Industry Archives - Custom Concessions https://www.customconcessions.com/tag/industry/ Wed, 23 Oct 2019 15:55:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 http://www.customconcessions.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/cropped-Fav-32x32.jpg Industry Archives - Custom Concessions https://www.customconcessions.com/tag/industry/ 32 32 Seeking Success: Strategies To Grow Your Food Truck Business http://www.customconcessions.com/seeking-success-strategies-to-grow-your-food-truck-business/ http://www.customconcessions.com/seeking-success-strategies-to-grow-your-food-truck-business/#comments Mon, 07 Oct 2019 18:50:52 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12618 Are you having trouble growing your food truck business? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re a current or future food truck owner, we think these tips will help jumpstart your strategy for food truck success. Market like a Maniac  Marketing is one of the most important aspects of […]

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pink food truck selling Vietnamese street food parked on a city plaza

Are you having trouble growing your food truck business? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re a current or future food truck owner, we think these tips will help jumpstart your strategy for food truck success.

Market like a Maniac 

Marketing is one of the most important aspects of your business. This is how you get your name out there to the people. After all, if no one has heard of your food truck, how are you going to grow your business?

Make sure your truck has a branded identity that is easily recognizable and pairs well with the food you serve. It doesn’t make sense to brand yourself like a 50s diner when the only dishes on the menu are Japanese noodles. 

This doesn’t mean that you can’t be creative with your styling; just make sure your creativity flows in the same vein as your food theme.

Up Your Social Media Game

Does your truck have a strong presence on social media? Or would potential customers wonder if you are even still in business judging by the lack of recent posts?

Keeping up with your engagement on social media can be tough, but your mobile food truck will thank you when lines are gathered outside of it.

Post your daily or weekly specials on Facebook. Share photos of your most enticing dishes on Instagram. Advertise your current location on your Snapchat story.

Be Frugal

Sometimes it’s tempting to look at the success you’ve had in the past and take it for granted, but don’t forget that a lot of what helped you get there was careful planning, patient saving, and judicious spending.

It’s very easy to go all out when you feel you’ve finally “made it,” but continuing to wisely steward your business resources is the best way to go. This way, if hard times unexpectedly befall you, you will have greater potential to bounce back.

Keep following your business plan. Don’t stop looking for even the small ways you can save on spending. And don’t forget to always seek wise business counsel for any major financial decisions you may find on your horizon.

Run with the Seasons

It is important to continue making the food that has gotten you so much success in the first place, but it is never a bad idea to change up the menu every now and then.

One of the key ways you can do this is by introducing seasonal specials or limited time offerings. Customers often enjoy products that are relevant to the time of year, like specialty frozen treats during summer, fall-inspired flavors in autumn, or warm comfort foods for winter. 

Having certain dishes that only return to the menu at specific times of year adds to your food truck’s nostalgia. These specials allow you to build anticipation among your clientele when a favorite seasonal item is about to come back on the menu.

Offering temporary specials also gives you the advantage of testing new recipes or ideas before adding them to your regular menu. It allows you to gauge how popular a food will be before committing to it as a permanent offering year round.

Remember To Be You

While change is a good way to add some spice to your food truck offerings, remember to stay true to your food truck’s core identity. You have made it this far with your mobile kitchen, so you’ve been doing something right along the way.

Don’t throw everything out the window or change too much at once. If you are known for specific quirks, then by all means stick to them. After all, they are probably the very things that keep returning customers coming back again and again. 

Do you serve certain specials every Wednesday? Is there a secret sauce you add to signature dishes? No matter what you are known for, keep doing you.

Start Catering

Branch out and offer catering for weddings, special events, festivals or whatever else you can find. This is not only a great way to make some serious dough (perhaps literally and figuratively), but it is also a great way to get your food truck’s name out there.

Try displaying a sign announcing your new catering service wherever you set up shop to generate awareness among your regular customers. Be sure to announce your new catering services on your social media channels. 

You could even consider contacting local print media, like food magazines, newspapers, or community newsletters, to see if they would be interested in running a story on this new service in the local food scene.

