As temperatures dip and mornings get crisp, many people assume mobile café businesses go quiet in winter. But that’s not the case for smart coffee van owners who focus on recurring weekday rounds, a model that brings reliable income, loyal customers, and a sustainable work-life rhythm.
Here’s why regular routes beat one-off events – especially during the colder months – and how Xpresso Mobile Café helps franchisees build the kind of business that thrives year-round.
Why Winter Is Still a Winning Season for Coffee Vans
Australians don’t stop drinking coffee just because it’s cold – in fact, hot drinks become even more desirable. And while big events may slow down, weekday demand stays strong at:
- Worksites
- Office parks
- Industrial estates
- School zones
- Hospitals and aged care centres
The trick? Building a daily coffee round that keeps you busy Monday to Friday, with minimal downtime and predictable income.
The Power of the Coffee Round: Build a Loyal Daily Base
The most successful mobile cafés aren’t chasing events – they’re serving the same smiling customers each day. A “coffee round” is a strategic route where you stop at key locations at the same time every day. Over time, your van becomes a fixture in your community’s routine.
With Xpresso Mobile Café, you’re given a dedicated exclusive territory, and our team helps you identify high-traffic locations. We’ll also help promote your route through local area marketing and signage, so your regular customers know exactly when (and where) to find you.
From One-Offs to Ongoing: Why Events Aren’t as Profitable as You Think
Yes, weekend markets and festivals can be fun – but they also come with a catch:
- Early bump-in times (often before sunrise)
- Long hours stuck on-site, even if traffic slows
- Minimal flexibility to adjust or leave early
- High physical demand for sometimes lower-than-expected returns
Compared to a 2–3 hour daily round serving tradie hubs or schools, many Xpresso operators say they make more money with less effort during regular weekday runs. In fact, some of our vans are grossing $750+ per day on regular rounds alone.
Events are best treated as bonus income, not the foundation of your business.
How Xpresso Mobile Café Sets You Up for Success
With Xpresso, you’re not starting from scratch. Here’s how we help you build a thriving winter-proof coffee van business:
- Exclusive territory – No internal competition
- Marketing support – We help promote your run
- Training & systems – Learn how to build loyalty and operate efficiently
- Recurring revenue focus – Events are optional, not essential
By focusing on repeat business, you create a dependable, profitable routine that still allows you the freedom to attend weekend gigs when you want to – not because you have to.
People Also Ask:
Can a coffee van make money in winter?
Yes! Winter can be a profitable season, especially when focusing on regular weekday rounds at workplaces and schools where hot coffee is always welcome.
Is it better to do events or daily routes with a mobile café?
Daily routes tend to provide more reliable income and a better work-life balance. Events are great for bonus income but often require long hours for lower returns.
How do I build a regular customer base for my coffee van?
By choosing consistent locations, showing up on time daily, and providing excellent service. Xpresso Mobile Café helps you identify ideal locations and promote your run.
Start Smart: Build a Coffee Van Business That Works for You
Events come and go, but a strong weekday round creates the consistent income and lifestyle flexibility that mobile café owners dream of. With Xpresso Mobile Café by your side, you don’t have to figure it all out alone – we help you build the blueprint.
Ready to Get Started?
Call Xpresso Mobile Café today and take the first step toward becoming your own boss!
