Friday, December 28, 2007


Just for Fun

I found this interesting little video a few weeks ago. Whoever put it together is very creative. It’s amazing the things people can create. I wonder if the cotton candy it makes is any good?! I thought it would be fun to share with everyone. So, if you get a chance, take a moment and watch this video (I think it’s about 3 minutes long).

This is the last post for 2007. I hope that you all have found the articles here on ConcessionCentral.com interesting and informative. I am looking forward to 2008. I hope to continue bringing articles and information to all of you that directly relates to the concessions business. If you have any suggestions, questions, or comments please feel free to share them! I’d appreciate the feedback.

So, have a safe and happy New Year! I hope that 2008 brings everyone much success in their personal and business endeavors!

Wednesday, December 26, 2007


Save Money, Build Up your Inventory, and Increase your Profits!


Even though winter is considered the ‘down time’ for most concessions business owners, you can still use this time wisely and to your advantage. One of the prominent issues faced by most small business owners is cash flow. Big expenses are cash killers for most businesses.

One tip that we have is to use the next couple of months to your advantage by getting your concessions business well stocked ahead of time. Instead of having to purchase everything within the weeks prior to starting up your sales season, why not purchase your supplies over a two or three month period. Use January, February, March, and possibly April (depending on your location geographically) to purchase your supplies. Spreading out your expenses over a three or four month period will eliminate the big bill you would typically have if you ordered everything just prior to the beginning of your season.



As an added incentive to use this suggestion…all equipment and supplies are on sale at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com and CottonCandyExpress.com right now. Order now and save even more! This is just another way to increase the profitability of your concessions business!

Thursday, December 20, 2007


These are a Must Have for Busy Concession Locations!


Sometimes it’s the simple things that allow you to work more efficiently. This is the case with take out trays. These will make your life much easier when you are dealing with large orders. Yes, they are an added expense to factor into your overall costs. But, their long term benefits far outweigh the purchase price!

Take out trays are one of those little things that ‘complete’ your business. A customer who comes up and orders three or four cups of shaved ice or slush drinks will always ask for a take out tray. If you have them, it plants a seed in their mind. It goes something like this, “Hmm…they really know what they’re doing.” Isn’t this what you want all of your customers to think? Again, little things such as take out trays are simple tools to elevate the level of professionalism that is so important to establish with your business. Order your take out trays today! They’re on sale right now at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com!

Wednesday, December 19, 2007


Enjoy the Holiday Season!



From all of us at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com, HawaiianShavedIce.com, and CottonCandyExpress.com, we hope that everyone will have a safe and happy holiday season! Hopefully all of you will be getting together with family and friends during this festive season and enjoy the time spent together. We also want to thank all of our faithful customers for a great year. We wish you the best for 2008! Here's to a warm spring and a long, hot summer which hopefully will bring a myriad of customers to your shaved ice and/or snow cone locations looking for some delicious, icy refreshment!

Friday, December 14, 2007


How to get that Tasty Treat onto a Floss Cone!



As with anything else, practice makes perfect. The more you practice making cotton candy, the better your product will be for your customers in the end. If you follow these simple and easy directions, you should not have any problems making it. We suggest that you practice making the cotton candy prior to serving it at your next get-together, fundraiser event or first foray into concession sales so that you can get the feel of how to make it. After practicing, you may realize that you need other supplies along with learning the “do’s and don’ts” that will allow you to make a better product.



If you do not own a machine, your first step is to purchase one. The knowledgeable staff at CottonCandyExpress.com will be more than happy to assist you in choosing the machine that is right for your needs. We strongly suggest that you use the following steps to help make your cotton candy a hit!

1. Use a clean, damp cloth to moisten the inner part of the floss pan, which enables the floss to stick to the pan.
2. Observe the direction that the floss is spinning off of the floss head.
3. Alter the floaters which are located on top of the spinner head.

-Up for more lift
-Down for less lift

4. Grab a candy cone at the pointed end and hold it an inch or two between your thumb and two fingers.
5. Use a light, flicking motion to break into the web of floss.
6. Hold up the cone, which should now have a ring of floss attached to it and wind the floss onto the cone. Use a clean, damp sponge to brush the cone if the floss does not appear to be sticking to the cone.
7. Important: Only roll floss on outside of pan
8. In order to make a larger web, use a “figure-8” motion to turn the ring of floss onto the cone; once you have become an expert, you might want to lift the ring of the floss out of the pan with just a flick of your wrist.
9. At last, enjoy eating or selling your mouth-watering treat!





