Popcorn delivery proves popular in Waterloo Region
Posted Apr 26, 2021 05:27:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Business has been booming for a local popcorn business, despite provincial COVID-19 restrictions.
Frank Bechard has owned Kernels Popcorn in Conestoga Mall for the past 11 years, and said 2020 was very tough.
“I was closed for three and a half months completely. I wasn't allowed to do anything,” said Bechard.
During this year's shutdowns, he was able to offer curbside delivery and pick-up, but things were still proving to be difficult.
“This past month, I tried something new,” explained Bechard.
He said he posted a notice in a popular Facebook group about 'free delivery' – and things quickly escalated.
“Our first week, we had like a dozen orders. The second week was like 100 orders … the third week was 200 orders … and then last week, there were thousands. It just went viral on Facebook.”
Due to the extreme popularity, Bechard said he's now redesigning his entire business model.
“The gas we're spending delivering is so much cheaper than the royalties we pay to the major delivery places, and obviously it's so much cheaper to the customers as well.”
After the recent spike in demand, Bechard is also looking to 'pay it forward' in whatever ways he can.
“The COVID testing centre [on Charles Street] called us and said they want to place a group order for everyone that works there,” said Bechard. “I said I want to give it to you for free. I just felt like they deserve it … and I just thought it was the right thing to do.”
Bechard said he will be hiring more staff this week, and will be offering free delivery again next Friday. The line to text for the latter is 519-222-6313.
Bechard also clarified that next week's delivery option will only be available for residents in the City of Waterloo. For those in Kitchener and Cambridge, there will 'popcorn pick-up days' beginning later next month. Those interested can learn more and sign-up by e-mailing kernelskw@gmail.com.
