Are you thinking of starting a street food business? If the answer is yes, we have good news for you. You should know that, according to statistics, the street food sector is in rapid growth , with an estimated annual expansion rate of around 7-8% globally, with even more optimistic prospects in the Italian scene .
The reason for this success likely lies in the growing demands of modern consumers. Food trucks, more than other catering businesses, offer flexibility, convenience, and speed, meeting the needs of an increasingly large and fast-paced clientele.
The advantages of food trucks
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Costs :
Compared to opening a restaurant, investing in a food truck business is very cost-effective. Furthermore, there are plenty of options to limit initial costs , such as purchasing a used van and adapting it to your needs, or opting for alternative means such as mobile carts. And E- bike Techfood , the innovative vehicle, awarded the prize for best tool and service accessory at the Barawards 2017 .
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Mobility :
Food trucks offer the ability to move freely from city to city, reaching wider audiences and thus increasing the business's chances of success .
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Flexibility :
The possibility of participating in different events offers the opportunity to adapt your offering to the context, the type of clientele and the event you are attending.
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Tax deductions :
Even when it comes to taxes, food trucks represent a beneficial alternative to venues, as in these cases operators can benefit from significant tax deductions.
The challenges
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Competition :
In a vibrant and competitive market like this, it's vital to be able to stand out from your competitors with a good idea, unique products, and an attractive brand.
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Opening hours :
Especially during peak periods like festivals and events, it's important to be prepared and ready to accommodate large influxes of customers.
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Small spaces :
Workspaces inside a food truck are quite limited; for this reason, it is advisable to carefully choose the machinery, preferring compact, versatile and low-maintenance ones such as the Techfood griddle line ( Rondò Unika , Cialderia Donuts , Cialderia Mini Pancake ).
- Urban planning restrictions :
Since these are wheeled vehicles, it is necessary to always stay up to date on which areas are designated for food trucks and the permitted permanence times.
While the street food market is encouraging, starting your own business can seem daunting. Between costs, financing, and paperwork, the dream of opening a food truck can quickly turn into a nightmare; however, with the right information and resources, the journey becomes easier.
Here's our guide for aspiring mobile restaurateurs.
Steps to get started
Step 1: Market Research
Conduct research to thoroughly understand the area you want to operate in. You'll need to understand which events are best for attracting customers, what competitors offer, and what you could offer to stand out. A good idea might be to focus on versatile, interesting, and appealing products like Ice N Rolls or Bubble Sticks. or Cremino Choco Kebab … the possibilities are endless and the only limit is your imagination!
Step 2: Define your brand
What will your business be? Will it be an ice cream shop or a sandwich shop? Do you favor traditional cuisine or embrace innovation? Do you have a rock'n'roll spirit? Or perhaps you prefer to convey the serene atmosphere of grandma's house? All these questions could help you define your food truck's identity and develop the best strategy to reach your customers.
Step 3: Define the legal status of your business
There are several options:
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Limited Liability Company (Ltd)
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Partnerships (such as general partnerships or limited partnerships)
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Sole proprietorship
Partnerships are generally recommended, as they are easier to set up and allow for easier accounting management.
Step 4: The bureaucratic process
At this point the most delicate phase begins because after obtaining financing, you will have to make sure you complete other crucial steps , namely:
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open a VAT number at the Revenue Agency;
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register with INPS and INAIL for social security and insurance management;
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register in the Company Register at the local Chamber of Commerce;
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demonstrate that you have at least two years of experience in catering, that you have attended hotel school or that you have a certificate of attendance at a 120-hour SAB course or alternatively the HACCP course, depending on local regulations;
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obtain a specific license for street trading with the use of a special vehicle, to be requested from the relevant Municipality or from the One-Stop Shop for Productive Activities (SUAP ).
Step 5: Choose your license
There are two types of licenses:
Type A license
The Type A license provides a ten-year concession for a permanent space in a pre-established area , primarily intended for itinerant businesses in fixed locations. This license is issued by the relevant Region and is valid throughout the region, including participation in trade fairs in Italy. However, it is important to note that it can be revoked if the business activity is not carried out regularly or if excessive absences accumulate.
Type B license
The Type B license is specifically designed for on-the-road sales , ideal for those looking to start a food truck business. Compared to the Type A license, the process is significantly simpler and free of charge. It is issued directly by the municipality of residence via registered mail. This authorization allows for itinerant sales and participation in trade fairs throughout the country.
Step 6: Start your food truck adventure
Now all you have to do is get to work and outdo the competition with innovative ideas, unique flavors, and a whole lot of passion!