business plan for small food truck

Restaurants | How To

How to Start a Food Truck Business in 9 Steps

Published May 6, 2024

WRITTEN BY: Mary King

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This article is part of a larger series on Starting a Business .

Starting A Business?

• Step 1: Research Local Food Trucks & Laws
• Step 2: Choose a Menu, Name & Logo
• Step 3: Register Your Business & Open a Bank Account
• Step 4. Raise Funds

Step 5: Get Your Food Truck

• Step 6: Get Licenses, Permits & Insurance
• Step 7: Purchase Equipment & Supplies
• Step 8: Hire & Train Staff

Step 9: Market Your Food Truck

• Pros & Cons

Bottom Line

There has never been a better time to start a food truck business; in fact, the number of food trucks grew by almost 10% from 2022 to 2023 1 . If you’re looking for a money-making business idea, a food truck is a great one. Successful food trucks can bring in more than $500,000 per year, with startup costs from $40,000–$200,000.

Starting a food truck typically takes three to 12 months and requires the nine steps below. Download our checklist to help you stay on track.

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Starting a Food Truck Checklist

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Step 1: research local food trucks & laws.

When starting your food truck business, it’s essential to make sure you are filling a hole in the market, supplying a demand, and operating within the law. So, you should evaluate the food truck scene in your area and research local food truck laws and regulations. This information will help you decide if a food truck is the best-fitting business for you to start .

When evaluating your local food truck scene, make sure you do the following:

• Evaluate existing trucks: Note popular cuisines and price points, serving hours, and popular selling locations. This will help you develop a truck that fits your market.
• Research local food truck laws: Some areas have generous food truck regulations, while others are so restrictive that it seems they don’t want trucks at all. Call your local health department and county or city clerk’s office to find out what permits you need and what parking restrictions to comply with.
• Check the availability of commercial kitchens: In most locations, food trucks are required to contract with a commercial kitchen to prepare and store food.
• Look for food truck parks: Truck parks indicate that an area welcomes trucks and helps potential customers locate you.

Introduce yourself to truck owners and ask them about their biggest operational challenges. You‘ll find that most are eager to share their knowledge with an up-and-coming food trucker. One of the best aspects of food truck communities is the camaraderie and support of other truck operators.

Step 2: Choose a Menu, Name & Logo

Food trucks are known for their clever remixes and personal flair. The most successful food truck concepts reflect their owner’s interests and personal experiences. Consider the popular Las Vegas truck Buldogis , which serves Korean-inflected gourmet hot dogs that reflect the owners’ American and Korean backgrounds. Start with your menu, and your name and logo should naturally follow.

• Read our menu development guide for tips on creating your food truck menu.
• Our restaurant name generator will help you find a unique food truck name.
• Read our guide to business logos for details on crafting your food truck logo.

Step 3: Register Your Business & Open a Bank Account

When starting a food truck, you’ll need to create a business entity and register with your state. For most food truck operations, a limited liability company (LLC) makes the most sense. It protects your personal assets in the event of a lawsuit or business bankruptcy and shows vendors, insurers, and permitting agencies that your business is legitimate.

Filing fees vary from state to state, but forming an LLC isn’t necessarily expensive. Costs range from $40 to $500, and you can find the forms you need on your state’s business office website.

Filing LLC paperwork can be tedious and a little complicated. If you need guided assistance, we recommend working with a legal website like Incfile or one of our other recommended online legal services .

Open a Business Bank Account

You’ll need to separate your personal finances from your business finances by opening a business bank account . This account will hold funds invested in your food truck and be used to pay permitting, licensing, and vendor fees. When your truck is up and running, your credit card deposits will run to this account, and you will pay employees and suppliers from it. You can inquire about business banking options at the bank that handles your personal banking.

See our list of the best small business checking accounts for more business banking options.

Step 4. Raise Funds for Your Food Truck

Starting a food truck business can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $200,000, depending on your location, the cooking appliances you need, and the type of truck you purchase. The tables below give you a rough estimate of the itemized costs involved in starting a food truck business. Click the tabs to view one-time and recurring food truck costs.

Food Truck Business Estimated Startup Costs

The first step to raising the funds you need to start a food truck is writing a business plan.

Write a Food Truck Business Plan

Like any other business, your food truck will need a well-prepared business plan if you want it to succeed. Your business plan puts your concept on paper so potential investors and loan officers can see that your food truck is a good investment. Having a food truck business plan gives you a better understanding of how long it will take for your food truck to turn a profit and what funds you need to sustain your business until that point.

Read our guide to writing a business plan for step-by-step instructions.

Food Truck Funding Options

Most people don’t have immediate access to the capital required to start a food truck, so financing your food truck business will be an essential step. Most lenders require a business plan before issuing a loan, so be sure to have your thorough plan ready, along with the amount you need and your credit history.

Here are some financing options available for aspiring food truck owners:

• Equipment loan/financing program: Some truck sellers or equipment financiers will loan to you to purchase the truck.
• Rollover for business startups (ROBS): If you have more than $50,000 in a retirement account, you can set up a ROBS , which will allow you to use the funds in your retirement account to fund your business without paying early withdrawal penalties.
• Business credit cards: If you are good at paying off debt, a business credit card may be a good option.
• Personal loan: This is a good option if you have a good credit score and need less than $50,000.
• Microloan from Small Business Administration (SBA): Microloans are considerably smaller in size than conventional business loans but may be sufficient to cover food truck startup costs. Check out SBA’s Microloan Program for loans of less than $50,000.
• Find investors: Whether it’s a friend or family member, finding investors for your food truck business requires strategy. Prepare your concept and a solid business plan to help convince investors to fund your venture.

Not all funding comes from banks and big investors. If you have an active fanbase of friends and family who support your food truck concept, crowdfunding can provide some or all of your opening budget. Your business plan will give you a great jumping-off point to create a compelling crowdfunding page. A bonus of crowdfunding for a food truck is that you’ll already have a fanbase excited to see your truck come to life.

For a detailed look at crowdfunding, see our guide on how to crowdfund a small business .

Several of the permits and licenses you need depend on the type of vehicle you purchase. So this step typically happens before– simultaneously with– the next step; getting your permits. You can buy, build, or lease a food truck. Food trucks can cost anywhere from $3,250 for a secondhand trailer to as much as $300,000 for a new, custom-built truck, although $5,000–$125,000 is the general range.

Regardless of your budget, you should invest in the best quality truck you can afford. Investing in a quality food truck from the beginning minimizes your risk of incurring repair expenses down the road, and protects you and your staff from dangerous cooking or vehicle-related accidents.

Expand the sections below to explore your options for getting a food truck.

Buy a Food Truck

You have several options for purchasing a food truck. You can purchase a used truck from an individual seller in person or online. By purchasing a used truck, you can typically get a fully outfitted truck for around $50,000, although you will have to repaint the outside and possibly renovate the inside to match your business.

A few good directory sites to find used food trucks are:

• Commercial Truck Trader
• Used Vending
• Road Stoves
• Miami Trailer & Equipment Company

You can also purchase a new food truck directly from a manufacturer like Ibarras. Prices for its standard trucks start at around $18,000. Major car manufacturers like Ford, Nissan, and Mercedes-Benz also supply food truck-compatible vehicles; you’ll need to contact a local dealer for pricing and options. When buying new from a major manufacturer, you should expect prices starting at $40,000, plus equipment.

Build a Food Truck

Custom-built food trucks can set your food truck apart from the competition if you have the budget for one. Companies like Prestige Food Trucks, Cruising Kitchens, and Northwest Mobile Kitchens specialize in custom food trucks built to your exact specifications. New custom food trucks will cost around $100,000 to $200,000. The benefit, of course, is that everything is new, built for purpose, and usually under warranty. You don’t need to worry about how previous owners cared for the truck or if a professional installed the gas lines.

Lease a Food Truck

If you’re only operating seasonally or your funds are limited, you should explore leasing a food truck. Brands like Mobi Munch, RoadStoves, and Ibarras lease trucks month-to-month. If there are truck agents in your area, leasing is an attractive option because leases tend to come with lots of included services. RoadStoves customers, for example, get overnight truck parking, a health permit, and access to a commissary kitchen included in their truck lease. It is common for food truck leases to run from $3,000 to $4,500 per month.

The downside to leasing is that the truck won’t be customized to your needs. You’ll also need to get creative with magnetic decals to customize the truck with your logo and menu. When your lease term is up, you may also have to pause your business until you find another truck.

Step 6: Get Licenses, Permits & Insurance

Food trucks need at least three types of licenses and permits: general business licenses, food service licenses, and vehicle licenses. Depending on your location, most food truck licenses and permits will cost between $100 to $500 each. Your total permit and license fees can range from $1,500 to $20,000, depending on your location and the type of food you cook.

A mobile food vending permit is one of the licenses your truck needs. (Image from NYC Dept. of Health)

To ensure your food truck is fully licensed and permitted, you’ll need to contact:

• Your local health department: The health department issues licenses for your truck, prep kitchen, and managers. If your location also requires food handler’s permits for your staff, the health department will handle that.
• Your local fire department: The fire department inspects your cooking equipment and the truck’s electrical and fire suppression systems to ensure they operate safely.
• State, county, and city clerk’s offices: These offices issue general business licenses, tax licenses, and other foundational documents for running your business.

Food Truck Insurance

Like any small business, food trucks need general liability insurance. Since food trucks operate as mobile businesses, serve food to the public, and may have employees, you’ll have additional insurance needs like commercial auto coverage and worker’s comp. Contact an insurance provider for a comprehensive quote.

For more details, read our expert-written guides to food truck insurance costs and coverage plus a ranking of the best food truck insurance companies .

Step 7: Purchase Equipment & Supplies

Even if your truck is fully outfitted with cooking and refrigeration equipment, you’ll still need some extra tools. Generators, condiment tables, registers, and point-of-sale (POS) systems are all standard food truck equipment. Increasingly food truck owners are adding rooftop solar panels to offset fuel costs. You’ll also want to open accounts with food suppliers so you can buy in bulk and avoid paying sales tax.