Set Goals for Growth

Finally, don’t forget to set goals for your business growth. Like any other restaurant venture, running a successful food truck comes down to implementing essential business practices. Setting goals is an important way to make sure you get where you want to be. 

Don’t let temporary slumps or unexpected bumps in the road throw off your mobile kitchen mojo. No great achievement is gained without hard work and determination, successful food trucks included. 

So get out there and keep chasing that food truck dream!

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

Stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Are Food Trucks Profitable? 9 Steps to Running Your Own Business http://www.customconcessions.com/are-food-trucks-profitable-9-steps-to-running-your-own-business/ Mon, 16 Sep 2019 06:00:37 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12573 The food truck industry is more popular than ever before. But, are food trucks profitable?  That depends on if you know how to do it right. There are many motivations for ditching the brick-and-mortar model in favor of the flexibility of food trucks.  You can experiment with new recipes and ideas. You get […]

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focus on a tip jar with some dollar bills inside and out of focus restaurant in the background

The food truck industry is more popular than ever before. But, are food trucks profitable? 

That depends on if you know how to do it right. There are many motivations for ditching the brick-and-mortar model in favor of the flexibility of food trucks. 

You can experiment with new recipes and ideas. You get to reach out to your audience rather than wait for them to come to you.

And yet, many people still wonder how to realize the dream of running their own food truck business. Follow our 9 steps to get your food truck business on the road.

1. Know Your Target Market 

You need to know your target market. If you’re selling tacos in your food truck to a bunch of people who don’t like tacos you’re not going to last very long.

two people of color eating ice cream cones

Do your homework before you launch your enterprise. Sure, you can go to your customers rather than having them come to you.

But, that also means that you’ve got to find out where your customers are going to be. If you have regular spots, then your regular customers will know where to find you, won’t they?

It’s also essential that you know who your competition is. Are you a Cuban sandwich food truck? Don’t park up next to another truck selling the same thing as you.

2. Develop Your Food Truck Brand

You probably already know what type of food you’re going to sell. You should build your brand around the same theme.

Do you provide organic and vegan dishes? Are you a gourmet pizza truck? Your unique selling point is your amazingly delicious food.

You need to pick a name that is totally original. You don’t want to discover that another food truck has the same name. 

Therefore, probably stay away from another play-on-words, such as things that end in “on wheels.” They’re already taken, trust us!

Then, have a logo designed that’s consistent with your brand image. This can be anything, but make sure it’s memorable and eye-catching.

3. Put Together a Business Plan

Around 60 percent of food trucks fail within the first few years. What makes you different? You need a business plan to be able to handle the challenges that come your way.

hands making business related doodles in a notebook

You may have lots of ideas in your head. But, you need to get them down on paper if you want to realize them!

Start with a description of your business. This includes everything from your mission statement, your business concept, and your target market.

You should conduct a market analysis. You want to know the market trends, information about competitors and your customer base.

Next, your organizational matters need to be taken care of. Who is responsible for what? If you’re in charge of everything by yourself, then this part is simple.

You should also consider creating a marketing plan and financial information. It’s important you stay organized. Running a business isn’t the same as cooking!

4. Acquire Registrations and Licenses

You should know that you can’t simply buy a truck and start selling food out of it straight away. No, you need to jump through some hoops before you can get started!

You need to get your hands on a food permit license and a business license to operate legally. There may be other permits depending on your location, such as a health permit or a food safety certificate.

Remember, since you’re a food truck, you’re able to cross state borders, but you need to have the proper permits to operate in a new location. While this is unlike brick-and-mortar restaurants, you’re still subject to many of the same rules and regulations.

5. Get the Money Together 

If you don’t already have the funding, you need to secure it from somewhere. You can start saving, but depending on how much disposable income is available to you, that could take a while.

Of course, you can take out a business or personal loan. Or you could consider other options to give you the capital you need, like crowdfunding or finding investors. Having a good business plan will be critical at this point, as most banks and investors won’t want to back a project that hasn’t been well planned and demonstrated profitability.

woman holding a menu and a colorful drink

6. Design Your Food Menu 

Your food menu is one of the first things that will draw customers to come to your food truck. 

Many trucks use a signboard or chalkboard to display the dishes of the day. This is perfect if you’re regularly changing your menu.

