Media In uencers & Embracing New Trends • Michelle Evans, Melissa Libby & Caroline Schaefer

Music Ma ers to Your Customers • Jessica Frost, BMI

GENERAL OPERATIONS

Economic Concerns: Your Most Valuable Asset, Training & Culture of Risk Management • Kim Gore, HUB International Building Partnerships at Start-Ups • Ryan Sanderson, Knowledge Perk Operations with an International Menu • Cima Mathur, Persis Indian Grill

TECHNOLOGY

Elevating Service Levels Using Robots • Charlie Kempton, Bear Robotics Consumers Drive Merchant Technology • Bill Fultz, Heartland TechVision: Se ing the GPS to Destination 2050 and Ge ing from Here to There • Rob Grimes, IFBTA

BEVERAGE

Panel: Conscious Consumption • Kirk Watkins & Darterian Moore

Building an Award Winning Wine List • Jonathan Sullivan & Joe Crossan

The Next Chapter of B2B Alcohol Ordering: Why Online & Why Now?

HOTEL & LODGING

Navigating the Digital Horizon: Technology Trends in Hotels & Restaurants • Max Spangler & Anthony Langan, Charlestown Hotels

From Local Good Will to National Viral Sensation • David McCartney, McKibbon Hospitality

SIX EDUCATION TRACKS

18 WORKSHOPS

TWO DYNAMIC

KEYNOTES

Building a Vibrant Culture: Strategies, Systems & Smarts to Help Your Team S.H.I.N.E.

Mise en Place, Paul’s Key to Success

NICOLE GREER

CHEF PAUL SMITH

Restaurants in Driver's Seat as EVs Power Up in Popularity

With more drivers switching to electric vehicles each year and the demand for EV charging stations increasing, more restaurant operators are exploring the possibility of installing them at their locations.

Subway and Domino’s are just two restaurant brands investing in this super-charged technology. Starbucks is another, having recently purchased 60 ChargePoint DC fast chargers for up to 15 locations along a 1,350-mile route from the Colorado Rockies to Seattle.

Investing in EV charging stations not only helps support sustainability goals, it’s also a potential driver of more customer traffic at the restaurants where they exist. Why? Drivers charging their vehicles would likely order food, beverages, and other merchandise while waiting for their cars to charge. With EVs typically taking at least half an hour to charge, drivers might stay longer and spend more money during the wait time.

As more electric vehicles take to the roads—it’s said EVs will make up 23% of new car sales by 2025(Opens in a new window)—putting a charging station on premises is something customers could come to expect and, possibly, demand. Accommodating their needs, creating that seamless customer experience, would build brand support.

On the road again

Ann Arbor, Mich.-based Domino’s is rolling out 1,000 new Chevy Bolt electric vehicles at several franchise and corporate-owned stores nationwide, making it the largest electric pizza delivery fleet in the country. According to spokeswoman Danielle Bulger, most of the vehicles were purchased by company franchisees.

Bulger says the company sees a variety of benefits for using EVs, including cost efficiency, environmental sustainability, and workforce recruitment.

“The EVs not only help with hiring, they also have zero tailpipe emissions and ample battery life, which potentially creates additional days of deliveries,” she says. “Maintenance costs are also lower than for nonelectric vehicles because they don’t require any oil changes. We believe our electric pizza delivery fleet is a great example of a brand action that works for the bottom line while positively impacting our planet.”

She notes that Domino’s, facing a delivery driver shortage, found applications for those positions increased upon purchasing the EVs.

“Our company always looks for inspired solutions to our biggest business issues, and one of those issues was a delivery driver shortage,” she says. “Over the past year, as gas prices rose, we not only faced delivery sales pressure, but also struggled to hire additional drivers across the U.S. That’s one of the big reasons we started using the EVs. The return so far has been positive, especially with hiring.”

Charging oasis sparks interest

Quickservice sandwich chain Subway is banking on that

as it partners with GenZ EV Solutions to create an “EV Charging Oasis of the Future.” The company’s goal is to offer added convenience for on-the-go guests, while helping protect the planet and create additional revenue for its franchisees.

The Subway Oasis charging parks are expected to create a smooth, integrated experience for EV drivers. They’ll consist of charging canopies with multiple ports, picnic tables, WiFi, restrooms, green space, and even playgrounds at some locations. The parks, part of a multi-year plan, will begin rolling out this year as pilots at traditional and nontraditional sites and new or newly remodeled restaurants nationwide.