Food truck equipment and supplies you’ll want to budget for include:

• Truck wrap and exterior decor: Those vibrant trucks with nose-to-tail designs are covered in a “truck wrap.” The cost of installing a truck wrap ranges from $2,500 to $5,000 (including design). If you are short on funds, local sign shops can print smaller vinyl decals or magnets.
• Cooking and serving equipment: You’ll likely need small equipment like a food processor, baking sheets, and Cambro containers to store your prepped food and transport it from your prep kitchen to your truck. If you offer catering, you’ll also want a couple of sturdy collapsible tables and chafing dishes to keep your food warm outdoors. You’ll be able to find most small equipment at a local restaurant supply or kitchen store.
• Generator: You’ll need a generator to run your cooking and electrical equipment when your truck is parked.
• Ingredients: You’ll need the ingredients to make your signature dishes before you can cook and serve food. If your food truck is even a little bit busy, you’ll want to open accounts with wholesale suppliers. This gives you a price break on food and beverage supplies and saves driving time, as most distributors will deliver directly to your commercial kitchen space.
• POS and payment equipment: Most customers prefer to pay with cards or apps, so you’ll need a way to process payments on the go. Our top-ranked food truck point-of-sale (POS) systems can operate via Wi-Fi or cellular networks, and many are free to use.

More than half of the food trucks I know use some type of Square POS. Square operates on iPads and smartphones, and you can download the Square POS and start taking payments in a couple of hours. For more information, visit Square .

Step 8: Hire & Train Staff

Food truck owners do a lot of work themselves, but you’ll still likely hire some hourly employees. The staff you hire should fill in skills you lack or areas you cannot pay attention to. For example, if you are an expert grill cook, it makes more sense to hire a cashier than a cook. But if you have a welcoming personality and are great at add-on sales, you’ll be stronger in a customer-facing role and should hire cooks. If you get a lot of catering inquiries, it might make sense to hire an event salesperson to send estimates and wrangle catering contracts.

Expand the sections below to view common food truck employees:

Window Attendant

(Image by Kampus Production from Pexels)

Your window attendant takes orders at the truck window, interacts with customers, and processes payments. Someone with a friendly personality and cash-handling experience is good in this position. Window attendants are typically hourly, minimum wage positions and may earn tips.

If you are struggling to find staff, a window attendant can be replaced by a self-service kiosk . If you are short-staffed, this is one of the simplest solutions.

(Image from RODNAE Productions, Pexels)

A truck cook cooks and serves dishes on the truck itself. Depending on the number of cooktops you have and your menu style, you may need two cooks in the truck all the time. Truck cooks tend to be hourly employees who earn at least minimum wage; however, you should definitely pay more if your truck cook is experienced. They are frequently included in on-truck tip pools.

(Image by Mikhail Nilov, Pexels)

If your truck is busy, you may need a hand with off-truck prep cooking. Hiring a prep cook to work in your commercial kitchen while your truck is on the road can significantly reduce your turnaround time between events. Prep cooks are usually part-time staff who earn at least minimum wage. Depending on your local labor laws, prep cooks may or may not be included in tip pools.

Catering Salesperson

(Image from Harvest Kitchen)

You don’t want to miss the chance to book private catering events. These can be a massive boost to your truck’s bottom line. A catering salesperson responds to all private event inquiries and works directly with your clients to create a menu, execute an event contract, collect deposits, and hire rental equipment. Catering salespeople typically earn a small hourly base pay or salary, plus a 3% to 10% commission on their booked events. They are typically not tipped, though their commission fee may appear as a service charge on the final invoice.

Catering Servers

(Image from cater-waiters.com)

Large events sometimes request tray-passed food or to have some foods served at individual tables. Event coordinators may hire this staff themselves, but it can help to have some staff of your own to call in. Having your own catering servers can give you an edge in landing bigger (and higher budget!) events. You may pay catering servers a flat hourly wage (usually higher than minimum wage) or minimum wage plus tips.

Training Food Truck Staff

Once you’ve hired your truck staff, set aside time to train them. Depending on your team’s experience level, you’ll need to allow two days to two weeks to get your team up to speed. Prepare itemized copies of your menu with ingredient lists and common allergens, along with what items can and cannot be modified. For example, if your housemade chili is cooked with bulgur wheat, it cannot be made gluten-free.

All of your truckers should know how to use fire safety equipment on your truck. You’ll also want to train your team on the policies and procedures at your commercial kitchen. If there are strict operating hours, designated storage areas, or designated parking areas, you’ll want to cover that explicitly, so your team reflects well on your brand.

If your truck collects tips, you may also run a tip pool to distribute tips to your staff. For tips on managing a tip pool, see our guide to restaurant tip pooling laws and tipping out . A tip pool based on hours is a popular way to distribute food truck tips.

Once you have your truck, permits, and staff, the final step in starting your food truck business is marketing your truck. A good food truck marketing strategy involves a combination of online and traditional marketing strategies, including social media marketing, vending at local events, building a website, and joining advocacy groups.

You can take a deep dive by reading our guide to food truck marketing . Expand the accordions below for a quick overview.

Food Truck Social Media Marketing

Instagram and Facebook are great ways to connect with your local community and help potential customers find your business. Plus, Instagram and TikTok are ideal places to show off pictures of your tasty food. For maximum impact, post regularly, and be sure to use any local hashtags to help your business get discovered. Don’t just stick to food photos; part of the appeal of food trucks is their personal story and the camaraderie of their team. Let users see your personality and passion.

Post your locations and hours so that customers can easily find you. If you accept orders online or over the phone, include that information in your social media bio. You can also use stickers and buttons on your Facebook or Instagram accounts to add shoppable links to your online ordering site.

Create a Website

A website is essential for a food truck. It shows potential customers who you are, what kind of food you sell, and how to find your truck. Your website is also a great place to post your event calendar or a contact form for catering orders. Our guide on how to make a business website will walk you through the process.

Participate in Festivals & Local Events

Festivals are a great way to get customers and gain insight from fellow food truck owners. Especially in the spring and summer months, tons of towns and cities have outdoor events, from fairs to farmers’ markets. Participating in these events is a great way to spread awareness about your business while also getting extra sales.

Try to book as many events as you can. You’ll have a captive audience to market your business and are guaranteed to make sales. If you participate in several events, fairs, or festivals, create an event calendar that you can hand out to customers so that they know where to find you next.

Join a Street Vending Advocacy Group

Many cities with a vibrant food truck community also have advocacy groups. Joining one will put you in contact with other like-minded business owners who can help you troubleshoot problems and send you business if their truck is not available for an event. The added benefit of joining an advocacy group is, of course, advocacy. These groups work together to encourage local regulations that are food truck-friendly, which can’t help but boost everyone’s business.

The National Food Truck Association is an excellent place to start. It currently hosts local chapters in California, Texas, and many other locations

With your truck purchased, supplied, permitted, staffed, and marketed, all you need to do now is make your first sale. With this guide as your foundation, you’re well on your way to starting a successful food truck. So go out there and have a great service.

Pros & Cons of Starting a Food Truck

Still on the fence about starting a food truck? Like any other business venture, the food truck industry offers advantages and disadvantages. Read through this list of food truck pros and cons to help you make your final decision.

Starting a Food Truck Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There is much to know about starting a food truck. These are the most common questions I hear from prospective food truck owners. Expand each question section for a detailed answer.

How much does a food truck cost?

Starting a food truck typically costs between $40,000 and $200,000. The cost varies based on whether you purchase or lease a truck, the truck type, the necessary equipment, and the cost of permits in your location.

How profitable is a food truck?

Successful food trucks can be very profitable, bringing in around $500,000 in annual sales, and sometimes as much as $50,000 per month. Hitting figures like that requires a targeted menu, excellent marketing, and a full-time commitment to managing your costs and overhead.

Having a highly profitable food truck may also involve expanding your truck operation to include private catering, online ordering , and other revenue streams like selling a shelf-stable signature sauce or retail merchandise. It helps to operate in a food truck-friendly city—like Los Angeles, Philadelphia, or Denver—that has regulations that allow food trucks to thrive.

Is owning a food truck hard?

Owning a food truck takes a lot of work, but can be very rewarding. The days can be long; food prep can start in your commissary kitchen several hours before service, and your day doesn’t finish until the truck is parked, the food unloaded, the greywater drained, and all surfaces scrubbed and sanitized. You’ll interact with excited food fans, but you’ll also be responsible for scheduling staff, processing payroll, and dealing with parking tickets. Marketing is important and all on your shoulders, as are less creative things like paying your sales taxes.

If that sounds manageable to you, then owning a food truck won’t feel hard. But if that description sounds overwhelming, you might want to bulk up your restaurant management or general business skills before taking the step to food truck ownership.

How can I start a food truck with no money?

If you want to start a food truck with no money, crowdfunding is your best bet. You can also consider starting with a smaller operation, like a cottage food operation or tent vending, to build a brand and fan following while you save to start your truck.

Why do food trucks fail?

Many food trucks fail within their first three years of operation due to a lack of funds. Difficulties can include unexciting concepts, tough regulations, poor supply choices, truck breakdowns, poor marketing, and more. Some of the biggest reasons food trucks lose money and ultimately fail are:

• Local regulations designed to protect traditional restaurants
• Poor operating and financial planning
• Unforeseen vehicle repair expenses
• Underestimating the daily number of hours needed
• Ineffective marketing

Not all food truck closures are failures, though. Many food trucks close when they become so popular the owners are able to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant or catering company. So in a way, some food trucks fail through success.

If you’ve been dreaming of how to start a food truck business, you should know it is a fun—yet time-consuming—process with plenty of opportunities for growth and profit. The food truck business is demanding but, ultimately, rewarding if you take the time to create a careful business plan with market research and a solid marketing strategy. Ensuring you have plenty of startup capital and the right equipment is the best way to encourage success.

• https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/food-trucks-united-states/

About the Author

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Mary King is an expert restaurant and small business contributor at Fit Small Business. With more than a decade of small business experience, Mary has worked with some of the best restaurants in the world, and some of the most forward-thinking hospitality programs in the country. Mary’s firsthand operational experience ranges from independent food trucks to the grand scale of Michelin-starred restaurants, from small trades-based businesses to cutting-edge co-working spaces.

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Food Truck Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Food Truck Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your food truck business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their food trucks.

