The City of Lakeland asked the public what they can do to make Munn Park a place for all to enjoy and here is what we think! Containers are a MUST; specifically, container concessions! Here are a few reasons why. Let’s break them down!
The Local Lakeland Economy:
Using shipping containers as container concessions is a no-brainer money maker for the local Lakeland economy. These containers bring unique and niche foods to our community, creating a buzz that keeps customers coming back for more. Beyond just good eats, these container joints support local suppliers, create jobs, and contribute to the vibrant food culture that would make Lakeland a culinary hotspot. It’s a win-win for food lovers and the community alike! Plus, containers used as mini shops bring a unique and hip aesthetic with them.
Boosting Lakeland Community Engagement and Park Usage:
Container concessions or “Container Cafes” are a fantastic addition to any park because they quickly become lively social hubs where people gather, making the Lakeland park experience more vibrant and community-focused. With delicious food and drinks readily available, visitors are more likely to extend their stay, boosting foot traffic and overall park enjoyment. Where there is food, people will flock!
Eco-Friendly Approach for Lakeland’s Enhancement:
Rather than using new materials, using shipping containers as concessions is a smart and sustainable choice, giving new life to materials that might otherwise be discarded. This approach not only helps reduce waste but also adds a unique, modern touch to park amenities. Many container concessions are designed with eco-friendliness in mind, incorporating features like energy-efficient kitchens and waste reduction practices. This commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with the green initiatives often promoted by parks, enhancing their environmental impact while providing a functional and stylish solution for food service.
Success at other Container centered locations:
The Joinery in Lakeland
Lakeland’s The Joinery has a collection of small eateries and businesses which have been constructed using shipping containers from ATR as their framework! In the photos below you can see they’re still embracing the cool industrial container look! We’re proud for two of Lakeland’s local businesses, ATR and The Joinery, to have worked together to make Lakeland even better!
KRATE at The Grove
KRATE at The Grove is located in Wesley Chapel. This is yet another container project that ATR proudly contributed to! It marked its second anniversary in June 2024 and was honored with Tampa Bay’s “Development of the Year” award in 2022. This vibrant container space hosts weekly events that bring the community together, offering a lively atmosphere and a diverse array of activities. With 46 unique container shops and restaurants, KRATE provides a dynamic mix of trendy and engaging experiences, making it a go-to destination for food, shopping, and entertainment.
Before we close, we also want to add that the City of Lakeland also proposed a dog park, and we wholeheartedly agree with that as well.
Shops made from containers are more than just a trendy addition—they’re a smart, eco-friendly solution that boosts the local economy and enhances community engagement. With proven success at places like The Joinery and KRATE, it’s clear that these unique structures can transform Munn Park into a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. Embracing this innovative approach will not only revitalize the park but also create a lasting impact on Lakeland’s culinary and social landscape. The future of Munn Park is bright, and container concessions could be the key to unlocking its full potential.
If you’re wondering, “but where can they get all these containers?” why…LOCALLY of course! Here at ATR we sell containers that would be PERFECT for Munn Park’s facelift! If you’re interested in purchasing for your future container café (or construction jobsite) please request a quote today!