Remember, practice, practice, practice. By doing so, you will gain confidence in your abilities which will pay off greatly when your concessions stand is busy!

Most Expensive Cotton Candy Around?


This may just be the most expensive serving of cotton candy in the United States. It's interesting that an upscale restaurant is serving cotton candy on their dessert menu. It just goes to show how popular cotton candy is with everyone! Enjoy the article!

Tuesday, December 11, 2007


Christmas is only TWO WEEKS Away!


Are you finished with your Christmas shopping? Of course not! Are you tired of fighting traffic, circling the parking lot, and weaving your way through the mobs of people at the mall? Well, we have a solution for you!

Check out all of the great gift ideas found at HawaiianShavedIce.com. We have complete shaved ice packages that the whole family can enjoy along with individual items. Come visit our Shaved Ice and Snow Cone Gift Center for more ideas.

Avoid the hassles! Avoid having to put more of that $3.00 per gallon fuel in your car! You can order as late as December 17th, ship your order by UPS Ground and still get it in time for Christmas! Come visit us at HawaiianShavedIce.com...we're sure you'll find some great gifts for your friends, family, and coworkers.

Monday, December 10, 2007


Location, Location, Location



We have discussed the importance of the actual location of your business in previous posts. High traffic areas that have convenient access are very helpful. However, a suitable location can often cost you quite a bit in rent.

Rent prices may range from $50 to over $500 a month. The price you pay will all depend upon the arrangement that you make with your landowner. Usually, the better the location, the higher the rent. As always, shop around to get your best price. When discussing a location of interest with the owner, make sure you point out the fact that you will be attracting more potential customers onto his property for him as well. This is a fact that you need to use to your advantage. Owners of small, local strip malls or other locally owned businesses will see the advantage of having your stand set up at their location.

At our busiest location, we paid $200 a month from May to October. Our landlord did not ask for rent during the winter months when we were closed. In reality, we would have paid $300 a month year round if needed. We had great business and were located right in the middle of town. Nearby there were nine baseball fields, a community college, neighborhoods, shopping centers, and restaurants. The daily traffic count on the highway in front of our business was about 28,000 vehicles in a 24 hour period. At this particular location, we averaged $300 to $500 dollars in sales a day.

Whatever arrangements you work out with your landlord, be certain to have a contract or agreement in writing. If possible, agree to a fixed number years for your lease. Try to get at least a one year lease with the option to renew for one to two years. This option will give you the opportunity to get a feel for the location before committing to a longer term lease. Before you sign an agreement, make sure that you can adequately cover the monthly amount based on your projected sales volume. Do your homework, research, and then move forward with confidence! If you should ever have any questions regarding space rental or other concessions related business questions, please feel free to post your question here or contact us through our website at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com.


Customer Service is Priority One!



As a service oriented company, customer service is of utmost importance to us at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com. We welcome feedback from our customers. It helps us build a better company! Here are some comments made about our customer service.

“Great Customer Service! Could not be more pleased! They were wonderful and I'll continue to do business with them. A great company! Fabulous! Wish more companies had this type of customer service."
Martha, WA

"My experience with this company has been very positive in every way. I have placed orders via their website and have always received exactly what I ordered and in a very timely manner. I have placed phone orders with several different customer service people and I have always received very friendly, courteous and helpful conversations and the same accuracy and speed of shipment. My experience with this company could not be more satisfactory. Great selection, service, attitude, and prices!"
Roger, IA


If you every have any questions or comments about our company or our products, please contact us via Customer Care at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com.

Sunday, December 9, 2007


A Great Looking Concessions Cart!


Are you looking for a great cart for your concessions business? This is the best snack cart available! This is an attractive, stainless steel cart designed to sell both popcorn and cotton candy. The cart has a recessed cutout where your cotton candy machine may be installed. In addition, the cart comes with a power strip outlet located inside of the cabinet, and it also has locking doors. The shelves of the cart are adjustable so they can be customized for the serving sizes of the cotton candy and popcorn you may be selling. The easy rolling casters enable this cart to be moved to any location, making it a great choice for mobile vendors. This is a great looking cart designed to sell both of these great, tasty, profitable products! Check it out today at Cotton Candy Express.