Food Truck Business Plan Example & Template

Below is a template to help you create each section of your food truck business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck is a new food truck located in Portland owned by local critically acclaimed chef, Zane Benedict. The menu will consist of popular food options that consist of burgers, sandwiches, gyros, and tacos uniquely made with the creativity and uniqueness that Chef Zane can offer. Chef Zane’s eclectic style and consistency make him a favorite among Portland foodies and his food truck will garner a loyal following amongst young professionals and college students.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will be located in the immensely popular food truck pod known as Cartopia. Chef Zane will receive lots of exposure by being a part of this community as there are plenty of neighboring food trucks, bars, nightlife, and entertainment options nearby. With the popular location of Cartopia and an impressive Instagram social media following, Zesty Zane’s Food Truck is destined to become a local go-to dining destination for anyone craving delicious, interesting fare at an affordable price.

Products Served

The following are the products to be offered by Zesty Zane’s Food Truck:

• Sandwiches & paninis
• Assorted non-alcoholic beverages

Customer Focus

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will target customers in Portland who live, work, or socialize near Cartopia. This area is frequented by numerous young professionals, college students, and the late-night crowd who regularly eat at food trucks. Anyone seeking trendy dining options are the target customers of Zesty Zane’s Food Truck.

Management Team

Chef Zane has worked in the culinary industry for over ten years and is accustomed to the long, demanding hours of operating a kitchen. He attended culinary school in San Francisco and returned home to Portland to be a part of the world-renowned food scene that Portland has built for itself. After working under three award-winning chefs, Chef Zane is ready to venture out on his own and start his own business as a food truck.

Chef Zane Benedict will be the food truck owner and operator of his food truck. He will operate the food truck Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 am until 1:00 am. Chef Zane will also employ two part-time cooks to assist him during peak hours of operation.

Success Factors

The following success factors will set Zesty Zane’s Food Truck apart from the competition:

• Exceptional cuisine made fresh with locally sourced ingredients.
• An eclectic menu that is unlike any other in the Portland food scene.
• Convenient location: Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will be located in a highly-trafficked food truck pod that is frequented by college students, young professionals, and night-life regulars.
• Delicious food at a good price. Zesty Zane’s food items will be cheaper than other food truck dishes without sacrificing quality.

Financial Highlights

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck is seeking $40,000 in debt financing to open its food truck. The funding will be dedicated for the purchase of the food truck, cooking supplies and equipment, working capital, three months worth of payroll expenses and opening inventory. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Purchase of food truck – $20,000
• Food truck kitchen supplies and equipment – $10,000
• Opening inventory – $2,000
• Working capital (to include 3 months of overhead expenses) – $3,000
• Marketing (website design and management) – $5,000

The following graph outlines the pro forma financial projections for Zesty Zane’s Food Truck:

Company Overview

Who is zesty zane’s food truck.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck is a startup food truck business located in Portland, Oregon. The menu offerings are eclectic, made-to-order, bistro-type dishes served fresh and fast in the entertainment district of Portland. The ingredients are locally-sourced from independent food growers and artisans in and around the Portland region. The dishes are incorporated with an ingenious twist to commonly known popular food menu items. The menu options are simple dishes commonly seen at food trucks, but Chef Zane adds his own spin to the typical fare – sandwiches, gyros, burgers, and tacos all made his way unlike any other food establishment.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck is owned and operated by Zane Benedict, a local Chef classically trained in culinary school and under the most prestigious chefs in Portland. Chef Zane is known for his creativity, consistency, and quickness in the kitchen and his dishes receive multiple positive reviews in the restaurants Zane has been employed. Chef Zane specializes in fine French, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine with a creative twist not typically found in other restaurant establishments.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck History

After graduating from culinary school in 2008, Chef Zane Benedict worked as a sous chef in three different restaurants in Portland. All of the chefs Zane worked under were award-winning, locally-acclaimed chefs that frequently trained their apprentices to prepare dishes up to their expectation and standards.

Chef Zane learned a great deal from these chefs and garnered a reputation himself for his creativity and consistency. Now that Zane feels he has learned as much as he can from the senior chefs, he would like to venture out on his own and start his own business. Due to the large amount of capital required to open a full-scale restaurant, Chef Zane decided a food truck business was the most cost-effective option for his operation.

Since incorporation, Zesty Zane’s Food Truck has achieved the following milestones:

• Developed the food truck’s branding image, social media, and website.
• Has a soft hold on a used food truck that recently went out of business.
• Developed and finalized the menu of the dishes Chef Zane will serve.
• Obtained a food permit license to be able to prepare and sell food and drinks in Portland County.
• Obtained a sales and use tax permit for use in Portland County.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck Products

The following are the types of menu items Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will produce:

Food Truck Industry Analysis

Food truck vendors will continue to perform well over the next five years, benefiting from consumers with deeper pockets who are able to spend on pricier gourmet food options. Revenues are expected to increase to $1.4 billion during this time period.

Food Truck industry operators are expected to continue to experience growth, as generally positive economic conditions and momentum from the gourmet food movement propel growth.

Consumers nowadays demand higher-quality food, a wider variety of styles and tastes, better presentation and, most importantly, more healthy menu options. Therefore, operators that include healthy options on their menus will be best situated for success over the next five years. Vendors that continue to offer unique food options will also be in a strong position by carving out a niche and developing a loyal customer base.

The food truck industry will also benefit from an increase in the urban population, which is expected to comprise the majority of the US population in five years. The food truck industry benefits from agglomeration because it relies on high foot traffic. Additionally, urban dwellers are also more likely to purchase meals rather than cooking at home due to their above-average incomes and limited spare time.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will target the population of Portland that frequently dines in the entertainment district. There is a large food truck area of Portland known as Cartopia, where Chef Zane will set up his business. This area is home to numerous dining establishments, nightlife, bars, clubs, and food trucks. The target market of this area are usually young professionals and college students who have disposable income.

The precise demographics for Portland, Oregon are:

Customer Segmentation

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will primarily target the following customer profile:

• Local residents of Portland who partake in late-night activities such as socializing with friends or bar-hopping
• Business professionals that work and reside in the Portland Cartopia area – law offices, hospitals, clinics, insurance agencies, retail, and schools
• College students who are in search of fast, cheap, and trendy eats

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will be competing with other food trucks in the Portland community. A profile of each competitor is below.

Potato Champion

Potato Champion is a local favorite of Portland foodies that is also located in Cartopia. Started in 2008, Potato Champion quickly established itself as a fan favorite for late night food. Potato Champion serves a limited menu of hand cut, twice fried Belgian style fries, a variety of dipping sauces, and their own version of the Canadian classic Poutine, as well as other fry related dishes. They pride themselves in using the highest quality ingredients and focus on an inventive menu that combines tastes from all over the world with one of the most popular foods found on the globe, the french fry.

Potato Champion is open for lunch, dinner, and late-night. They are available for catering and delivery through Postmates. Followers of Potato Champion are also able to purchase swag from their store that includes music, bags, pins, and hoodies.

Started by John Eads in 2009, Pyro Pizza was built out of a 8’x16’ food cart that he custom-built with a cast iron wood fire oven. Aside from wood fired pizza, John also makes his own sodas using all real ingredients and natural cane sugar. John’s belief is that good ingredients make good food. His crew makes many components in-house and sources regional flour, pepperoni, sausage, blue cheese, soda ingredients, and seasonal produce all from Portland businesses and farms. In 2015, Pyro’s expanded to a new sandwich cart, Pyro’s Wicked Wiches – a scratch-made sandwich, soup, chips and cookie food cart.

Pyro’s serves an assortment of wood fire pizzas made from scratch. Their choices are margherita, marinara, arugula and mushroom, pepperoni, quattro formaggi, fennel sausage, veggie bianca, breadsticks, salads, and sodas.

Chicken and Guns

Chicken and Guns is another local favorite among Portland foodies. Also found in Cartopia, Chicken and Guns serves up Latin American chicken, wings, tacos, salad, soup, and their “guns” are crispy seasoned potatoes. The chicken is served by the quarter, half, or whole bird. Another item they are acclaimed for is their peruvian aji sauce, habanero carrot sauce and chimichurri sauce. They have been named the best fried chicken in Portland by the PDX Eater.

Chicken and Guns is open everyday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm for takeout and delivery options. With a large Instagram and social media following, there is always destined to be a line at the Chicken and Guns food truck.

Competitive Advantage

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck offers several advantages over its competition. Those advantages are:

Food Truck Marketing Plan

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will offer a unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Delicious food made fresh with locally sourced ingredients using exquisite techniques.
• Located in the ultra-hip food truck area known as Cartopia.
• Great food at a great price. The menu offerings of Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will be accessible to customers of all walks of life.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Zesty Zane’s Food Truck are as follows:

Social Media

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck’s main source of marketing will be through social media, primarily their Instagram page. Chef Zane has become adept at taking appealing photographs of his dishes. He will post pictures of his menu and add details on the location and hours of operation. His food truck account already has over 3,000 followers and he posts daily “Coming Soon” teaser photos.

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will be parked in the immensely popular food truck hub known as Cartopia of Portland. There are dozens of food trucks located in this pod and there is always a crowd of people. Cartopia hosts bands, art shows, shopping events, and other social gatherings to enhance the entertainment vibe of the pod. By being part of Cartopia, Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will receive lots of exposure and traffic.

SEO Website Marketing

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck plans to invest funds into maintaining a strong SEO presence on search engines like Google and Bing. When a person types in “local food truck” or “top food trucks in Portland”, Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will appear in the top three choices. Zesty Zane’s will also invest in their website also to ensure that it is user friendly, always up to date, and displays professional photographs of its menu items and location.

Third Party Delivery Sites

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will maintain a presence on sites like GrubHub, Uber Eats, Doordash, and Postmates so that people looking for local food with the option of delivery will see Zesty Zane’s listed.

The pricing of Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will be moderate and on par with other food trucks so customers feel they receive value when purchasing their menu items.

Operations Plan

The operations plan for Zesty Zane’s Food Truck is relatively simple as its overhead and cost is small. The functional roles for its employees are as follows:

Operation Functions:

• Chef Zane will run the food truck operation. He will be in charge of inventory, menu creation, food truck marketing, customer service, and bookkeeping. Chef Zane will work every day that he chooses to open the food truck. Chef Zane plans on operating the food truck Tuesday through Sunday 11:00 am to 1:00 am.
• Two part-time cooks that will alternate helping Chef Zane during the hours of operation. As business picks up, there will be two cooks at the same time assisting Chef Zane during peak hours.

