How 6 downtown businesses found success during the pandemic

One day, Kolb got a call.

It was from the Hy-Vee on West Circle Drive, inquiring about buying Carroll’s popcorn to use in a trail mix. Realizing the potential of a partnership, Kolb proposed he sell the popcorn in Hy-Vee by itself. The two sides agreed to test the market by putting 30 bags on the shelves.

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Within 30 minutes, those bags sold out. Since then, Carroll’s Corn has been flying off the shelves of area Hy-Vees.

It was an unexpected change to their business model made necessary by the pandemic. While many downtown businesses struggled to stay open, those like Carroll’s that found success were able to adapt their strategies on the fly.

“I think the people that did succeed were…

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