The Economy

Bossmanbbq · 01-30-2009, 12:15 PM

Are you all seeing numbers going down with the state of the economy? I have a gig this weekend and a couple of orders for the super bowl.

The reason I'm asking is with my wife and I applying for grants and low interest loans for the catering gig I'm hoping that this is'nt going to be a big factor. I know people will always eat and when times get tough people settle for cheaper things instead of quality things. I just don't want to be under cut and over looked because of the McDonalds and Taco Bell dollar menu. Just your thoughts and suggestions and general forcast for the art we all love and enjoy selling.

big brother smoke · 01-30-2009, 12:48 PM

I think their is more wedding business to be had due to the economy, couples are looking to cut everyway possible. Corporates are cutting back, but instead of high end caterers they may go the BBQ route.

smokinit · 01-30-2009, 01:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by big brother smoke

I think their is more wedding business to be had due to the economy, couples are looking to cut everyway possible. Corporates are cutting back, but instead of high end caterers they may go the BBQ route.

I agree and graduations happen every year also. I also work with clients alot and allow them to do some of their own food and serve it in my serving line. Anything to give you that edge.

jbrink01 · 01-30-2009, 01:32 PM

My mother, now 83 has always said "people gotta eat". A bad economy plays into your hands if you can economically serve "comfort food" and we all know comfort food is relatively cheap.

Our roadside vending is good, but we are adjusting our product mix (fewer ribs, more 1/4# All Beef Kosher hot dogs, like that). Our catering has always been about "country cooking". We've done and still do prime rib, but not as much.

Don't lessen your margins!!! Make the same percentage, just on less cost! Your gross sales will be down, but that's just the nature of the beast.

fevoice · 01-30-2009, 01:32 PM

Damn The Torpedo's!

Stop watching TV and quit reading the bad-news business section. The other day I picked up the WSJ and after scanning page one - called my suicide counselor.

Remember this - in every down economy there is the seed of fortune. We have to find it. Don't run and hide - run and get the new business.

Develop unique ways to get the word out about your business. Don't invest or spend foolishly, but don't be afraid to go for it and stay the course either.

This economy will rebound and those poised for the biggest bouce back will profit the most. Regardless of how bad things may seem - people still want to have fun. And what's more fun than BBQ?

Remember, whether you've got a restaurant or just catering - our #1 product is FUN! Sell fun. It's an easy sell.

I'm in the process of taking over a small defunct BBQ joint. Am I scared. You bet - Am I gonna let fear stop me? Hell No! Remember there is a big difference between a wise investment and a foolish endeavor. The Bible says numerous times - Do Not Fear.

So Damn The Torpedos! I choose to flourish! I've got some cool marketing ideas. Contact me anytime and I'll be happy to share them.

Sincerely,
Frank Eriksen
Roaring Fork BBQ
Boulder, CO

Marsha · 01-30-2009, 01:39 PM

So far, our catering is about the same, but people want simpler menus than in the past. Not as many of them want 5 appetizers before their meal, etc., but they still want a party.

As for vending at festivals, we were just talking about that last night. I do know a couple festivals that have re-structured, but I think more people will attend local, family events like that if they can't afford to go on expensive vacations. That's my story and I am sticking to it!

smokinit · 01-30-2009, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fevoice

Damn The Torpedo's!

Stop watching TV and quit reading the bad-news business section. The other day I picked up the WSJ and after scanning page one - called my suicide counselor.

Remember this - in every down economy there is the seed of fortune. We have to find it. Don't run and hide - run and get the new business.

Develop unique ways to get the word out about your business. Don't invest or spend foolishly, but don't be afraid to go for it and stay the course either.

This economy will rebound and those poised for the biggest bouce back will profit the most. Regardless of how bad things may seem - people still want to have fun. And what's more fun than BBQ?

Remember, whether you've got a restaurant or just catering - our #1 product is FUN! Sell fun. It's an easy sell.

I'm in the process of taking over a small defunct BBQ joint. Am I scared. You bet - Am I gonna let fear stop me? Hell No! Remember there is a big difference between a wise investment and a foolish endeavor. The Bible says numerous times - Do Not Fear.

So Damn The Torpedos! I choose to flourish! I've got some cool marketing ideas. Contact me anytime and I'll be happy to share them.

Sincerely,
Frank Eriksen
Roaring Fork BBQ
Boulder, CO

Amen Brother you said it all I am right behind you!!

Divemaster · 01-30-2009, 03:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fevoice

Damn The Torpedo's!

Frank, you have the best possible attitude for starting up a business. As for me, I'm staying the corporate course and doing it on the side... I just can't afford to give up my job and take the chance with my daughter in college. When she is out, I'm hoping it's a different story.

I wish you all the luck! In the mean time.....

Ra - Ra - Reeee.... Kick them in the knee

Ra - Ra - Rasss.... Kick them in the...... other knee...

Trust me, I'm not picking on you Frank!)

big brother smoke · 01-30-2009, 03:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fevoice

Damn The Torpedo's!

Stop watching TV and quit reading the bad-news business section. The other day I picked up the WSJ and after scanning page one - called my suicide counselor.