Milestones:

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck aims to open in the next 3 months. The following are the milestones needed in order to obtain this goal.

4/15/202X – Purchase food truck

5/1/202X – Finalize menu

5/15/202X – Social media and advertising campaign begins

6/1/202X – Finish cleaning up the food truck and prepare it for operation

6/10/202X – Purchase food and drink inventory, stock truck, and park it at Cartopia

6/11/202X – Grand Opening of Zesty Zane’s Food Truck

Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will be owned and operated by Chef Zane Benedict.

Chef Zane Benedict, Food Truck Owner

Chef Zane Benedict is a Portland native who attended culinary school in San Francisco and returned to Portland to become a part of the world-renowned food scene Portland is uniquely known for. Zane was trained under three different chefs at fine dining establishments in downtown Portland and was awarded Best Sous Chef of Portland in 2017. Chef Zane has won two local culinary competitions, placed runner-up in a statewide competition, and participated in a cooking competition show on the Food Network.

Chef Zane has received numerous awards for his creativity and consistency of his food while being able to prepare dishes in a short amount of time. His ability to prepare food under pressure allows him the unique skill of serving numerous customers without having them undergo long wait times. This will keep customers happy and coming back for more.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Zesty Zane’s Food Truck will come from the menu items being offered daily.

The cost drivers will be the ingredients and products needed to make the menu items (oil, bread, meat, chicken, produce, drinks) as well as the cooking materials (pots, pans, bowls, plates, utensils, etc.). Other cost drivers will be the overhead expenses of payroll for the part-time employees and propane for the food truck.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

• Food Truck Marketing (website design and management) – $5,000

Key Assumptions

The following table outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the business loan.

Initial Number of Customers Per Day: 50

Average Menu Item Cost: $9.00

Average Order per Customer: $15.00

Annual Cost for Maintenance of Truck: $10,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, food truck business plan faqs, what is a food truck business plan.

A food truck business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your food truck business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your food truck business plan using our Food Truck Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Food Truck Companies?

There are a variety of types of food trucks, each specializing in a specific type of cuisine or food item. There are food trucks that sell burgers, cookies, ice cream, tacos, pizza, sandwiches, salads and more.  

What Are the Main Sources of Revenues and Expenses for a Food Truck Business?

The primary source of revenue for food truck businesses is its food and beverage sales. 

The key expenses for a food truck business are food costs, salaries, and transportation expenses. 

How Do You Get Funding for Your Food Truck Business?

Food truck businesses are typically funded through small business loans, personal savings, crowdfunding and credit card financing.  A well-crafted food truck business plan is essential to securing funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Food Truck Business?

Starting a food truck business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Food Truck Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed business plan for your food truck that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your food truck business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your food truck business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Food Truck Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your food truck business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your food truck business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Food Truck Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your food truck business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your food truck business. Food truck marketing includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful food truck business:

• How to Start a Food Truck Business

Where Can I Get a Food Truck Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free food truck business plan template PDF here . This is a sample food truck business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Other Business Plan Templates

Catering Business Plan Template Bakery Business Plan Template Coffee Shop Business Plan Template Event Venue Business Plan Template

Small Business Trends

Food truck business plan: everything to include.

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Every business needs a plan — including food trucks. If you want to run your own food truck but don’t know where to start, here’s a guide that explains how to write a business plan in this industry.

What to Include in Your Food Truck Business Plan

A plan for a mobile food business includes many of the same elements as other business plans. But there are also some unique elements. Here’s a food truck business plan template to guide your own journey.

A plan for a mobile food business includes many of the same elements as other business plans, but there are also some unique elements that are specific to the food truck industry. To start, the cover page is crucial, as it provides potential investors, team members, and readers with a glimpse of what to expect from your food truck business plan. A professionally designed cover page can make a positive first impression and enhance the credibility of your venture.

Table of Contents

A table of contents is another essential component of your food truck business plan. It serves as a roadmap for readers, allowing them to quickly locate specific information they might be interested in. Since food truck business plans can be quite extensive, a well-organized table of contents is invaluable for easy navigation.

Executive Summary

The executive summary is a concise and compelling overview of your food truck business. It should not only provide a clear explanation of what your business does but also highlight its unique selling points and competitive advantages. Briefly mentioning key elements such as market analysis and operational challenges can give readers a glimpse into the comprehensive nature of your business plan.

Company Overview

Your food truck’s company overview should succinctly describe its purpose and the goals you hope to achieve. This section sets the stage for the entire plan and should reflect your passion and dedication to your food truck venture. Consider including a brief history of your food truck concept and how you came up with the idea to add a personal touch to this section.

Food Truck Mission Statement

Your mission statement should explain your reason for existence.  A well-crafted mission statement is a powerful tool that conveys the purpose and values of your food truck business. Your mission statement should go beyond merely stating what you do; it should also reflect your passion for serving your community and bringing joy to people through your food. For instance, your mission might focus on providing high-quality and innovative dishes that cater to diverse tastes while promoting sustainability and supporting local farmers.

Target Markets and Market Analysis

Identifying your target market is essential for the success of your food truck business. By narrowing down your audience based on location and demographics, you can tailor your offerings and marketing efforts more effectively. Conduct a comprehensive market analysis to understand the preferences and needs of your potential customers better. For example, if your food truck is primarily focused on offering gourmet desserts, target areas with a high concentration of dessert lovers or near popular event venues.

Food Truck Industry Summary

In the food truck industry, finding your niche is crucial for standing out from the competition. Research the existing food truck market in your area to identify gaps and opportunities. Determine how your food truck concept fits into the overall landscape, ensuring there is a demand for your unique offerings. Understanding the broader trends and challenges in the food truck industry can also help you make informed decisions and adapt your business strategies accordingly.

Read More: how to start a food truck business

Analysis of Local or Similar Niche Food Trucks

Studying your competition is an essential aspect of shaping your food truck’s unique identity. Analyze other food truck businesses in your area, especially those that offer similar cuisine or target similar demographics. By understanding their strengths and weaknesses, you can identify areas where you can differentiate yourself and create a competitive advantage. This analysis can also inspire you to innovate and bring a fresh perspective to your offerings, making your food truck stand out from the rest.

Food Offered

Create a basic menu. Consider your niche, demand from your target audience, and costs of ingredients and cooking equipment. The food you serve is the heart of your food truck business, so creating a well-thought-out menu is crucial. Consider your niche and target audience while designing your offerings. Conduct market research to identify popular dishes and food trends that align with your concept. Additionally, analyze the cost of ingredients and cooking equipment to determine the pricing and profitability of each item on your menu.

Planned Food Truck Locations

Planning your locations in advance can help you stay up-to-date with inventory and streamline marketing. Find local food truck festivals, special events, and areas with lots of foot traffic that are popular with your target market.

Food Truck Marketing and Delivery Plan

Your business plan’s marketing and sales portion should detail how you’ll communicate with potential customers to sell food. Your marketing plan may include listing on food truck finders, local advertising, and social media or search marketing.

Financial Plan and Funding

This section should include realistic financial projections based on how much food you can sell at various locations. Factor in startup, equipment, and food costs as well.

Legal Structure

Food truck businesses can have various legal structures. For example, a solo venture may be a sole proprietorship. However, most food businesses are LLCs or corporations to limit personal liability. Work with a business lawyer and/or tax professional to find the best structure for your needs.

Organization and Management

Outline your team and hierarchy to determine how everyone will be managed. For example, you may be the primary decision-maker. Or you may specify a few shift managers to answer questions when you’re unavailable.

Customer Experience Strategy

Detail your approach to customer service and the overall experience you aim to provide. This might include unique service methods, customer interaction policies, or how you plan to create a memorable experience for your customers.

Sustainability Practices

In this section, outline any sustainable practices your business will adopt. This could include using locally sourced ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, or waste reduction strategies.

Social Media and Online Presence

Elaborate on your strategy for building and maintaining a strong online presence. This could include plans for engaging with customers on social media, content marketing strategies, and leveraging online reviews and feedback.

Expansion and Scalability

Discuss your long-term vision for growth. This could involve adding more trucks, expanding to new locations, diversifying the menu, or even branching into catering services.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Outline potential collaborations with local businesses, event organizers, or other food trucks. These partnerships can increase visibility and provide mutual benefits.

A business planning appendix may include any supporting documents for the various parts of your plan. For example, financial statements or market research reports may complement your projections or competitive advantage.

Tips for Food Truck Owners to Write an Amazing Business Plan

Food truck businesses can follow these tips to create a concise yet effective business plan:

• Get acquainted with your local food truck scene: Many elements of a food truck business plan rely on your local market and competitors. So spend time patronizing other businesses and attending events where food trucks may park.
• Create a clear vision: Determine the type of food truck business you want to start and how you want it to stand out and operate to ensure all the sections match your vision.
• Read other food industry business plans: If you’re not sure where to start, looking at examples from other food businesses may help.
• Back up your claims: Don’t just guess about things like finances and legal structure. Get expert help and/or documentation if needed.
• Remember your why: Keep in mind why you’re writing a business plan. This can help you speak in verbiage that will serve you in the future.

What is a Food Truck Business Plan?

Business plans outline what a company does and how it makes money. It includes everything from a summary of your business to your marketing plan. When creating a food truck or restaurant business plan , you may use it to pitch investors or refer to it when making future business decisions.

Why You Should Write a Food Truck Business Plan

A food truck business combines culinary creativity with entrepreneurial spirit. However, diving into this business without a solid plan can lead to a host of challenges. Like any business, the road to success is often filled with unexpected twists and turns. This uncertainty is where the importance of a food truck business plan comes into play.

A Guiding Light

A business plan is more than just a document filled with numbers and marketing jargon. It serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path that you intend to follow. With it, you know where you are headed, why you are going there, and how you intend to reach your destination. Without it, you might find yourself lost in the complex world of entrepreneurship.

Understanding Your Business Inside and Out

The process of writing a business plan forces you to delve into every aspect of your food truck business. From understanding your target audience to financial forecasting, you get a 360-degree view of what it takes to run your venture. This insight ensures that no stone is left unturned, preparing you to face challenges with confidence.

