The Concession Stand Playbook: How to Win Big on Game Day

Every great team has a playbook — and so should every great concession stand. Whether you’re serving fans at a little league field, a swim meet, or a community event, success comes down to preparation, execution, and the right lineup of snacks.

Here’s your winning strategy to keep customers happy and your stand profitable.

First Quarter: Stock Your MVPs

Every stand needs its “Most Valuable Products” — the ones that sell out fast and keep fans coming back. Think:

• Popcorn for the kids

• Cold Coca-Cola and sports drinks for parents and players

• Pretzels and nachos for something hot and filling

  
  

These are your starters. Without them, your lineup is incomplete.

Second Quarter: Keep It Quick

Fans don’t want to wait in line while the game goes on. That means choosing items that are fast to serve and easy to prep. Pre-bagged popcorn, ready-to-go drinks, and individually wrapped candy are your best defense against long lines.

Halftime: Adjust the Game Plan

Just like a coach, you need to make adjustments. If one item isn’t selling, spotlight another. If the weather is hot, push cold drinks. If it’s chilly, promote pretzels and nachos. Flexibility keeps sales strong.

Third Quarter: Maximize Profits

Small changes can add up:

• Offer combo deals (pretzel + drink, popcorn + candy).

• Keep impulse buys like candy and gum right at the counter.

• Use clear signage so parents know prices before they order.

  
  

Fourth Quarter: End Strong

The last minutes of a game are golden. Fans often grab snacks before heading home. Have plenty of grab-and-go options like bottled drinks, candy, and chips ready to sell.

Post-Game Recap

The best concession stands aren’t the ones with the biggest menus — they’re the ones with the smartest game plan. Stock the MVPs, serve fast, adjust on the fly, and always look for ways to boost profits.

Building a Winning Team

To create a successful concession stand, you need a dedicated team. Train your staff to be efficient and friendly. A positive attitude goes a long way in enhancing the customer experience. Encourage them to engage with fans and promote popular items.

Marketing Your Stand

Promoting your concession stand is crucial. Use social media to announce your menu and special deals. Create eye-catching flyers to distribute at events. Word of mouth is powerful, so encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences.

Seasonal Adjustments

Consider the seasons when planning your menu. In the summer, cold drinks and ice cream can be big hits. In the fall, warm snacks like hot chocolate and chili can attract customers. Tailoring your offerings to the season can increase sales.

Community Engagement

Engaging with the community can boost your stand’s popularity. Sponsor local events or partner with schools for fundraising opportunities. This not only increases visibility but also builds goodwill.

At Somerset Foods, we supply everything your stand needs to run like a championship team — from Coca-Cola products to salty and sweet bestsellers. And with reliable delivery and easy ordering, we help you stay ahead of the game.

Somerset Foods. Meals made simple.