Located at the Marana Health Center, Ryan O’Gurk has been passionately selling his small batch popcorn for almost a decade. His commitment to freshness sets his product apart, as he emphasizes that not all popcorn can claim the same quality, especially if it comes from a pre-packaged bag. O’Gurk takes pride in the fact that his popcorn is made daily, just before it’s sold.

Popping Out of the Shell: A Personal Journey

Ryan O’Gurk, who has autism, shared in December how running his popcorn business has been instrumental in helping him overcome social challenges. Despite being less social due to his condition, O’Gurk finds joy in connecting with people through his popcorn. He expressed this sentiment while preparing for the 4th Avenue Street Fair, highlighting the positive impact his business has on both him and the community.

Navigating Through the Challenges of 2024

In 2024, the Marana Health Center is witnessing the return of O’Gurk’s popcorn business after a temporary hiatus caused by the challenges posed by COVID. O’Gurk’s dedication to being there for the people is evident as he talks about the joy of giving people popcorn and witnessing the delight on their faces.

Monday: A Key Day for Business

For O’Gurk, Mondays are pivotal for his business. He has extended the operating hours to 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., making his small batch popcorn available to the public. Describing Mondays as his “brick and mortar” day, O’Gurk sees it as a consistent opportunity to connect with customers and grow his business.

Diversifying Sales Channels

In addition to the Monday pop-up, O’Gurk is strategically expanding his business by venturing into online and private party sales. Expressing his openness to catering to popcorn needs, he invites customers to reach out for any popcorn requirements they might have.

Accessibility Beyond Mondays

Understanding that not everyone can make it to the Monday pop-up, O’Gurk ensures accessibility by offering his snacks for pick-up and delivery through his website. This approach aims to make his delicious popcorn available to a wider audience, further contributing to the success of his small batch popcorn business.

Thriving in 2024: A Promising Future

As Ryan O’Gurk navigates the challenges of 2024, his small batch popcorn business continues to thrive. The commitment to freshness, dedication to customer satisfaction, and strategic expansion into online sales showcase O’Gurk’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. The joy he derives from sharing his popcorn and connecting with the community reflects a promising future for his business.

A Flavorful Journey Ahead

As O’Gurk looks forward to boosting his business, the journey includes more than just Mondays at the Marana Health Center. It encompasses online sales, private parties, and a commitment to delivering smiles through his fresh and delightful small batch popcorn. The flavorful journey ahead holds the promise of continued success for Ryan O’Gurk and his beloved popcorn business.