small business Archives - Custom Concessions https://www.customconcessions.com/tag/small-business/ Mon, 02 Aug 2021 17:36:35 +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 small business Archives - Custom Concessions https://www.customconcessions.com/tag/small-business/ 32 32 Expanding Your Vineyard Tasting Room with a Mobile Wine Truck http://www.customconcessions.com/expanding-your-vineyard-tasting-room-with-a-mobile-wine-truck/ Mon, 26 Apr 2021 06:00:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13599 Have you ever thought about what it would take to get your vineyard noticed more? Of course, you have! But, actually implementing a procedure or service that astounds and amazes your potential clients is nothing less than a full-time job. That’s why you need a full-service wine truck. A wine truck […]

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photo of a glass of wine on a balcony with grape vines and mountains behind

Photo by Kym Ellis on Unsplash

Have you ever thought about what it would take to get your vineyard noticed more? Of course, you have! But, actually implementing a procedure or service that astounds and amazes your potential clients is nothing less than a full-time job. That’s why you need a full-service wine truck.

A wine truck is just like a food truck, but better. Because, wine, of course. Add some cheese and crackers to the menu along with some sweet grapes—or go with a full-blown charcuterie board—and you’ll have people lining up to get a taste.

Let’s review a few good reasons to jump on this train and get in with the hip crowds.

A New and Happening Trend for Your Vineyard Business

Wine trucks are becoming more and more popular throughout the U.S.

It all started with a few entrepreneurs with big ideas and now the trend is, well, trending!

Don’t be fooled into thinking that this is just some passing fad, either. We all know how popular food trucks have become over the years, and wine is even better than food so who knows the possibilities?

A Mobile Tasting Room

What better way to display your wines than to bring your vineyard to the wine tasters? Consider catering at events like business luncheons, corporate fundraisers, and other adult-centered occasions where you can showcase what your vineyard has to offer and entice folks to come out and see your vines in person.

A Mobile Wine Truck is Fun

There’s nothing better than fun unless there’s wine involved which means there’s nothing better than fun with wine. If you thought you were having fun at the vineyard with your wine tasting events, you’ll have a blast serving your customers in their own territory.

Who Doesn’t Love a Good Glass of Wine?

Serving patrons via your mobile wine truck may be the only way to introduce new clientele to your business. People love wine, but they don’t always love a long drive to the country to visit the vineyard in person. But, with a mobile wine truck, you’re bringing the wine to them so it’s a win-win for all!

Try boosting your exposure by getting a spot at local festivals or setting up at wedding expos to snag potential bookings for your vineyard.

Why Should You Have a Wine Truck for Your Vineyard?

Establishing a wine truck for your vineyard is an excellent way to mobilize your business. Not only will more people be introduced to your wines, but you’ll leave a lasting memory and they’ll come back wanting more—whether at your vineyard or by finding your wine truck at another event in the future.

Especially if you have a new vineyard, a mobile truck can help you establish your name in the community. And, if you’re an established winery, you can be assured that your most dedicated clients will seek you out, an excellent selling point as you negotiate which events you wish to attend. 

If you have questions about how a mobile truck can best serve your business, contact us. We can get your mobile wine truck set up and ready to go.

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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Is the Neighborhood Ice Cream Truck Making a Comeback? http://www.customconcessions.com/is-the-neighborhood-ice-cream-truck-making-a-comeback/ Thu, 01 Oct 2020 19:32:45 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13393 This past summer was tough for many businesses, including ice cream trucks. Kids missed seeing them around at the beginning of summer, but even as the weather cools we’re starting to see a surge of portable ice cream! Keep reading to learn how your local ice cream truck is making a comeback, […]

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photo of a white and blue ice cream truck parked in a parking lot on a sunny day

This past summer was tough for many businesses, including ice cream trucks. Kids missed seeing them around at the beginning of summer, but even as the weather cools we’re starting to see a surge of portable ice cream!

Keep reading to learn how your local ice cream truck is making a comeback, and how you can safely support them!

Technology Boosts Ice Cream Truck Sales

When we were kids we had to wait to hear the iconic song that told us the truck was near. Now, you can look the schedule up online and see where they are. Not only that, but you can also follow them on social media and even text them in some cases to find out when they’ll be near. 

It doesn’t matter that they’ve changed the tune nowadays, it’s no longer needed to find your favorite truck.

