Maddy Cakes

Presenter

Madeline Stange

Document Type

Creative Exhibit

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This project explored the development of Maddy Cakes as a gourmet dessert food truck serving festivals, community events, and private celebrations throughout Northern Michigan. The project addressed a market gap in mobile dessert offerings, as most food trucks in the region focus on savory foods with limited high-quality dessert options available. Using primary research methods such as community surveys, competitor analysis, and pricing research, the project evaluated customer demand, target demographics, and purchasing behavior related to mobile dessert concepts. Findings indicated strong interest in premium, locally made desserts among festival and event attendees who value quality, creativity, and locally owned businesses. The project also examined operational considerations including menu development, seasonal and rotating offerings, event-based pricing, and private event customization. Key learnings highlighted the value of mobility in reaching rural and regional markets, the effectiveness of limited-time menus in driving impulse purchases, and the importance of community connection in small-market food entrepreneurship. Overall, the project demonstrated how a dessert-focused food truck could serve as a scalable and sustainable business model while building brand awareness across Northern Michigan.

Faculty Mentor

Jeffery Binzcyk, DBA

Academic Discipline

College of Food Innovation & Technology

Additional Files
Maddy cakes Poster (1).pdf (4449 kB)
Maddy Cakes Display 1.jpg (3792 kB)

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS