Cash mobs are gaining popularity in cities all over the U.S. The concept is simple: People mob a business with a plan to spend cold hard cash.
With Hamilton Boulevard construction weighing on many local businesses, Sioux City Growth Organization decided George's Hot Dog Shop needed a little surprise.
It's a sight that most businesses along Hamilton haven't seen in several months: a full parking lot. That's because Sioux City GO decided to have lunch at George's Hot Dog Shop.
"The cash mob is supposed to be a surprise, and good or bad, hopefully they're ready for it," said Luis Trejo with Sioux City GO.
And they were, with plenty of hot dogs on the grill.
"Somebody told me it was going to happen, and I kind of a little bit prepared, but I didn't think it was going to be that busy," said Mary Demetroulis, George's wife.
Trejo says social media played a big role.
"Sioux City go is a great group to form cash mobs, because we're young, active on social media and we're always looking for great ways to inject young professionals into the community."
Participants in the cash mob weren't asked to spend any specific amount of money, just as long as they spent something.
"I had two today," said Karrie King.
And Karrie King, who lives in Sioux City, says she wouldn't have missed the cash mob for anything.
"I think its very important that we keep those local businesses alive in Siouxland," she said.
As for Mary, she says she can't wait until construction on Hamilton is over.
"We want our customers back, we want the normal business," she said.
Sioux City GO plans on holding more cash mobs in the future.
The group's Facebook page has much more information: http://www.facebook.com/SiouxCityGO
