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MAFSI'S RESPONSE TO COVID-19COVID-19 has created unprecedented challenges for MAFSI members, their customers and the public-at-large across North America. Firstly, the health and safety of our members is the most important. Our thoughts and prayers are with our members, their families and friends who have been diagnosed or affected by the virus. Please stay up-to-date on the ways to protect your health with sources such as the CDC and WHO. Use the buttons to navigate to the Member's Only COVID-19 webpages. You will have access to more detailed information, webinar recordings, presentations, and other resources.
May 18, 2020 - Upcoming WebinarRep Firm Legal/Contract Issues: COVID-19 Webinar - Thursday, May 21 at 4:00 pm EDT
Please join us on Thursday, May 21 at 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm EDT, for a Rep Only Webinar from Adam Glazer with Schoenberg, Finkel, Newman & Rosenberg, LLC.
Register for the webinar in the Members' Only Section. May 15, 2020 - Canada Update Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) - Extended until August 29, 2020
On Friday, May 15, 2020, the Canadian government decided to extend the CEWS by an additional 12 weeks until August 29, 2020. Extending the program will give workers greater confidence that they will continue to get the support they need during these difficult times. More details from the government are available here. May 12, 2020SpecQuote Webinar Wednesday starts on Wednesday, May 13th
Live SpecQuote webinars will be held each Wednesday in May & June
SpecQuote Webinar Dates
Register for the webinar in the Members' Only Section. *All webinars will cover the same information each week so you can register for the session that is most convenient for you. SBLC Webinar Recording Available - Returning Employees to Work Video Released for Webinar Returning Employees to Work which was held on Thursday, May 7
Access webinar recording in the Members' Only Section. May 4, 2020 Returning Employees to Work Webinar - Thursday, May 7 - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm EDT
Please join us on Thursday, May 7 at 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm EDT, for a webinar from our legislative advocacy group, the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), on Returning Employees to Work after COVID-19. April 29, 2020 - Upcoming WebinarCity National Rochdale's Market Update Webinar - April 29, 2020 at 3:00 pm EDTGiven the volatility of today’s financial markets, IMG Financial invites members to join City National Rochdale for a special session to hear our latest thoughts on how the markets and economy are reacting to the COVID-19 pandemic and what to expect ahead as governments take action to address the crisis. Register for the webinar in the Members' Only Section.
April 27, 2020 - Canada UpdateThe Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy is open for applications!The application process for The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) is now available through CRA My Business Account. More details from the government are available here. Who is eligible?
that experienced a:
Before you applyMake sure your business details and direct deposit information for your payroll accounts (RP) are up to date. This will ensure that any payments to you will be processed quickly and easily. Apply for CEWSThe subsidy will be processed at the payroll program (RP) account level, so you will have to file a separate application for each RP account. For an in-depth understanding of the online application requirements and input fields, refer to: CEWS application guide There are three ways to apply: Once an employer is approved for a specific period, they will automatically qualify for the next period of the program. However, those who will want to be eligible for more than two periods will have to continue to apply each month. After you applyWhen to expect your payment Include the subsidy on your returns Keep your recordsYou must keep records demonstrating your reduction in revenues and remuneration paid to employees. Read more about records you should keep April 21, 2020An Alternate PPP Lender for Members Left Out of Round 1
If your company did not receive a PPP loan in the first round of funding, please look at Lendio.com as an alternate lender. They are getting rave reviews for delivering loans to small businesses, unlike some larger banks. The second round of PPP funding should be approved by in the next few days. You may apply at Lendio.com even if you already have a previous application into your bank. Sign up for our webinar this Thursday the 23rd at 4:00 pm EDT - The New Road Back for Reps and Manufacturers
Join us for the first in a series of MAFSI Town Hall Meetings to discuss how reps and manufacturers move forward and find the new road back to profitability. Webinar Recording and Slides: CLICK HERE Topic: The New Road Back for Reps and Manufacturers
Support Restaurants and Sign the Petition to Allow Flexibility for Restaurant Staff Re-HiresMAFSI stands with our restaurant partners. Please support the members of the National Restaurant Association by signing this petition - https://actnow.io/relief to fix the PPP for restaurants. April 17, 2020 - Canada UpdateYesterday (April 16, 2020), the federal government decided to offer additional support to small businesses in Canada who are facing economic hardship and uncertainty during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. The following new measures to support Canadian businesses so they can keep their doors open and their employees on the job: April 13, 2020
CNR Weekly Update: The Sun Rises in the West
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Types of questions we'll answer during the webinar:
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Our webinar will be presented by Alan Beaulieu, President and principal of ITR Economics. ITR predicts future economic trends with 94.7% accuracy rate and 60 years of correct calls. Alan has a reputation as an accurate, straightforward economist, and has been delivering award-winning workshops and economic analysis seminars in countries across the world to thousands of business owners and executives for the past 30 years. As the co-author of Prosperity in the Age of Decline, he is one of the country’s most sought-after economists, and a good friend to all of our organizations.
