Hi,
There is a lot to be said for personality, both Doug's and Burt's. I talked to Bob Schwartz, VP at Vienna Sausage about personality and how it contributed to a hot dog stand's success.
Bob had seen two nearby hot dog stands serving the same Vienna product: one had long lines and the other languished. He did attribute personality as part of the success. Those long lines also allowed fast turnover of product, which contributes to a better experience. Especially since hot dogs don't get better lingering in hot water.
I don't believe there was ever a day Doug or Burt were not at the helm. When Doug broke his leg or Burt had health problems, they closed.
While Doug closed his business, it is clear from this
podcast from his recent visit to Culinary Historians, he will be returning to workforce in 2016.
Regards,