"We’re always exploring new ways to innovate and exceed our guests' expectations for a high-quality, convenient experience," says Mike Kappitt, the brand’s chief operating and insights officer. "This partnership with GenZ EV Solutions is a win for our guests, franchisees, and the planet. It will create dedicated spaces for drivers to charge their vehicles while they enjoy their food."

Kappitt adds that the addition of the new charging stations will help communities build critical and necessary infrastructure.

To that end, the Biden Administration is encouraging the development of EV chargers throughout the U.S., with a near-term goal of installing 100,000 of them through public and private partnerships. Its 2021 bipartisan infrastructure legislation earmarked $7.5 billion for installing chargers.

In exchange for private-sector investments, the government is offering substantial tax incentives and credits to companies who buy EVs or install charging stations. The administration, by 2030, is seeking to reduce the number of gas-powered vehicles on the road to less than half of all cars sold in the U.S.

The Inflation Reduction Act created a “credit for qualified commercial clean vehicles” for businesses that buy an electric vehicle for commercial purposes. The new credit is worth up to $7,500 for passenger cars and smaller commercial vehicles, and up to $40,000 for bigger trucks. Business owners can get the credit for new vehicles purchased on or after Jan. 1, 2023, and the credit is available for 10 years, through the end of 2032.

The Department of Transportation is disbursing $2.5 billion over the next five years, with $350 million going toward community fueling and charging grants, and another $350 million toward alternative fuel corridor grants. Additional funds are available to provide states with the tools to build the infrastructure.

“Restaurant operators should know that big tax credits on the federal and state levels exist,” says Aaron Frazier, the Association’s vice president of Public Policy. “They can support the purchase of electric vehicles and also provide some restaurants with a competitive advantage by lowering the vehicles’ purchase price along with long-term fuel costs.”

Embracing New Tech: The Evolution of the Check-In Experience

Technology continues to transform the human experience, and the hospitality industry is no exception. In recent years, hospitality technology has evolved rapidly, and it has forever changed the way guests experience their hotel stays. One area where technology has made a significant impact is the hotel check-in process.

Hospitality technology is making the overall hotel experience more efficient, safer, and enjoyable than ever before. From booking online to using apps for securing amenities before or during a hotel stay, hospitality technology has streamlined the hotel experience, making the process more convenient for travelers. Here are several ways the check-in experience has felt hospitality technology’s impact:

Mobile Check-in

Mobile check-in is a revolution in hospitality technology and is quickly gaining popularity. With mobile check-in,

guests can use their smartphones to check themselves in remotely before arriving at the hotel. Guests can download a hotel’s app (or, in some cases, a web portal), enter their personal and payment information, and receive a digital room key.

Mobile check-in allows guests to skip the front desk entirely. Guests can walk into the hotel, go directly to their room, and unlock their doors using their smartphone. Additionally, mobile check-in can help hotels collect valuable guest data and feedback, which they can use to improve their services and tailor their offerings to individual guests.

Mobile check-in is not only convenient for guests but can also enhance security. With traditional keys, there is always the risk of loss, which can compromise the security of the room. With keyless entry, guests can be assured that only they and authorized personnel can enter their room.

Self-Check-in Kiosks

Self-check-in kiosks are on the rise, becoming increasingly popular as an option for the guest experience at hotels. These kiosks are self-service machines that allow guests to check themselves in without the assistance of someone at the front desk. They are outfitted with touch screens and payment systems that accept credit cards and dispense room keys. Guests can complete the entire check-in process in a matter of minutes without having to wait in line. They serve as an extension of the self-service check-in that mobile apps enable and cover those who want a physical key card over a digital key.

Self-check-in kiosks are great for both hotels and guests. Hotels benefit from increased efficiency, and during staffing shortages, kiosks can pick up where front desk personnel left off. With self-check-in kiosks, hotel guests can receive a faster and more convenient check-in experience, especially during off hours. Additionally, selfcheck-in kiosks reduce the chance for errors in the checkin process by having the guest enter their information directly into the system.

Virtual Check-in Assistance

Virtual check-in assistance is another hotel hospitality technology that is transforming the way guests check-in. With virtual assistance, guests can connect with a front desk agent through a video call and complete the checkin process remotely, sometimes hours before they arrive. The agent can answer any questions the guest may have and guide them through the process—just as they would in person.

Virtual check-in assistance is useful for guests who are unfamiliar with the hotel or are visiting for the first time. It can also be helpful for guests who have special requests

or require additional assistance, from securing a room with an accessible bathroom to ordering food for their arrival. By providing a personal touch, even when checking in remotely, hotels can create a more welcoming and accommodating environment for their guests.