This webinar is only open to the members of CFESA, FEDA, FCSI, MAFSI and NAFEM.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Questions? Please contact us at [email protected] or 404-214-9474.
DOL Releases Guidance and Employer Model Notice to Post for FFCRA
The Department of Labor (DOL) has issued its first set of summaries and guidance and model notice on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). Please note: The DOL has determined that the effective date for the FFCRA will be April 1, 2020. The text of the FFCRA states that the act takes effect “not later than 15 days after the date of enactment.” Thus, the widespread understanding was that the FFCRA would go into effect on April 2 (the 15th day after enactment). You may recall that the SBLC was anticipating an April 2 effective date in their materials and webinar. The DOL has made it clear that this is not the case and that the law will be effective April 1.
- Employee Guide - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-employee-paid-leave
- Employer Guide: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-employer-paid-leave
- Q&A: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-questions
- Poster (model notice): https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/posters/FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf
March 25, 2020
Senate Reaches Agreement on Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)
The Senate has reached agreement on a 2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) although details have not been released. Next, the package will be voted on by the House (how and when TBD) and then approved by the White House.
As we discussed yesterday on the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC) webinar, the CARES Act may have provisions for loans called "Small Business Interruption Loans" which may be administered by the SBA.
It is important to note that last week the SBA started offering SBA Disaster loans for COVID-19.
SBA Disaster Loans and SBA administered Small Business Interruption Loans as part of the CARES Act are two different types of loans.
- SBA COVID Related Disaster Loans are long-term low interest loans that must be available in your state and must be paid back.
- SBA administered Small Business Interruption Loans (in the CARES Act) may include some loan forgiveness (although there are provisions, including not furloughing or laying off employees ). There was talk in the original bill of making these loans being “fee-free” but that remains to be seen. More info on the CARE Act Small Business Interruption Loans will be released once the bill is approved.
Additionally, there is an implication that you cannot use one loan for the same relief that you use the other, so please research the difference before applying for either.
Yesterday's SBLC Webinar on Small Business and COVID-19
Access the Webinar Recording
The presentation recording and PDF is available now in the Members' Only Section.
In addition to a CARES Act overview, the presentation includes information on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”).
We are awaiting the recorded version of the call and will email it to members. It will also be posted to the Members' Only section, once available.
IRS issues FAQs on extension of filing and payment deadlines
In Notice 2020-18 (PDF), the Treasury and IRS extended the time from April 15th to July 15th for filing Federal income tax returns and paying the income tax due in order to provide relief for companies and individuals from economic loss caused by the COVID-19 crisis. Yesterday, IRS issued answers to frequently asked questions FAQs related to this Notice. IRS plans on updating these FAQs periodically. This was done to quickly answer all the questions being asked from the change in income tax filing deadlines. It is anticipated that more formal guidance will be issued on this Notice. Note that the deadline for making contributions to IRAs for 2019 is extended to July 15, 2020 (Q & A 17).
March 24, 2020
Second live webinar on Small Business and COVID-19 from the SBLC scheduled for today at 4:30 pm EST.
The first SBLC webinar scheduled for 12:30 pm is full. To accommodate all members, they will be airing a second live webinar session today (March 24) at 4:30pm EST.
If you wish to participate in the second session please click this link for 4:30 pm webinar - this will take you to MAFSI member page where you will find the webinar registration.
