Ratio of attendees to Food Vendors

Been awhile since I have been here. 2009 just isn’t the year for my food vending ventures. I did a couple of events in the spring. Both of these events did extremely well last year. Unfortunately both events were a bust this year. When I did the events in 2008 there were a limited number of food vendors. One had me as the primary food vendor (Hotdogs & Hamburgers) and a couple of fun food vendors. The other one had two primary food vendors (Myself & an concession trailer selling fried food items). This year there were three food venders, three fun food vendors & two charities selling food at the first one and about the same at the second one. Needless to say no one made enough to break even.
I remember seeing an attendee to food vendor ratio somewhere in the forum. If anyone knows the location or what the formula is please respond. Both these events want me to come back and I am negotiating with one to be the only primary food (Two day antique show) and would appreciate any information on how to determine how many food vendors should be allowed to set up.
Thanks

Jody,
I remember the thread but I don't think there was any sort of ratio that came from it. Secondly I don't see how anyone except the promoters could decide what numbers they want to use.

You have to make up your mind as to the size of the crowds vs the number of vendors that you choose to work.

I do think your going about it the correct way though if you can negotiate with the promoters and they feel confident with your ability to feed the crowd in a timely manner, you end up with a great event.

Unfortunately most promoters tend to be on the greedy side and thus every year are looking for new vendors because  none of the previous years crews will return.

When I get contacted by a promoter about doing an event, I usually ask who was and what happened to your last BBQ vendor? It's pretty easy to tell when they answer if he (previous BBQ vendor) chose not to return and that helps me make up my mind as to doing, or not doing the event.

I'm sure others will post a reply but I just don't think there is any sort of hard fast formula.

Good Luck
Jack

True said things. I have realized in the last 3  yrs. of doin the festivals etc. that you can not trust the .. uhhg.. event management to tell you the true #'s of attendees or other food folks. They charge an awful lot in fees to us, and under state the amt. of food venders. So it's pretty tough going to make enough to want to come back the next time. Too bad though as they burst alot of bubbles of good folks who spend alot of time effort and $ to get into this biz. Many a hard lesson is learned. Ouch.