Employment in eating and beverage establishments has grown tremendously in Louisiana. In 1940, United States Census figures showed that 18,400 were employed in the industry, and by 1969, the number had increased to 31,000. The situation in Louisiana may not be typical of other states because of a sharp increase in catering services to offshore oil and gas barge operations in that state. Men are used almost exclusively for purchasing, preparing, and delivering food for this type of catering service. In 1958, males accounted for only 37 percent of the work force, and by 1968, the percentage rose to 43 percent. Total employment for all retail trade was 129,800 in 1958 and 160,900 in 1968. Employment in eating and beverage establishments accounted for 19 percent of retail trade employment in 1958 and 20 percent in 1968. Employment figures in 1968 for 15 of the major occupations in eating and beverage establishments are given, with projections for 1975. (BC)