30 Tips for Running a Successful Concession Stand

Good concession stands do not just happen. They take work and a coordinated effort by many people. Here are 30 ideas to help make things run more smoothly.

1. Appoint a Leader. The person in charge should organize and oversee all concession activities.
2. Build a team. Delegate duties to spread the work around: stocking, shopping, cash management, selling, as well as set up and tear down.
3. Visit other concession stands. It is always good to see how others are doing it and what sells.
4. Get proper paperwork. Some counties or cities require permits for selling and preparing food. Check with your city and local health department for details.
5. Communicate with volunteers clearly and consistently. Be sure they know where and when to report. Keep track of each volunteer's contact information and the volunteer work schedule. SignUpGenius could be used for volunteer sign-ups, streamlining your recruiting, shift coordination, and email communication.
6. Send reminders to workers. SignUpGenius sends out the text/email reminders so no one forgets their responsibilities!
7. Provide emergency contact information. Do the volunteers know who to call in an emergency or in case they can't make their work shift?
8. Develop a budget and determine costs. Carefully plan out the money you will need to spend on equipment, food and other supplies; this will help you figure how much profit you must make on food items.