That would make three straight profitable years, Trent said of the ambitious center, which has had its share of critics through the years. Profits this year should be equal to or greater than last year, Trent expects. The Greenbrier-run food court accounts for 40 percent of total sales, Trent said. When Tamarack first opened, roughly two out of three visitors made a purchase, Dwight said.
More people buy food than make a retail purchase.
The Food Court expanded May 4 when a gourmet ice cream shop, offering 15 flavors, cones, milk shakes and sundaes, opened just beyond the cash registers and water stand. Tamarack does best during the summer travel season. Peak season runs Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day and spikes again in October when Bridge Day, the fall foliage season and white watering on the Gauley River bring in visitors, Trent said. Tamarack has about 1,950 approved vendors, but buys from only about 1,100 in any given year, he noted. Some artisans get juried in and never sell to us.