A Lifetime of Dedication to the Restaurant Industry
The National Restaurant Association has announced that Richard “Dick” E. Marriott will be the recipient of the prestigious 2026 Legends Award. This recognition honors his unwavering commitment to the restaurant and hospitality sector, along with his influential leadership within the Association. The award ceremony will take place at the Gold & Silver Plate Awards hosted by IFMA The Food Away from Home Association on May 16, 2026, in Chicago.
A Journey Through the Hospitality Landscape
Richard Marriott’s journey in the hospitality industry began at a young age. As a teenager, he worked in his family’s Hot Shoppes restaurants, developing a passion for foodservice that would shape his entire career. Officially joining the company as a restaurant manager in 1965, Marriott has become a cornerstone of the industry.
Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Board of Host Hotels & Resorts and First Media Corporation. His long-standing leadership role in various capacities demonstrates his profound impact on the industry, steering it toward innovation and sustainability.
Advocacy and Philanthropy: A Commitment to the Future
One of Marriott’s notable contributions to the restaurant industry is his advocacy for meaningful careers and opportunities for young people. He is the driving force behind the Richard E. Marriott Golf Invitational, a key fundraising event benefiting the Restaurant Advocacy Fund. This initiative has successfully raised nearly $9 million, providing critical support for advocacy efforts at state and local levels.
Moreover, Marriott’s commitment to education and training is exemplified by the Bridges from School to Work program, which he helped establish in 1989. This non-profit organization aims to empower youth with disabilities by connecting them with job opportunities, especially in the hospitality sector. His role as chairman of this program underscores his dedication to inclusivity and community service.
Championing Healthy Lifestyles and Community Support
Marriott’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond workforce development. He is deeply involved in initiatives that promote healthy living and support the communities connected to Host Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International. His leadership in establishing the J. Willard Marriott School of Hospitality at the University of Utah in 2025 is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of education within the hospitality industry.
The Impact of Leadership in the Restaurant Industry
Michelle Korsmo, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association, aptly described Marriott as embodying the qualities of a legend in the industry. “His leadership, generosity, and commitment have made restaurants better places to work for everyone who depends on them,” she stated. This recognition reflects not just Marriott’s individual accomplishments but also his influence on policy and advocacy that promotes the restaurant industry’s growth and success.
What the Legends Award Represents
The Legends Award, selected by the National Restaurant Association Governance Committee, celebrates individuals who exemplify the highest standards of service and integrity within the restaurant and hospitality sectors. Marriott’s recognition is a powerful reminder of the collaborative spirit that drives the industry forward.
Join Us in Celebrating a Legend
As we look forward to the Gold & Silver Plate Awards, it is essential for all professionals in the foodservice industry to take note of the contributions made by leaders like Dick Marriott. Their tireless efforts pave the way for future generations and ensure the industry’s resilience and growth.
We invite you to share your thoughts on the impact of leadership in the restaurant industry. How have figures like Dick Marriott influenced your career or the industry at large? Join the conversation in the comments below!
For more insights into industry trends and leadership, check out these articles from Food & Beverage Magazine: Effective Restaurant Success Strategies and Advocacy in the Foodservice Industry.
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Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