Ensure that everything is listed clearly with the price as well. The best performing food trucks often have simple menus, which means that they can focus on perfecting just a few key dishes.  

7. Setting Up Your Food Truck

Your food truck builder will work with you to ensure that you have everything you need on your food truck. Think about what kind of food you want to serve, and how that will affect what appliances you will need on your truck. If you are planning to serve ice cream, you’ll need a dipping case. If you’re going to open a mobile coffee shop, you’ll need an espresso machine on board.

You’ll also need to insure your truck. There are a bunch of different types of insurance to consider. You want to check every box to ensure that everything is legit for your food truck business. 

8. Promote Your Food Truck Business

Sure, your food truck itself is your biggest advertising asset. You can promote your business with an eye-catching display on the side of your truck.

However, you also need to consider other ways to boost your food truck. This includes social media. Ensure that you’re an active social media promoter. 

You can tweet about your latest menu and post pictures on Instagram of your delicious dishes. You may also want to invest in flyers to distribute on community boards.

man leaning down over steaming bowls of Vietnamese food

9. Begin Selling Food and Making Money 

Now that you’re up and running with your food truck business, there’s nothing to stop you going from strength to strength.

Just keep making delicious snacks and yummy dishes. Customers are always eager to try something new.

Are Food Trucks Profitable?

If you follow our tips you can make your food truck business a success. Are food trucks profitable? That part is up to you!

Do you have a brick-and-mortar restaurant? You can branch out by launching a second location from a food truck, or by offering food delivery from your existing location. Check out this blog post to learn how.

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

Stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Debunking Myths About the Food Truck Industry http://www.customconcessions.com/debunking-myths-about-the-food-truck-industry/ Mon, 24 Jun 2019 07:00:55 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12181 In 2018, the food truck industry was worth over $2 billion dollars and was growing at a rate of close to 5%.  If you were thinking about getting into the food truck industry, you’re not alone. Starting a food truck service isn’t what you think though. We debunk the theories about the […]

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black and white photo of a burrito and taco food truck at night

In 2018, the food truck industry was worth over $2 billion dollars and was growing at a rate of close to 5%. 

If you were thinking about getting into the food truck industry, you’re not alone.

Starting a food truck service isn’t what you think though. We debunk the theories about the industry one myth at a time.

Myth #1: Food Trucks Are Worse than Restaurants for the Environment

Restaurant owners may have started this myth, but they claimed that food trucks caused more pollution and traffic. However, most food trucks spend much more of their time parked in a parking lot than driving around.

Food trucks also have a much smaller physical footprint than restaurants with permanent locations, so there is less power needed to keep them going. They also don’t have to waste energy on heating or cooling a large eating area for customers. Some trucks even run off of the vegetable oil that they create from their business! This cuts down the cost for fuel for them as well as carbon emissions.

Myth #2: They Can Park Anywhere

Food trucks cannot park anywhere; they are governed by laws and ordinances. If they park illegally, they will most likely get a ticket for it.

Depending on where you are trying to start your business, you should check with your city’s food truck laws. Food truck parking can become really competitive. Sometimes the amount of time you can park in a given spot is limited as well. 

You also have to be strategic with where you park your food truck. Some cities or states will say that you have to park within a few hundred feet of a bathroom. 

Myth #3: Food Trucks Don’t Have to Pay Rent

No, food trucks don’t have to pay rent. However, they have to pay for things that can be just as expensive as rent, such as: 

  • Permits
  • Licenses
  • Gasoline/fuel
  • The truck
  • Truck maintenance
  • Taxes

Some food trucks even rent out a different commercial kitchen so they can store ingredients and prepare some of the food before they roll out to their next destination. 

Myth #4: To Open A Food Truck You Need Investors

If you are thinking about starting a food truck business, people may have told you that you will need investors to start. 

However, only a small percentage of food trucks actually start this way. Most food trucks start out on their own money without other people to help them. So don’t let a lack of investors halt your process of starting a food truck business. 

Myth #5: Opening A Food Truck Is Easy

This is a very common misconception. Just because you won’t have to maintain a brick and mortar restaurant, doesn’t mean you don’t be doing any work.