Technology has also helped amidst the coronavirus pandemic. Mobile businesses like ice cream trucks can inform people how to safely purchase goods from the truck before they get there. You can post the CDC guidelines so people know how to enjoy their treat while protecting themselves.

Food trucks have been shown to help with social distancing as long as you follow the regulations.

Better Trucks

The trucks used today are much more efficient compared to the trucks of 20 years ago. They’re able to keep food frozen longer, store more ice cream, and offer more ways to serve customers safely. 

More recently, they’ve also been outfitted to comply with local and federal social distancing guidelines. With more windows, you can designate one for paying and one for picking up, meaning you’re able to keep people further apart.

The Rise of Food Delivery

Of course, before the pandemic, we had food delivery services, but that hardly compares to how much food we get delivered now. There are more Americans getting food delivered during the pandemic than any other time period.

It makes sense too, if you can’t leave your home you need to get food delivered to your house. That means sometimes forgoing treats like ice cream or snacks.

However, thanks to ice cream trucks you can get treats right to your home. This is especially great for parents with young children. They don’t really understand what’s going on right now and just want to go out and have fun. 

Thinking of Starting an Ice Cream Truck Business?

It can still be profitable to start an ice cream truck business. If you’ve been thinking about starting one, don’t let the pandemic hold you back from your dreams.

You can get food truck financing to get a beautiful truck fairly easily. Even in the fall, you can be successful with your business if you put your passion in to your work. 

Enjoy Your Treats Today

If you’re craving ice cream now then check out your local ice cream truck today! Be sure to check out our blog for more content.

Want a quote on a truck to start your own ice cream business? Request a free one 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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Small Town Business: How To Succeed With Your Food Truck http://www.customconcessions.com/small-town-business-how-to-succeed-with-your-food-truck/ Tue, 15 Sep 2020 06:00:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13374 Photo by Mansoor Del on Unsplash Often times when you hear of someone starting a food truck, they either live in a big city, or they’re planning to move there and make a go of it. But a food truck business can operate successfully in smaller cities and towns as well; […]

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silver food truck parked near a field at sunset

Photo by Mansoor Del on Unsplash

Often times when you hear of someone starting a food truck, they either live in a big city, or they’re planning to move there and make a go of it. But a food truck business can operate successfully in smaller cities and towns as well; you don’t necessarily need to make that big move if you like the small-town atmosphere better.

Read on for a comprehensive guide to making the most of your small town business food truck.

Location

Your food truck’s location is critical to generating repeat sales and overall success. You cannot expect to see enough customers if you are off the beaten path.

Instead, find a main road that town residents often visit. Perhaps near a popular shopping center, in the downtown historic district, or near a major highway for commuters.

Each town has different rules for zoning regarding where you can set up shop. When doing the research to select your location, reach out to your local government to get clearance.

Create a Unique Menu

Each small town has a set of dining staples. It is hard to compete against local spots with a great reputation and a loyal customer base.

One way start building your own customer base is by offering a unique menu. If you offer exciting food items that are not available anywhere else nearby, customers are more likely to come. Since small towns tend to have fewer different types of food on offer, if you bring in something completely new people are bound to be curious and give your treats a try.

Use Digital Marketing

You cannot rely on location alone to attract customers. You need to get the word out in other ways. Social media and e-mail marketing are effective digital marketing measures to reach new and existing customers.

Platforms like Facebook and Instagram provide business owners with a valuable tool. You can generate buzz for your food truck online. Be sure to share high-quality images of your food to attract likes and shares.

Many successful food trucks ask their customers to follow them on social media. You can also collect e-mail addresses at the point of sale. This way, you can mass distribute coupons, specials, and exciting additions to the menu.

Price for Success

A key component to long-term success is finding the right price range for your menu. Of course, you do not want the menu to be overly expensive. Most people do not expect to spend a fortune at a food truck.

At the same time, you need to generate enough revenue to keep the business afloat. The cost of each menu item needs to reflect the labor required and the ingredients included. It is important that you find the right balance between profit and an attractive price.

Succeeding With Your Small Town Business Food Truck

Your food truck is the recipe for navigating these challenging times. Food trucks do not rely on indoor dining to bring in customers and you don’t have to be in a big city to operate one. Instead, you can generate revenue with unique menu items.

If you are interested in purchasing a food truck for your small town business, contact us today to speak with a sales associate.

