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Pete Bakala, Vice President of Branch Sales and Operations
In the dynamic world of food service, Gold Medal is known as a leader for concession foods, such as popcorn and cotton candy. Yet, the company’s reach extends beyond the core of entertainment venues, cinemas, and amusement parks. Gold Medal also serves the needs of grocery stores, restaurants, breweries, wineries, hotels, and resorts. Integrating “fun foods” across industries allows all types of businesses to enjoy benefits like increased patron enjoyment, enhanced brand image, and improved profitability.
Founded in 1931, Gold Medal has a long history of innovation. The journey first began with selling drink concentrates and over the years has expanded into a full catalog of equipment and supplies including popcorn, cotton candy, Sno-Kones®, and much more.
“We have been at the forefront of innovation for the food and beverage industry, continually refining equipment and finding new ways to meet the needs of our customers,” says Pete Bakala, vice president of branch sales and operations at Gold Medal.
A recent example of this innovation is found in the Gold Medal line of popcorn machines called the Ready Series. These unique machines allow popcorn to be dispensed by customers by simply pushing a button. This not only streamlines operations and aids in labor concerns but also helps to address hygiene issues in a post-pandemic world. The ReadyPop® is the original flagship model and includes a 16-oz popper within the self-dispensing cabinet. A total of four models are currently available that can hold between 11 gallons up to an incredible 75 gallons of popcorn. As an additional benefit, select units can be equipped with a cashless payment system. Integration of card readers facilitates transactions, reducing reliance on manpower and giving greater convenience to customers. Custom graphics packages can also be added to create a fully immersive brand experience. The Ready Series can be found at grocery stores, airports, stadiums, college campuses, casinos, and many other locations.
The goal of Gold Medal is two-fold. One is to help venues to engage their customers in memorable experiences. The products Gold Medal offers are more than just a transaction. There is nostalgia and meaning which fosters a joy that translates into brand loyalty and heightened customer satisfaction. The second principle is to empower individuals and businesses to realize the powerful profitability they can achieve through selling gourmet popcorn and cotton candy. The items are low cost and high margin, which create substantial opportunity, particularly amid current industry challenges with food inflation.
A recent collaboration with a major Park District in central Illinois showcases Gold Medal’s commitment to client success. The Park District was facing low per capita spending challenges and reached out to Gold Medal to find ways to increase sales and generate enthusiasm. A main attendance driver was the aquatic park and the Park District decided to set up a shaved-ice stand there. The shaved ice produced outstanding results in its first season, selling over 15,000 servings, which yielded a profound increase for both sales and profitability.
We have been at the forefront of innovation for the food and beverage industry, continually refining equipment and finding new ways to meet the needs of our customers
Across the country, there has been a remarkable surge in the number of grocery stores popping fresh popcorn daily. Many are putting in full gourmet popcorn shops near their bakery or deli departments, where the store can produce fresh caramel corn, cheese corn, candy-coated, and savory popcorn flavors. This brings the fun food experience into the store. In addition, it is a unique way to answer the changes in consumer eating habits. Americans are snacking more than ever before and now grocery stores can respond in a way that maximizes their own profitability by offering fresh snacks in store.
Gold Medal’s commitment to customer success is evident in the level of support it offers. Hands-on demos are strongly encouraged prior to purchase, ensuring users are well-versed in equipment setup, operation, and maintenance. Onsite training, online videos, comprehensive training materials, and a website of resources equip operators to be successful.
Success stories from Gold Medal range from small businesses to large corporations and locations all around the globe. For personalized attention and the strength of an industry leader, discover the benefits of working with Gold Medal.
