Coffee is more than just a morning ritual; but it is a lifestyle around the world. If you have an interest in coffee and enjoy working with the public, then a mobile coffee business can be a great way to earn a living.
You can choose your hours to operate a mobile coffee business from a cart, van, or bike. Which enables you to operate from different locations, including functions, festivals, outdoor events, weddings, and more.
With the right approach and strategy, you can build a growing and successful mobile coffee business that helps to satisfy the craving of coffee enthusiasts all over the country.
The article explores a step-by-step guide on how to start a mobile coffee cart business in London with flexibility, a low budget, and high demand.
So launching a mobile coffee cart in London can be your perfect brew. Let’s explore.
How to start a mobile coffee cart in London?
London is a city that grows on satisfactions. The opportunities for a mobile coffee business are endless, with thousands of markets, parks, and business hubs across London.
The step-by-step guide below helps you to start your coffee on the cart:
Step 1: Research well and make a business plan
Every growing business starts with a well-researched and strong foundation plan, so start with some questions like:
- Who will be the targeted customers?
- Where will you operate from, market or office parks?
- What will you make different from other coffee vendors?
- What type of coffee will you serve?
Put all these questions in your business plan to outline your goals, vision, cost, strategies, and profits. A well-designed business plan is most important to start a coffee cart business in London.
Step 2: Choose a perfect coffee cart
When you are starting a coffee cart is your biggest investment in itself and also your brand’s first impression. There are different types of carts you can invest in, like:
- Pushcart – it is ideal for a small space and limited access.
- Trailer or van conversions – Van conversion includes more equipment and storage, and it comes at a higher price.
- Bike and tricycle – Bikes and tricycles are an eco-friendly and eye-catching option for your coffee business.
Whatever cart you choose, make sure that your cart includes features such as a grinder, espresso machine, water supply, power source, storage for beans, cups, and more items, as well as a milk fridge.
Step 3: Get license, permits, and insurance
Running a mobile coffee cart in London means dealing with the authority of the cart, so what you need to do is:
- Need a street trading license: A Street trading license is needed by most London cities. You should apply to the specific local council where you plan to start your mobile coffee cart.
- Food hygiene registration: You should register with the food hygiene authority locally at least 28 days before starting your business.
- Level 2 food hygiene certificate: This level 2 food hygiene certificate is required if you want to start a food or drink business in London.
- Public liability insurance: Public liability insurance is crucial to protect against customer claims.
Step 4: Branding and menu advancement
Branding of your mobile coffee cart will help you establish your business in the market. Decide on a catchy name for your business, make a logo, whether it is retro style, minimalist, or anything.
Keeping your menu simple and high quality, including classics like Americanos, flat whites, and cappuccinos, is a must.
You can add plant-based milk options with a few seasonal drinks, like lavender lattes and spiced mochas, to help attract a huge customer base.
Step 5: Find the perfect spot
The success of your business initially depends on the location, which helps to make or break your business. Look for areas like office hubs, markets, parks, train stations, and university campuses.
Some location requires rent or pitch fees, and some locations, like events, festivals, and contracts, get arranged directly with organisers without paying rent or fees.
Try to build regular spots into your routine so it will help to make your loyal customer base.
Step 6: Marketing your business on social media
Your coffee cart business can be mobile, but your social media presence should be rock solid.
- TikTok and Instagram are ideal for showcasing your coffee styles, your cart, location, and customer reviews.
- Register your business on Google My Business to showcase your business on Google search and local search.
- You can run targeted Facebook ads for your location.
- Word of mouth is also a powerful medium to market your mobile coffee cart.
- Create a local presence by participating in festivals, collaborating with vendors, and attending some events.
Step 7: Manage your finances
The starting cost of a mobile coffee cart in London usually ranges from £8,000 to £20,000, depending on your cart type.
- Cart setup, including equipment, ranging from £6,000 to £15,000
- The license and training costs range from £500 to £1000
- Initial stock and supplies cost from £500 to £1000
- Branding and marketing ranging from £500 to £1000
You can use POS systems for easy payment tracking and reports. and must register with HMRC if your income is more than the trading allowance threshold.
Conclusion
Starting a mobile coffee cart on wheels in London is not just a serving espresso shots; it is about turning your passion into flexible and profitable coffee ventures.
The business offers you a startup with lower cost and the freedom to move on wheels in crowded places.
The Londoners’ love and passion for coffee with high quality, in bustling parks, markets, and business hubs, make a perfect combination for a mobile coffee cart to start.
Focusing on the great coffee, best service, and great marketing, you can create a loyal customer base.
Make sure to follow the legal steps, select locations wisely, as well as stay consistent with quality coffee. With perfect planning and passion, your coffee cart becomes a favourite among the city.
Ready to start your journey? Your cart is waiting for you; the bustling street of London needs great coffee.
