Surge of people along race course to boost business
Fargo, ND (WDAY TV) - More than 18-thousand runners alone participating in Fargo Marathon events; add cheering family, friends, and volunteers and you've got a lot of new faces in our area. We'll not only see a surge of people and energy along the race course, but also a boost to business over the weekend. Some course-side store's expectations are very high, while others say it's like any other day.
- Vlana Vlee Manager Brittany Duffey
Brittany Duffey/Vlana Vlee Manager: “I guess we'll need some extra people working Saturday.”
For a family-owned, one of a kind store like Vlana Vlee, a slew of potential new shoppers is very valuable.
Brittany: “Summers are usually quiet because of the lakes, so when we have an opportunity like this to reach more people, we definitely want to take advantage of that.”
Brittany says their store is not known for sales, but will kick back prices by 25 percent while runners kick up their heels.
“Not “runners digest” products, but we'll clean up and get ready.”
A hot cup of coffee and chance to relax is not as easy of a sell on a hot day of adrenaline pumping racing. Moxie Java's sales on race day last year were the same as an average Saturday despite their front seat to the crowded street and sidewalks.
Tabitha Daschle/Moxie Java Manager: “Push our cold items and hope they come.”
Even businesses off the race course expect a boost. Like the owner of Wasabli and Drunken Noodle, who hopes to draw in health conscious runners and their families with some sushi.
Mike Roterdam/Wasabi/Drunken Noodle Manager: “Some people coming from small towns that have never tried sushi, something Fargo has to offer.”
Whether raw fish or fashion, thousands of Fargo marathon rooters and racers will add some speed to local sales. Race events begin Friday night, with the full marathon starting Saturday morning.
Tags: your city, kelsey soby, fargo marathon, fargo, marathon, business, racing, running
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