Demonstrating Commitment and Professionalism

Investors, bankers, partners, or even key employees may want evidence of your business’s viability and your commitment to the project. A well-crafted business plan is that evidence. It shows that you are serious about your food truck business and that you have considered the necessary elements to make it a success.

Risk Mitigation

Every business encounters risks, and having a plan enables you to identify and mitigate them. A business plan provides you with a structure to analyze potential pitfalls and develop strategies to avoid or overcome them. This foresight can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Financial Health Check

Money is the lifeblood of any business, and a business plan helps you manage it effectively. Understanding your financial needs, projections, and how cash will flow through your business ensures that you keep your financial health in check. It enables you to make informed financial decisions that align with your business goals.

Continuous Evaluation and Adaptation

The business environment is always changing, and what works today may not work tomorrow. A business plan gives you a baseline that allows you to evaluate your performance continually. It enables you to make necessary adjustments, ensuring that your business stays relevant and competitive.

An Exit Strategy

Every entrepreneur needs to think about the future, including what will happen to the business down the line. Your business plan will allow you to consider and plan for various exit strategies, whether that involves selling the business, passing it on, or winding it down. Thinking about this in advance ensures that you are prepared for all eventualities.

A food truck business plan is not an option; it’s a necessity. It’s the backbone of your business that provides direction, insight, risk management, and continuous alignment with the ever-changing business environment. Writing a business plan reflects a deep understanding and commitment to your business idea. It’s an essential tool that can set your food truck venture on the path to success, helping you navigate the thrilling yet challenging journey of entrepreneurship.

The Pros and Cons of Writing a Business Plan for a Food Truck Business

This table provides an at-a-glance view of the benefits and potential drawbacks of creating a food truck business plan, which can be helpful for aspiring entrepreneurs in the food truck industry.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to create a food truck business plan is a personal one. However, there are many potential benefits to having a well-written and comprehensive business plan.

What are the first steps to start a food truck business?

The first steps include conducting market research, defining your target audience, planning your menu, finding a suitable food truck, securing necessary licenses and permits, and creating a comprehensive business plan.

How much does it cost to start a food truck business?

Costs can vary widely based on the location, equipment, and the type of cuisine, but you can expect to invest anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000, including the cost of the truck, equipment, licenses, insurance, and initial inventory.

What are the legal requirements for operating a food truck?

Legal requirements vary by location but may include business licenses, health permits, food handler permits, vehicle licenses, fire certificates, and local zoning compliance.

How can I finance my food truck business?

You can finance your food truck business through personal savings, bank loans, investor funding, crowdfunding, or small business grants.

How do I create a menu for my food truck?

Your menu should reflect your brand and target audience. Consider researching popular food trends, using quality ingredients, and offering unique dishes that set you apart. Price your items accordingly to cover costs and generate profit.

How do I choose the right location for my food truck?

The location should be determined by the target audience, local regulations, competition, foot traffic, and accessibility. It’s essential to find a legal spot with good visibility and foot traffic.

How can I market my food truck business?

Marketing strategies might include social media advertising, local event participation, partnerships with local businesses, loyalty programs, and traditional advertising methods.

Read More: food truck ideas

Image: Depositphotos, Envato Elements

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Food Truck Business Plan

With the expanding popularity of street food and drinks, trying global cuisine, and busy schedules, the street vendor culture is increasing. The interesting thing is you are going to join this market in the period when the demand is growing.

With the selection of the food truck, buying equipment, and hiring the right people, have you forgotten to plan your business thoroughly? If yes, then here is our food truck business plan template with examples that will help you plan yours.

From industry trends to various examples; we have covered it all. So, let’s wait no more and proceed.

Key Takeaways

• A business plan offers strategic direction for your food truck business, helping you set and achieve your goals.
• The executive summary is an important part, so keep it briefly engaging.
• Conducting a thorough industry analysis is crucial to understanding the food truck market, including its size, trends, key players, and local demographics.
• With high competition in the food industry, you need a robust marketing plan.
• Keep your financial projections practical and do not have extravagant expectations.

Food Truck Industry Highlights

Before diving right into the business plan guide, let’s go through some food industry trends and statistics:

• The industry size of street vendors in the USA was around $2.29 billion in 2021.
• In the US, there were 67,271 food trucks in 2022, growing at an average annual rate of 18.1% per year over the five years 2017-2022.
• The popularity of plant-based diets as in vegan options is growing.
• From Thai food to spicy Mexican food, food trucks are serving everything and anything showcasing the popularity of street food.
• Food trucks are not limited to evenings, they are exploring new markets like corporate campuses, universities, and residential areas for breakfast and lunch time too.

How to Write a Food Truck Business Plan (Description + Examples)

1. executive summary.

An executive summary is the summary of the whole business plan. It is the first section of the business plan and probably the only section your readers will go through.

It is normally the part that business owners prefer to write at the end because, till then they will have a keen understanding of the whole business plan.

Start your summary with a brief introduction to your business (about who you are and what services you will provide). After that, mention the other things like:

• Products and services
• Business goals
• Food truck objectives
• Mission statement
• Market Opportunity
• Target market
• Food truck business concept
• Financial summary
• Financial projections

Here is an example of a mission statement:

Tip: the executive summary is a quick overview, so keep it simple and engaging.

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2. Company Overview

Provide detailed information about your food truck business in this section. It includes the food truck concept, name, location, legal structure of your business, and everything else about your business.

Here is an example of a business description made by the use of Upmetrics:

Also, do not forget to mention the type of food truck you are going to start, for instance, your business might be the one from below: 

• Gourmet food trucks 
• Taco trucks 
• Pizza trucks 
• Burger and sandwich trucks 
• Dessert trucks 

If you already have another local food truck and this is the other one, then write the business history about your food business.

After that, mention the vision and mission of your food truck business along with the future goals. Include the names, qualifications, and specializations of the owners.

3. Industry Analysis

The industry analysis will give you all the details about the food industry you are going to enter. It will support you in a better understanding of your business.

Here are some types of questions you might ask while conducting a food industry analysis:

• What is the current size of the food truck industry in the USA?
• What are the major trends in the food truck industry?
• Who are the huge players in the industry and what is their market share?
• How is technology affecting the food truck industry?
• What is the average price range and spending limit of the customers?

In short, industry analysis will help you have a better understanding of the market and support you in making informed decisions.

4. Competitive Analysis

Competitive analysis will help you to know the price point and positioning of your business in the food industry. This way you will also get to know about your direct and indirect competitors, as in other food trucks in your location.

Start your competitive analysis section by listing all your competitors with all their plus points and negative points. Some of the questions you might ask to know your competitors are:

• What food items does their menu include?
• What is their market share?
• What are their USPs and what do their customers like about them the most?
• How much does a food truck cost?
• What is their pricing strategy?
• What are the weaknesses through which you can have a competitive advantage?

After getting all the above answers, analyze your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to get a better understanding of your USPs.

This way you can get to know the USP of a food truck business. Once you get the USP, flaunt it in your own business plan.

5. Market Analysis

Competition in the restaurant industry is high, and to get a small gap to enter the market is a huge opportunity. Once you enter the market, it is time to define and mention your target market first.

Your target audience will depend on the type of food truck services you provide and the location of your food truck.

Once you know who you are going to serve, then understand the market by knowing the current trends and customer preferences. For example, some of the market trends for a food truck are:

• Health conscious diet
• Local sourcing
• Food transparency
• Kiosks (contactless ordering and payment)
• Creative menu items

At the end of the market analysis, do mention the regulatory environment a food business needs to follow in the particular location.

6. Sample Menu

One of the most necessary steps to launch your food truck business is designing the sample menu. Generally, food truck businesses provide fast-preparing meals.

A sample menu forces you to think about what will you make and serve your customers. Consider where you will store uncooked food, what you will need to prepare that food, and what you will use to serve that food to your customers.

Your menu should be in coordination with your target customers; for example, if you have students around the corner then design your menu with fast-serving dishes.

The menu is also a part of your branding, so keep the color and design of the menu the same as your food truck. Here is an example of including your menu in the food truck business plan:

7. Sales and Marketing Plan

You can see a food truck in the corner of every alley, so you need to reach customers and not wait for them to come to you. For that, you will need a food truck marketing strategy in place. Some of the strategies are:

Create a professional and mobile-friendly website including your location, contact information, and images of the food items you offer. This will help local customers find you online.

Social media marketing

Maintain active profiles on TikTok, Twitter, FaceBook, Instagram, and all other major social media platforms to spread your reach. It will help your target market to recognize you and will interest them to visit your food truck.

Loyalty programs

Think of implementing a loyalty program to reward your existing customers. You can offer free food dishes, BOGO offers, discounts, or any other such thing. These programs can help you increase the customer retention rate and encourage them to visit your business more.

Community engagement

Participate in food truck gatherings, local events as a stall, and other fun food festivals. Engage with the local community by sponsoring or collaborating with local organizations. Building a strong local reputation can help you reach a wide customer base.

Email marketing

Send regular newsletters, special offers, discounts, and event invitations to everyone whose details you got from your website. Email marketing can be a powerful tool for customer retention and engagement.

8. Management team

Letting your readers or investors know who is behind your food truck will allow them to understand your business more.

The management team is all about who is behind the wheels of your food truck and what are their roles. If you are starting a new food truck, then showcasing your experienced managers or head chef will make your business look stronger.

Here is an example of a management team:

9. Business Operations

In the entire business plan we have talked about goals, but here is the point where you have to mention what will you do to fulfill those goals.

Everyday goals

They are the heart and soul of your food truck business. From buying the most qualitative food items to fulfilling customers’ needs and everything in between is included.

Long-term goals

It’s all about milestones: the moments that make you pop the champagne. Picture celebrating your 10,000th delivery, hitting that milestone sales figure you’ve dreamt of, or expanding your team.

10. Financial Plan

For a successful food truck business, you will need a proper financial plan with realistic financial projections. In this section add the financial statements like income statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet for 3-5 years.

• Income statement

An income statement is also known as a profit and loss statement, which describes the profitability of the business by deducting expenses from revenue.

The income statement is one of the important things your investors will focus on. So, don’t be greedy and display huge impractical numbers.

• Balance sheet

Balance sheets display your assets and liabilities. Although they can contain a lot of details, like equity, goodwill, other intangible assets, etc.