Thursday, December 6, 2007


Inspiration


Occasionally we will feature an article here about a concessions business to function as ‘inspiration’ for our readers. David Ogilvy, who is widely considered the father of modern advertising, collected ideas and tidbits of knowledge. He categorized them and called them “magic lanterns.”

It’s always helpful to see how someone else works and operates their business. Every little tidbit of knowledge and information can serve as assistance to you in the operation of your own business. The article here discusses a cotton candy vendor in New Mexico. Apparently he has been in the same location for many years and has maintained consistency in his product (extremely important).

Take a moment and read the article…”you learn something new everyday.”

Tuesday, December 4, 2007


Block Ice or Cube Ice? What's the Best for your Business?

**This is an excerpt from our Shaved Ice Business Manual. If you'd like to read more information about using cube ice or block ice, please go to 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com and request our business manual.




Regular cube ice, also called bag ice, should be readily available in your area. Look in your local yellow pages for ice suppliers. Your local ice wholesaler may deliver the ice directly to you. At first you may have to use your own freezer for storage but as your business builds and your ice volume increases, your ice supplier may provide an outdoor ice merchandiser for storage.

While cube ice is fairly consistent throughout the country, block ice comes in two very different forms. There is compressed block ice and solid block ice. DO NOT USE COMPRESSED BLOCK ICE FOR SHAVED ICE MACHINES. Compressed block ice is made at ice plants by forcing large chunks of ice or crushed ice into compression molds. This type of block ice does not provide a smooth shaving surface for your block shaver. Compressed block ice usually is filled with air spaces and will not produce good shaved ice.



Solid block ice is the preferred form of block ice for use in the shaved ice industry. This type of block ice produces the best snow for shaved ice. However, solid block ice may not be readily available in all parts of the country. Where available, block ice can usually be purchased in 12 - 15 lb or 300 lb blocks. We suggest the 12 lb blocks for easy handling and storage. If needed, your local ice house can often cut down the 300 lb blocks for you.

If your business continues to grow or if block ice is not available in your area, you may find that you can make your own ice at a fraction of the cost. You can freeze your own ice blocks in our specially made ice block tubs. Simply fill the tubs with water and place into a deep freezer for 2 to 3 days. When freezing your own ice blocks, make sure not to freeze your ice too fast. We suggest setting your freezer to around 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow the ice to freeze slower and will produce a better ice block. Ice frozen too fast will crack when shaved. This is extremely important!

You can also make your own cube ice by purchasing your own ice maker. Look in your local yellow pages under restaurant equipment or ice making equipment for more information on cube ice makers in your area. You may also wish to search out local distributors by using the Internet as well.

Whatever type of ice you use please be sure that you understand the advantages and disadvantages of using cube ice over block ice. Find out more about cube ice and block ice by requesting our Shaved Ice Business Manual. It is full of great, useful information for anyone in the shaved ice or snow cone business.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007


Profitability Projections for Cotton Candy Sales



Did you ever think cotton candy would be considered such a profitable product? Well, it is! Due to the low cost to produce this candy, you may be surprised at just how much you can make and charge for this special treat! For example, a typical serving of cotton candy is either a 1 oz. cone or a 2 oz. bag. Depending upon where you operate, you may be able to sell it for as little as $1.00 or as high as $2.00. Your main expense will derive from the sugar and the method you choose to package the cotton candy. You may either sell it in bags, containers, or straight off of the cone. Please keep in mind that these figures only represent the COGS (Cost of Goods Sold). It does not reflect additional costs that will figure into your bottom line profits (labor, insurance, rent, etc.).

Your main cost in a 1 oz. serving of cotton candy on a cone would be approximately $.052 for the floss sugar and the cone would cost $.016, for a total cost of $.068 per serving. Your profit on a $1.00 cone would be roughly $.932. If you sold the same cone for $2.00, your profit would be $1.932. In a 2 oz., bagged serving, the floss sugar would cost roughly $.104 and the bag would cost $.042, for a total of $.146 per serving. Selling a bag for $1.00, your estimated profit would be $.854 per bag, and for a $2.00 bag it would be $1.854.



