Start Up Costs

Start-up costs

There are lots of amazing perks to being a mobile caterer: working at fantastic events, getting to cook delicious food and then watch people enjoy it. But one of the best is the low start-up costs.
 
You can start up a mobile catering business with minimal investment. You can get yourself up and running and make good money at smaller events and markets, and later down the line, when you have more experience and money, plenty more opportunities will be available for you to increase your profits.

 

Equipment

When it comes to equipment, a good bulk of the things you need can be sourced second hand online and it’s worth checking out NCASS’ Classifieds section for second hand vehicles and trailers. The cost of sourcing a unit in which to trade from is as long as a piece of string and it all depends on whether you’re looking for a brand spanking new vehicle, or whether you’re planning to refurb and kit out the whole thing yourself. Whatever your preference, you’ll be able to find the perfect option for your business on a budget of your choosing.

Of course, we would always advise doing plenty of research before committing to anything and making sure you view vehicles and/or equipment, checking its history and obtaining relevant paperwork/safety certificates before handing over any money. We always advise our members: buy cheap, buy twice. Your equipment must meet legal requirements (e.g. gas kit must be CE marked and include a flame failure device) and you need it to be able to stand the test of time. If you find yourself having to replace equipment every year or two, you’re going to waste a lot of money. Always buy the very best you can afford.

  • Unit: gazebo/tent/marquee/build-up stall/van/trailer
  • Cooking equipment: griddle, Bain Marie, chaffing dish etc
  • Food storage equipment: refrigeration, cool boxes etc.
  • Insurance: public & product liability, employer’s liability, vehicle, trailer etc.
  • Hand washing unit and pot washing facilities
  • Wages should you require staff
  • Stock: you’re going to need a lot of stock to cook your dishes
  • Cleaning equipment and schedule
  • Pitch fees for events
  • Licences: selling alcohol? You’ll have to pay for a personal licence course before you can apply for your licence
  • Safe LPG set up & gas safe certificates
  • First Aid kit, including blue caterer-type plasters
  • Risk Assessments: these are a legal requirement and are essential for your customers’ welfare
  • Temperature probes: you’ll need to make sure your food is cooked to legally-required temperatures
  • Fire safety equipment: fire extinguishers and fire blankets etc.
  • Training: you and your staff need to be trained to certain levels in food hygiene & other matters
  • Transport: you’ll need a vehicle to get your gazebo or stall to site
  • Food Safety Management System: this system includes all the processes you need to trade legally and safely.
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