What is it?
Running a tuck shop at local sports events is a fantastic way for teenagers to raise funds while engaging with their community. By selling popular snacks and drinks, you can generate steady income with relatively low effort and costs. It's an ideal beginner-friendly fundraiser that fits well around your schedule and helps you meet your fundraising goals.
Why does it work?
People at sports events often look for convenient, tasty snacks and drinks, creating a captive audience ready to spend. The informal, friendly setting encourages impulse buys, especially when the tuck shop is run by enthusiastic young fundraisers. Low overheads and popular items mean a good profit margin, making it easier to reach your financial target.
Step-by-step plan
1
Contact your local sports club or event organiser well in advance to get permission and find out if there are any rules about selling food and drinks onsite.
2
Plan your menu with popular, easy-to-sell items like crisps, chocolate bars, biscuits, water, and juice. Consider dietary needs such as vegetarian or gluten-free options.
3
Purchase your stock in bulk from supermarkets or wholesalers to keep costs down. Keep track of your spending to calculate prices that cover costs and generate profit.
4
Prepare your stall setup: bring a sturdy table, tablecloth, signage with prices, and any necessary equipment like coolers or cups.
5
Arrive early on the event day to set up your stall attractively and organise your products for easy access, keeping perishable items cool.
6
Engage customers with a friendly smile and clear pricing; suggest popular items or combo deals, like a drink and snack for a set price.
7
Keep a cash float for giving change and secure your takings throughout the event to minimise loss or theft.
8
At the end of the event, tally your sales, thank the organisers and volunteers, and evaluate which items sold best to improve next time.
Realistic earnings
Most teenagers can expect to earn between £30 and £80 per event, depending on the size of the crowd and how well you price and promote your items. Regular events can quickly add up towards your fundraising target.
Top tips
✅ Always check and follow food hygiene guidelines; consider registering as a food seller if required.
✅ Keep prices simple and clear to avoid confusion and speed up sales.
✅ Offer combo deals or discounts on multiple items to encourage bigger purchases.
✅ Bring plenty of water and snacks for yourself and your team to stay energised!
Common mistakes to avoid
⚠️ Not getting permission beforehand, which could lead to being asked to leave the event.
⚠️ Overpricing or underpricing items, which can either scare customers away or reduce your profit.
⚠️ Running out of popular items mid-event because of poor stock planning.