Now, are you motivated to start selling cotton candy when you see these types of profit margins?! As you can see the potential profit margin is huge; so what are you waiting for??? CottonCandyExpress.com is ready to help you get started today!

Tuesday, November 27, 2007


Links to Cost of Goods Sold...Helpful Information!


Here are two links to some interesting information for those of you who are thinking about opening your own shaved ice or snow cone concessions business. These two charts display the COGS (Cost of Goods Sold). There are two charts, one for shaved ice and one for snow cones. Please keep in mind that these costs may vary slightly depending upon your geographic location.

All costs are rounded to the nearest penny. The cost of ice is based on the price of $1.00 per bag or block of ice. Ice cost will be cheaper if you make your own. Initially, you will need to lay out more money to purchase the necessary equipment for making your own ice. However, you will recoup your initial costs quickly because of the long term savings due to producing your own ice. One caveat though...please be sure to check with your local department of health. If you enter into the production of your own ice, you may be subject to quarterly water testing, installation of water filtration systems, and other requirements imposed by your health department. CHECK WITH THEM FIRST BEFORE MAKING YOUR DECISION. Flavored Syrup cost is based on preserved syrup at 2.6 cents/ounce, spoons, spoonstraws, and napkin costs are based on case prices, sold on 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com.

Shaved Ice COGS Chart

Snow Cone COGS Chart

We hope that you will find this information helpful in your decision making process regarding opening up your own concessions business. This breakdown of costs is also very helpful in evaluating your current and future menu prices.

Friday, November 23, 2007


Keep Your Cotton Candy Machine Clean


We suggest that you cover your cotton candy machine when it is not in use. After you have thoroughly cleaned your machine, keep it clean by using one of our reinforced, elastic edged, durable plastic covers. Health department officials will appreciate your dedication to cleanliness when they see your machine covered. Customers will also see that you are concerned about cleanliness and that you are interested in taking care of your equipment. By ordering and using a cotton candy machine cover, you will add to the professional image of your concessions business. Order one today at Cotton Candy Express!


Business Manual for Slush Machines


If you are interested in adding granitas or slush drinks to your menu, we suggest reading through our Slush Machine Business Manual. This manual covers a variety of different topics related to slush drinks. It's full of great information about recipes, serving sizes, and venue suggestions. It also contains helpful information on choosing the right type of slush machine to fit your needs. Go to 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com, email their customer care department and request a copy of the manual today. Find out how slush drinks can add to the profitability of your concessions business!

Monday, November 19, 2007


12 Important Tips for Operating your Cotton Candy Machine Properly


This is a list of proven ways to ensure the efficient operation of your cotton candy machine for many years to come. If you purchased your machine from CottonCandyExpress.com, please review the included product and warranty information for additional information or tips on how to properly use the machine. If you have rented the machine, please contact your local rental shop for ways he or she may suggest for using their machine properly. These are tips and suggestions that we have always found to be helpful!

1. Let your machine run for a few minutes in order to heat up prior to adding the sugar. This helps to eliminate the production of grainy cotton candy.
2. Always....Always add the sugar only when the motor is turning.
3. Fill the sugar to a capacity of 90 percent full.
4. In order to reduce and eliminate the machine from smoking, lower the “heat control fine-tuning”.
5. Raise the heat control setting if the floss becomes too thick; lower the heat control setting if the floss is too thin.
6. Use the machine in an area where the humidity is low. This will enable you to produce fluffier cotton candy. Unfortunately, high humidity may cause the candy to shrink.
7. When storing the cotton candy in bags or containers, it is best to seal them tight and not allow any air into the container. If air gets in the container it may discolor, shrink, or clump up the candy.
8. You may use 100% pure cane or beet sugar. Regular granulated sugar is also acceptable.
9. Never use extra-fine granulated sugar or “free flowing sugar.” Using this may clog up the machine.
10. Avoid using flavors that contain a gum or starch base due to the fact that they burn out the ribbons in the machine.
11. To create brighter colors, try adding one tablespoon of flossine to 5 pounds of sugar.
12. MOST IMPORTANT: Always use adult supervision when a child under the age of 18 is using a cotton candy machine.


In order to keep your machine operating and running efficiently, please clean it after each use. By following these tips, you will prolong the life and your machine and may reduce any potential malfunctions encountered in the future with your cotton candy machine.