Smart Room Controls

Digital-first interactions can extend to the in-room experience, too. Smart room controls provide guests with the ability to use their phones to control various aspects of their room, such as the light, temperature, and entertainment system.

Smart room controls allow guests to personalize the room; they can adjust the lighting to a preferred level, set the temperature to their liking, and access their favorite shows or music from their own devices. Additionally, smart room controls help hotels conserve energy by allowing guests to turn off lights and other electronics when they are not in use. Guests can even save their preferred settings that are then automatically applied when they stay at a brand again.

Hospitality technology is evolving, and it continues to modernize the check-in experience, making it more convenient, efficient, and personalized for guests. Mobile check-in, self-check-in kiosks, and smart room controls are just a few of the examples of technologies that are not only improving the guest experience but are also benefiting hotels by reducing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing security. As hotel hospitality technology continues to evolve, the industry can expect to see more innovative solutions that will further optimize the check-in experience and enhance the overall guest experience at hotels around the world.

Increasing Revenue and the Guest Experience

The pre-stay guest journey is available for incremental revenue opportunities. Catering to guests’ needs before they arrive at the hotel enhances the experience. It enables hoteliers to build trust, promote engagement, and encourage repeat business.

Booking is often one of the first touchpoints a guest has with a hotel. When it’s a seamless experience and tailored to the guest, the journey starts off well. As guests move throughout their journey with the hotel—from pre-stay to on-property and then post-stay—opportunities to keep enhancing the experience and capturing additional revenue growth.

South Carolina Tax Credit for Hiring Veterans

(Income, Corporate License, and Bank Tax)

S.C. Code Ann. § 12-6-3720 provides a tax credit for any taxpayer who hires a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States on or after June 22, 2022 and before January 1, 2027, to participate in a registered apprenticeship program certified by the United States Department of Labor. An employer may claim the credit for up to three years if all requirements of the statute are met. The amount of the credit for each eligible employee is $3,000 for the first year of employment; $2,500 for the second year of employment; and $1,000 for the third year of employment; but may not exceed the taxpayer’s liability for that year.

The purpose of this advisory opinion is to provide an overview of and to address general questions about this new South Carolina credit.

An employer who hires a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States as a new employee on or after June 22, 2022, to participate in a registered apprenticeship program is eligible for this tax credit. The credit is first earned in the year in which the veteran completes his/her first 12 consecutive months of employment after beginning the apprenticeship program. A partial month does not count as a month. The amount of the credit is $3,000 for the first

year in which the new employee remains employed for 12 consecutive months. The credit amount changes to $2,500 for 2 the tax year in which the employee remains employed for 24 consecutive months and to $1,000 for the tax year in which the employee remains employed for 36 consecutive months. The credit is not available if the individual was an employee of the employer prior to June 22, 2022.

The employer may only earn the credit for “veterans” hired on or prior to December 31, 2026, although the credit may be claimed after that date on the same schedule and in the same amount as provided in the statute. The credit may be used against individual income taxes, corporate income taxes, corporate license taxes, bank franchise taxes, income taxes imposed on building and loan associations, and insurance premium taxes.

S.C. Code Ann. § 12-6-37201 defines “veteran” as “a person who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States and who, within three years of being hired in a qualifying apprenticeship program, was honorably discharged or released from such service due to a serviceconnected disability.” Learn more about this tax credit at dor.sc.gov.

Financial incentives to help your business reduce energy usage and save money.*

equipment types include:

Have questions about South Carolina Department of Revenue's ABL process?

The South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) recently upgraded their ABL webpage, making it more intuitive and easier to navigate. No matter how much experience you have with alcohol licensing or where you are in the process, the ABL webpage has resources to help, including:

• A new license directory for each of South Carolina's 32 alcohol licenses and permits, including license-specific info and FAQs to help make the application process as smooth as possible.

• A simple explanation of the three-tier system for manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of beer & wine and liquor to help you understand your role in staying compliant

• Guidance to help you operate a business that sells alcohol

• Information on holding a special event + more

If you operate a business that sells alcohol, SCDOR wants to hear your feedback about their enhanced ABL

Visit surveymonkey.com/r/SCDOR-ABLto take the short survey.

Adding an ABL license? MyDORWAY

1. To submit a new ABL application, start by logging in to your MyDORWAY account.

2. After you log in, select the More tab, and click Apply for a New Alcohol Beverage License.

3. If you don't see the location where you need a new ABL license listed, make sure you've obtained a Retail License for the location. Start by completing our Business Tax Application.

