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Popcorn Coordinator: Show and Sell

Popcorn Coordinator: Show and Sell

Overview

Show and Sells are events where Scouts set up a table in front of a local store or business and sell popcorn directly to customers on the spot. This is different from take-order sales — no order forms, immediate payment.

Setting Up Show and Sells

  1. Identify merchants: Contact local grocery stores, hardware stores, or other high-traffic retailers. Ask for permission to set up a table on a specific date during a high-traffic period (weekend mornings are often best).

  2. Schedule slots: Once a merchant agrees, create a sign-up sheet for Scout/parent teams to work the table. Each slot is typically 2–4 hours.

  3. Publicize to families: Share the Show and Sell schedule with all pack families; make it easy to sign up.

  4. Reserve popcorn inventory: Order or reserve sufficient product for Show and Sell from the council system.

Running a Show and Sell

What to bring:

  • Popcorn product (ordered through council system)
  • Cash box for change (Kernel provides; coordinate with Treasurer for starting change)
  • Price list
  • the pack banner or signage
  • Square card reader (if available — coordinate with Treasurer)
  • Trash bag for unsold/damaged items

At the table:

  • At least two Scouts and at least one adult per shift (two-deep leadership)
  • Scouts in uniform
  • Scouts do the selling (with adult supervision); teach them to politely approach customers
  • Keep track of sales (total cash collected)

After each shift:

  • Collect all cash and turn over to Kernel
  • Count unsold product; record remaining inventory

Accounting for Show and Sell

At the end of the Show and Sell season:

  • Reconcile total cash collected at all events
  • Return unsold product per council’s return policy
  • Turn all proceeds over to Treasurer
  • Provide per-Scout participation data (for incentive purposes)

Resources