Here are some quick tips to running a successful food truck!
In recent years, the food truck industry has become increasingly prevalent in our communities. Since its arrival, its proven to be difficult to navigate due to its niche nature. Information is sparse leaving entrepreneurs and business owners in the dark. IBIS World has identified 5 key success factors within the food truck industry that will boost profitability, efficiency and ultimately your success.
Offering a unique, differentiated menu:
Why are customers going to eat your food? What is your unique offering? You’re not just competing against all other mobile food vendors, yet your competing with every other food option on the market. First impressions by your customers is crucial, your menu has the ability to stay with a customer long after they’ve ordered from it. You should have them hooked and coming back for more. Check out our article about creating a menu.
Effective quality control:
Food trucks must maintain quality standards for both their commercial kitchen and the food they produce and serve. Your local council’s food safety regulators annually inspect your mobile food business to ensure your business is meeting Australian food standards and allocate your business with a food permit. Each state has a legislative act that coincides with the Australian New Zealand Food Standards Code to ensure food for sale is safe and suitable for human consumption and to prevent misleading conduct in relation to the sale of food. A communication streamline with your local council will ensure that your business is regulating these standards.
Proximity to key markets:
This is a no brainer. It is essential for your business to be located in busy areas with significant foot traffic to maximise your potential sales. Whether that be at local community events, markets, or a council permitted park and serve location. Check out our article about food truck events.
Ability to control stock on hand:
In order for your business to maximise profits, you must have a food system in place that avoids wastage and spoilage of ingredients which in turn will reduce costs to the business. In our article about becoming savvy food waste, we talk about 3 simple methods that are easy to cut down on your businesses food waste and maximise profits. Check it out!
Building and maintaining a community:
Repeat customers are the heart of any hospitality business. They are the ones that turn up every Wednesday for their Taco’s with a smile from ear to ear. They are the ones that bring family and friends. Most of all, loyal customers create brand loyalty and increase brand awareness through word of mouth referrals. Research your audience and crease a strong strategy that targets and caters to their needs. Read our article about retaining loyal customers!
These 5 key success factors for food truck businesses will ultimately increase sales and brand awareness but most off all boost profit.