A successful concession stand operator must make informed choices regarding product selection. The following items are what I consider to be staples for concession stands.
Hot Dogs - I highly recommend using an all beef or even a black angus hot dog. The additional sales you will get far exceed the slightly higher cost of the product.
Popcorn - If you have a popcorn popper 4 oz to 16 oz you should be using an all in one pack. The oil butter and the popcorn are already measured out, so all you have to do is cut off the top of the pack and pour it into the kettle, no measuring, no mess, just popping.
Nachos - The Gehl's nacho dispenser is the the way to go for Nacho's. The dispenser heats the product, all you have to do is push the nozzle and out comes your cheese. There is very little waste and virtually no cleanup.
Soft Pretzels - The soft pretzel is one of the top sellers in most concession stands, and an easy item to prepare. Soft pretzels produce high profits for a relatively low amount of labor. The J&J Superpretzels in either a 2.5 or 5 oz are the best the market has to offer.
Candy - While chocolate products are the top sellers in the candy category, this is not the case in most concession stands. This is true especially during the summer months when the chocolate products need to be refrigerated to prevent melting. Albert Guarnieri & Company carries a large line of non-chocolate candies and snacks which are better suited for the warmer months.
Beverages - Concession stands do well with bottled water, sports drinks, bottled juice, canned or bottled soda pop when the weather is warm and then hot chocolate, french vanilla cappuccino and coffee when the weather turns cooler.
Slush/Smoothies - This is a must have item in the summer. A loaner program is available to Albert Guarnieri & Company concession customers. Slush is huge when it comes to the kids and a very high profit item. Slush Puppie® is the #1 non-carbonated frozen slush drink in the world and Albert Guarnieri & Company is proud to be an award winning licensed distributor for Slush Puppie Brands.
As independent restaurants face competition from rapidly growing chains, it becomes increasingly necessary to identify and promote the things that make your restaurant unique. Remember that a little flexibility, positive attitude and creativity can go a long way. These ideas may help you get started. . .
