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Kansas City restaurants gear up for World Cup surge — and this time, they're ready
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City has seen big events before, but restaurants often got left hungry for profits.
This time, with one organization leading the charge, they're cooking up a different story. They started planning as early as last year.
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But here's the bigger deal: restaurants aren't just hoping fans will drop by. They're strategically placing their brands front and center to make sure success isn't left to chance.
'In 26 days with all six of these events that come through from June to mid-July, it's not even the whole month and we'll have visitors that are greater than the population of Kansas City,' said Mike Burris, the executive director of Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association.
Burris said not being ready for that kind of crowd isn't an option. He's making sure his members rise to the occasion — not simply react to it.
'You're going to have to be nimble – that's the word I keep using – you have to be nimble because it's going to change from the first two teams that get here to those last two teams,' he said.
That's why last year, Burris got to work — determined not to repeat what happened during the NFL Draft, when many local businesses missed out on the boom.
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He and his team invested in geo-fencing software to help restaurants connect with hungry fans searching for food — and boost their marketing game.
But it didn't stop there. They're rolling out interpretation guides, tipping explanations for international visitors, and plenty more to make sure no opportunity goes unclaimed.
'You're on the world stage so obviously want to put your best foot forward – but ultimately starting to plan now,' Tyler Banker said.
Banker, the director of Front-of-House Operations for the Summit Hospitality Group — which owns Third Street Social, Summit Grill, Pearl Tavern, and more — knows just how important those lessons are.
He's got a plan: from beefing up staff to educating customers, they're not leaving anything to chance.
And now, restaurant owners have a little extra help — this time from the Missouri Legislature.
Lawmakers passed a bill that would let businesses stay open 23 hours a day and sell liquor throughout the World Cup. The bill, which is now on the governor's desk and expected to be signed, would lift restrictions on when alcohol can be sold — impacting bars, restaurants, and liquor stores alike.
Back to the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association – they're even assisting with the little things.
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For example — the average time a local spends in a dine-in restaurant is about 45 minutes. International travelers? Closer to an hour and a half. That means table turnover will be slower — and patience will be key.
Bottom line: Burris says give these businesses a little grace — it's going to be a busy ride.
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