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Boost Agritourism Sales with Concession Stand Equipment & Supplies

Unlock the full potential of your farm, corn maze, or agritourism business by selling irresistible concession foods. Fun foods can deliver incredible results, from engaging guests to attractive profit margins. To be successful requires selecting the right foods. Whether you operate a full concession stand or simply offer prepackaged snack items, these key guidelines will help you build your menu:

  1. Simplicity – With the right equipment and supplies, concession foods are quick and easy to make. Designed to be user-friendly, efficient, and effective, our products allow you to serve as many customers as possible. For example, Gold Medal has kettle corn poppers that make it simple to produce batch after batch of sweet-style kettle corn.
  2. Preparation – There are benefits to preparing foods on-site and offering items that are pre-made. Candy or caramel apples can be prepared in advance and are ready to serve with no wait. However, freshly prepared foods can attract more customers with their enticing sights, sounds, and aromas. Funnel cakes are a great example of an on-demand treat that’s highly profitable.
  3. Convenience – For those who want to skip preparation entirely, prepackaged items are an excellent choice. Nachos and cheese, cotton candy, caramel corn, and Meister Bake® Pretzels are grab-and-go options that reduce wait times. Plus, these foods are ideal for locations where customers need to walk and eat.
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Top Recommended Agritourism Equipment

Gold Medal’s top-quality concession equipment is perfect for agritourism businesses looking to enhance their offerings and profitability. From kettle corn machines to cotton candy makers, our selection ensures maximum visitor satisfaction and return on investment. With durable construction, user-friendly operation, and eye-catching designs, our equipment enhances any event experience. Explore our recommended products tailored for agritourism today. Discover the perfect additions to boost your attraction and stand out from your competitors.

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Top Recommended Agritourism Supplies

To maximize your concession equipment performance, trust Gold Medal’s selection of concession supplies tailored for agritourism businesses! Our line includes everything you need to complement your concession equipment, from popcorn kits, kettle corn mixes, and cotton candy sugar to disposable cups and straws. With our high-quality supplies, your visitors will enjoy an authentic concession experience at every event, ensuring repeat visits and glowing reviews.

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Why is Concession Equipment a Smart Investment for Your Business?

Demand for family-oriented recreational activities is increasing, boosting attendance at agritourism and similar seasonal venues. The most successful businesses are equipped with concession stands that serve up the most popular fun foods. Here’s why more farms, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes are adding concession equipment:

  • Enhanced Visitor Experience: Visits are more enjoyable and memorable when you serve a variety of snacks and beverages. Plus, guests won’t have to leave when they are hungry.
  • Increased Revenue Streams: Concession sales can significantly boost revenue. Guests will often spend more for special treats like popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones. Attractive profit margins mean a steady income source that can even outpace admission fees.
  • High Return on Investment: Durable and easy-to-use, concession equipment can quickly pay for itself. It is a wise investment that will benefit your business in both the short and long term.
  • Engaging and Appealing Attraction: Popcorn machines and cotton candy makers attract attention and add a fun element to your venue, drawing in more customers.
  • Versatility: Concession equipment can be used for various events and occasions, such as festivals, school field trips, corporate events, and family gatherings.
  • Brand Differentiation: Set your agritourism business apart from the competition with high-quality, unique concession options. Give your customers an experience they can’t find elsewhere.
  • Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty: Boost your level of customer satisfaction by providing signature fun foods. Encourage repeat visits, social media shares, and positive referrals.
  • Seasonal Flexibility: Use concession equipment year-round to meet seasonal demands. For instance, sell apple cider slushies in summer and hot apple cider in fall.
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Top Concession Foods to Sell

Photo of Kettle Corn in brown bag

Kettle Corn

Kettle corn is a sweet and salty popcorn treat made by popping corn kernels in a kettle with oil, sugar, and salt. Traditionally, kettle corn was popped in a large iron or copper kettle, but now you can easily make kettle corn in almost any Gold Medal popper using Gold Medal’s Pappy’s Mix or Pop-N-Glaze. Many farms choose this option as it allows them to keep up with demand while offering a consistently, top-quality kettle corn.