• Cash flow statement

Your cash flow statement helps you see how much money you need to start or grow your business and avoid running out of money. This cash flow should be maintained even for certain months after launch that is before you start making profits.

Surprisingly, you can make a profit but still face financial problems that could lead to bankruptcy. Therefore, you will need proper cash flow planning to avoid such circumstances. Here is an example of a 5-year cash flow statement:

Why Do You Need a Business Plan for Your Food Truck?

If you are wondering why there is a lot more voice for a business plan, then consider this:

• A food-truck business plan offers a strategic direction to your business goals and helps you achieve them.
• A business plan will also help you understand the finances of your business and help you to secure funding.
• It will clarify the vision of your food truck, so you can focus on the daily operations.
• Also, it allows you to know specific risks you might face in the future, as a result, you will be prepared.

Now that you have plenty of reasons to have a food truck business plan, start writing one.

Related Food Truck Resources

• Food Truck Financial Plan
• How Much Does It Cost To Start A Food Truck
• How to Start a Food Truck Business

Download a Food Truck business plan template

Ready to kick-start your business plan writing process? And not sure where to start? Here you go, download our free food truck business plan pdf , and start writing.

This intuitive, modern, and investment-ready template is designed specifically for food truck businesses. It includes step-by-step instructions & examples to help in creating your own food-truck business plan.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

Write Your Business Plan with AI

Lastly! With the help of our food truck business plan template, you know how to write a business plan. So, you are a step closer to starting or expanding your food truck business exciting, right?

You know what else is exciting? Making your business planning process a lot smoother than this; yes, it is possible with the AI assistant of Upmetrics.

So, take a deep breath as we will take care of your business plan, and focus only on your business operations.

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Frequently asked questions, can i start a food truck business without a formal business plan.

You can start a food truck business without a professional business plan, but it is not advisable, as a business plan will act as your roadmap. If you are going to start your business with bootstrapping, then you can take the risk of not writing a food truck business plan.

How often should I update my food truck business plan?

Your food truck business plan is a live document. So, you can edit it wherever and whenever you want. Ideally, you can read and edit your business plan once a month or as many times as required.

What should I include in the financial projections section of the business plan?

In a food truck business plan, you will need various estimated financial statements like

• Break-even analysis
• Sales forecast
• Uses of Funds
• Financial ratios

What are some tips for writing a food truck business plan template?

Some tips for writing a food truck business plan are:

• Be clear and concise about your goals
• Use data and statistics to support all your claims
• Be practical and realistic about your financial projections
• Ask friends and family to give feedback on your plan
• Read and re-read it before presenting it to your investors

What is the ideal length for a food truck business plan template?

Generally, the length of a business plan is around 15-35 pages. It also depends on the audience of your business plan, the type of your business, and the type of your business plan. As for a one-page business plan, the length is going to be 1 page.

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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How to Start a Food Truck Business

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1. Plan your costs and find a truck

2. get approved by the board of health, 3. get permits and licenses, 4. decide how you’re going to prepare your food, 5. hire employees and get mobile food vendor badges, 6. figure out where to park, 7. start marketing and promoting your food truck, 8. consider using a point-of-sale system, 9. perfect your day-to-day plan, the bottom line.

Lining the streets and sidewalks of every corner with cheap, tasty eats, food trucks — once thought to be just a fad — have proven they’re here to stay. In the past several years, the multi-billion-dollar food truck industry has become increasingly popular as sidewalk chefs reinvent street food, launching the gourmet food truck craze. From 2016 to 2021, the industry saw a 7.5% growth rate, according to Los Angeles-based industry-research firm IBISWorld — and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

However, starting a food truck business is not as simple as buying a truck and cooking up some food. With any new entrepreneurial endeavor, and particularly food businesses , there is a lot of planning and preparation required even before you get into the details of the actual operation.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through, step by step, how to start a food truck. Plus, we’ll include tips from Debbie and Derek Kaye — who run the booming tri-state food truck business, Eddies Pizza Truck & Cart.

Before we break down our steps on how to start a food truck business specifically, let’s briefly discuss some of the actions you’ll want to take first — when you start a food truck, or any other business:

Write a business plan: Although you may want to get your food truck up and running as soon as possible, a well-thought-out business plan will certainly help you in the long run. By thinking out your long-term plan ahead of time, you’ll have a guide to follow as you continue through the process of starting your food truck.

Choose your business legal structure: Before you start thinking about trucks, cooking and where to park, you’ll need to decide how your business will legally be structured. Will you operate as a sole proprietorship or maybe a partnership? A business attorney or online legal service may be useful in helping you make this decision.

Register your business: Once you’ve determined your legal structure, you’ll want to register your business name, if necessary, as well as register for federal, state and local taxes. You’ll more than likely need to get an employee identification number, or EIN, from the IRS.

Open a business bank account: After you’ve registered for your taxes, you’ll want to open a business bank account as the first crucial step in separating your business and personal finances. This account will be the base for you to manage and organize your funds as you go through the process of starting a food truck.

At this point, you’ll be in good shape to actually get your business off the ground. Let’s break down how to start a food truck:

First, you’ll need to think about costs.

How much does it cost to start a food truck? It’s hard to give an accurate estimate for startup costs because there are so many possibilities in what you’ll need to get started. First, you’ll have to find the right truck for your business and you’ll likely have to get it custom made to fit your needs, which can cost anywhere from $20,000 and $40,000. You’ll also want to consider costs such as:

Ingredients and food.

Salary and benefits for employees.

Technology to operate your truck.

Marketing, advertising and more.

Your actual truck will be the largest and most pressing expense you’ll need to pay for. Before settling on a truck, you’ll want to have a few layout options, keeping in mind what specifically you’ll need for your food truck business.

You might consult various food truck vendors or other business owners to get a sense of what different layouts look like and which one might work best for you. It’s important to also keep in mind that things tend to break a lot more on a truck, cautioned Debbie Kaye, so you’ll want to make sure you consider this in your planning process and have enough finances on hand in case the inevitable happens.

“Appliances weren’t meant to be on wheels, so they frequently need repairing,” she tells us.

With this in mind, you might also think about your various food truck financing options — such as different loans and business credit cards — to cover many of your startup costs.

How much do you need?

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We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Next, you’ll have to sort through the rules and regulations you’ll need to abide by. As a food-based business, there will definitely be more considerations to take within this regard.

Therefore, you’ll likely want to first determine what Board of Health regulations you need to follow. It probably isn’t surprising to learn that just like health department inspectors check food at restaurants, the same goes for food trucks. Most inspections are conducted to at least verify the following:

Proof of ownership, identification and license of the vehicle.

Proof of District-issued Food Manager Identification Card.

Food is stored and kept at proper temperature.

Records of food purchase.

Health and fire codes are met.

After figuring out your health requirements, the next step involved in how to start a food truck is getting the necessary permits and business licenses. Once again, because starting a food truck business means handling food and serving it to customers, there will likely be a variety of regulations and permit requirements to sort through. Additionally, the specific licenses and permits you need will depend largely on your state and city.

In fact, some cities, including New York City, have limits on the number of truck permits issued at a time. You’ll want to visit your city’s website to find out exactly what you need to do to get the proper documentation. Keep in mind that this process may take time and will also likely include fees and proof of a Health Department permit, tax certification and liability coverage.

Once you’ve figured out the behind-the-scenes details and decided on your truck, it’s time to think about your product.

After all, a crucial part of learning how to start a food truck business is deciding what kind of food you’re going to make and sell, how that process will work, what you’ll need and what your menu will look like. As you think about these things and start making decisions, you’ll want to remember that unlike starting a restaurant with a brick-and-mortar location, a food truck has limited space — so it can be difficult to prepare food inside.

Therefore, you’ll want to decide whether it’s best for your business to prepare food ahead of time before heading out for the day’s work or if you can feasibly prepare everything on-site. Additionally, when perfecting your recipes, you’ll want to make sure the food on your menu can be repeated in large quantities, taste consistently good, is easy to serve, is easy to eat and can travel well.

With a food plan in mind, the next thing you’ll need to do when starting a food truck is think about hiring staff. In a small environment like a food truck, you obviously won’t be able to have too many employees, but depending on your food, process and the demand you may face, you’ll want to consider hiring help.

When you first start out, you may be able to work with friends, family or a partner, but if your food truck grows quickly, some part-time or full-time employees will likely be helpful. Plus, when it comes to food truck employees, you’ll need to go beyond the typical process of hiring and onboarding a team member.

To explain, aside from all the licenses and permits you need to get as a business owner, each of your employees needs to have a mobile food vendor badge in order to legally work and serve food in your truck. And, unfortunately, it takes about four months to get this badge.

“It is really frustrating to hire someone and tell them they can’t begin working for four months,” says Kaye. “It is quite the backward system that the food truck association has been trying to work on getting fixed, but no luck so far. If [you’re] caught without the badge, it is a $1,000 fine.”

If you anticipate you’ll need staff for your food truck, you’ll want to get this process out of the way and hire your first employee from the get-go. “It’s even more frustrating,” says Kaye, “because if your business loses an employee, you have to wait four months for a new employee to obtain their badge, which means that you might not have enough employees to work lunch and dinner services.”

One of the benefits (and also challenges) of starting a food truck business is the mobile element. While you have the ability to go (to a certain extent) where your customers are, you’ll also need to figure out where the best places are to attract customers, and perhaps just as importantly where you can and cannot park your truck.

Just as is the case with licenses and permits, the restrictions around parking for your food truck are going to be specific to your city; therefore, you’ll want to consult your local regulations to determine what your options are.

It’s very likely that if you’re in a larger location, like New York City, this process will be all the more difficult.

“Technically there is a book that lists where you can and can’t park,” says Kaye. “However, there is a loophole in the system and trucks can be moved by the police at any time from any spot. It is quite frustrating.”

These strict rules and regulations on New York City’s streets had the Kayes paying fines up to $1,000 a month at one time. According to Kaye, finding parking has only become more complicated as more gourmet food trucks are appearing around the city.

With this in mind, you’ll want to take extra care to determine the rules (and any possible loopholes) for your particular location.

First, you’ll need to plan and execute some marketing tactics to inform the local community of your food truck’s existence.

You might plan a “grand opening,” or see if you can take part in a local event to draw up attention and customers. You’ll also want to consider starting a website and social media presence, as well as advertising around town.

