Who? Mandatory for all scouts. New scouts are encouraged but not required. What? 5 different varieties of popcorn. When? Early August to early/mid November. Where? Sell in person or via your own online portal or sign up for shift at a local storefront. Why? Dues all go to Twin Rivers Council. Pack 232 is funded entirely by annual popcorn sales. How? Create a Trails End account (our popcorn vendor) using Unit Code S7GV2 to get started.
Additional Benefits for Scouts
Earn valuable public speaking and sales skills Build self-confidence and learn the value of hard work and earning their way. Learn about setting goals and managing money. Earn gift card rewards and experiences from Trails End and can earn money in their Pack Scout Account that they can use to pay for scouting activities throughout the year.
Selling Opportunities
Sales Pitch
Focus on them support you or local scouting rather than on them buying popcorn with something like:
“Would you like to support your local cub scouts by buying some yummy popcorn?”
Trails End would advise you to never ask them to buy popcorn at all and say something like:
“Hello, my name is __! I am earning money for ____, with a $20 donation you can pick a bag on the table and help support local scouting. Can I count on your support?”
Show & Sell Tips
Wear your Class A uniform and do it properly (i.e. tucked in). Position table near the busiest entrance / exit but do not block it. Ask everyone who walks by (unless they are on the phone or similarly occupied). Stand, make eye contact and speak loudly. If 2 scouts are working, consider taking turns having one pitch customers and the other close / fulfill sales behind the table. Parents should focus on recording the orders / charging credit cards and allow the scout to do the selling. Allow the scout to learn to take cash payments and make change if possible. Scouts are not allowed to ask for donations but can accept them if offered. In fact almost half the money raised is from donations, so make sure the donation jar is visible. Always say “Thank You” and “Have a nice day” whether they buy or not. Clean up after yourself (leave no trace).
Common Questions / Objections
What are you raising money for? Explain all the fun hiking, camping, summer camps and other activities it funds. That’s really expensive! 70% of the sale goes directly to local scouting (half to that to council and the other half to the Pack). I don’t have any cash. We accept credit cards as well as Apple and Google Pay. I don’t have any money. No rebuttal needed as that’s different from no cash.