Is Owning a Food Truck Right for You? Key Questions to Ask
Is Owning a Food Truck Right for You? Key Questions to Ask
Who doesn't get excited when they attend an event and see a food truck parked up, with the smell of something delicious cooking filling the air.
Owning a food truck can be very appealing to aspiring business owners, since it is typically seen to be a business with lower overheads and smaller start up cost way to get into the hospitality industry. Team that up with social media and the endless food bloggers who love to try the newest trends, and the ability to be totally mobile, you could be on your way to a success story.
The food truck industry in Australia has experienced significant growth over the past decade, with more than 5,000 food trucks operating nationwide , according to the Australian Mobile Food Vendors Group. Australians are looking for a different dining experience, to try out new trends and also enjoy the laid back atmosphere that is synonymous with Australia.
New survey research from Brighter shows that, unsurprisingly, 33% of Australians eat from a food truck when on “a casual night out with a partner or friends”. What’s perhaps more surprising is that 26% of Australians say they eat from a food truck when getting lunch at work.
What Type of Food Truck Suits You?
Before you jump into buying a food truck business you should be sure to research and plan. Do some market research.
- What types of food trucks do well in your area?
- How far are you willing to travel to attend events and festivals?
- Understand the demand in your area for food trucks .
- Analyse your competition and identify what could set you apart.
- Identify the spending habits of your consumer base.
- How many staff members are needed, and what roles will they perform?
What Licenses Are Needed to Own a Food Truck Business?
This is the big one. As with any business, food truck businesses require a range of licenses and permits in order to operate and this varies from state and local government regulations.
- Every business in Australia needs to be registered for an Australian Business Number or ABN.
- Typically any food businesses need to be registered to the local government. Reach out to your local council, who will be able to let you know where to register.
- A search on your states requirements for running food businesses can reveal guidelines for what is required. NSW residents can head to the Food Safety website, QLD residents can find more information on the QLD government site, VIC residents will find Foodtrader an invaluable source and WA can rely on the WA Health government website for relevant links.
- A food business needs to appoint a Food Safety Supervisor (FSS). A relevant food safety handling course will need to be completed from any registered RTO in Australia and is valid for 5 years from issue. You may need to ensure you have a FSS before applying for your licensing at council.
- Check local zoning laws and event policies.
- Vehicle registrations and compliance. Ensure the food truck is registered appropriately as required by your states road authority.
By sticking to these guidelines and consulting the appropriate authorities, you can ensure that your food truck business operates legally and successfully across different regions in Australia.
If you are considering owning a food truck business, then buying an already established one may make the entire set up process easier for you. It is likely that buying a food truck business will have most of the groundwork laid out for you and allow you to step into an already established business and begin making money.
It is a typical misconception that food truck businesses for sale are not making money, but there are many reasons why an owner may be selling their profitable business on. The owner could be relocating, or have other businesses that require more of their time, which allow you to step in and build on what could already be a booming business.
When buying a food truck business, you may be presented with an Information Memorandum or IM, but it is important to conduct your due diligence thoroughly on the figures given in this guide.
Here are some food truck businesses for sale to get you on your way!
Mobile Food Vans – Northside Brisbane
Price: $90,000 + SAV
Operating for over 21 years, this mobile food van business features a professionally built kitchen within a 2006 Toyota Hilux. Servicing Brisbane's northside Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm, the business is well-maintained, fully equipped, and offers a two-week handover period. Full tax figures are available upon request.
Ex 1960 Mr. Whippy Van – Fully Operative
Price: $150,000
Highly profitable and easy-to-run mobile ice cream business operating for 15 years in SE QLD and Northern Rivers NSW. Primarily weekend work with high returns, strong client base, and repeat business. Fully equipped and ready to go, perfect for a flexible lifestyle.
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About the author
Catherine Mangana
Customer Support
Catherine enjoys generating articles that highlight some of the opportunities that are now available for purchase on Bsale. She hails from a family of ...