Remember this - in every down economy there is the seed of fortune. We have to find it. Don't run and hide - run and get the new business.

Develop unique ways to get the word out about your business. Don't invest or spend foolishly, but don't be afraid to go for it and stay the course either.

This economy will rebound and those poised for the biggest bouce back will profit the most. Regardless of how bad things may seem - people still want to have fun. And what's more fun than BBQ?

Remember, whether you've got a restaurant or just catering - our #1 product is FUN! Sell fun. It's an easy sell.

I'm in the process of taking over a small defunct BBQ joint. Am I scared. You bet - Am I gonna let fear stop me? Hell No! Remember there is a big difference between a wise investment and a foolish endeavor. The Bible says numerous times - Do Not Fear.

So Damn The Torpedos! I choose to flourish! I've got some cool marketing ideas. Contact me anytime and I'll be happy to share them.

Sincerely,
Frank Eriksen
Roaring Fork BBQ
Boulder, CO

Hey we all can use some marketing ideas, please share publically!

Bossmanbbq · 01-30-2009, 03:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fevoice

Damn The Torpedo's!

Stop watching TV and quit reading the bad-news business section. The other day I picked up the WSJ and after scanning page one - called my suicide counselor.

Remember this - in every down economy there is the seed of fortune. We have to find it. Don't run and hide - run and get the new business.

Develop unique ways to get the word out about your business. Don't invest or spend foolishly, but don't be afraid to go for it and stay the course either.

This economy will rebound and those poised for the biggest bouce back will profit the most. Regardless of how bad things may seem - people still want to have fun. And what's more fun than BBQ?

Remember, whether you've got a restaurant or just catering - our #1 product is FUN! Sell fun. It's an easy sell.

I'm in the process of taking over a small defunct BBQ joint. Am I scared. You bet - Am I gonna let fear stop me? Hell No! Remember there is a big difference between a wise investment and a foolish endeavor. The Bible says numerous times - Do Not Fear.

So Damn The Torpedos! I choose to flourish! I've got some cool marketing ideas. Contact me anytime and I'll be happy to share them.

Sincerely,
Frank Eriksen
Roaring Fork BBQ
Boulder, CO

Frank, I wasn't intending to be negative at all, just wanted to see with all the stuff going around us, one if anyone has changed things up to adjust and two, what everyone is seeing in their areas.

Bigmista · 01-30-2009, 06:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fevoice

Damn The Torpedo's!

Sounds like us! Full steam ahead!

hossrocks · 01-31-2009, 12:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fevoice

Damn The Torpedo's!

Stop watching TV and quit reading the bad-news business section. The other day I picked up the WSJ and after scanning page one - called my suicide counselor.

Remember this - in every down economy there is the seed of fortune. We have to find it. Don't run and hide - run and get the new business.

Develop unique ways to get the word out about your business. Don't invest or spend foolishly, but don't be afraid to go for it and stay the course either.

This economy will rebound and those poised for the biggest bouce back will profit the most. Regardless of how bad things may seem - people still want to have fun. And what's more fun than BBQ?

Remember, whether you've got a restaurant or just catering - our #1 product is FUN! Sell fun. It's an easy sell.

I'm in the process of taking over a small defunct BBQ joint. Am I scared. You bet - Am I gonna let fear stop me? Hell No! Remember there is a big difference between a wise investment and a foolish endeavor. The Bible says numerous times - Do Not Fear.

So Damn The Torpedos! I choose to flourish! I've got some cool marketing ideas. Contact me anytime and I'll be happy to share them.

Sincerely,
Frank Eriksen
Roaring Fork BBQ
Boulder, CO

Hell Yea.... We are also getting started with our roadside vending... So many people have said to me "I can't believe you are doing that now... with the economy". One of the only businesses that are doing well in the economy is fast food! Burger King, Mc D's and the like are all showing profits. We are moving full steam ahead...
Just my .02

jbrink01 · 02-01-2009, 06:25 PM

It's really not hard to figure out. Most People Can't Cook!

MrsMista · 02-01-2009, 07:48 PM

I found with our venues it depends on the area you're trying to build. With Watts we don't do much, which to me personally, is understandable. At our other markets we have topped ourselved every time. Based on our more profitable markets, I figure if this is bad when times get good I can retire.

But one of the reasons we will stick with Watts no matter what is because the market manager got us started. That's not to say that once we grow we won't branch out to something else on a Saturday. We just won't leave her for a more profitable market no matter how tempting. It's not always all about the money.

KuyasKitchen · 02-01-2009, 09:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MrsMista

But one of the reasons we will stick with Watts no matter what is because the market manager got us started. That's not to say that once we grow we won't branch out to something else on a Saturday. We just won't leave her for a more profitable market no matter how tempting. It's not always all about the money.

That is a really fantastic attitude!