4. After you've registered your business and signed up for a MyDORWAY account, you must log in to MyDORWAY, to register for a new retail-based ABL license.

DHS Issues New I-9 Form

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has updated the Employment Eligibility Verification form, providing a new version and additional options for reviewing identity and employment eligibility documents. Employers have until Oct. 31, 2023, to use the old form before switching to the revised version.

The updated version of Form I-9 includes the folloing changes:

• Reduces Sections 1 and 2 to a single page, down from two pages.

• Moves the Section 1 Preparer and/or Translator Certification area to a separate, standalone supplement that employers can provide to employees when necessary.

• Moves Section 3, Reverification and Rehire, to a standalone supplement that employers can print out when necessary.

• Revises the Lists of Acceptable Documents page to include some acceptable receipts, as well as guidance and links to information on automatic extensions of employment authorization documentation.

• Reduces the form’s instructions from 15 pages to eight pages.

• Includes a checkbox for employers who are enrolled in E-Verify to indicate that they conducted a virtual examination of identity and employment authorization documents, as opposed to reviewing physical documents in person. The form is fillable on tablets and mobile devices. It was condensed from two pages to one without removing any previous fields, by merging multiple fields into fewer when possible.

The instructions have been optimized to provide a more streamlined and discernible format, aiming to Instructions have been optimized for easier use by employers.

The addition of the checkbox allows employers to use alternative virtual verification procedures, meeting the demand from HR practitioners for the ability to inspect and verify employment authorization documents virtually.

To participate in the remote examination of Form I-9 documents, employers must be enrolled in E-Verify and be in good standing, examine and retain “clear and legible” copies of all documents, conduct a live video interaction with the employee during the verification process, and create an E-Verify case if the employee is a new hire.

Employers who were participating in E-Verify and created cases for employees whose documents were examined virtually between March 20, 2020, and July 31, 2023, may choose to use the new alternative procedure to satisfy the physical document examination requirement by Aug. 30, 2023. However, employers who were not enrolled in E-Verify during the COVID-19 flexibilities time frame must complete an in-person physical examination by Aug. 30. Learn more at https://www.uscis.gov/i-9.

Tips for a Winning Instagram Marketing Strategy

Optimize your Profile

• An intriguing Instagram bio that sums up your brand.

• A call to action to click your bio link.

• A high-quality profile photo (a headshot or logo).

• Stories highlights and well-designed covers.

• The great thing about digital marketing is nothing is set in stone. Don’t sweat about making the perfect Instagram profile. You can always tweak it later.

Up your Graphics Game

Instagram is a visual platform. While no one’s expecting a small business to have the same resources as a megacorp, you still need to create eye-catching posts that attract your audience.

Besides hiring a professional photographer to take your product shots—which you really should—try:

• Sourcing inclusive stock photography, like Vice’s Gender Spectrum Collection and others who showcase the full range of the human experience.

• Start with Reels – If you don’t know how to make them, try a Reels template.

• Use graphic templates to up your style without spending a lot.

Champion User-Generated Content

The best way to boost your Instagram for free? User-generated content. Encourage your followers to share photos or video of your products. Not every shot will be an James Beard-worthy one, but you can’t beat the authenticity of real customer photos and stories. Instagram makes this easy with the Tagged tab, which shows all the posts other users tag you in

Develop a Brand Aesthetic

Speaking of style… have one. While your audience isn’t going to hand over their wallets solely due to good looks, make an effort to create a cohesive-looking profile. Why? Because people will see one of your posts in their Instagram feed and instantly know it’s from you before even seeing the account name. They’ll recognize your style. That’s branding at work.

…But don’t be too concerned with aesthetic

Yes, having a recognizable look helps you attract the audience you want, but style without substance isn’t a strategy. 58% of Instagram users say they like it more when brands share candid, unpolished content. Don’t let the fear of your content not looking

“pretty” enough stop you. Post it anyway.

Use Reels

It seems like all you see when you open Instagram now are Reels, and there’s a reason for it: They get engagement. Some may not get many views and that’s okay, because when one of yours does go a lil’ bit viral? It’s all worth it. Anyone can be successful with Reels, it just takes practice.

