ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Truckstop and travel center association NATSO has partnered with the International Franchise Association (IFA) to provide information on available food options at truckstops and travel plazas during the coronavirus pandemic.
Although restaurants have halted dine-in services, many chains housed at travel centers are still offering food. For example, fried chicken chain Chester’s is offering a 10 Tenders for $10 meal via curbside pickup, while Wendy’s has introduced curbside ordering to accommodate customers with oversized vehicles, such as truck drivers and first responders.
"Franchise businesses represent some of America's most loved and trusted brands," said Robert Cresanti, president and CEO of the IFA. "America's truckers are keeping our economy moving during COVID-19, and we're excited to partner with NATSO to increase their access to meals while on the road."
Travel centers are committed to remaining open 24 hours a day to provide food, fuel, parking and other essential amenities professional drivers need as long as state, local and federal governments permit them to do so, the groups said.
"NATSO and its members are committed to ensuring that the heroic truck drivers serving America during this national pandemic have access to as many food options as possible," said Lisa Mullings, president and CEO of NATSO. "We are proud to feed the nation's truck drivers, and through this partnership, truck drivers can more readily find food and meals in specific geographic areas."
The IFA, based in Washington, D.C., aims to protect, enhance and promote franchising through government relations, public relations and educational programs. The IFA’s members include franchise companies in more than 100 different business formats and categories, individual franchisees and companies that support the industry in marketing, law and business development.
Alexandria, Va.-based NATSO represents more than 1,350 travel plazas and truckstops that are owned by more than 200 entities. NATSO represents the truckstop industry on legislative and regulatory matters; serves as the official source of information for the industry; provides education to its members; conducts an annual convention and trade show; and supports efforts to generally improve the business climate in which its members operate.
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