Thursday, November 15, 2007


Searching for a Great, Unique Gift for Someone?




Check out the Shaved Ice & Snow Cone Gift Center at HawaiianShavedIce.com! We have some great gift ideas for families and individuals listed here. Gift ideas are arranged so that it is easy to find a gift and order it. If you aren't sure what to purchase for someone, then just order a gift certificate for them! Gifts are grouped together under family ideas, individual gifts and they are arranged by price too!

Make your holiday shopping a lot easier by using our secure online ordering system. With our quick shipping methods, you will receive your order in plenty of time for your holiday celebrations! Happy Shopping!!

Tuesday, November 13, 2007


Do You Operate a High Volume Shaved Ice Stand?



If your shaved ice stand is a very busy place (we hope it is!), you should consider purchasing a foot switch for your shaved ice machine. Installing a foot switch for your shaved ice machine allows you or your employee to produce shave ice at a much faster rate. It frees up both hands, enabling quicker service to your customers. The foot switch is easy to install and highly recommended for busy shaved ice stands.

Currently, 1-800-Shaved-Ice has universal foot switches on sale! Order today and practice with it so that you are ready when spring rolls around and it’s time to open your stand again!

Monday, November 12, 2007


Another Satisfied Customer



Everyone at HawaiianShavedIce.com thoroughly enjoys positive customer feedback. Here is what one of our customers had to say about our website, ordering process and expert shipping procedures:

The website is very easy to surf. I had no trouble locating exactly what I needed. They also made sure that the order set up included an item important to my order that I would never have though of on my own-pourers for the syrup bottles. Check out was fast and easy, leaving no room for doubt on all charges that would be applied to my order. Shipping was fast, within the time frame specified, and the order was well packaged.
Bindia, FL


So, if you’re looking to purchase shaved ice or snow cone products for your home, go to HawaiianShavedIce.com where you know you’ll be treated well!


Looking for a Great Guide to the Cotton Candy Business?


Are you looking for a great guide to the cotton candy business? Check out the FREE Cotton Candy Business Manual! This helpful guide has been created by Cotton Candy Express. It contains over 20 pages of information on a variety of topics related to the cotton candy business. From directions on making cotton candy and cleaning tips for your machines to profitability charts...it's all in there!

If you are seriously thinking about entering into the cotton candy business or even if you are an established concessions owner, you will find this information helpful. To get your FREE copy of this manual, click here! While you're at Cotton Candy Express, check out their great sale prices on their equipment and supplies too!

Thursday, November 8, 2007


Shaved Ice Flower Cups can Increase your Sales


By using these colorful flower cups, you will create an eye-catching visual advertisement which will draw customers to your shaved ice stand. The brightly colored cups naturally attract attention, especially with children. When potential customers see the tasty treat that they contain, you know they will come purchase one!

1-800-Shaved-Ice.com sells plastic flower cups in 4 oz., 8 oz., and 12 oz. sizes. You can purchase them in packs of 40 or in cases of 600. Stock up now while they are on sale! By purchasing them now, you will be lowering your cost per serving which will further increase your profits in the spring and summer!

Monday, November 5, 2007


Looking for a Quick, Easy, Gift Idea?


If you are searching for a unique gift idea for your friends, family, coworkers, or employees then look no further than the gift certificates available at Hawaiian Shaved Ice.

Send an E-Mail Gift Certificate today. Just moments after you complete the order, your gift recipient will receive their gift certificate via e-mail. Sending an instant e-mail gift certificate means you'll never be late with a gift again!

Another great feature is that there are no shipping charges for our gift certificates. Just choose the amount you want to send, fill in all the needed information during checkout, and your shopping is done! Hawaiian Shaved Ice gift certificates are a great gift for everyone who enjoys snow cones and shaved ice!

Saturday, November 3, 2007


Cotton Candy Floss Concentrate


Flossine Cotton Candy Concentrate has been around since 1948. It is has been the number one choice for cotton candy professionals since its inception. Its great taste and resistance to clogging the ribbons makes it the preferred product nationwide!