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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Can You Finance A Food Truck? How To Get Food Truck Financing http://www.customconcessions.com/can-you-finance-a-food-truck-how-to-get-food-truck-financing/ Tue, 25 Aug 2020 15:56:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13347 Starting a food truck, just like any other business, requires a start-up investment. You need money to purchase your truck, get permits, and buy kitchen and food supplies. There are several ways to raise the money to get your food truck venture off the ground. You can find investors, you […]

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close up photo of a pen, calculator and financial charts

Starting a food truck, just like any other business, requires a start-up investment. You need money to purchase your truck, get permits, and buy kitchen and food supplies.

There are several ways to raise the money to get your food truck venture off the ground. You can find investors, you can use cash on hand, or you can save up the money over time. For many owners though, the most convenient way to get a food truck going will be via a business loan.

Keep reading to find out how to get food truck financing.

1. Start With Market Research and a Business Plan

Before starting any business, you need to do your homework. You need to understand the local market in terms of competition, demand, pricing, costs, regulations, and more. You need to determine if your business idea is viable and what your opportunity will be for growth and success.

Then, you can build a business plan. This is an essential document that lenders or investors will look at to judge the credibility of your future business. 

Fortunately, there’s much less risk involved with a food truck than a traditional restaurant. Your overhead costs will be far cheaper, you’ll have fewer employees, no dining room, etc. This will make it easier to get financed.

2. Small Business Loans

Can you finance a food truck through a traditional bank or SBA loan? The answer is yes, assuming your business plan is well-written and you have an acceptable credit score.

First, you’ll need to come up with a dollar amount of how much startup money you will need. Then, do some research on the various types of loans available and figure out which one will best meet your needs. 

3. Private Investors

If you get turned down for a small business loan, you can seek private investors for food truck financing. There are multiple options here. 

First, you can try to find an angel investor. They will provide the startup funds you need in exchange for equity in the business. They may also allow you to pay back your debt over time instead of taking equity.

There are also peer to peer investors. These are organizations that invest in small businesses they see potential in. They basically provide loans like a bank but aren’t a bank. 

4. Crowdfunding Campaigns

Another option for food truck and food truck equipment financing is crowdfunding campaigns. This provide a great way to make money if you’re turned down by the bank and traditional investors. Crowdfunding relies on larger groups of investors all contributing small amounts to pool together the necessary funds.

Contributors can be rewarded with stock in the company, free products, etc.

5. Friends and Family

Can you finance a food truck without applying to banks or investors?

Yes, you still have options. Consider getting funds from people in your personal life. These include friends, family members, neighbors, and co-workers. 

You should still provide a business plan to show them how serious you are and that their investment won’t be wasted. This may mean you need to finance a smaller or more modest food truck instead of the huge truck that costs more, or cut startup costs elsewhere.

So, Can You Finance a Food Truck?

Are you ready to start a food truck restaurant? If so, we can help. Now that you know the answer to financing your food truck, let’s talk about getting you on your way. Contact us today for a custom quote!

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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5 Ways Food Trucks Help With Social Distancing http://www.customconcessions.com/5-ways-food-trucks-help-with-social-distancing/ Wed, 19 Aug 2020 06:00:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13337 Last year, the food truck industry was worth a billion dollars. While current circumstances have halted many restaurants, food trucks are still—well—truckin’.  Today, there are 25,476 food trucks wheelin’ around unique eats and experiences to communities worldwide. While business has slowed for many, it hasn’t stopped for food trucks. The value of food […]

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Close up photo of a food truck vendor with gloves on handing a customer two hot dogs.

Photo: Freepik

Last year, the food truck industry was worth a billion dollars. While current circumstances have halted many restaurants, food trucks are still—well—truckin’. 

Today, there are 25,476 food trucks wheelin’ around unique eats and experiences to communities worldwide. While business has slowed for many, it hasn’t stopped for food trucks.

The value of food trucks may spike this year due to current conditions. Food trucks are apt for social distancing and can abide by safety guidelines.

For consumers missing the dining experience, food trucks are the best bet.

Social Distancing Made Easy

Food trucks epitomize a dine-in-dine-out fusion. If you can’t dine-in and don’t want take-out, food trucks are the latest social distance solution.

Here’s how you can encourage potential customers to support local businesses and also honor social distancing guidelines.

1. They’re Outside

Food trucks were always an outside operation. But now, you can get even more creative with your setup.