March 23, 2020
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COVID-19 Small Business Webinar – Tuesday, March 24 - Tomorrow at 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm EST
Please join us tomorrow for a webinar on small businesses and COVID-19. It will take place tomorrow on Tuesday, March 24 from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm EST.
Please find the details and registration link below.
This webinar by the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC) will address the difficult issues that MAFSI small businesses are facing in light of the COVID-19 threat, particularly when it comes to managing employees and business closures. This will include providing an overview of the new and existing laws that businesses will need to navigate during this unprecedented time. There will be ample time for Q&A.
Register now! - this will take you to MAFSI member page where you will find the webinar registration link
The webinar will be presented by the SBLC’s Strategic Policy Director, Jessica Summers, Esq., who is also a Principal in the Employment Law Group at the Law Firm of Paley Rothman in Bethesda, MD.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
For the United States, MAFSI is a member of the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), an independent coalition of more than 600 national trade and professional associations that works to maximize the advocacy and presence of small business on legislative and federal policy issues and they will be counseling us on US legislative items. In Canada, we are working with our Canadian members on legislative issues/updates. We have formed a COVID-19 Task Force of members from both countries and we will be releasing more information to you in the next few days. Although this webinar addresses just US legislation all Canadian members are welcome to attend.
March 22, 2020
COVID-19 has created unprecedented challenges for MAFSI members, their customers and the public-at-large across North America. Firstly, the health and safety of our members is the most important. Our thoughts and prayers are with our members, their families and friends who have been diagnosed or affected by the virus. Please stay up-to-date on the ways to protect your health with sources such as the CDC and WHO.
Secondly, we are monitoring the legislative situation closely. For the United States, MAFSI is a member of the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), an independent coalition of more than 600 national trade and professional associations that works to maximize the advocacy and presence of small business on legislative and federal policy issues and they will be counseling us on US legislative items. In Canada, we are working with our Canadian members on legislative issues/updates. We have formed a COVID-19 Task Force of members from both countries and we will be releasing more information to you in the next few days.
We will be providing you with updates on the following:
- An analysis of the soon-to-be-passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act or the CARES Act as it relates to small businesses in the United States. Please see this CARES Act update article from Paley Rothman, the law firm that represents the SBLC.
- What the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”) means for small businesses and their employees in the USA. Please see this article on the FFCRA from Paley Rothman.
- An analysis of Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan and what it means for both small businesses and families in Canada.
- An economic outlook by one of MAFSI’s economists as well as micro business barometers from our members.
- Insight into how your fellow members our handling this crisis.
- Insight into how our channel partners are handling this crisis.
Like so many of you, we are doing everything in our power to help our members navigate in these uncertain times. We ask that you stay safe and healthy, are patient with us and each other, and treat everyone with kindness. While this situation is unprecedented, we are optimistic that all of us will emerge stronger and more resilient.
We are here to support you throughout this crisis. We will be posting more information in the new few days as it becomes available. In the meantime, you can reach us at 404-214-9474 or [email protected]. Thank you for your support of MAFSI, the foodservice industry, our countries, our citizens and each other.
Video Message from MAFSI President, Kevin Eaton on COVID-19
MAFSI IS…
Everywhere food is. And everywhere you are.
275 rep agencies, 260 manufacturers and 2,400 members strong. Spanning North America, feeding 300 million people and changing an industry.
From mom and pop restaurants, to colleges, hospitals, major chains – we’re there. With the people, and the products - moving an entire industry further than ever before. And as members, we get to reinvent it. We get to make it better, and we make it different.
We get to make reps and manufacturers proud of how they go to market.
We get to reinvent foodservice every day. We get to make a difference. In a job..in a profession built around great products and great people. We...are...MAFSI.
Click here to read more about What Makes a MAFSI Rep Different.
MAFSI's Core Focus and Programs…
SpecPath® Is…
The industry's first, and only, 11-40-00 specification tracking software made especially for the foodservice industry.
Relied on by over 700+ Rep and Manufacturer MAFSI users across the US and Canada; SpecPath® has quickly become a part of the foodservice equipment sales infrastructure.