Moreover, as a mobile business, whose location can change on a daily basis, it’s important to keep your customers aware of where you’ll be. Whether this means making an established schedule on a weekly basis or simply keeping your customers up to date on your website or social media accounts, you’ll need to keep this in mind.

Although you may very well be able to run your food truck with a paper-based order system and a cash drawer, you might consider investing in a point-of-sale system to automate the process. With your food truck POS system , you’ll be able to manage orders, accept payments (including credit cards), as well as track inventory, create loyalty programs and more.

In fact, there are a variety of POS systems on the market designed specifically for food trucks.

By using one of these systems, you’ll be able to manage everything in one place, speed up and simplify your processes, and therefore, better serve your customers. This is especially important for food trucks, which often experience a rush of customers for a few short hours a day — meaning customers can end up waiting in long lines. In this case, you might consider using a pre-order system to help your food truck handle this kind of rush in business.

According to Kaye, running a food truck business is much more difficult than people think because most people see food trucks only operating during lunch hours.

“What people don’t think about is that to get our spot, we arrive at 6 a.m.,” she explains. “That means we get to our kitchen by 4 a.m. to prep and drive to the spot. After lunch, we drive back to our kitchen and have to clean the truck and the dishes. So for just a few hours of service, we work a 12- to 15-hour day.”

Therefore, like the Kayes, you’ll want to think about how your day-to-day will look: how you’ll work with your employees, where you’ll be on a daily basis, which days will require more time or investment than others. By planning ahead of time, even if just at the beginning of every week, you’ll be able to maximize your time and hopefully, your business as well.

Along these lines, you might also want to think about if your strategy will simply consist of parking around town or if you’ll consider taking part in local events, or even start catering .

Start Your Dream Business

Ultimately, learning how to start a food truck is going to take significant time, effort and investment.

Athough the competition has gotten tougher, if you’re able to carve out a niche, you have a great chance of success without the high costs of opening up a restaurant.

Moreover, if your plans are to open a restaurant eventually, a food truck can be a great starting point. For instance, Laura O’Neill and her co-founders, Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen, started the Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream truck in the spring of 2008. Since then, the trio has received so much success, their business now includes over 20 locations, including both storefronts and trucks in New York and LA.

According to O’Neill, the food trucks allowed the co-founders to explore different locations to figure out who the customers were and what kind of food they liked to eat. Therefore, in a way, it allows you to test out your food creations before having to commit to a costly lease and other high overheads.

Plus, as you figure out how to start a food truck and get your business up and running, you might ultimately decide the mobile business life is the way to go and continue to invest in different trucks around your city or state — the possibilities are endless.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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Food truck business plan examples: 20+ templates & success guide.

Are you dreaming of your own food truck? A solid business plan is your first step. But where to start? Don’t worry! This guide covers everything from defining your concept to finding hungry customers. We’ll even share 20+  food truck business plan examples  and templates to make it easy. Let’s get cooking!”

Table of Contents

What are the essential components of a food truck business plan?

Executive summary: the quick intro.

This is a short snapshot of your idea. What’s your food truck all about? What makes you special?

• Example:  “Fresh Eats Food Truck is all about healthy and tasty food on the go! We’ll serve awesome salads, wraps, and juices to busy people who care about eating well.”

Company Description: Your Story

Tell us who’s behind the truck and why you’re doing this.

• Example:  “Fresh Eats was started by chef Sarah, who loves creating healthy dishes, and Michael, who knows how to run a business. Together, they’re the perfect team!”

Market Analysis: Know Your Customers

Who will buy your food (customer demographics)? Are there other food trucks nearby (competitor analysis)?

• Example:  “Fresh Eats is perfect for office workers who want a healthy lunch but don’t have much time. Other food trucks are around, but none focus on super healthy options like us.”

Menu and Pricing: What’s for Lunch?

Your menu is the star! Please tell us what you’ll serve, where you’ll get your ingredients, and how much things will cost (profit margins).

• Example:  “We change our salads with the seasons! You can build your wrap and add tasty toppings. We use the best stuff, so our prices might be slightly higher than the taco truck.”

Marketing and Sales Strategy: Spreading the Word

How will you find customers and excite them? Consider social media, partnering with businesses, and offering special offers.

• Example:  “We’ll post drool-worthy pics on Instagram and Facebook! We can park near office buildings at lunchtime and even bring food to company events.”

Operations: The Behind-the-Scenes Stuff

This is the practical part: where will you cook, who will help you, and how will you follow all the food safety rules and get the right permits?

• Example:  “We’ll rent space in a special kitchen to prep our food. We need a chef and a cashier when it’s busy. We’ll make sure to follow all the health department’s rules!”

Financial Projections: The Money Part

Here’s where you get serious about money. How much will it cost to start (startup costs)? How much will you earn (revenue forecast)?

• Example:  “We need money for the truck, kitchen stuff, and food to start. We think we can make $15,000 each month. Our goal is to start making a profit within six months!”

Why Do You Need a Food Truck Business Plan?

Think of your food truck business plan as your recipe for success. Here’s why:

• A Clear Map: Your plan forces you to think through every part of your awesome idea. What kind of food will you serve? Where will you park? How will you be different from other food trucks? Answering these questions gives you a solid direction.
• Show Me the Money! Need a loan or investor to get your truck rolling? A business plan shows them you’ve done your homework. It proves you understand the money side – how much things cost and how you’ll make a profit.
• Plan for the Unexpected: Your plan helps you think “what if?” What if your best ingredient gets super expensive? What if it rains the day of a big event? Having a backup plan means those problems won’t ruin your business.
• Reach Your Goals: Did you sell as much as you hoped? Are customers happy? Your plan lets you track your progress so you can see what’s working and what might need a change.
• Fuel for the Long Haul: Running a food truck is hard work, but also exciting! Your plan reminds you why you got into this in the first place and helps you stay motivated.

It’s More Than Just Paper:

• Opening Day Checklist: Your plan tells you which permits you need and the steps to get your truck up and running legally.
• Finding Hungry Customers: Think office lunch crowd or late-night party crowd? Your plan helps you figure out the best places to sell your food.
• Pricing for Success: Make sure you’re charging enough to make money but still keeping your prices fair. Your plan helps you find the perfect balance.
• Building Your A-Team: Will you need helpers? Your plan makes sure you hire the right number of people for those busy times.

Remember: Your plan can evolve along with your business! Look it over often, make changes when you need to, and use it to make smart decisions to keep your food truck on the road to success!

What are the Typical Startup Costs for a Food Truck?

Launching a food truck is like opening a restaurant on wheels – there are some costs you just can’t avoid. Here’s the rundown:

Food Truck Examples

• Buying New: Can cost as much as a small house!
• Buying Used: A cheaper option, but be sure to get a mechanic to check it out.
• Leasing: Like renting a truck – monthly payments instead of one huge upfront cost.

Your Mini-Kitchen Setup

• This depends on your food. Simple menu = cheaper equipment.
• Ovens, fryers, fridges…think of what a tiny restaurant would need.
• Don’t forget storage for napkins, utensils, and all that stuff!

The Official Paperwork

• Every city/state is different. Some places have lots of strict rules.
• Licenses: Give you permission to operate.
• Permits: Think food safety, parking spots, and fire inspections.

Branding and design:

• Your truck is your billboard! Think eye-catching paint or a wrap.
• Logo design: Makes you memorable.
• Menus: Need to be clear, easy to read, and look tasty.

Initial inventory: 

• Start with enough ingredients for your first few days.
• Overbuying means food going bad and wasted money.
• You’ll learn what you sell the most of as you go!

Important Note: Costs change depending on where you live, your menu, and if you buy new or used. Do a ton of research specific to your area!

What are the Legal Requirements for Starting a Food Truck?

Think of your food truck as a mini-restaurant with extra rules since you’re always on the move. Here’s the basics:

Become an Official Business

• Business License: This tells your city/state you exist. You’ll need one to get everything else.
• Picking a Name: Make sure no other business has the same name!

Food Safety is #1

• Health Permits: These prove your truck passes food safety inspections.
• Rules are STRICT – clean surfaces, proper food storage, etc.
• Each place you want to sell might have its own permit!

Your Truck Needs to Be Legit

• Just like a car, it needs registration (license plates) and insurance.
• Some places have rules about how big your truck can be, or where you can park.

You’re the Boss – Get Certified

• Food Safety Training: You (and probably your staff) need to take a class.
• This proves you know about keeping food germ-free and safe for your customers.

Rules can be totally different depending on where you live. Don’t just trust online info – contact your local health department and city hall!

How Specific Should Your Food Truck Concept Be?

How Specific Should Your Food Truck Concept Be

Finding the right balance between specific and too narrow is key for food truck success. Here’s what to think about:

• Stand Out From The Crowd: “Burgers and fries” isn’t going to cut it! You need something unique. Maybe it’s loaded burgers with crazy toppings, or all-vegan burgers.
• But Don’t Go Too Niche: “Kale smoothie truck”? Probably too limited. You need enough options to keep customers coming back, even if you do have a specialty.
• It’s More Than Just Food: Your concept is also about the vibe. Are you a gourmet hipster truck? A late-night comfort food spot? Matching this to your target audience is important.
• Location Matters: A seafood truck in the desert? Might be tough. Make sure there’s a demand and that your concept fits the area.

Finding the Sweet Spot: Examples

• Too Broad: “Sandwiches”. Boring!
• Too Narrow: “Peanut butter and banana sandwiches ONLY”. Gets old fast.
• Just Right: “Gourmet grilled cheese with a twist”. Specific but offers room for creativity and variety.

How To Conduct Market Research for Food Truck?

Food Truck Festival Business Plan Examples

Market research is like spying on your potential customers! It helps you figure out what they want and where to find them. Here’s how to tackle it:

Who’s Your Perfect Customer?

• Don’t just say “everyone”! Be specific.
• Age: Are you aiming for college students or busy families?
• Habits: Do they grab lunch on the go or hang out late?
• Tastes: Spicy food lovers? Health nuts?

Scope Out the Competition:

• Food Trucks: What other trucks are nearby? What do they sell? What do they do well? Where are their weaknesses?
• Restaurants: Even regular restaurants compete for your customers’ dollars. Check them out too!

Get Out There!

