Food trucks are all the rage at the minute. The street food scene is bustling and diverse, delivering fabulous food to the masses. It was once an industry denounced for unhealthy and greasy food, but there’s been a real change of perception recently with a variety of brilliant outlets coming onto the market.
For business owners, starting a food truck is often a steppingstone to achieving the dream of a permanent restaurant. It can be done with much less investment, risk and time, helping entrepreneurs to build their brands. If you’re looking to do the same, here’s what you need to get started.
Culinary skills
Ideally, you should have some level of culinary skill and experience. If not, at least a keen interest in developing them. Perhaps you’d like to specialise in a particular cuisine or even a singular food item. Some of the best food trucks only sell one type of product because it’s a unique selling point and they’ve mastered the art.
A vehicle
This is one of the best parts about creating a food truck. You’ll need a vehicle that can facilitate your cooking and serving needs. This could be an all-in-one solution that provides transportation or a trailer that you can pick up and drop off.
If you’re just starting, you’ll probably be limited to second-hand options, but these can be the most fun to add your character to. Get the aesthetic right to complement your branding and vision. You’ll draw more eyes (and hopefully customers) if it’s unique and intriguing.
Equipment and power
Inside the vehicle, you’ll need to fit all the necessary equipment for your operation. This could be a fridge, freezer, cooker, extraction system and other devices such as till systems and payment points. It may be cramped in a tiny workspace, so be sure to plan the layout carefully.
Don’t forget the power supply which will be crucial for powering all your equipment. You may need electrical sockets to hook up to the mains, or a connection for fuel generators that can be placed outside of the vehicle when you’re in operation.
Licencing
Legal considerations should be your next port of call. Without the appropriate food licences, you won’t legally be allowed to sell your food to paying customers. You can usually apply for these through your local authority. Follow the guidance of the Food Standards Agency too so you don’t risk your venture.
Once you have registered your food business, you can trade away and sell your delicious delights to everyone who wants them. Good luck!