Since the program was launched on July 11th, 2016, the system has tracked:
- 7,900+ Individual 11-40-00 Foodservice Projects
- 1,116,000+ Specified Items
- 1,800+ Manufacturer Brands
- Every Consultant in North America
- Every Dealer in North America
- And much, much, more.
What was once an arduous process is now simplified, through the effective tracking of origination, destination, and specification credits across North America.
To find out more about SpecPath®, and how it can take your business to the next level, click here.
SaveSaveSaveSaveMANUFACTURERS - JOIN MAFSI TODAY
As a manufacturer, we know what you want. You want access. You also want an experienced, and motivated, sales force. You want availability to expose your products to the movers and shakers that make commercial foodservice MOVE.
When you join MAFSI, you get all of that and more. Ask any of the 260+ manufacturers that already belong to the Manufacturers’ Agents Association for the Foodservice Industry (MAFSI). They’ll tell you there is no easier, faster, and cost-effective way to go to market in this industry than by utilizing MAFSI reps.
MAFSI's close to 300 rep agencies make an impact for our manufacturers, our dealers, and our customers. MAFSI reps make an impact in our communities, in our economy, and in the greatest industry in North America.
If you’re ready to get your piece of the 13 billion dollar commercial foodservice industry, then you’re ready to join MAFSI.
Welcome New Manufacturer Members
- 1Tap Solutions
- Anchor Hocking Glass
- Busy Bean Coffee, Inc
- Cambro
- Christofle
- Dukers Appliance Co., USA LTD
- Enofrigo
- Everest Ice & Water Vending
- Evo, Inc.
- GET Enterprises
- Green Planet Straws
- Hoshizaki
- Hussmann Corporation
- Jo Jo LLC
- JustChair Manufacturing
- Modern Store Equipment Inc.
- Mod-U-Serve
- Moffat US
- Porcelanosa
- Pratica
- Rhinocan Filtration Inc.
- Rotisol France INC.
- Service Ideas
- Spaceman USA
- Univex Corporation
- VAN BERKEL USA, INC
- Van Packer Company
- See all of our Manufacturer Members
Manufacturers Join Here
REPS - JOIN MAFSI TODAY
When manufacturers look for representatives in commercial foodservice, there’s only one kind of rep they call. MAFSI reps.
As a member, you’ll be joining the nearly 300 agency members who want first dibs on the very best brands in the industry, and to be a part of the only manufacturers' representative advocacy group in commercial foodservice.
Our members are engaged. They’re motivated. They make things happen. And manufacturers know it, too.
Why? Because MAFSI reps have resources, tools, educational opportunities, and partnerships they can’t get anywhere else. Simply put, MAFSI reps earn more, and go further.
If it's time to go to the next level, educate and empower your staff, get new lines, and improve your bottom line and visibility in North America; then it’s time to join MAFSI.
Welcome New Rep Members
- Allied Technologies Food Equipment
- Brown South Inc.
- Lahey & Associates
- McGill Hospitality
- McTague Associates, Inc.
- Savard Marketing
- The Solution Foodservices Group
- See all of our Rep Members
Reps Join Here
More from MAFSI
2020 MAFSI Foodservice Industry Market Forecast Report
MAFSI Reps Predict Overall Sales Growth at +3.0% for 2020
Q4 2019: MAFSI Business Barometer Report
MAFSI Barometer Reports Sluggish Growth in Q4/2019; Results Collected Prior to COVID-19
Now open to students! MAFSI members and channel partners can save time and money with our Foodservice 101 online education. Your new employees get up to speed faster, and thousands of training dollars are saved. Sign up today at https://foodservice101.org.
Haven't tried SpecPath? Sign up for your free trial today!
Reps: CLICK HERE to find out more
Manufacturers: CLICK HERE to find out more
Working alongside our friends from FEDA, we’re proud to announce our new FEDA Rep Finder; a real-time database of MAFSI reps, searchable by brand, region, city or zip code. All to help our FEDA dealer friends find the right rep, in the right region.
RepConnect by KCL puts MAFSI Reps (and their brands) in front of all the Specifiers in North America
Why SpecPath?
A How-To SpecPath® Webinar
- ON DEMAND
Interested in MAFSI?
We look forward to learning more about your company.
Click here to receive more information on MAFSI.