You will spend a lot of time managing the business, and you will also have to be available for various food truck events.

However, in the end, it will definitely be worth it

Get Involved in the Food Truck Industry Today

The food truck industry can be rewarding to work in, especially if you are passionate about it.

The first thing you will need to start your business is an idea. Then you need a truck. Contact us we can help you outfit your food truck with everything you need!

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

Stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Spring Cleaning 101: How To Clean The Inside Of Your Food Truck Just In Time For Summer! http://www.customconcessions.com/spring-cleaning-101-how-to-clean-the-inside-of-your-food-truck-just-in-time-for-summer/ Mon, 22 Apr 2019 01:15:56 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12157 There are an estimated 15,000-20,000 food trucks in the US. With all that savory goodness riding around on four wheels, it is important to keep your vehicle tidy and sanitary. Whether you are servin’ up barbecue or dishing out mac and cheese, here are some great tips for cleaning inside your food truck. […]

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young woman walks past colorful food trucks with a smoothie in hand

There are an estimated 15,000-20,000 food trucks in the US.

With all that savory goodness riding around on four wheels, it is important to keep your vehicle tidy and sanitary.

Whether you are servin’ up barbecue or dishing out mac and cheese, here are some great tips for cleaning inside your food truck. And don’t forget to lock up that secret sauce before you close for the night!

1. Daily Cleaning

Your daily cleaning schedule should involve a number of basic routines to ensure the cleanliness and productivity of your operation.

Be sure to wash all the dishes and brush your grill. It is important to empty your garbage pails daily. Don’t use private dumpsters for this, lest you make any unwanted enemies. Instead, use a public receptacle.

You will want to be sure to wipe down all cooking and serving surfaces, including your steam table. It is important to empty the water wells every day, so bacteria does not grow underneath where food is being served.

You need to switch out your cutting boards each day to keep food prep sanitary. Deep-clean the dirty boards. You should also wash and sanitize your window ledges.

Be sure to scrub down all cooking tools and appliances. This includes your coffee machine, ovens, and microwave. Also, be sure to sweep and mop the floor, and to wash all floor mats.

Each day, you will need to cover all of your food bins and change all foil linings on your grill, range, and flattop. Remember that your customers are counting on you to provide healthy, germ-free dining on the go!

2. Monthly Cleaning Schedule

Each month, you will want to do a little deep cleaning that will make your daily tasks a cinch. Use a disinfectant to clean the walls and ceiling, taking care of any hidden germs or dirt.

You should also wipe down exhaust hoods, making sure they are dust and grease free.

Once a month, clean your light fixtures and remove any dust or dirt. Scour out your refrigerator with a tough brush and disinfectant. Make sure to clean the coils as well, as they can collect lots of dust.

Wash the can-opener and remove all lime on your sinks and faucets. You will need to do a little heavy lifting so you can wash behind your oven, stove, and fryers, if they are movable.

Once a month is also a good time to clean and sanitize your ice machine. In addition, this is when you can clean out your freezers.

3. Annual Business

Some attention to keeping your truck up to code each year will save you a lot of headaches in the long run. You will want to check your fire extinguishers and fire suppression system. This is also the time to calibrate ovens and thermometers.

You can clean the pilot lights on your gas equipment, and have a professional check for any signs of pests and have them removed. This is also when you should restock your first-aid kit and update your safety sheets.

Some entrepreneurs prefer to have a professional company clean their range hoods and filters each year. It is important for them to be free from all dust, pollen, and dirt. Doing this yourself can be somewhat messy and take up a lot of time.

Cleaning Inside Your Food Truck

Cleaning inside your food truck is a critical factor for your business. Keep a checklist of your daily, monthly, and annual cleaning schedule, and you can provide worry-free fantastic food service to your customers.

For more tips on your food truck, check out our blog for other helpful articles.