Kettle corn's unique flavor and crunchy texture make it a popular snack. Farms and agritourism businesses should sell kettle corn, as it provides a nostalgic, delicious treat that appeals to visitors of all ages. The aroma alone can attract customers, boost impulse buys, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

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Fresh Popcorn

Fresh popcorn is a timeless snack that is both affordable and easy to prepare. Selling fresh popcorn at an agritourism venue not only offers a beloved treat but also creates an enticing atmosphere with its warm, buttery aroma. It’s a versatile option that can be served plain or with various seasonings, making it a crowd-pleaser that drives consistent sales.

Photo of Gourmet Popcorn

Gourmet Popcorn Flavors

Gourmet popcorn flavors, such as cheddar, caramel, and chocolate-drizzled varieties, provide a luxurious twist on the classic snack. Offering these flavors allows an agritourism business to cater to diverse tastes and elevate the snack experience. These unique options can command higher prices and encourage visitors to indulge, increasing revenue while adding a touch of sophistication to your concession stand.

Photo of multi color candy apples or caramel apples

Caramel & Candy Apples

Caramel and candy apples are traditional fall treats that perfectly complement the charm of a farm or agritourism setting. These sweet and crunchy delights are visually appealing and provide a fun eating experience. Selling caramel and candy apples can attract families and children, enhancing their visit and encouraging purchases that evoke the flavors and feelings of the harvest season.

Photo of Donuts

Donuts

Freshly made donuts, especially those with seasonal flavors or toppings, are a delightful treat that appeals to visitors of all ages. The sight and smell of warm donuts can draw in crowds, making them a profitable addition to any agritourism business. Whether served plain, powdered, or glazed, donuts are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed on the go, making them a convenient and popular choice.

Photo of Funnel Cakes

Funnel Cakes

Funnel cakes are a beloved fairground treat, known for their crispy, golden exterior and soft, doughy interior, often dusted with powdered sugar. Selling funnel cakes can enhance the festive atmosphere of an agritourism venue, providing a fun and indulgent snack that visitors associate with special occasions. Their popularity can drive substantial sales, particularly during busy seasons or events. Add delicious toppings to make funnel cakes even more desirable.

Photo of Fried Foods, Such as Corn Dogs

Fried Foods, Such as Corn Dogs

Fried foods like corn dogs are classic fair fare that offers a savory, satisfying snack option. These items are easy to eat while walking around, making them perfect for visitors exploring an agritourism site. Offering fried foods can appeal to visitors looking for hearty, nostalgic treats, enhancing their overall experience and boosting food sales.

Photo of Cotton Candy

Cotton Candy

Cotton candy is a whimsical treat that adds a sense of fun and nostalgia to any outing. Its bright colors and fluffy texture are visually appealing and instantly recognizable. Selling cotton candy at an agritourism venue can attract children and families, making it a must-have item that complements the festive atmosphere and drives impulse purchases.

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Frusheez® / Slushies

Frusheez, or slushies, are refreshing frozen beverages that are perfect for hot days. Offering a variety of flavors, these colorful drinks can keep visitors cool and hydrated while providing a sweet treat. Selling slushies can increase revenue, particularly in warmer months, and they are a hit with both kids and adults, making them a versatile and profitable addition. Try in seasonal flavors like sweet tea or apple cider.

Photo of Fudge

Fudge

Fudge is a rich, indulgent treat that comes in a variety of flavors, from classic chocolate to more adventurous options like peanut butter or maple. Selling fudge at an agritourism business provides a delectable take-home item that visitors can enjoy long after their visit. Its shelf stability and appeal as a gift make it an excellent product for increasing sales and creating lasting memories of the visit.

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Prepackaged Items

Prepackaged items such as nachos, cotton candy, gourmet popcorn, or pretzels offer convenience and variety to visitors. These items are easy to stock and sell, requiring minimal preparation. Including prepackaged items in your offerings can cater to guests looking for quick snacks, ensuring everyone can find something they enjoy, thus increasing overall sales.

Photo of Nachos

Nachos

Nachos are a versatile and customizable snack that can be tailored to suit a wide range of tastes. Offering nachos with various toppings like cheese, jalapeños, and salsa can appeal to visitors seeking a savory, satisfying treat. Their popularity and ease of preparation make nachos a profitable addition, perfect for sharing among groups, which can enhance the social aspect of any visit.

