The North Carolina State Fair announced a dramatic increase in food‑and‑beverage revenue this year, collecting just over $3.1 million from vendors compared with just under $980,000 last year. The jump follows the fair’s decision to replace its flat‑rate frontage charge with a 15 percent gross‑sales fee, taken after tax, and to require all vendors to use the Clover point‑of‑sale system.

New fee structure and technology

Historically, vendors paid $180 per foot of frontage to participate. This year the fair switched to a percentage‑based model, taking 15 percent of each vendor’s gross sales after tax. Fair director Kent Yelverson said the change aligns the fair’s revenue with vendor performance and mirrors fee structures at other state fairs.

In addition, the fair mandated the use of the Clover point‑of‑sale platform, allowing the fair to audit sales in real time. Vendors were charged roughly $500 to rent the hardware, a cost that some say adds to the financial burden.

Vendor reactions

Several vendors expressed concern that the new fee and technology could erode profitability. Devon Rice, co‑founder of Dinkers, a glazed‑nuts company that employs neuro‑divergent workers, said his first‑time experience at the fair resulted in a loss. “Because where it stands now, it’s almost guaranteed we won’t make enough of a profit to be in the same ballpark as other events,” Rice said.

Rice also noted that 50 percent of this year’s vendors were from outside North Carolina and urged the fair to prioritize local businesses. “There should absolutely be a lower fee for local vendors, since North Carolina is their home base,” he added.

Fair’s response

Yelverson acknowledged the mixed feedback but emphasized that the fair will continue to evaluate changes between events. “Sure, change is change, and certainly some enjoyed the experience, some did not. We’ll look at everything. We always do between fairs and consider all changes, and I fully expect that we will continue as a percentage‑based fair and as a Clover‑only fair,” he said.

The director also indicated that the additional revenue will be directed toward improvements slated for the fairgrounds’ centennial in 2028, though specific projects were not detailed.

Impact on the local economy

With 214 food and beverage vendors this year—up from 204 the previous year—the fair’s higher vendor count contributed to the revenue surge. While some vendors fear the new fee structure may deter small, locally‑owned businesses, the fair’s leadership argues that the model provides a more sustainable financial foundation for future enhancements.

Local business groups have not yet issued an official statement, but the conversation highlights the ongoing balance between supporting entrepreneurial ventures and ensuring the fair’s fiscal health.

Looking ahead

As the fair prepares for its 100‑year anniversary in 2028, the administration plans to review vendor feedback and consider adjustments that could better serve North Carolina‑based entrepreneurs while maintaining the revenue gains that fund long‑term improvements.

Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.