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

Stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Start Your Engines: How to Start a Food Truck http://www.customconcessions.com/start-your-engines-how-to-start-a-food-truck/ Mon, 08 Apr 2019 07:00:05 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12137 Ever since you were a kid, you could be found in the kitchen. You’d help out mom and dad with dinner, even packing your own gourmet peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for school lunches. As you got older, that dream of being in the food truck industry, which is worth $1.2 […]

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Tourist couple buys pasta from food truck vendor

Ever since you were a kid, you could be found in the kitchen. You’d help out mom and dad with dinner, even packing your own gourmet peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for school lunches.

As you got older, that dream of being in the food truck industry, which is worth $1.2 billion, seemed like a distant memory. But now, you’re tired of working a regular 9 to 5 job, stuck in a corporate cubicle.

You’re ready to spread your entrepreneurial wings and fly. You want to know how to start a food truck but don’t know where to begin.

That’s why we’ll go over effective ways on how to start one. Keep reading to know all the best ways to start off on the right foot!

1. Invest in a Vehicle

You can’t start a food truck without a mobile kitchen! If you really want to make an impact right off the bat, a custom truck is the way to go.

You’ll be able to make it to your liking and add whatever features will best benefit your business. You can add a pizza oven, a deep fryer, or even a walk-in fridge!

Your food truck needs to be equipped with the right appliances depending on what kind of food you want to make, so make sure you plan ahead. 

2. Get Licensing

Don’t think that as soon as you get your truck you can start selling right away. You need to check with your local government about licensing and permits. These allow you to park and sell in certain locations.

You’ll also need to be certified with the health department to ensure your food truck is in good condition. Just know that this process can take some time, so it’s best to be patient.

3. Insure Your Food Truck

To protect yourself from whatever problems may arise, you’ll want to have insurance. Depending on your location, you’ll need to get in contact with your local health department to know which type of insurance you need.

4. Build a Brand

In order to attract people to your truck to try your awesome food, you need a brand. Obviously, you want your truck to reflect the type of food you’re serving.

This is a cost you don’t want to skimp on. After all, first impressions matter more than you think.

You want to draw attention to your truck in a good way. That means using bold graphics and legible typography to help sell your food.

5. Market Yourself

How else can you get people to your truck? You need to get the word out there!

Start by advertising yourself on social media platforms. Facebook is a good choice as you can control how much you spend on ads.

To establish yourself as an expert in your industry, guest write for blogs and appear on popular local podcasts. Be sure to let friends and family know what you have going on so they can let others know where to get a good meal.

How to Start a Food Truck Answered

Don’t let your dream of starting a food truck fall by the wayside. As long as you follow our tips on how to start a food truck, you’ll be well on your way to sharing your gift of food while earning a nice income.

Want to feel more prepared? Check out some tips for aspiring food truck owners!

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

Stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Brick and Mobile: How to Start a Pop Up Restaurant to Grow Your Restaurant Business http://www.customconcessions.com/brick-and-mobile-how-to-start-a-pop-up-restaurant-to-grow-your-restaurant-business/ Mon, 01 Apr 2019 07:00:18 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12136 Did you know that the restaurant industry in the United States reached $745 billion in 2015? In other words, it’s a giant industry with lots of potential. But to really do well, you need to be different. And one great way to do this is through starting a pop up restaurant. […]

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black food truck with yellow awning parked on blacktop near some grass

Did you know that the restaurant industry in the United States reached $745 billion in 2015? In other words, it’s a giant industry with lots of potential.

But to really do well, you need to be different. And one great way to do this is through starting a pop up restaurant. This is the perfect way to generate a lucrative additional revenue stream.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry! Check out our guide on how to start a pop up restaurant below.

How to Start a Pop Up Restaurant: Get Your Paperwork

First of all, it’s important to get your paperwork figured out. This includes insurance, licenses, and permits. Make sure you begin the process by getting these documents.

Some pop up restaurant owners think they can move ahead without these documents, but that’s simply not the case. You should make sure that what you’re doing is completely legal.

The necessary paperwork is different throughout the country, so double-check with your local government offices to know what you need.

Decide on Your Location

Next, it’s time to pick your spot. Where do you want to host your pop up restaurant? There are tons of options out there.

However, there are some important questions you should ask yourself when finding a location. These include:

  • Is there electricity readily available?
  • Is there easily accessible running water?
  • Is there enough room to fit your customers?

