Local vendors use Big Fresno Fair to help drive sales

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- At Pepe's Marisco's, the Fresno-based business is hitting it big with ceviche, Mexican food, and other healthy options. Lola Ramirez can always count on strong sales on her hometown turf and this year is no different.

"For this fair, being 12 days, it is very good. We always say that this is one of the best fairs-- we do do some of the big four week, five-week fairs and this one keeps up with them."

The fair is where a Hilmar based company is rolling out their latest product, a craft caramel corn. It's a sweet treat made using fresh caramel, popcorn that's baked not popped, with a smooth buttery finish.

"We want to get a following, that's our plan. We'd like to do online sales eventually so we just want to get the name out there," said Amy Jones, Pop Gold Craft Caramel Corn.

Vendors said it's most important to know who your target customer is, at a local sports store it's women and anything bling.

Food vendors too are taking note of who has the hungriest appetite for their meals.

"Of course, a lot of kids come out here. We love the age group that likes our food, the 35 and above and the 30 too. Those are the age groups that want to try our food," said

Fresno's Kool Designs has been displaying shirts, hats, and a whole lot more in the commerce building for more than a decade. Owner Gil Palacio said the fair's foot traffic is a great way to advertise the storefront business that's open year round. It's also a great way to gauge the hottest items.

"It's the women-- women and kids are buying more and more. The women are getting stronger in their vehicles-- as far as decals, license plate frames, seat covers, pillow covers. They are taking over."

Exhibitors said the large numbers of fair visitors makes it easy to score a profit. And for the local vendors, the hometown crowd is always supportive of small businesses made in the Valley.