In order to make your preferred floss sugar from our concentrates, we recommend that you experiment with the ingredients before you make your cotton candy. You may find that you only need to use 1 tablespoon per 10 pounds of sugar, or you may find that you need to use more or less tablespoons per 10 pounds of sugar. Use what you like best or prefer, and stick with your own recipe regardless of what other competitors are using! But, be careful of the type of sugar you use. If your sugar contains corn starch, you run a risk of clogging the ribbons on your machine.

Cotton Candy Express offers 8 great flavors of Flossine. Our winter sale is happening now...so stock up today!

Tuesday, October 30, 2007


Tips on Avoiding Several Fatal Errors in Operating your Concessions Business


Recently I came across an article that I thought was full of good information for concessionaires. I think there are several points that are very relative to concession business owners.

There are 10 major points in the article which are described as “fatal errors:”

*Overexpansion
*Poor Capital Structure
*Overspending
*Lack of Reserve Funds
*Bad Business Location
*Poor Execution and Internal Controls
*An Inadequate Business Plan
*Failure to Change with the Times
*Ineffective Marketing and Self-Promotion
*Underestimating the Competition


If you would like to read the entire article, click here.

I think that one way several of these errors could be avoided is in the writing of a good business plan right from the beginning. Please avoid the trap of “getting started first and then writing your business plan.” Don’t jump the gun! Take the time and write your plan. Seek out some professional help. Design an inclusive business plan that gives you a framework for your concessions business and a path for growth and success. In doing so several of these pitfalls can potentially be avoided and keep you on the path to success with your business!


AllBusiness.com is an Excellent General Business Resource for Concessionaires


AllBusiness.com is a great resource for answering many general business related questions. This site is loaded with helpful information on virtually every topic in the business world.

There are sections devoted to business advice, professional journals, business bloggers who deal directly with questions asked by people like you and me and sections devoted to specific industries (the restaurant section is of particular interest in the concessions field). They also have a section that is entitled ‘Tools and Services’ which contains a learning center and a business answers section which appear to be very helpful too. Finally, they have included a section devoted to forms and services. Some of the forms in this section have a fee that must be paid in order to download them. However, some of these forms (hiring and termination policies, and many others) are important to have in place for small business owners. Several of these forms are hard to find on your own and even harder to create for yourself. So, purchasing them may be the best answer for you.

AllBusiness.com is loaded with great problem solving tips and answers to questions that may come up in your particular business. Check it out, bookmark it and use it whenever necessary!

Thursday, October 25, 2007


Shhh….Here are some of Our Secret Recipes



Looking for some tasty additions to your shaved ice or snow cone menu? Well, look no further! We have some absolutely fabulous recipes for mouth watering shaved ice and snow cones. Sour flavors, wine cooler inspired flavors, and cream flavors…the list goes on and on! Check out all of the great recipes we have to share at 1-800-Shaved-Ice. We also list some great topping ideas too for you. Toppings are a great way to ‘upsell’ customers and increase your bottom line revenues. Take a moment, check out our recipes and spend some time experimenting with them. You might find the next signature item for your shaved ice or snow cone business!

Wednesday, October 24, 2007


Logo Design for Your Concessions Business


Have you created an identity for your concessions business yet? Have you thought much about how you want to be recognized by your customers and competition? It’s important to factor that question into your decision making process when it comes to designing a logo for your business.

David Ogilvy, who is widely considered the “father of modern advertising”, had four major principles that he adhered to in every facet of his business. These four principles not only apply to designing your logo, but also carry over into many other areas of your business. These four principles are research, professional discipline (knowledge), creative brilliance and results for clients (customers).

To learn more about his principles as they are applied to logo design, click here. This article is an in-depth look at some critical components of great logo design.

Monday, October 22, 2007


Resource: Food Booth, The Entrepreneur's Complete Guide to the Food Concession Business


While I have not personally read this book just yet, it seems like it might be a valuable resource. Whether you are just thinking about entering into the concessions business or are a seasoned veteran, it would probably be a good read.

Along with being able to order the book directly from their website, they display the table of contents for it too. Judging from that, it seems to be full of helpful information.

Check it out for yourself. If you have read this book, please let me know what you think of it! Thanks!

Friday, October 19, 2007


Upgrade your Concessions Business with a New Trailer!



In addition to upgrading and replacing worn out machinery, utensils, and restocking other supplies, why not upgrade to a top of the line concessions trailer? The off season is the perfect time to go ahead and order your trailer. You can take delivery on it and outfit it in time for the first special events in Spring or the opening day at your fixed location.

