Food Vendors Disappointed After NFL Draft Turnout in Kaukauna
Kaukauna, WI – With the NFL Draft behind them, some local food vendors are expressing their disappointment after a lackluster turnout left them with large supplies of unsold food. Many had anticipated a bustling crowd but found themselves struggling to attract customers during the three-day event.
The Wandering Table, owned by Heather Karisny, found itself in this unfortunate situation. “I know for us, it was not the kickoff we had hoped for,” Karisny said, summing up the feelings of many vendors. Although their spot was situated just outside the draft area at Bellin Health near Titletown, it didn’t seem to draw in the expected traffic.
“We heard from a lot of people that they couldn’t find us… that it was very confusing to find the exit and then figure out how to get to where we were,” Karisny explained. Ultimately, The Wandering Table sold only about 25% of the food they prepared and returned with a substantial amount of unsold items, including pasta salad, vegetables, and even half of 500 pounds of ground beef.
Another local vendor, Sweet Treats Candies & Sweets, also faced a similar situation. Owner Stacey Hummell reported a significant surplus of sweets and ice cream. “We had 18 bins of chocolate and 720 pints of ice cream… we sold a mere 30 during the draft,” Hummell added. This meant they managed to sell less than 10% of their food at the event.
In an effort to avoid wasting the surplus, both vendors reached out to their community through social media. A Facebook post helped turn things around quickly, with community members responding positively. “It works out. We don’t have to throw it away,” Karisny commented, reflecting on the hastily organized sale.
For those interested in grabbing some of the leftovers, the vendors have opened their doors to the public during regular business hours. The event may not have gone as planned for these entrepreneurial spirits, but their resilience and community support have ensured that food won’t go to waste.
