Spudman has decided to scrap giving the first customer of the day a free jacket potato.
Ben Newman claims his fans have “willingly taken advantage of my good nature” which has urged him to stop his free spud rule.
The viral food stall trader, 39, has become a sensation with tatty lovers from all over the world travelling to Tamworth, Staffordshire to try them for up to £5.
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Ben gets huge queues at his stall with some people waiting up to two hours to have a jacket potato with their toppings of choice.
In an effort to attract customers Ben has been following the first customer rule, by giving them a free spud.
In recent weeks, customers have gotten used to the gimmick with Ben believing that it’s no longer getting the reaction he desires.
To keep his online content fresh and his fans entertained Ben states that he will still be doing freebies throughout the day.
Last week, he was contacted by the council stating that he needs to relocate due to redevelopment of the area, as reported by What’s The Jam.
Ben stated: “Tough decision, but I think it’s ran its course.
“I’m making the decision that we are no longer doing the first person freebie.
“It’s not getting the reactions out of the customers because everyone knows the first person was going to get it.
“We need to change it up, there have been a few incidents where people have willingly taken advantage of my good nature.
“We’re probably still going to give away just as many freebies, but we’re just going to do it in a different way, throughout the day.”
Fans of the Spudman were left devastated by the news of the first person freebie being scrapped.
Paul Jennings joked: “Imagine being first tomorrow.”
Another added: “As an Australian, this is devastating news.”
Another person stated: “If they weren’t first they would be paying, so highly doubt anyone is taking advantage.”
Another said: “If you’re first, you’re first.
“That’s the only reason I’ve followed.”
Another added: “Guy makes £100,000 a day but won’t give away a free spud.”
One other person said: “Shouldn’t matter if you get the reaction or not, a man stands by his words, don’t do this for views.”
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