Photo of Pizza and pretzels

Pizza / Pretzels

Pizza and pretzels are staple snacks that are universally loved and highly satisfying. Selling these items can attract visitors looking for a more substantial snack or meal option. Their broad appeal and ability to be customized with different toppings or dips make them a versatile addition that can boost your concession stand’s revenue.

Photo of Hot Dogs

Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are a classic, easy-to-eat snack that is perfect for outdoor settings. Offering hot dogs at an agritourism venue provides a quick and satisfying option for visitors, especially families with children. Their simplicity and popularity make them a reliable choice for increasing food sales and enhancing the visitor experience.

Photo of Waffles

Waffles

Ready to try something new? Waffles, especially when served with a variety of toppings like syrup, fruit, and whipped cream, can be a delightful treat that stands out. Selling waffles can add a unique and gourmet touch to your concession offerings, appealing to visitors looking for something special. Try bubble waffles, waffle dogs, and other variations. They can be served as a meal or dessert, making them a versatile and profitable addition to your menu.

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5 Surprisingly Easy Ways to Boost Seasonal Concession Stand Profits

The goal of all seasonal attractions is to generate profits quickly and easily. With profit margins averaging 70-80%, concession foods are a fantastic opportunity. When planning your menu, these helpful tips can show you how to unlock even more profit potential without breaking the bank.

  1. Invest in Versatile ProductsUsing products for multiple purposes can save you money. Gold Medal can show you how. Take Signature Shakes® for example. Originally made as a popcorn seasoning, they can also be used to flavor up all kinds of foods from fries and burgers to wings or dips. Or on the sweet side, Sno-Kone® syrups and cotton candy Flossugar can also be used as fudge flavorings.
  2. Add Toppings or DipsEnhance your existing menu with creative toppings and dips. Add chili to hot dogs or nachos as an upsell. Hot pretzels can be transformed with dips like honey mustard or dessert toppings like cinnamon and sugar. Melt milk chocolate or white chocolate and drizzle it over popcorn, funnel cakes, candy apples, or ice cream, as an extra indulgence.
  3. Set a Foundation of FlavorFoods that can be made in multiple flavors are great for concession stands. Popcorn, cotton candy, fudge, and snow cones each make a perfect canvas for all kinds of flavors. Gold Medal offers all the supplies you’ll need, like Glaze Pop®, where you can create sweet popcorn flavors right in your popper – no additional equipment needed.
  4. Use Items Across SeasonsDiscover new ways to use products in different seasons. For example, use the Lemonator (lemon squeezer) to make refreshing lemonade in spring and summer. Then it can be converted into an apple slicer, allowing you to make caramel apple chips in fall. Also, frozen slush drinks can be transformed into a year-round hit because Frusheez® Apple Cider can be served hot or cold.
  5. Think About Your DrinksWhen customers are thirsty, extend your beverage options beyond the norm. Offer signature flavors using ingredients you may already have for other products. For cooler weather, birthday cake hot chocolate can be made with birthday cake Flossugar and vanilla Sno-Kone® syrup. In the warmer months, create tasty mocktails like Ocean Ice Slush, a mix of blue coconut Sno-Kone concentrate and a pina colada Flossugar garnish.

(Find these and other fun recipes in the Resources section of gmpopcorn.com)

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Year-Round Agritourism Ideas

Many farms get their start in agritourism by focusing on a specific season, like picking strawberries in spring or pumpkins and apples in fall. However, this limits their season to just 4-8 weeks per year. Now, farms can choose to expand their seasonality by introducing a mix of activities year-round:

  • Easter egg hunts in spring
  • Pick-your-own fruits and vegetables for spring/summer
  • Pony rides and horseback riding
  • Pumpkins and corn mazes in the fall
  • Light shows and holiday markets for Christmas/winter
  • Opening a Farmer's Market
  • Focusing on events and becoming destinations for weddings, concerts, corporate events and more!
  • Partnering with local wineries or breweries to host wine or craft beer tasting events
  • Creating other types of family-friendly activities like amusement rides, petting zoos, or campfire and marshmallow roasting parties with storybook readers
  • Making signature food items available for order online
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10 Ways to Drive Sales for Your Concession Stand

  • Seasonal Offerings

    Seasonal and Themed Offerings

    Tailoring your concession menu to reflect the seasons or specific themes, such as pumpkin-flavored treats in the fall or holiday-themed snacks in winter, creates excitement and attracts visitors interested in unique, limited-time offerings. This approach encourages impulse buys as visitors are drawn to try special items that enhance their seasonal experience at your venue.

