How to Start a Mobile Concession Food Stand Business
Mobile food stands can be lucrative businesses. The right stand could result in an impressive salary for just a few months of work. A mobile cart offers you mobility and the freedom of being your own boss. But first you need to identify what kind of concession stand would be right for you.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Van or concession cart
- Food
- Food handler's permit
- Sales tax permit
- Refrigeration
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine how much work you want to put into your business. You may choose to offer a daily menu to businesses or work seasonally at fairs and other events. If you commit to a weekly lunch schedule, you will need to make sure that you can stick to it and operate your stand every day.
-
2
Determine the type of concession stand you will offer. Mobile food stands run the gamut, from selling burritos and other hot meals to ice cream, soft pretzels and snacks. You could provide set up a lunch concession near corporate offices, business parks, high schools, colleges or other businesses that employ lots of people. Or you could run a seasonal stand at fairs and outdoor events.
-
-
3
Evaluate your competition, if any. Visit busy office buildings and business parks and ask if they already have a food service. If not, ask if you can operate your business on the premises. Always obtain permission from tenants before setting up shop. Contact city hall to ensure that your site is properly zoned to allow you to operate there.
-
4
Obtain a food handler's permit from your state health department, a business license and sales tax permit from your county clerk and a federal tax ID from the IRS. You will be required to take a test for your food permit. Review the basic food handling study guide in advance (see Resources).
-
5
Purchase liability insurance for your business and auto liability for your business van, if necessary. Liability is particularly important for someone who sells food as it will protect you in the event that a customer gets sick or has an allergic reaction.
-
6
Locate suppliers for your food, snacks and beverages. Snacks and beverages may be purchased wholesale online. If you plan to sell homemade sandwiches, cookies and other goodies, team up with a catering company in your area. Offering high quality or unusual food is a great way to set your business apart from the competition. You may specialize in all-natural or low-fat foods. Don't overlook businesses such as Wal-Mart and Big Lots as suppliers; they might have closeouts on brands of bottled water and snacks that you typically carry. But don't buy unfamiliar brands unless you intend to stick with them. Your customers will want to know what foods they can expect you to have each day.
-
7
Purchase your van, cart, refrigeration unit and signs. In addition, purchase condiments, utensils, napkins and cup holders (if selling hot foods). If you can afford to do so, consider custom-ordering supplies to include your business logo.
-
8
Determine your schedule. If you will have a number of locations to deliver lunch to, be sure to give yourself enough time to make your rounds. Starting too early could mean that customers won't be thinking about lunch. Starting too late could mean your customers grow impatient and eat elsewhere.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit
