Unless you've lived with your head in the ground, you know this weekend brings big bucks to your store. Everyone is stocking up for the barbecue they'll host, the fireworks they'll watch and the community celebrations they'll attend. And chances are, all of them are headed to your store now. Are you prepared?

According to the National Retail Federation, nearly 144 million Americans, or 61.9 percent of adults plan on enjoying the holiday by attending or hosting a barbecue or picnic. Here are some tips to stay up on your service and maximize profits this busy weekend.

1. Keep inventory current
Most likely the big displays of patriotic foods and beverages you have up front are going to get hit first, which means they'll also go empty first. Assign an employee to watch those sections so that your customers don't turn around the second they walk through the doors, thinking there is nothing left.

2. Think outside the bun
Yes, a lot of your customers will be looking for hamburger and hotdog materials for their barbecue. Make sure to put other items in front of them that they might enjoy more like tuna burgers or potato pancakes - hey, you can pretty much grill anything!

3. Remind your employees to stay upbeat
With more and more people coming through the door, employee morale may wane. Remind them to stay chipper and offer prizes for the staff member that gets the best feedback over the weekend from customers.