There are loads of great reasons to start a street food business, and we'll have a look at some of them on this page. But it's worth knowing at this stage that the very best way to get cracking in this industry is with the NCASS on your side. Not heard of them? The Nationwide Caterers Association offers traders legal protection, safety and work opportunities. They can tell you loads about getting started in street food, and help you do it too.
If you want to chat to NCASS just give them a call on 0300 124 6866.
If you want to chat to NCASS just give them a call on 0300 124 6866.
What's so great about street food?
Unlike most other business opportunities, street trading offers the ordinary individual a realistic chance to start their own business for a reasonable investment, very few restrictions, low overheads and little, if any specialist knowledge, skills or experience.
One advantage of street food is that in most cases you will be in the enviable position of being able to ‘move on’ should a particular pitch prove to be unsuccessful. People always need to eat and drink, and today’s busy lifestyle often means that many are either unwilling or unable to cater for themselves, turning rather to fast food or ready-prepared meals.
» Everybody has to eat
» Steadily increasing demand (even in recession) » Low start-up cost » Low overheads » Immediate cash income » Low level of experience required » You are your own boss |
But Be Aware!Any type of catering is very hard work and can be extremely physically demanding. There are also stringent legal requirements that must be conformed with, in order to avoid significant fines.
Sunny Outlook?On the face of it, the plus points do seem to far outweigh the minuses, but whether or not you can succeed in this industry sector is largely down to your own character as well as your business acumen. We have constructed a checklist to help you think seriously about all the aspects of this new venture and even envisage yourself in the roll (pardon the pun!) before you take the plunge and cook up a storm!
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How much money will I make?The amount of money you can make in Street Food varies depending on what you sell, where you sell it and how many hours you put it.
Click here to find more. What does the law say?Want to know what the law says regarding being a street food trader?
Click here to find more. |
Where can I trade?Street Trading LicencesStreet Trading Licences can be quite confusing
Click here to find more. |
Start up costThere might be costs you haven't considered in starting up. Not sure what your budget will get you?
Click here to find more. Gas Safety |
Before we begin....
Street foodies contact us every day undecided as to what type of food would be best suited to them and their abilities, the reality is that most of them need to ask themselves a lot more questions before they get to the point of what food to sell.
Here’s a 10 point checklist which you need to work through just to get you thinking in the right direction.
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Will the family life be able to fit in?If you are the sort of person who always wants the family to be together, this may not be the ideal industry for you. At some shows there will be an opportunity to take the family along. However the stress and demands on your time running your own business, are not always harmonious with a family life, particularly a young one.
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So, what next?
Looking for more help, info or advice? We have a few more options to help you develop your business depending on which stage you're at. You can contact NCASS to get help and advice specific to your business.
Get advice from The Nationwide Caterers Association
Fill in this survey to give the Support Team at The Nationwide Caterers Association an idea of where you're at and how they can give you a hand getting into street food. If you leave your phone number, they can give you a call about getting started & chat you through the things you need to talk about most.
> Fill out the survey here. Alternatively, you could call them on 0300 124 6866. |