In 2023, Union Station in Kansas City was the site of the NFL Draft, bringing excitement to local businesses. Jayaun Smith, owner of Sauced, says that being part of the draft through the NFL Business Connect Program was a game-changer for his business. He describes it as an incredible opportunity to put his business on the map and increase 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. Being in the midst of all the action helped put his business in the spotlight and increased foot traffic. Fridays are now their busiest days thanks to the increased exposure from the event.

On the other hand, Alex Pope, co-owner of Local Pig and Pigwich in City Market, did not see the same boost in business during the draft. While 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. Despite stocking up early on items, Pope advises businesses in future draft locations to consider how people will leave the event and plan accordingly. Don’t purchase too many perishable products that may go to waste.