Ever thought about turning your love for coffee into a flexible, profitable venture? The answer may well lie in the decision to start a mobile coffee cart. It is an excellent way to launch a coffee business in Australia and with Aussies consuming over 2 billion cups per year, a long line of potential customers are never far away. Here’s what’s needed to start a coffee cart, then grow it into a thriving enterprise.
Understand your market…
Launching a profitable mobile coffee business all starts with understanding who you’re serving. Are you targeting early-morning commuters, weekend market-goers, or attendees at local events? Undertake market research by observing coffee carts in busy locations, and, wherever you can, speak with potential customers to identify any gaps in existing offerings. Could you stand out with eco-friendly practices, unique blends, or with customer service that’s better than the rest? The coffee industry is a competitive space, but there’s still plenty of room for those with a point of difference.
Have a solid business plan…
The best coffee starts with the right recipe, and so does a successful coffee cart business. Your business plan should account for the following:
- Startup costs – Equipment, permits, branding, and your cart setup (including initial consumables).
- Financial projections – Expected monthly revenues and expenses.
- Marketing strategy – Think social media/content strategy, events, and loyalty programs to draw and keep customers.
Plan for growth right from the get-go, because Aussies love their coffee and you may find your mobile coffee business rapidly gains popularity!
Tick the legal boxes…
To start a coffee cart in Australia, you’ll need to meet specific legal and council requirements. Here’s a quick list to guide you:
- A registered business name and ABN.
- The necessary food business licences and mobile vendor permits from your local council.
- Certified food safety training.
- Insurances like public liability and vehicle insurance.
Laws vary by state, so make sure you’re fully across the rules in your area.