Put your business way ahead of the pack by purchasing and outfitting an awesome trailer. At 1-800-Shaved-Ice, we offer several sizes and layouts specifically designed for shaved ice and snow cone concessionaires. However, modifications can be made to create a trailer for just about any type of concessions business.



Check out all of our fantastic trailers and start your order today! You won’t be disappointed in the professional results achieved when you pull up to your special events next season! People will notice and comment on how great your business looks along with the high quality concessions you offer to them.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007


Have You Decided to Launch into the Cotton Candy Business?


Great! We’re excited that you have chosen this lucrative business! Now that you have chosen to dive into selling cotton candy, you need to ‘outfit’ your business.

One of the quickest and easiest ways to purchase the supplies you need is to select one of the great combo kits at CottonCandyExpress.com. There are four kits available and each of them is customizable. These kits range from the Starter Kit (on sale now for $599.00) all the way up to the High Output Kit (also on sale for $1452.27). Each of these kits contains all of the equipment needed to start selling cotton candy.

If you need assistance choosing the kit that best suits your needs, we encourage you to read through our Combo Kit Helper page. This page discusses each kit in detail allowing you to make the best choice for your operational needs. Check them out today and select the one that’s right for you!


National Independent Concessionaires Association



The National Independent Concessionaires Association is an organization you may want to join. They have many excellent programs in place to aid concession business owners. From health insurance discounts, scholarship programs, discounted supplies, and a multitude of other benefits, your $125 membership fee goes a long way for you. They also host several expos and training seminars nationwide along with their monthly magazine and online forum which can be very helpful to concessionaires. The ability to bounce ideas, problems and concerns around with other concession business owners can be very valuable.

Check out their website today and see if joining the NICA is right for you.

Thursday, October 4, 2007


New Links for Finding Special Events


A few articles ago, I said I would write a post when I found links for softball tournaments. I have several good links for you to use.

The first is SoftballTournaments.com. This is a nationwide directory of youth, men’s, and ladies softball tournaments. This is a GREAT resource. Please make sure you check it out if you are looking for weekend events in your area. This is a very comprehensive website. For example, in California, they list 17 tournaments for the remainder of this year, North Carolina has 3 listed for October, and Texas has 6 listed through November. This is just a random snapshot of their listings. Please check out the listings in your area. The site provides contact information for the tournament directors too, which is excellent and makes it easier for you to get in touch with the correct person.

The other resources are:

Amateur Softball Assosication Tournament Locator (another excellent resource.)

National Softball Association (Youth and Adult tournaments are listed.)



Again, I would encourage you to contact the tournament director initially and ask them for the contact person who is overseeing the concessions. Have fun and fill up that special events calendar! It’s not too early to start booking dates for 2008!

Wednesday, October 3, 2007


Here’s what another satisfied customer serving our country overseas sent to us recently:


"Awesome service. Merchant offers a product not easy to find and makes it simple to purchase. The product I purchased from Hawaiian Shaved Ice fit my needs perfectly....to make snow cones in Baghdad. My entire unit is in love with the machine and plans on purchasing some more. Thanks for the snow cones from the Puerto Rico National Guard, the United States Army, and myself."
Sgt. F., Baghdad, Iraq


Thanks for the positive comments! We’re thrilled to be able to provide the supplies needed to create a ‘little taste of home.’ Thank you for your service!


How Cotton Candy is Made…


Have you ever wondered how cotton candy is made? Are you curious? Well, here’s the answer!

The first step in the process involves melting the sugar into a liquid form so that it can be spun inside of the cotton candy machine. Once the sugar has been liquefied, the machine forces the liquid sugar through small holes in the walls of the machine which shape and cool the liquid sugar. As it cools, the sugar changes from a liquid state to a solid state where it can be collected (wound on a cotton candy cone) and served to eager customers who want to devour the tasty treat!

It’s an amazingly simple process that yields a wonderfully, delicious snack! So, there you go! You learn something new every day…



To learn tips and tricks about cotton candy, visit CottonCandyExpress.com and click on Cotton Candy Info!

