Freakonomics Radio The Economics of Everyday Things: Girl Scout Cookies
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Jan 30, 2023 Discover the fascinating world behind America's favorite cookies, as billions of Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs are sold each year. Learn how a determined young seller achieved record-breaking sales thanks to community support and enticing incentives. Explore the strategic planning and tactics involved in cookie sales, including the vital role of the 'cookie mom.' Delve into the competitive dynamics of the cookie market, especially the shift from door-to-door selling to online platforms, all while navigating the challenges of the pandemic.
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The Economics of Cookie Sales
- Girl Scout cookie sales generate substantial revenue, around $800 million annually, funding troop activities.
- The sales model involves tiered distribution, with portions going to the bakery, national organization, regional councils, and local troops.
Katie Francis's Cookie Success
- Katie Francis, a former Girl Scout, holds the national record for cookie sales, selling over 180,000 boxes.
- She achieved this through meticulous planning, strategic selling locations, and having her mom as the "cookie mom."
Parental Involvement in Cookie Sales
- Megan Barris, a cookie mom in Brooklyn, noticed competitiveness among parents during cookie season.
- Parents want their children to excel, leading to intense involvement in sales activities like booth setups.