One great way to host a pop up restaurant is by utilizing a restaurant space that already exists. This infrastructure can make your job much easier.

Perhaps there’s a restaurant that’s recently closed or that’s only open on weekends. You could use the space when it’s available, which is a win-win for both you and the restaurant owner!

However, hosting your pop up restaurant inside a food truck is possibly the best option of all; it gives you the freedom to choose different locations at different times based on foot traffic, and to move when you find a better one.

Create Your Menu

Now it’s time to make your pop up restaurant menu. Because you’re doing a pop up restaurant, it’s best to keep your menu simple.

Go with things that you know people like and that have a wide appeal. It’s okay to also throw in one or two unique items, but for the most part keeps things simple.

This will also benefit you because you can simplify the amount of ingredients and kitchen space you need to make your items.

Want more restaurant tips and tricks? Discover more on our blog.

Set Up Your Kitchen

Last but not least, it’s time to set up your kitchen. Obviously, if you use an existing restaurant, this will be simple. It’s just a matter of getting things set up just right.

However, for most people, this isn’t the case. If you’re setting up a mobile kitchen, you’ll need to think about the grills, utensils, burners, and preparation space you’ll need.

Closing Thoughts

Now that you’ve read all about how to start a pop up restaurant, it’s time to begin. Think about how these steps apply to your situation and start the process.

Have some questions or want to learn more? Contact our team today.

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

Stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Taking Business On the Road: The Top Benefits of Starting a Food Truck Business http://www.customconcessions.com/taking-business-on-the-road-the-top-benefits-of-starting-a-food-truck-business/ Mon, 11 Mar 2019 06:00:45 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=11782 You can’t drive by a popular lunch spot without seeing a few food trucks with customers lined up. So why is the food truck movement so popular? The cost of starting a restaurant is about $501,236 on average. By comparison, starting a food truck costs $100,000 to $175,000—less than half that of […]

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Man cooking some food in a mobile food truck parked under a tree. Man chopping vegetable on his food truck.

You can’t drive by a popular lunch spot without seeing a few food trucks with customers lined up. So why is the food truck movement so popular?

The cost of starting a restaurant is about $501,236 on average. By comparison, starting a food truck costs $100,000 to $175,000—less than half that of a permanent location. 

Aside from the lower start-up costs, there are many benefits to starting a food truck. Read on to learn some of the top ones.

1. Always Have the Perfect Location

With most restaurants, location is everything. If it’s not situated in a prime location, a restaurant could have some trouble attracting traffic. 

Location is a big advantage that food trucks have—food truck owners don’t have to limit themselves to one location.

Food trucks can test out different locations at various times and see where they get the most business. Since they basically have a business on wheels, they can go in search of customers.

A food truck owner might decide to stick to one location during lunch and pick a different place for the dinner rush. 

2. Your Food Truck is Free Advertising

The average business spends about 7 to 8 percent of its revenue on advertising. Businesses that are in a standing location have to put more effort into advertising to create brand awareness. 

Food trucks, on the other hand, are a moving billboard. Whenever they drive the food truck around town, they’re getting free advertising.

If a restaurant also has a food truck, the truck advertises the restaurant location and it’s great for the brand.

The more people see the food truck driving around, the more recognizable your brand will become.

3. An Experimentation Lab

When customers go to a restaurant, they expect certain things from the menu. It’s not as easy for a restaurant to change the menu overnight. 

Food trucks, on the other hand, have smaller menus so they can get away with changing the menu and experimenting with more food options.

Restaurants that also have food trucks can experiment with new menu items before bringing them on to their permanent menu.

4. Explore Catering Opportunities

With the help of a food truck, businesses can expand and try out catering opportunities. The food truck is basically a moving kitchen that can go everywhere. 

It’s a lot easier for food trucks to transport food around town, so food trucks can get more business if they offer catering options

5. Keep Costs to a Minimum

Although food trucks are a big investment, they’re not quite as expensive as a standing restaurant location. 

Food trucks cost less as far as startup and food costs. Also, expansion costs are a lot less for food trucks.

If you want to add a second location to your business, adding a food truck is definitely a more cost effective option than expanding to a second permanent location.