Tuesday, October 2, 2007


Your Information is Secure When Ordering from 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com


Online security is a major priority these days. Credit card fraud, scams and identity theft are concerns for everyone. Rest assured that when you place an order with 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com, CottonCandyExpress.com, or HawaiianShavedIce.com, your information is protected and secure.

Our sites are hosted by Yahoo! Store. Yahoo! hosts our stores, ordering system and ordering data. Utilizing secure serves to process your orders with top of the line encryption technology ensures the security of your personal or business information. As part of their commitment to your security, Yahoo! has HackerSafe verify the integrity of the system by doing a security scan everyday.



Your order information is seen only by us and used to process your order. To learn more about how you are protected, please read through Yahoo!’s privacy policy and our privacy policy.

Monday, October 1, 2007


Professional Apparel for your Shaved Ice Business


Looking for a way to refine the professional image of your shaved ice company? Check out the excellent, high quality, professionally designed logo apparel at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com.

Whether you’re looking for polo shirts, T-shirts, hats, aprons, sweatshirts or other assorted apparel, we have it all available for you. In fact, we have over 140 different apparel items available.



Instituting a ‘uniform’ design or just having matching aprons adds to the professional image you desire to create with your company. Purchase them for your friends and family too…they are a great way to advertise! Check out our great designs and order today!

Friday, September 28, 2007


Supporting our Troops and Customers Overseas



We recently received this comment from a customer serving in the Armed Forces overseas:

The CottonCandyExpress web site was very easy to navigate,
On a Tuesday we placed an overseas order with them,
with a special request of rushed shipment,
they had it to us in Germany a week later,
plenty of time to make our event even sweeter!
Thank you CottonCandyExpress.

From Germany


CottonCandyExpress.com, HawaiianShavedIce.com and 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com will ship their products to any APO (Army Post Office) or FPO (Fleet Post Office) address in the world using US Priority Mail! Whether they are on a ship, a military base, or US Embassy...we'll send it there!

We enjoy providing quality, enjoyable treats for our men and women faithfully serving our country in far off places. We also hope that the kids who are stationed overseas with their parents are getting their fair share of snow cones, shaved ice and cotton candy too!

To learn more about our shipping policies, please click here.

Thursday, September 27, 2007


Stock Up Now! Our Fall Sale is Happening Now. Save Big!



Summer has come to a close, but now is the time to prepare for next season! Everything at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com is on sale. Save anywhere from 10-25% on shaved ice machines, snow cone machines, supplies, syrups and flavoring supplies.

If you are looking to purchase a new machine, now is the time to buy it! Our everyday low prices are now even lower! This is the best time to purchase your new machine and test it during the off season. When prime selling time is upon you…you’ll be ready and familiar with your new machine.

Restock on all of your supplies. You won’t find better prices on all the necessary supplies for your shaved ice or snow cone business anywhere else.

Check out all of the great savings at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com and order today!


Slush Drink Information


If you are considering the purchase of a slush machine, here are some interesting numbers to review.

Based on past experience in the industry, about 54% of women purchase slush treats versus 46% of men. Women tend to purchase slush treats 3 to 7 times per week whereas men purchase slush treats 2 to 5 times per week. Out of the percentages of both men and women, the average age group of customers who enjoy the treat is 25-49 years old. Most customers purchase slush treats for snacks, thirst quenchers, desserts, and meal replacements.

The most common serving size for a slush drink is a 16 oz. cup that can average from $1.00 to $1.50. If you are at a special event, you may want to increase your prices slightly. In addition, you may serve several hundred drinks at one event. Please make sure you have enough mix available (you can serve approximately 120 – 16 oz. cups per case of slush mix). Your cost per 16 oz. cup is $.303, which is detailed below:

Supplies Cost
16 oz cup $.053
Slush $.24
Spoonstraw $.01

Total Cost: $.303


We hope this information is helpful to you in deciding whether or not to pursue the purchase and use of a slush machine.

Monday, September 24, 2007


Slush Machines on Sale


In addition to selling top of the line shave ice and snow cone machines at 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com, we also sell the very popular and dependable Bunn Ultra-2 slush machine. Bunn is a brand known for its quality and durability. Adding slush drinks to your menu line is a great way to boost your profits. On warm days, people will flock to your location for your great shaved ice, snow cones or slushes!

Plan ahead for next summer! Our slush machines are on sale. Check out our great fall savings now! Click here for more information.