Before, it was easy for food trucks to have crowds of people waiting around the truck with no dining area. Now, food trucks can set up designated seating and socially distanced lines.

Even on hot days, your food truck’s social distancing set-up can work to take care of your customers. Providing umbrellas or serving by shaded parks will encourage more people that your food truck is worth the wait.

2. Social Media Presence

A lot of food trucks rely on social media for a following. If this is already a marketing channel you use, it will be that much easier to let customers know what social distancing guidelines your truck and your local government have put in place.

That way, customers know what to expect when they show up. Communicating through social media also limits in-person reminders and allows for more enjoyment.

3. Mobile Apps

Some food trucks take advantage of this tech-focused, social-distancing era with mobile apps. Staying in touch on apps allows you to offer coupons and discounts on your food truck’s fan favorites. 

Being on mobile apps is another way you can keep customers in the know about your truck’s social distancing methods. 

4. Encouraging the Support of Local Businesses

Operating a food truck means getting to know your neighbors and community in a more intimate way.

In a time where people are conscious of where they spend their dollars, why not remind customers that food trucks in your area are local small businesses?

5. Promoting Safe Gatherings

Food trucks are used to being able to set up shop in a variety of locations. But things are different now.

Some have limited their travels and stay in one spot for their loyal customers. Others visit nearby neighborhoods during socially distanced block parties.

Either way, food trucks are tokens of connection. Remind your customers that having a socially distanced meal from their local food truck would be a great way to reconnect with friends they’ve missed while being able to gather safely.

Social Distancing Food Trucks for the Win

Amidst the current social distancing protocol, food trucks remind us of the constants: good food and good people.

Food trucks are providing a new eating environment. Though parking lots may not have fancied you before, more and more places are giving food trucks flexibility as restaurants remain closed in some locales.

Food trucks are flexible, adaptable, and creative. Customers are catching on, which makes social distancing easier. Through it all, it’s obvious the human spirit’s still shining bright.

Interested in opening your own food truck? Call us today to get started on your food truck journey.

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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7 Food Truck Regulations You Need to Know About http://www.customconcessions.com/7-food-truck-regulations-you-need-to-know-about/ Mon, 01 Jun 2020 06:00:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13202 Photo by Guillaume Gryn_DVS on Unsplash Are you tired of working your tail off in a hot kitchen, only to be paid a pittance for your hours? Are you exhausted with your demanding boss, and wishing that you could do what you love at work—cooking—but do it for yourself instead of for your […]

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black and white photo of a gelato food truck in a park with customers discussing the menu

Photo by Guillaume Gryn_DVS on Unsplash

Are you tired of working your tail off in a hot kitchen, only to be paid a pittance for your hours? Are you exhausted with your demanding boss, and wishing that you could do what you love at work—cooking—but do it for yourself instead of for your manager?

If so, then it sounds like you’re the perfect candidate to start taking command of your career and open a food truck that you can run on your own. Before you do so, however, you need to be aware of these seven food truck regulations so that your newly-opened business does not run afoul of the law.

1. Get a Vendor License

The first thing that you’ll need to do is get a vendor license from your state. This is a legal certificate that gives you the right to own and operate a restaurant entity. The process for applying for a food truck license will be different depending on your state.

2. Tax ID

The next basic regulation your business will need is a tax ID. This identification number is what allows you to collect sales tax from your customers. The government always wants its slice of the pie, so make sure that all of the transactions are subject to local sales taxes.

3. Commercial Driver’s License

Depending on the weight of the food truck that you operate, you may need to get a commercial driver’s license, or CDL, to drive it. If you choose the right vehicle for your food truck, however, you’ll be lucky enough to avoid this step.

Practicing for and getting your CDL is no joke. Most state DMVs take the road test for a commercial vehicle very seriously, and the bar is set pretty high.

4. Mobile Food Vendor Permit

You’ll need to apply for your state’s mobile food vendor permit. For many states, the number in circulation at one time may be limited. Thus, you must apply for this permit as soon as possible to ensure that you get to the top of the pile if there’s a waiting list.

5. Food Manager Certificate

Next, some state or local ordinances require that you receive a food manager certificate. This qualifies your business to handle, store, cook, and sell food. You’ll need to pass a basic inspection to prove that your food operations are healthy and safe.

6. Food Purchasing Protocols

You should know that in some states, food is not allowed to be cooked in a vehicle. That means food trucks can’t prepare the food inside the truck—the food needs to be prepared on something that isn’t a mobile conveyance and can then be sold from the truck. 