Benefits of a Food Truck Business: The Bottom Line

There are many benefits to starting a food truck business. These include low startup costs, free advertising, and a chance to experiment with a new menu. 

Want to learn about 5 reasons to invest in a mobile beer truck? Check out this article.

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

Stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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Reasons To Join The Food Truck Industry http://www.customconcessions.com/reasons-join-food-truck-industry/ Fri, 24 Jun 2016 05:10:03 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=7172 Today is the day. Today is the day you should join the food truck industry. If you are planning on ever owning your own food truck business, then there is no better time to start than now. The food truck industry is booming and it is still relatively new, so […]

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Today is the day.

Today is the day you should join the food truck industry. If you are planning on ever owning your own food truck business, then there is no better time to start than now.

The food truck industry is booming and it is still relatively new, so we leave you with this question, future mobile kitchen owners: What are you waiting for?

RELATED: Party Food Ideas That Will Make Your 4th Of July Epic. 4th of July is just around the corner, which means the festivities are really about to begin.

Here They Are: Reasons To Join The Food Truck Industry

  • You’ve Always Wanted To Open Your Own Business
  • It’s A Great Way To Break Into The Food Industry
  • You Get To Be Your Own Boss
  • Now Is The Right Time

Food Truck IndustryYou’ve Always Wanted To Open Your Own Business

Being a business owner is an amazing accomplishment, and if you have found yourself on this website multiple times, you have probably always wanted to own your own business.

The food truck industry is a phenomenal one to break into right now, and when you finally do own your own mobile food truck, you can finally say that you — wait for it — own your own business.

It’s A Great Way To Break Into The Food Industry

Perhaps you have always wanted to be a master chef, but getting to that level is too much of a climb. Perhaps you are just looking for a powerful start. Regardless, breaking into the food truck industry is a great way to accomplish both of those goals.

By starting off in this industry, which is very much considered the food industry, you will gain so much experience. You will become better with customers, you will create your own menus, you will become an expert in marketing, you will get to cook whatever you want to cook and the list of advantages could go on and on.

Heck, this might be the best way to break into the food industry.

You Get To Be Your Own BossFood Truck Industry

At one point or another, especially if you are an entrepreneur, we all want to be our own boss. Guess what? If you own your own mobile kitchen, you will have achieved that feat.

Not to mention, you will be your own boss in a booming field — which is the food truck industry, of course.

RELATED: 5 Tips For Food Truck Owners Who Are Breaking Into The Industry. If you are looking to break into the industry, you might find these tips rather useful.

Now Is The Right Time

The food truck industry is still booming — you may have heard — making right now the perfect time to start up your own food truck business. Getting into an industry that is still relatively new can lead to a world of success, so you do the math.

To stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer, make sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. You can also find more food truck blogs here.

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Party Food Ideas That Will Make Your 4th Of July Epic http://www.customconcessions.com/party-food-ideas-will-make-4th-july-epic/ Fri, 17 Jun 2016 02:32:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=7144 With 4th of July just around the corner, it is important to be prepared. That is the case whether you are a food lover, food truck owner or are just looking to throw a good party. And these party food ideas will certainly make your 4th of July this year […]

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With 4th of July just around the corner, it is important to be prepared. That is the case whether you are a food lover, food truck owner or are just looking to throw a good party. And these party food ideas will certainly make your 4th of July this year — and every year after that, because these foods aren’t going away, folks.

party food ideas

Party food ideas make every 4th of July party, so make sure you are ready to take on this glorious holiday.

RELATED: Tips For Food Truck Owners Who Are Breaking Into The Industry. In this article, we break down some tips for food truck owners who are new to the industry.

Previewing The Party Food Ideas That Will Make Your 4th Of July Epic

  • Incorporate Red, White And Blue
  • Bacon-Wrapped Burgers, Or Dogs
  • Flag Pizza
  • Kabobs
  • Stick To The Basics

Incorporate Red, White And Blue

‘Tis the season, after all. With this party food idea, you can really get creative. For instance, you can decorate a cake in these colors. You can add blue sprinkles to strawberries that are dipped in white chocolate. You can simply eat blueberries, strawberries and whipped cream.

