Potential Earnings
Coffee is a lucrative business, with mobile shops forming one of the fastest-growing segments in the restaurant trade. A typical coffee truck operating five days a week can make 800 to 1,000 sales per day — translating to $6,000-$15,000 per month or $72,000-$180,000 annually in net income.
The Appeal of Coffee Vans
Starting a mobile coffee business offers numerous benefits: it’s versatile, less expensive, and provides opportunities for expansion and growth. The start-up costs for coffee trailers and carts can range from $16,000 to $25,000, with an average annual income of $50,000 to $100,000+. This is a far more cost-effective option than establishing a new venture that requires a significant investment for a brick-and-mortar location.
By visiting industrial estates and business parks, your coffee van can generate substantial weekly income, serving coffee and food to employees. When starting a coffee van business, efforts will include finding locations, curating menus, and investing in technology.
Is Starting a Coffee Van Business Worth It?
In the context of the global commodity market, coffee stands as the second most valuable commodity. This, coupled with Australians’ love for coffee — where three in four enjoy at least one cup of coffee per day — underscores the thriving nature of the coffee market.
Start-Up Costs and Steps
The start-up costs for a mobile coffee business are relatively low, averaging around $16,000, including licensing for one county. Here’s a brief outline of the steps to get started:
- Research
- Design business
- Write plan
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the opportunities, it’s important to be aware of the challenges, such as employee turnover, self-employment taxes, and budgeting for overhead like physical products. Adapting operation hours to different seasons and understanding local competition are also crucial for success.
Additional Considerations
Mobile coffee businesses offer the advantage of easy movement, catering to varying consumer demands, and simpler licensing compared to traditional food permits. With proper planning, a flexible schedule, and social media engagement to keep customers updated on your location, running a mobile coffee shop can be a successful endeavor.
With determination, coffee knowledge, and a passion for the craft, you can turn this opportunity into a profitable and enjoyable business.
Let’s get brewing!