Running a concession stand is like being part snack vendor, part logistics wizard. Whether you’re planning for a Friday night football crowd or a Tuesday volleyball game, stocking the stand is one of the biggest (and most important) tasks.

So… where should you actually buy all this stuff?

We’ve rounded up the best places to buy your concession supplies—plus a few pro tips to help you get the most bang for your snack bar buck.

These are a concession stand’s best friend.
Big packs, decent prices, and you don’t need to be a business to shop.

Why it works:

Best For:

Candy, bottled drinks, chips, individually wrapped snacks, hot dog buns, condiments, and napkins by the thousands.

🧠 Pro tip: Keep a rolling cart in your trunk. You’ll thank yourself when hauling five cases of Gatorade and a vat of nacho cheese.

If you’re feeding a crowd with hot food, this is your go-to.

Why it works:

Best For:

Hot dogs, burgers, nacho cheese, frozen pizza, popcorn, pretzels, and basically any item that lives in a warming tray.

🔥 Pro tip: Ask about pre-portioned and pre-cooked items—makes training volunteers easier and cooking faster.

Not ideal for feeding the whole bleacher section, but perfect for quick pickups or small crowds.

Why it works:

Best For:

Fill-in items like extra chips, bottled water, or condiments you forgot (hey, it happens).

💡 Pro tip: Some stores offer school discounts or tax exemption—just ask at customer service!

If you’re selling a lot of drinks, these folks can help you keep things cool—and branded.

Why it works:

Best For:

Sodas, bottled water, Gatorade, and anything that comes in a cooler.

🤝 Heads up: You may need to agree to exclusivity (Coke or Pepsi, not both). But the perks often make it worth it.

Want to wow your crowd with something beyond the basics? Partner with local food heroes.

Why it works:

Best For:

Pizza by the slice, cookies, brownies, unique sandwiches, or specialty night “wow” items.

👕 Pro tip: Promote their business on your menu or at your stand—it’s a win-win partnership.

Great for gear and one-off specialty items you can’t grab at a local store.

Why it works:

Best For:

Cotton candy machines, popcorn bags, nacho trays, refillable condiment bottles, signage, and fun extras like snow cone cups.

🚚 Pro tip: Account for shipping time—especially during sports season when everyone’s stocking up.

🧾 Check for tax exemption: Many stores and suppliers offer tax-free purchasing for schools and nonprofits. Bring your paperwork!

📆 Order ahead: Especially for rivalry games or big fundraisers. Avoid the “oh no, we’re out of cheese” panic.

💰 Compare unit prices: That giant tub of pickles might not actually be the best deal—always double-check the price per serving.

🎯 Mix it up: Use foodservice distributors for staples, wholesale clubs for restocks, and local shops for those crowd-pleasing specials.

Stocking your stand doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the staples, mix in some fresh ideas, and keep your storage organized. And hey—if you ever need to cut down those concession lines while still selling more? BlazeBite is here to help.

Want more concession stand tips and tricks? Check out the blog here.