This party food idea is all about being patriotic with your food, and your taste buds certainly won’t mind either.

Bacon-Wrapped Burgers, Or Dogs

Because nothing screams American food quite like bacon-wrapped hamburgers or bacon-wrapped hot dogs. If this party food idea doesn’t get your appetite going, then you can always add bacon (the main ingredient) to something like macaroni and cheese.

Flag Pizza

This party food idea is a crowd-pleaser, and will 100 percent be the talk of the party.

Here is how a flag pizza can be done: A rectangular pizza, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperonis and blue potatoes.

If you want to stick with the bacon theme, then just add bacon instead of pepperonis for this party food idea.

Kabobs

Kabobs are perfect for the grill, making this party food idea a no-brainer. The best thing about kabobs: Versatility.

For instance, you can pack on a ton of meat for the meat lovers, or add on vegetables and fruits (pineapples, for instance) for the foodies who want to stay away from meat. Like other party food ideas on this list, the sky is the limit, and your party will be rocking on 4th of July no matter which idea you go with.

RELATED: Summer Events Food Trucks Are Perfect For. Food truck owners, these events are a great way to grow your business.

Stick To The Basicsparty food ideas

The idea behind this party food idea: Don’t fix what isn’t broken. Therefore, serve up hot dogs, hamburgers, bratwursts, ribs, corn, chips, sandwiches and other foods that tend to go hand in hand with the 4th of July.

With this party food idea, you are playing it safe, and there is nothing wrong with that.

To stay up to date on everything Custom Concessions has to offer, make sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. You can also find more food truck blogs here.

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5 Tips For Food Truck Owners Who Are Breaking Into The Industry http://www.customconcessions.com/5-tips-food-truck-owners-breaking-industry/ Thu, 09 Jun 2016 23:27:28 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=7129 You have your business plan in place, your recipes are ready to go, you hired all of your food truck employees and you already had your grand opening. What’s next? Breaking into the food truck industry is no easy feat. Just like any industry, starting a business can be a […]

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MSU-Trailer-Custom-Concessions-8You have your business plan in place, your recipes are ready to go, you hired all of your food truck employees and you already had your grand opening. What’s next?

Breaking into the food truck industry is no easy feat. Just like any industry, starting a business can be a long and grueling process. However, it can also be fun, and very rewarding.

If you are new to the industry, or perhaps you just need some reminders, make sure to follow these five tips.

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Fellow Food Truck Owners Questions

Seriously, don’t be afraid to ask fellow mobile kitchen owners questions that may arise along the journey that is running your truck. You might be their competition, but life is all about sharing knowledge.

Also, there are plenty of people (your competition, that is) who have been at this for years, and their wisdom could be a huge benefit for your business.

READ: Summer Events Food Trucks Are Perfect For

Stay Frugal, Stay Hungry

Your food truck is running and customers are flowing in, which means you have made it, right? Sure, your business might be fresh, new and already doing well, but it is important that you stay frugal, and you also stay hungry.

Once again, stay frugal, and stay hungry.

Serve What The People Are Buying, And Don’t Be Afraid To Change The Menu UpDSC04967

Let’s do a two-for-one special here. If what you are cooking is working, then continue to serve up those foods. After all, why would you change up your menu if it is working? On the other hand, and if something isn’t working, fix it by changing up your menu.

It is important to stay consistent in this industry, but it isn’t a bad idea to change up your menu seasonally, or simply adding new specials.

RELATED: Things Your Food Truck Employees Should Never Do

Get Someone To Run Your Social Media Accounts

If you know the ins and outs of social media, then, well, that’s awesome. However, you are going to be so busy when you first break into the food truck industry. Therefore, don’t be afraid to hire someone to run your social media accounts — well, if it is affordable and you can’t handle it, that is.

Social media is huge for your business. Heck, any business.

Make It All About The Customers

You are serving the customers, and without said customers, your mobile food truck simply wouldn’t stay in business. Therefore, you might as well make it all about them. At your actual food truck, on social media — everywhere!

If you are looking for food trucks for sale, you still have a long way to go, but at least these tips can help be your guide when you are finally up and running.

For more food truck blogs, make sure to check out this link.

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