Use Stories

Reels may be newer, but Instagram Stories aren’t going anywhere. Popular for more informal content, Stories allow you to develop relationships with your audience in a unique way. It doesn’t take a ton more work to see a big effect, either. A yearlong study found that when companies shared one Story per day, it resulted in a 100% retention rate. Not only that, but 500 million people use Stories every day. I’m not great at math but having 100% of your audience remember your content, with a potential reach of 500 million people? That’s a no brainer.

Reply to comments and DMs

Engage with your audience! Reply to their comments, messages, carrier pigeons, etc. Because a higher engagement rate looks good on your analytics reports, right? No! Reply to your followers because it’s the right thing to do. Yes, it also boosts your engagement rate. But more importantly, it encourages your potential customers to start conversations with you.

Try Instagram Live Video

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General Services Administration Increases Per Diem Rates FY24

The General Services Administration (GSA) recently announced its Fiscal Year 2024 per diem rates.

The per diem guidelines govern reimbursement for federal employees’ lodging and meal expenses for official government travel and include a $9 increase to the continental United States (CONUS) lodging rate as well as large increases in rates in many non-standard areas (NSAs).

This is a positive step for many hoteliers across the country, as government travel supports billions in travel spending, and many private-sector organizations also base travel reimbursements on federal per diem rates.

The FY2024 CONUS per diem rate is $166:

• $107 lodging (increased from $98)

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• $59 meals (unchanged)

The per diem rates GSA come after months of hard work the American Hotel & Lodging Association put in to lobby the administration for fair lodging rates on behalf of hoteliers nationwide. AHLA and SCRLA will continue to work with GSA and advocate for lodging and meal rate increases that reflect current conditions, particularly in specific markets that did not see significant increases this year.

We thank GSA for working to ensure hotels across the country are fairly compensated for the excellent services they provide government travelers year in and year out.

South Carolina's updated Per Diem Rates can be found on the next page.

South Carolina Per Diem Rates

Per Diem Rates FAQs

What is per diem?

Per diem is an allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) establishes the per diem reimbursement rates that federal agencies use to reimburse their employees for subsistence expenses incurred while on official travel within the continental U.S. (CONUS), which includes the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) establishes rates for travel in non-foreign areas outside of CONUS, which includes Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories and possessions. The U.S. Department of State establishes rates for travel in foreign areas. For more information on rates established by DOD and the State Department visit travel.dod.mil and aoprals.state.gov .

How do I find the per diem rate for a city/county, state?

Please visit www.gsa.gov/perdiem to find the rates. Click on a state on the map to view that state's rates or enter the location in the search box. Even though some cities are listed for your lookup convenience, not all cities can or will be listed. To look up the county a destination is located in, visit the Census Geocoder . If neither the city nor county you are looking for is listed on the GSA per diem rate page, then the standard CONUS rate applies.

What is the difference between non-standard areas (NSA) and standard CONUS locations?

Non-standard areas (NSAs) are frequently traveled by the federal community and are reviewed on an annual basis. Standard CONUS locations are less frequently traveled by the federal community and are not specifically listed on gsa.gov.

How are the CONUS per diem rates set for NSAs?

Per diem rates are set based upon contractor-provided average daily rate (ADR) data of local lodging properties. The properties must be fire-safe and have a FEMA ID number. The ADR is a travel industry metric that divides room sales rental revenue by the number of rooms sold. All rates are evaluated to ensure that they are fair and equitable in the GSA and Office of Management and Budget approval process. For more detailed information, visit the Factors Influencing Lodging Rates page.

How does GSA set boundary lines for where per diem rates apply?

5 U.S.C § 5702 gives the Administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) the authority to establish the system of reimbursing Federal employees for the subsistence expenses (lodging, meals, and incidentals) of official travel. The law governs how GSA sets rates today, and allows the GSA Administrator to establish localitybased allowances for these expenses with a reporting requirement back to Congress. The law was established to protect Federal employees by fairly reimbursing them for travel expenses. In addition, if a Federal employee cannot find a room within the established per diem rates, the travel policy allows the agency to reimburse the actual hotel charges up to 300 percent of the established per diem rates.

The per diem program has several standards that it follows in its systematic structured per diem methodology. The first level is having a "standard rate" that applies to approximately 85 percent of counties in the continental United States.

Lenza Jolley Graduates from Institute for Organization Management's Northeast Site

Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Lenza Jolley, IOM, SCRLA's Vice President of Membership and Development, has graduated from the program and has received the recognition of IOM. Awarded to all graduates of the Institute program, the IOM Graduate Recognition signifies the individual’s completion of 96 credit hours of course instruction in non-profit management. In addition, participants can earn credit hours towards the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE), certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.

“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations.

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