The sun is shining, the lilacs are on full display, and festival season is about to kick into high gear! And what do we all love about festivals? The vendors! Down every path, around every corner, the heady scent of lilac mingles with the nearest culinary delights. Some vendors are such big hits that they become synonymous with the festival itself. Vendors, concession purveyors, and food truck owners are looking for ways to break into the scene and make a name for themselves. But with a deep pool of vendors vying for a piece of the festival pie, it takes some strategizing to stand out from the crowd and stake your claim in your desired festivals. At Allen Associates, we’ve been helping businesses and organizations succeed in the fun food industry for over 75 years. Here are some tips and strategies to help concession purveyors and food trucks break into the bustling festival scene of Western New York.
Research Each Festival
Before deciding to participate in a festival, it’s important to do your research. Find out the festival’s theme, the expected number of attendees, and the types of food other vendors will be selling. You want to know you’ll be a good fit and you also want to know what you’re up against. Find out crowd demographics and their wants and needs, and rub elbows with festival directors and staffers. This will help you tailor your menu and stand out from the competition. Additionally, check if there are any restrictions or requirements, such as obtaining permits or complying with specific health regulations.
Offer Unique and Creative Options
If you really want to stand out from the crowd, consider offering unique and creative food options that are sure to capture the attention of festival-goers. For example, instead of just offering nachos, offer a variety of options and serve it in a memorable Berk souvenir container. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. Here are some concession stand superstars to get inspired.
Focus on Customer Experience
In most cases, great food will speak for itself. But it’s also important to focus on the overall customer experience. This includes everything from the layout and design of your booth to the friendliness and efficiency of your staff. Make sure your booth is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Train your staff to provide excellent customer service and be prepared for long lines and high volume.
Promote on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your food truck or concession stand at festivals. Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to showcase your menu items, your booth setup, and your staff. Share information about the festival, your location, and any specials or promotions you’re offering. Engage with festival-goers, provide a hashtag, and encourage them to share their experience with their followers.
Partner with Other Vendors
Collaborating with other vendors can help you reach new customers and expand your reach. Consider partnering with a nearby food truck or concession stand to offer a joint menu item or promotion. This can help attract more customers to your booth and increase your profits.
At Allen Associates, we don’t just provide the best quality supplies and equipment for concessions, we empower businesses and organizations with the total system needed to succeed in the fun food industry. From coffee to popcorn, nachos to smoothies, and beyond, our Proven Profit Programs include everything you need to maximize your profits and keep your customers happy. By following these tips and strategies, concession purveyors and food trucks can break into the festival scene and make a name for themselves. Get in touch – we can’t wait to see you soar!