If that’s the case, you’ll have to prove food purchasing and preparation processes when you apply for your mobile vendor permit.

7. Parking Permit

Last but not least, remember that you can’t forget one of the most basic regulations of all: parking! The last thing you want is for your food truck to be booted, towed, or otherwise immobilized. Ensure that you are permitted to park and have the right authorization wherever you set up shop.

Food Truck Regulations You Need to Know

There you have it! Now that you know these food truck regulations, you’re all ready to start your business and keep it on the right side of the law.

If you’re ready to look at a vehicle for your food truck operations, contact us for a free quote!

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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5 Reasons Starting a Food Truck Makes Sense for Your Restaurant http://www.customconcessions.com/5-reasons-starting-a-food-truck-makes-sense-for-your-restaurant/ Mon, 30 Mar 2020 06:00:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13023 Photo by Paula Vermeulen on Unsplash In the US, there are tons of food trucks serving delicious delicacies across the country! Do you own a sit-down restaurant? Although it may seem odd, there are many ways in which starting a food truck can seriously improve your business. In this article, we’ll look at just […]

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photo of wooden serving boards full of pub-style food on the counter in a rustic restaurant

Photo by Paula Vermeulen on Unsplash

In the US, there are tons of food trucks serving delicious delicacies across the country!

Do you own a sit-down restaurant? Although it may seem odd, there are many ways in which starting a food truck can seriously improve your business.

In this article, we’ll look at just a few ways a food truck can help bring even more success to your restaurant!

1. A Food Truck Can Reach New Audiences

With a food truck, you can target the audiences you want to bring into your restaurant. 

Perhaps you recently launched a vegan menu that most people don’t know about? Take your food truck to a vegan market. Here, you can show off your delicious new menu and tell people about your sit-down location.

Do you want young people to know that your food is affordable? Take your food truck to a festival and showcase your cheaper prices!

2. Create a Social Media Savvy Brand

If you aren’t already on social media, you should be. Almost 70% of American adults use social media. In order to attract attention on these platforms, you need to be doing something a little bit different. 

A food truck is a great way to impress. Perhaps your food truck occasionally gives out free hot dogs? Maybe your servers do a dance every time they serve a mojito?

Whatever it is, create an Instagrammable food truck and even include your hashtag on the side to get more people talking about you across social media. 

3. You Already Have a Prep Kitchen

If you own a restaurant, then you’ll already have all of the equipment to use your restaurant kitchen as a prep kitchen for your food truck.

Of course, there are many other things to consider when starting up a food truck. But, once you have your truck and paperwork in order, it’s time to get your business on the road.

Low operation costs mean this is one of the best ways to advertise your restaurant! Furthermore, you know the food business better than if you were starting from scratch.

4. Gain Useful Customer Feedback

Are you planning on changing up your menu but aren’t sure how well it will do? This is the perfect time to take to your food truck. By finding an area of your city which has high foot traffic, you can sell your new concoctions to a variety of people.

Why not reduce the price in exchange for true customer feedback? Provide pens, paper, and a little postbox so that responses are anonymous.

This feedback will be much more reliable, and therefore more valuable than your mom’s opinion!

5. Meet Other Local Businesses

When you’re inside all day, you won’t be meeting others who work in small, local businesses. By getting out and about, you’ll meet people who work nearby and who can provide insider tips and tricks.

Perhaps by branching out and meeting more people in your neighborhood, you’ll find a new, cheaper supplier. This is also a great way to find new staff.

Starting a Food Truck Is Worthwhile

When it comes to starting a food truck, you need to remember to put in the research and make sure you’re not breaking any local laws. Having all of your paperwork in order can be a long process. But, when you’re up and running, there are so many benefits of owning a food truck.

If you’ve found this article helpful, check out the rest of our website and learn more about how to set up your food truck.

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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The Complete List of Food Truck Supplies and Equipment http://www.customconcessions.com/the-complete-list-of-food-truck-supplies-and-equipment/ Mon, 23 Mar 2020 06:00:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=13051 The startup costs for a food truck may seem intimidating. However, if you create a practical budget and business plan, a food truck can be very profitable.  When creating a budget, you’ll have to consider all the business needs of your food truck.  If you’re new to the game, you might not know where […]

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photo of a chef lowering a strainer full of noodles into a pot on a stove

Photo: Rawpixel

The startup costs for a food truck may seem intimidating. However, if you create a practical budget and business plan, a food truck can be very profitable

When creating a budget, you’ll have to consider all the business needs of your food truck.  If you’re new to the game, you might not know where to begin.

