New vending gig near stadium

loneroyalsfan · Newbie Joined: 21 Apr 2011 Posts: 45 Location: Omaha, NE

The Triple-A team for Kansas City built a new stadium south of Omaha, NE. I negotiated a deal with the only gas station within 2 miles of the stadium to vend bbq on game days. Not only is it the only gas station, but the only business within 2 miles-- the stadium is literally built in the middle of a field with farmland stretching in all directions.

Weather was too cold during the first weekend home stand (average was below 50 degrees at first pitch), so I did not do too good. Last weekend was better and nearly sold out on Saturday night.

Things I have observed so far:
1) If 2 or more people are standing there waiting to be served a line begins to form (nearly every time!.. i guess nobody wants to be first)
2) Giving out freebies here and there such as cans of pop and hot dogs has created loyal repeat customers.
3) Make sure that there is always smoke coming from the smoker. I get several customers each night who say they were sold on buying bbq from me when they saw the smoke.
4) I need bigger and better signs. Rookie mistake.

Bestiverhad · Posted: May 04 2011 Post subject:

Happy to hear it's working out for ya.
What make/model of awning are you using?
I don't think I've seen one like that.
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loneroyalsfan · Newbie Joined: 21 Apr 2011 Posts: 45 Location: Omaha, NE

Thanks, it's an Easy Up Pagoda II. I got it at Cabela's.

Kronk · Posted: May 04 2011 Post subject:

Congrats LRF! You should do really well this year. Do you plan on coming down to Lincoln for the Husker home FB games? I have a spot secured for this year but it's not exactly in the most strategic place.
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Big Indian BBQ
"Load it & Smoke it"

loneroyalsfan · Newbie Joined: 21 Apr 2011 Posts: 45 Location: Omaha, NE

thanks kronk!

I plan on getting down to sell on gameday, but I have no idea where to set up. Planning on getting my safe serve class taken care of this summer since Lancaster County requires it (Sarpy County does not). Any suggestions on places to set up?

Kronk · Posted: May 04 2011 Post subject:

First of all, Lancaster Co is extremely difficult to work with. Your catering fees were $100 anually for statewide....accept in Lancaster Co. Lancaster is an additional $400 per year. They really sock it to ya down here. But the earning potential is there.

As far as a site to set up in, that's difficult because there are more and more of us out there trying to scratch down a few bucks on gameday. Parking lots are at a premium for parking during the game alone. Parking lot owners are reluctant to rent any of a spot but they can be had for the right money. I have a friend that pays $400 for the day but he's at a pretty good spot. That kind of overhead might be worth it.

I think the secret is to catch people that park and walk to the stadium....they plan on eating at the stadium so if you can tantalize them on their way there...you can do well. There are many restaurants near the stadium and you will lose business to them but there is just way too many people and the restaurants cannot handle that kind of volume. This bodes well for us. Downtown is king but hard to get a spot. You have to "know somebody." Or you can try to catch drivers on the way to the stadium on HWY2, Cornhusker, 27th st, 9th st or O st.
_________________
Big Indian BBQ
"Load it & Smoke it"

daddywoofdawg · Posted: May 05 2011 Post subject:

If there are people around and not much happening,I always slow down a bit serving the customer so I can get a few people to get in line.
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Good BBQ is all smoke and beers!
The Dawghouse Custom vertical Gasser
Custom Made offset smoker
Char grill smoker
Weber kettle

loneroyalsfan · Newbie Joined: 21 Apr 2011 Posts: 45 Location: Omaha, NE

Finally got a banner to put up this past weekend:

Louie · Posted: May 09 2011 Post subject:

Nice & I really like the name..
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From vending to Brick & Mortar

Kronk · Posted: May 13 2011 Post subject:

Great looking setup. Who did your banner?
_________________
Big Indian BBQ
"Load it & Smoke it"

loneroyalsfan · Newbie Joined: 21 Apr 2011 Posts: 45 Location: Omaha, NE

thanks guys.

Accent Signs, Omaha, did the banner. From what I understand he runs his printing business from his home. Real easy to work with and what seems like a great price. This banner was a 4 color process printed on vinyl w/gromets for $50. Turn around was 1 day. I'll definately work with this guy again.

BBQMAN · Posted: May 13 2011 Post subject:

Sure wish you had been around a year ago last April when I visited Omaha! Very Happy

Not much BBQ there to be sure, best of luck with your venture.

I did have an awesome sausage sammich at Amato's joint, and the salsa I brought home was top notch as well.
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BBQMAN
"I Turned A Hobby Into A Business".
Providing "IMHO" Since 2005.

Kronk · Posted: May 18 2011 Post subject:

loneroyalsfan · Newbie Joined: 21 Apr 2011 Posts: 45 Location: Omaha, NE