Taste of Middlesex — Teardown SOP¶
Goal: Be packed and out within 30 minutes of event end. In 2026 we were the last ones out — this checklist prevents that.
Before the Rush¶
Start these 30 minutes before event end, while traffic is still flowing:
- Consolidate backup supplies under the table (extra cups, napkins, etc.)
- Break down any equipment that's no longer in use (e.g. V60 if demos are done)
- Rinse and dry carafes/pots that are empty
- Pack up promo materials — keep only business cards and a few menus out
- Bag up trash, replace with a fresh bag for final cleanup
At Event End¶
Stop serving and begin breakdown immediately:
1. Liquids & Perishables (do first)¶
- Pour out remaining coffee/tea
- Cap and pack milk, oat milk, half-and-half (cooler)
- Pack sugar, sweeteners, condiments
2. Brewing Equipment¶
- Unplug and cool Moccamaster
- Unplug kettle
- Pack V60, scale, grinder
- Pack teapot, tea tray
- Pack carafes
3. Serving & Display¶
- Pack remaining cups, lids
- Pack Biscoff, pastries, display platter
- Collect door prize materials / sign-up sheets
4. Table & Branding¶
- Remove table banner
- Fold table covers
- Pack pens, notepad, branded cup
5. Utilities¶
- Coil extension cords
- Pack power strip
- Final trash sweep — bag it
- Wipe down table
- Used towels in a separate bag
6. Final Check¶
- Scan under and around table for anything left behind
- Return table to event staff if required
- Load vehicle
Roles (minimum 3 people)¶
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Breakdown lead | Runs the checklist, directs others |
| Packer | Boxes and loads equipment into vehicle |
| Cleaner | Trash, wipe-down, final sweep |
If only 2 people: breakdown lead doubles as cleaner.
Notes¶
- Confirm all staff can stay through teardown before the event
- Runners who leave early (e.g. can't drive after dark) should not be counted as teardown staff