We’ve got you covered! Below is a comprehensive list of food truck supplies to get you started!

Supplies for Food Prep

Most food truck owners will prep in a commercial kitchen, but chances are you’ll still need a fully-stocked prep station. Some of this equipment is stuff you might already be familiar with from your own kitchen, while other items are more complex.

No matter what you’re serving, you’ll need basic cookware to help you prep in your truck. This includes things such as pots, fry pans, food processors, cutting boards, knives, and other cooking instruments. Your collection of cookware should also include thermometers to ensure all the food you’re preparing is safe and up-to-code.

Selecting the right workstation is also important. Depending on how much space you have, you may have to choose between a full prep counter and stainless steel prep tables.

Cooking Supplies

Many food trucks serve hot foods and require larger pieces of kitchen equipment that will be mounted inside your truck. A grill is perfect for just about any truck selling hot foods. A range is great for anything that needs to be boiled or sautéed.

A fryer is necessary for selling products like fries or onion rings. Charbroilers deliver a grilled flavor to meats but are perfect for veggies as well.

You may choose to install all or just a few of these pieces of cooking equipment depending on the size of your truck and the types of food you plan to serve.

Supplies for Holding Food

If your products require a lot of prep before assembly and selling, you’ll want to have ways to keep them fresh and safe to eat. This is a necessity whether you’re selling hot or cold products.

Refrigerators and freezers are essential for practically every food truck. Many people opt for under-the-counter fridge units to save space. Most of these types of units double as countertop space as well.

Which warming units you choose for your truck will depend on your product. Some people will find that countertop warmers suit their needs, while others will have better luck with heated proofing cabinets that have shelving inside. Other options include soup kettles, food heat lamps, and display warmers.

Additional Food Truck Features

While your customer’s focus will be on your food, as the owner, you need to focus on more than just the product you serve. When designing your food truck supplies list, you’ll have to consider safety and sanitation as well.

Sinks

Washing hands to prevent cross-contamination is a must for all food-centered businesses. You’re required to have a hand-washing sink in your food truck by the health department.

Safety Features

Every food truck owner has to undergo an inspection before they can get a license or permit. You’ll need a functioning exhaust hood and fire suppression system to pass.

Service Window

A service window provides the easiest way to interact with your customers. Make sure to consider its size, as it could affect your available prep space. Furthermore, you should decide whether you’d like to invest in a concession door to cover your windows during bad weather or when you’re not operating. 

Taking It to the Streets

A food truck is perfect for people who want to run their own business and prefer a unique work environment. This list of food truck supplies will help novices get their food truck business up off the ground!

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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Food Truck Appliances 101: A Handy Checklist http://www.customconcessions.com/food-truck-appliances-101-a-handy-checklist/ Mon, 09 Mar 2020 06:00:00 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12919 There are tons of food truck appliances out there to choose from. Wondering which ones you’ll need? Not to worry! In this guide, we’ll go over how to kit out your truck for your new business. Food Truck Appliances Consider a range if you will need to boil, simmer, sauté, or pan-fry any […]

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photo of a food truck interior with grill, griddle, ovens, proofing cabinet and sink

There are tons of food truck appliances out there to choose from. Wondering which ones you’ll need? Not to worry! In this guide, we’ll go over how to kit out your truck for your new business.

Food Truck Appliances

Consider a range if you will need to boil, simmer, sauté, or pan-fry any food. A charbroiler is a handy appliance if you want to get those gorgeous grill marks on your protein and vegetables.

Some people buy a microwave so they can warm up side dishes fast or steam vegetables. Only get a griddle if you’re cooking burgers, eggs, or vegetables.

If you are going to sell sandwiches, consider buying a toaster. You can get the perfect texture on your bagels, bread, or English muffins.

One of the most popular items is a fryer. This is an essential appliance. You can cook items like onion rings, chicken tenders, and french fries to start, and then branch out and try more adventurous fried options as you get used to using it.

For any fryers, grills, and commercial ovens, you’ll need ventilation, like an exhaust hood with a fan. These get vented to the outdoors so you and your employees aren’t breathing in fumes. You’ll also want a sprinkler system for your stovetops in case of fire. 

