In 2023, the NFL Draft was held at Union Station in Kansas City, bringing excitement to local businesses. Jayaun Smith, owner of Sauced, credits the NFL Business Connect Program with helping his business grow exponentially. Being in the midst of the draft put his business on the map and increased gross profits significantly, allowing him to hire more staff.
Smith, a native of Kansas City, was thrilled to be selected as a personal chef for the draft. He describes it as an amazing experience that helped boost his business. Fridays are now their busiest days due to the increased foot traffic and exposure.
On the other hand, Alex Pope, co-owner of Local Pig and Pigwich in City Market did not see a significant increase in business during the draft. Although their restaurant saw an increase in customers, their meat market was much quieter than usual only at about 5% of a normal week in April. Pope advises businesses to consider how people will leave the event and plan accordingly when planning for future draft locations. Don’t purchase too many perishable products that may go to waste.
Overall, being a part of the first NFL Draft in Kansas City has been a blessing for both Smith and Pope’s businesses, despite some challenges they faced during the event.