Delaware North Companies Sportservice Serves Fans of All Ages at Little League World Series

BUFFALO, N.Y., Aug. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Celebrating 60 years of great baseball, the Little League World Series is poised to welcome an estimated 270,000 hungry fans to Williamsport, Pa., from Aug. 18 - 27, as sluggers, catchers and runners prepare to battle it out on the diamond. And what would baseball be without the smells of the game? From hot dogs to funnel cakes to slush puppies and pizza, Delaware North Companies Sportservice has the bases covered.

Since 2001, Delaware North Companies Sportservice has served as the food service provider for the series; and this year the company is expanding its offerings to include fresh, homemade cookies from a local bakery, chicken tenders, frozen lemonade and a favorite pulled pork sandwich. Traditionalists need not worry as the concessionaire still plans to sell a whopping 35,000 orders of French fries, more than 32,000 hot dogs and pizza slices, 40,000 bottles of water and 20,000 hamburgers. And the prices can't be beat. Chicken tenders will go for $3.00 and groups can order the family pack of four hot dogs, four fries and four small sodas for a discounted price of $14.00.

"We really are all about creating a memorable experience for the whole family," said Rick Abramson, president, Delaware North Companies Sportservice. "It's a thrill for Sportservice to be involved with the Little League World Series; and we take pride in offering fans the highest quality of food at affordable prices. We're excited to help the series celebrate its 60th year with great food that includes fare that is synonymous with baseball such as hot dogs and cracker jacks as well as some new offerings that bring a local flair to a favorite pastime."

This year Delaware North Companies Sportservice purchased a new central concession stand tagged the "Short Stop" that will be manned by 20 volunteers and be able to serve customers at three different registers. In addition to the "Short Stop," there are concession stands and vendors throughout the stadium from which fans can purchase food.

Despite the large sales volumes, and projected increase from 2005's numbers, Delaware North Companies Sportservice won't take the entire profit home. More than 400 volunteers of all ages are trained by the concessionaire to help serve food; and to them the company pays out more than 10 percent of its proceeds that they then give to their choice of non-profit groups. In 2005 Sportservice paid out more than $20,000 to local charities.

"Watching these kids compete is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; and the fact that we get to give back to this wonderful community at the same time makes it even more rewarding," said Tom Booth, general manager, Delaware North Companies Sportservice. "With our added food offerings and new Short Stop concession stand, Sportservice has built on the already great family experience at the Little League World Series. We look forward to feeding fans of all ages for years to come."

About Delaware North Companies Sportservice

Delaware North Companies Sportservice has been a global leader in food, beverage and retail management for nearly a century. The company provides concessions, gourmet catering and fine dining operations at more than 50 professional sporting venues for Major League Baseball, the National Football League and the National Hockey League, as well as at entertainment complexes and convention centers across the United States and Canada. From the Stanley Cup Championships and Major League Baseball's World Series to the Olympic Games and world-class entertainment, Sportservice continues to set the standard for innovation, creativity and customer service excellence.

Throughout its impressive history, Sportservice has kept its focus on the fans and evolved its facilities, operations and food and retail offerings to meet the ever-changing industry trends and consumer demands. Whether it's introducing healthier food selections and signature cuisine to fresh takes on traditional fare and new organic options, Sportservice is committed to taking the fan experience to a whole new level.

About Delaware North Companies

Delaware North Companies is one of the world's leading hospitality and food service providers. Its family of companies includes Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment, Delaware North Companies Travel Hospitality Services, Delaware North Companies Sportservice, Delaware North Companies International, TD Banknorth Garden and American Park 'n Swap. Delaware North Companies is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States with revenues approaching $2 billion annually and 40,000 associates serving half a billion customers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. For more information, visit http://www.delawarenorth.com/.