Warming Equipment

If you want to keep your menu items warm for your customers, invest in holding equipment like a holding cabinet or countertop warmer. Holding cabinets will keep your food at a safe temperature, while countertop warmers are good for items like vegetables, pasta, or casseroles.

You could also look into getting a fry dump station. This will keep your fries warm after they’ve finished cooking in your fryer.

What About Food Prep Tools?

When setting up your food truck, you’ll need areas for storing and prep work. You won’t have a ton of space, so you’ll need to get creative. Think about what kind of food you will prepare.

You may need a separate area for preparing bulk food like pasta or soups. If you’re making individual portions, like fried food baskets, pizza or sandwiches, you’ll need more space.

Consider getting a stainless steel work table. You’ll use this a lot for when you’re prepping food.

Pick up cutting boards and knives. Don’t forget to get a food processor, thermometer, and a french fry cutter.

Refrigeration Equipment

You’ll most likely need have a fridge, and depending on what you plan to serve, you might also want a freezer or a drink cooler. These types of large appliances will be bolted in place to keep you and your employees safe.

Another good option is an under-counter refrigerator. These serve a dual purpose as food storage and another work surface.

If you sell a lot of salads or sandwiches, consider getting a prep table refrigerator. This way, you’ll have individual compartments dedicated to all the toppings, sauces, and condiments you need.

Contact Us Today

We hope you found this guide on appliances helpful. Consider what you will be cooking and selling at your truck—this will help you pick out what food truck appliances you’ll need. And don’t forget to install and understand some of the safety equipment you’ll need for your truck.

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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How Much Does Food Truck Insurance Cost? http://www.customconcessions.com/how-much-does-food-truck-insurance-cost/ Mon, 24 Feb 2020 06:00:19 +0000 http://www.customconcessions.com/?p=12952 Photo by Helloquence on Unsplash Remember when everyone thought food trucks were just an amusement? Well, we do. But we know that this fad was anything but that. Now, this hard-scrabble food slinging world has some serious value.  By 2020, the food truck industry will be worth $996 million—proof that we can’t imagine life without them. Your […]

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Photo by Helloquence on Unsplash

Remember when everyone thought food trucks were just an amusement?

Well, we do. But we know that this fad was anything but that. Now, this hard-scrabble food slinging world has some serious value. 

By 2020, the food truck industry will be worth $996 million—proof that we can’t imagine life without them.

Your food truck is an essential part of your mobile restaurant, so you have to make sure that thing is insured! But what does food truck insurance cost?

Food Truck Insurance Cost Varies like the Cost of Food Truck Lobster Rolls

The less expensive the policy is, the less likely it is to have real lobster. Somethings you just can’t fake or flake on. But even in that, you don’t need to pay out the nose to get what you need. 

Food truck insurance cost depends on the provider and plan that you buy. 

Don’t be surprised if the cost is in the thousands for an annual premium. This is, in part, good if you actually expect a payout when you file a claim and if you understand that there really is no such thing as food truck insurance. 

Wait, What? 

That’s right. It would be surprising if a state’s laws actually spelled out insurance on food trucks, even if going without coverage is out of the question.

Most of the time, insurers will package together insurance plans that include general liability coverage, commercial auto insurance, business property, and workers’ compensation insurance—all of the insurance types that a mobile food serving organization will need. If you bundle all of your insurance policies and purchase them through the same company, you may be able to get a better deal. 

Other Reasons It’s Hard to Guess

Nearly every food truck is different. This is what makes the food and the food truck scene so great. 

But the fact that all trucks are different makes insuring them a challenge. Some trucks have grills, others have friers, pizza oven or BBQ smokers. All of these things have varying levels of risk and monetary value and will be treated differently by insurers. 

Further, the kinds of food, your state’s regulations for food-serving entities, and the gear that is attached to your truck will impact the price.

You’ve Got Questions

Finding the right food truck insurance can be confusing, but you will want to know how much of your budget will need to go toward insurance. Your best bet might simply be to get some quotes or reach out to a local insurance firm for help in finding a close estimate of how much you should expect to pay.

Food truck insurance cost will be just one part of a larger plan for success. Be sure to make a business plan so you can determine the overall cost and profitability of your future food truck business.

Need a quote for your first food truck? Or need help designing an upgrade? Connect with us and make it happen!

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.

The post How Much Does Food Truck Insurance Cost? appeared first on Custom Concessions.

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