Glossary · Events & planning
Dwell time
Definition
Dwell time is how long guests stay at an event or in one area. It shapes how demand for ice cream spreads across the day.
Dwell time is a planning term borrowed from retail and events. A garden party where guests stay all afternoon has a long dwell time, so demand for ice cream spreads out. A school sports day or a product launch where people pass through quickly has a short one, and demand comes in sharp peaks.
Knowing the likely dwell time helps decide the menu and the serving window. Short dwell times favour quick items like lollies and slush. Long ones leave room for Knickerbocker Glories and sundaes. Tell us roughly how long guests will be on site and when the busy moments are likely to be, and we can suggest a menu to suit.
Related terms
- Queue managementQueue management means planning how guests line up and are served so waits stay short and the queue does not block paths or other activities.
- Serving windowThe serving window is the agreed period during which the van is open and serving guests, separate from the time needed to arrive and set up.
- SlushSlush is a frozen drink of flavoured syrup and water, churned in a chilled machine until it forms fine ice crystals. Served in a cup with a straw.
- Ice lollyAn ice lolly is a frozen treat on a stick, made from flavoured water, juice or ice cream. Wrapped lollies are the fastest thing a van can serve.
- The full glossary54 terms, from soft serve to street trading licences.
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