01-30-2009, 12:48 PM	#2
big brother smoke somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 05-03-06 Location: Ventura, CA Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	I think their is more wedding business to be had due to the economy, couples are looking to cut everyway possible. Corporates are cutting back, but instead of high end caterers they may go the BBQ route. __________________ Peace and Smoke, BBS https://www.bigpoppasmokers.com/stor...nufacturer=314 My Weapons: Custom rig - Kandi, UDS; Bubba Keg; 22.5 WSM x 2; 18.5 WSM; BWS extended party; BWS Gator and an Onyx Oven; 29' ft Coachmen Leprechaun (Lola); Avatar by Grillman. Dan Chambers get well soon, so we can tell you to "Shut up Chambers"

01-30-2009, 01:32 PM	#4
jbrink01 is Blowin Smoke! Join Date: 08-17-06 Location: Washington, Missouri Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	My mother, now 83 has always said "people gotta eat". A bad economy plays into your hands if you can economically serve "comfort food" and we all know comfort food is relatively cheap. Our roadside vending is good, but we are adjusting our product mix (fewer ribs, more 1/4# All Beef Kosher hot dogs, like that). Our catering has always been about "country cooking". We've done and still do prime rib, but not as much. Don't lessen your margins!!! Make the same percentage, just on less cost! Your gross sales will be down, but that's just the nature of the beast. __________________ KCBS #13207 **2013 Insane Can Posse Tour** Sponsored By: *Gateway BBQ Store* *Blues Hog BBQ Company* *Plowboys BBQ Company*

01-30-2009, 01:32 PM	#5
fevoice Knows what a fatty is. Join Date: 02-10-08 Location: Boulder, CO. Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	Economy *Damn The Torpedo's!* Stop watching TV and quit reading the bad-news business section. The other day I picked up the WSJ and after scanning page one - called my suicide counselor. Remember this - in every down economy there is the seed of fortune. We have to find it. Don't run and hide - run and get the new business. Develop unique ways to get the word out about your business. Don't invest or spend foolishly, but don't be afraid to go for it and stay the course either. This economy will rebound and those poised for the biggest bouce back will profit the most. Regardless of how bad things may seem - people still want to have fun. And what's more fun than BBQ? Remember, whether you've got a restaurant or just catering - our #1 product is FUN! Sell fun. It's an easy sell. I'm in the process of taking over a small defunct BBQ joint. Am I scared. You bet - Am I gonna let fear stop me? Hell No! Remember there is a big difference between a wise investment and a foolish endeavor. The Bible says numerous times - Do Not Fear. So Damn The Torpedos! I choose to flourish! I've got some cool marketing ideas. Contact me anytime and I'll be happy to share them. Sincerely, Frank Eriksen Roaring Fork BBQ Boulder, CO __________________ Frank Eriksen Roaring Fork BBQ :-D Modified Traeger 075 [URL="http://www.roaringforkbbq.com"]www.roaringforkbbq.com[/URL] [EMAIL="frank@roaringforkbbq.com"]frank@roaringforkbbq.com[/EMAIL]

01-30-2009, 01:39 PM	#6
Marsha Full Fledged Farker Join Date: 07-09-08 Location: Watsonville, CA Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	So far, our catering is about the same, but people want simpler menus than in the past. Not as many of them want 5 appetizers before their meal, etc., but they still want a party. As for vending at festivals, we were just talking about that last night. I do know a couple festivals that have re-structured, but I think more people will attend local, family events like that if they can't afford to go on expensive vacations. That's my story and I am sticking to it! __________________ Rollin' Smoke BBQ - West

02-01-2009, 06:25 PM	#13
jbrink01 is Blowin Smoke! Join Date: 08-17-06 Location: Washington, Missouri Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	It's really not hard to figure out. Most People Can't Cook! __________________ KCBS #13207 **2013 Insane Can Posse Tour** Sponsored By: *Gateway BBQ Store* *Blues Hog BBQ Company* *Plowboys BBQ Company*

01-30-2009, 12:15 PM	#1
Bossmanbbq is One Chatty Farker Join Date: 12-03-05 Location: Colorado Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	The Economy Are you all seeing numbers going down with the state of the economy? I have a gig this weekend and a couple of orders for the super bowl. The reason I'm asking is with my wife and I applying for grants and low interest loans for the catering gig I'm hoping that this is'nt going to be a big factor. I know people will always eat and when times get tough people settle for cheaper things instead of quality things. I just don't want to be under cut and over looked because of the McDonalds and Taco Bell dollar menu. Just your thoughts and suggestions and general forcast for the art we all love and enjoy selling. __________________ Bossman www.bossmanbbq.com Peoria Custom Pit 24x72Treager Texas Style Smoker Whole Hog Country Smoker* " You can put all of the sauce on it you want, but you still have to master the art of cooking barbecue" - Mike Mills-

02-01-2009, 07:48 PM	#14
MrsMista Full Fledged Farker Join Date: 07-19-04 Location: Long Beach, CA Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	I found with our venues it depends on the area you're trying to build. With Watts we don't do much, which to me personally, is understandable. At our other markets we have topped ourselved every time. Based on our more profitable markets, I figure if this is bad when times get good I can retire. But one of the reasons we will stick with Watts no matter what is because the market manager got us started. That's not to say that once we grow we won't branch out to something else on a Saturday. We just won't leave her for a more profitable market no matter how tempting. It's not always all about the money.