  • Bundles and Combos

    Bundle Deals and Combos

    Offering meal deals or snack combos that include multiple items at a discounted price, such as a popcorn and drink combo, encourages visitors to purchase more items than they might individually. This strategy increases the average transaction value by providing a perceived greater value for money, making visitors more inclined to spend.

  • Signature Items

    Signature Items

    Set your concession stand apart from the competition by offering items that are truly unique and memorable. For example, a specialty apple harvest funnel cake with locally sourced apples or a chocolate-covered strawberry fudge made with fresh strawberries. Customers are more likely to remember, return, and share experiences like a one-of-a-kind treat.

  • Samples

    Sampling Stations

    Setting up sampling stations where visitors can try small portions of different snacks before purchasing increases the likelihood of purchases by allowing visitors to taste and enjoy products before committing to a full purchase. This strategy helps visitors feel confident in their choices, leading to higher satisfaction and sales.

  • Promotions and Discounts

    Promotional Discounts and Happy Hours

    Offering time-limited discounts or happy hour specials on certain items during slower periods of the day drives traffic to the concession stand during off-peak hours and increases overall sales. This tactic creates a sense of urgency, prompting visitors to take advantage of the special deals while they last.

  • Signage

    Eye-Catching Signage and Displays

    Using attractive signage and displays to highlight featured items, specials, and new products draws attention to the concession stand and specific products, encouraging impulse purchases. Well-designed visuals can significantly impact visitor behavior, making them more likely to stop and buy.

  • Partnerships

    Partnerships with Local Vendors

    Partnering with local vendors to offer unique, locally-produced items, such as artisanal cheese or locally-sourced fruits, attracts visitors interested in supporting local businesses and trying exclusive products. This strategy not only boosts sales but also enhances your brand’s reputation as a supporter of the local community.

  • Social Media

    Engaging Social Media Campaigns

    Using social media platforms to promote special offers, new products, and upcoming events at the concession stand raises awareness and excitement among potential visitors. This strategy drives traffic to the agritourism site and boosts concession stand sales by leveraging the reach and influence of social media to attract a wider audience.

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Success Stories and Resources

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A farmhouse with a pastel pink and purple sky in the early evening.

Success Story: Fun, Food, and Family at the Farm

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Fun Food Recipes

Birthday Cake Funnel Cakes

Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat with our Birthday Cake Funnel Cake! Combining the nostalgic taste of cake batter with a crispy, fried funnel cake, this dessert is topped with luscious icing and vibrant sprinkles. Made using our Signature Blends® Birthday Cake flavor and Pennsylvania Dutch Funnel Cake Mix, it's a delightful way to celebrate any occasion. Perfect for parties, fairs, or any fun gathering, this funnel cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

See Recipe

Apple Donuts

Feast on our delicious Apple Donuts, made with premium Funnel Cake Mix and Signature Shakes® in tantalizing flavors like Churro or Caramel. These delectable apple donuts are dipped in a rich batter, fried to perfection, and optionally dusted with extra seasoning for added flavor. Perfect for adding a unique twist to your dessert menu or enjoying at home, our Apple Donuts offer a sweet and satisfying experience that's simply irresistible.

See Recipe

Red Velvet Waffle Dogs

Treat your taste buds to the extraordinary with our Red Velvet Waffle Dogs! These delightful creations combine the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the fun, portable convenience of a waffle on a stick. Made using our Old-Fashioned Waffle Mix and enhanced with our Red Velvet Additive, these waffle dogs are perfect for dipping in chocolate or drizzling with white chocolate. Elevate your snack game with this irresistible blend of texture and flavor, ideal for any event or concession stand.

