KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – As football season kicks off in Kansas City, it isn’t just the players who benefit.
Local businesses are finding creative ways to tap into the excitement of Chiefs Kingdom, from bakeries selling “lucky” cookies to breweries brewing team-inspired beers.
In Overland Park, Best Regards Bakery and Cafe has turned team spirit into a sweet tradition. Owner Robert Duensing said the shop has long embraced Chiefs-themed treats, but they also stay nimble when new trends or moments arise during the season.
“We have certain designs that we’ve always done, and then we also embrace that there’s new events,” Duensing said. “We try to do something new to create new superstitions. Superstitions are profitable for us.”
That flexibility has kept business strong, with fans often lining up for cookies that feel like more than just dessert; they’ve become part of game-day rituals.
Local businesses are feeling a positive impact as fans are gearing up for another season.(KCTV)
Over in the River Market, River Bluff Brewing is pouring a fan favorite of its own. The brewery has a seasonal beer called Arrowhead Red, which is available only during football season and has become a staple for Chiefs fans.
General Manager Hootie Wales said it has grown into a tradition that begins at training camp in St. Joseph, where their brewery headquarters is located, and, if all goes well, lasts until the very end of the season.
“We put out our Arrowhead Red, which is a malty red ale, a little bit of rye added to kind of balance out that sweetness,” Wales said. “During a season, we’re probably selling between both locations, almost 20,000 pints of that particular beer, which is like 80 barrels.”
On the Plaza, fans are just as likely to show their spirit through apparel. Shops like Made in KC work with dozens of local designers to churn out shirts tied to game-day buzz. Store manager Kari Lindner said the connection between fans and makers is what makes it special.
“We’ve got probably 50 different t-shirt makers in this building,” Lindner said. “So it’s really exciting for one, the fans to get what they want, and two, the makers to get their fun ideas and t-shirts and products out to the fans.”
KC Style Haus is another local shop that sees the same surge and benefits local business owners. Store Manager Stacy Arnone said the Chiefs’ season not only boosts sales, but also builds community.
“It’s just nice to meet new people that are Chiefs fans, and it’s just a warm environment,” Arnone said.
Local businesses are feeling a positive impact as fans are gearing up for another season.(KCTV)
Whether it’s cookies in Overland Park, craft beer in the River Market or t-shirts on the Plaza, the Chiefs’ success on the field continues to ripple through Kansas City’s economy.
With another season underway, businesses across the metro hope for a long playoff run and an extended boost to their bottom line.
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