See Recipe

Candy Bar Fudge

Try the decadent combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and caramel with our Candy Bar Fudge. Made using our Sweet Selections® Base and Chocolate Fudge Mixes, this rich treat is enhanced with creamy peanut butter and crunchy peanuts for a satisfying texture. Topped with Midway’s Finest Caramel, it offers a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or adding to your dessert menu, this fudge is a must-try for any chocolate lover.

See Recipe
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How To Clean Your Popper And Kettle

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A - Both popcorn and kettle corn are top sellers. Popcorn is one of the most popular and profitable concession foods. And farms should always have kettle corn! It is one of the most in-demand snacks. It commands top dollar and delivers average gross profit margins of 80%. One of the advantages is kettle corn is easy to produce and can be made in an electric or gas popcorn machine.

A - Either butterfly or mushroom popcorn can work. Butterfly is a popular choice that’s light and easy to eat. However, sometimes mushroom is preferred because it is larger and heartier.

A - White coconut oil is the most popular popping oil. It is often preferred due to its neutral flavor profile. However, you can try different oils to see which suits your tastes, including corn oil, canola oil, peanut oil, and blended oils.

A - You can choose the recipe that works best for your needs. Gold Medal has many products for making kettle corn such as Pappy’s Kettle Corn Mix, Compound S (to keep sugars from burning), flavored kettle corn mixes (caramel, blueberry, grape, chocolate, and more), and bags in all shapes and sizes.

A - A popcorn shop on the farm can be a way to generate year-round revenue. You can make popcorn, kettle corn, caramel corn, cheese popcorn, and more. Imagine pumpkin spice in the fall or mint chocolate in winter. Sell popcorn at your location or produce and package it to be sold at local retail stores and restaurants. From small to large, there are so many ways to scale a popcorn business. Consult with Gold Medal to determine how to bring a popcorn shop to your farm.

A - Yes, nachos are very easy to do. Choose from bagged cheese dispensers or portion cups for individual servings. Nacho cheese can also be used with other foods like soft pretzels, hot dogs, or cheeseburgers.

A - Candy and caramel apples are farm favorites! Making them is easy and fun. Trust Gold Medal for the right products to make the best candy and caramel apples. We have everything you need from caramel dip, candy apple mixes, sticks, apple bubbles, wraps, and other containers. We even offer a stick setter used to help insert the stick into the apple.

A - Funnel cakes can easily be a best-seller. With Gold Medal’s funnel cake fryers and Pennsylvania Dutch Funnel Cake Mix, you’ll be well equipped to fry up delicious and satisfying funnel cakes for your guests. Because customers can watch it being made, a funnel cake is an engaging snack that attracts attention. Other products can also be deep fried like OREO® cookies, candy bars, and ice cream!

A - Funnel cakes need to cook at a temperature of 395 degrees fahrenheit or higher. Most fryers cannot reach this temp. The shallow design aids in the frying process. Plus, there is a super-fast heat recovery, meaning you can continue frying up funnel cakes quickly and efficiently.

A - It will produce a low-quality output. The funnel cake may fall apart. It could absorb a lot more oil. And the operator may have to use more batter, resulting in poor yield.

A - Donuts are another product that do very well at farms and agritourism sites. Gold Medal has a variety of donut solutions. From donut fryers to mix and batter dispensers, we have the essentials. You can also count on us for bulk cinnamon sugar, chocolate and vanilla dipping products, and clam shell donut containers.

A - One of our top sellers is apple cider. Make it hot in colder months or serve cold as a slushie. You can also try any of our other Frusheez® flavors including sweet tea, blue raspberry, cherry, lemon, and many more.

 

Achieve Your Goals with Gold Medal

Take the guesswork away with Gold Medal. We have proven success with businesses large and small in the agritourism industry. Our personalized approach consists of in-person consultation, product samples, hands-on demos, training, resources, and ongoing service. With Gold Medal, you can be confident you’ll receive the highest level of support available. Staffed with 17 branch locations and a global distributor network, you’ll enjoy advantages you can’t get elsewhere.

 
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Are you ready to learn how Gold Medal can help you increase your farm’s profitability? Discover the best concession equipment and supplies. Explore our product lines, get expert recommendations, practical tips, recipes, and more. To take the next step with Gold Medal, just choose your preferred contact method and get started today!

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Call Gold Medal directly at 800-543-0862.

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