• Talk to People: Ask friends, neighbors, anyone who fits your target customer what they think.
• Visit Food Truck Events: Taste the competition, see what crowds they attract.
• Online Sleuthing: Social media, restaurant review sites – what do people say about the food scene in your area?

Dig into the Data:

• Local Chamber of Commerce: They have stats on your area (population, income, etc.)
• Foot Traffic Websites: These can show how busy spots are at different times of day, perfect for choosing where to park!

Remember: Market research is ongoing. Keep an eye on trends, what other trucks are doing, and what your customers are saying to stay ahead of the game!

How Do You Price Your Food Truck Menu?

How Do You Price Your Food Truck Menu

Pricing your food right is tricky! You need to make a profit, but you can’t scare customers away with crazy high prices. Here’s what to consider:

The True Cost of Each Dish

• Ingredients: Don’t just think about the main items. Every single topping, sauce, even the bun adds up!
• Labor: How long does it take to make? More complicated dishes should cost more.
• Overhead: The boring stuff – gas, permits, napkins…all these costs need to be covered.

Know Your Customers

• What can they afford? Fancy ingredients in a student area is a bad idea.
• What else is around? You can charge more if you’re the only gourmet option, but not if you’re parked next to a dollar hot dog cart.

Spy on the Competition

• What do similar food trucks charge for similar items?
• Are you offering something better? Then you can charge a little more.

Don’t Forget About Profit

• You’re doing this to make money!
• Aim for a profit margin – this means after paying for everything, you still have some cash leftover.
• Most restaurants aim for around 30% profit margin on each dish.

Menu pricing is flexible! If something isn’t selling, lower the price. If you have a crowd-favorite, maybe raise it a bit.

How Do You Market Your Food Truck?

Bazaar Food Truck Festival Business Plan Examples

Food trucks need to get noticed! Here are the best ways to spread the word:

Strong social media

• Social Media is King: Instagram for drool-worthy pics, Facebook to post your schedule. Short, funny videos on TikTok can go viral!
• Get Chatty: Answer questions in comments, be friendly, and build an online following.
• Location, Location: Always tell people where your truck is each day!

Participate in events

• Events Are Your Friend: Food festivals, street fairs, even concerts – wherever hungry people gather.
• Food Truck Roundups: Some cities have special events just for food trucks. Great way to find new customers.

Partnerships

• Partner Up: Is there a coffee truck nearby? Offer a “brunch special” together.
• Businesses Love Lunch: Park near offices and offer delivery for the whole group.

Positive reviews

• Reviews Matter: Yelp, Google, anywhere people talk about restaurants.
• Ask Nicely: Put a sign on your truck asking happy customers to leave a review.
• Great Service = Great Reviews: Being friendly and having yummy food is the best way to make this happen!

What are the Risks of starting a food truck business? (And How to Fix It)

Food Truck Business Plan Examples

Food trucks are great, but they’re also a lot of work. Here are some  risks of starting a food truck business  you might face:

Weather dependency

• Rainy Day Blues: No one wants to stand in line in the rain, even for fantastic food.
• Solution: Have a backup plan! Indoor events and partnerships with businesses that have covered areas nearby.

Limited space

• Tiny Kitchen: Cooking and storing everything gets cramped.
• Solution: Smart menu design is key! Dishes that use a few fresh ingredients are easier to manage.

Finding reliable locations

• It’s taken! Popular spots for food trucks get snatched up fast.
• Solution: Network! Get to know other truck owners, check online calendars for your city, and scout new locations

Work All Day & Night

• Long Hours: Prep before you open, serving customers, cleanup afterward…it adds up!
• Solution: You can’t do it alone! Hire good staff, even if it’s just part-time helpers for busy times.

Challenges can turn into opportunities. Bad weather special? “Cozy comfort food for a rainy day!” Limited space? “Simple menu means your food gets to you faster!”

Where Can You Find Resources to Help Your Write My Food Truck Business Plan?

Don’t worry, you don’t have to do this alone! Here are places to find support:

Help from the Government (Yes, Really!)

• The SBA (Small Business Administration): They love helping new businesses! Their website ( https://www.sba.gov ) has tons of info.
• Local Business Centers: Search for ones near you. They often have free advisors to help with business plans.

Learn from the Pros

• Food Truck Websites: Lots have blogs with advice, like “The 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting”.
• Industry Groups: Some areas have food truck associations – perfect for networking and getting tips.

Food Ideas for Your Food Truck Business

Choosing what to serve is a big decision for your food truck! Here are some ideas to get you started. Think about what you love to cook, and what people in your area might crave:

• Ice Cream: Classic! Offer fun flavors and toppings.
• Shaved Ice: Perfect for hot days.
• Popsicles: Make your own with fresh fruit – healthy and yummy!
• Grilled food: Burgers, chicken, even grilled veggies
• Fried Chicken: A crowd favorite, but it needs special equipment.
• Tacos: Endless options – fish, steak, vegetarian…
• Pizza: Fancy with a special oven, or simple slices to go.
• Salad: Freshest ingredients are key – boring salads won’t sell!
• Smoothies: Lots of flavor combos, can add healthy boosts.
• Wraps: Easy to hold, perfect for lunch on the go.
• Pastries: Who doesn’t love a fresh donut?
• Cookies: Gourmet cookies are trendy.
• Cupcakes: Get creative – decorate them with a cool theme.
• BBQ: If you’re a master smoker, this is a winner.
• Mac & Cheese: Dress it up with fancy toppings!
• Gourmet Hot Dogs: Not just for ballparks – think unique sausages and toppings.
• Soup: Homemade and comforting on cold days.
• Coffee/Tea: Perfect partner for another truck’s food!
• Pretzels: Warm, salty snacks are always popular.
• Ethnic Cuisine: Do you have a specialty? Share your grandma’s recipe!

Important: What’s popular in YOUR area? Does anyone else do what you want to do? Your idea needs to stand out!

20+ Food Truck Business Plan Examples & Templates

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A business plan is your roadmap to food truck awesomeness! It shows you’re serious and helps you avoid problems later.

Owning a food truck is hard work, but it’s super rewarding. A great plan is your first step towards making your food truck dreams come true!

Ready to turn your food truck vision into reality? A detailed business plan is your key ingredient for success. It’ll guide you through challenges, attract investors, and keep your dream on track. Need help getting started? Check out our food truck business plan template or other resources. Let’s make your food truck a delicious success story!

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Food Truck Business Plan: The Beginner’s Guide For Success

• Business Growth & Management , Templates & Guides

Do you want to give your new mobile eatery the best chance for success? Write a food truck business plan.

In this article, the experts at Sling tell you why a business plan is vital for both new and existing businesses (of all kinds) and give you tips on how to perfect this important document.

Table of contents

What is a food truck business plan, why a food truck business plan is vital, structure of an effective food truck business plan, food truck business plan versus restaurant business plan.

As the name suggests, a food truck business plan is a written document that details your food truck’s goals and the measures you will take to make those goals a reality.

At its most basic, a business plan (for any type of operation) describes a comprehensive picture of the organization itself, including:

• Financial projections
• Background information
• Organizational strategies
• Day-to-day activities of your food truck

We’ll go into more detail about the structure of a food truck business plan — and what to include — later on in this article. But first, let’s discuss why a business plan is vital for your company.

A food truck business plan is vital for any fledgling food truck business because it is very difficult to obtain outside funding from an investor or bank without one.

Many investors and banks won’t even consider the possibility of providing working capital if you don’t have a business plan to back it up. And without crucial resources of this kind, your food truck operation may never make it out of the garage.

Even if operational capital isn’t your main concern, a business plan provides you with clear direction on how to translate a general strategy into an actionable plan for reaching your objectives.

The information can help clarify every aspect of your food truck business — from day-to-day functional strategy to mid-level business strategy all the way up to long-term corporate strategy .

Think of your business plan as a blueprint — or roadmap — that guides your actions when business is running smoothly and when it isn’t.

Now that you know what a food truck business plan is and why it’s so important, let’s take a look at what to include in your plan.

The basic structure of a comprehensive food truck business plan typically starts with a cover page and table of contents. You can get as fancy as you want with the cover page, but simple — just the business name, address, and contact information — is effective as well.

After that, you can jump right into the meat of the plan with these important sections.

1) Executive summary

The executive summary gives the reader a brief introduction to the main elements of your business, such as:

• Mission statement
• Overhead costs
• Labor costs
• Return on investment (ROI)

This introductory section of your plan serves to pique the reader’s interest and make them want to investigate further.

Keep in mind that each element within the executive summary should be as brief as possible. You will provide more detail in other parts of the document.

2) Mission statement

The mission statement section of your business plan is a short statement with the following information:

• Why your organization exists
• The goal of the operation
• The product or service you provide
• The business’s primary customers or market
• Planned competitive advantages
• Desired future state (i.e., the company’s vision)

Some of that information you may not have thought about yet — the company vision, for example — but it can be useful to do so and include a few words to that effect in your mission statement.

You may also find it valuable to write a bit about your company’s values and philosophies so that you and your team members have an idea of what your business stands for.

3) Business description

In the business description section of your plan, provide detailed information about the who, what, why,  and  how of your food truck.

Include such details as:

• Business name
• Your experience
• Contact information
• Primary location(s) you plan on frequenting
• Partners involved (if any)
• The legal standing of the business
• Brief market study (showing that you understand your niche)
• Anything else you feel is necessary

It’s also helpful if you include your food truck’s short- and long-term goals as well as how you intend to go about reaching those goals.

4) Business environmental analysis

A business environmental analysis (or environment analysis for short) is an examination of internal and external factors that could affect a company’s success.

These factors typically fall into one of six categories:

• Technological
• Environmental

These six categories make up what’s known as the PESTLE Method (see the first letter of each word) for creating a business environmental analysis.

Within each broad category are more specific variables that may affect your business, including:

• Political: Tax laws, government policies, trade restrictions
• Economic: Interest rates, inflation rates, foreign exchange rates, credit accessibility
• Social: Gender roles, education levels, family structure, distribution of wealth
• Technological: Extant technologies, emerging technologies, access, incentives
• Legal: Health and safety regulations, product regulations, employment laws
• Environmental: Weather conditions, waste disposal, energy consumption

Including these variables in your business plan can help you paint a more accurate picture of how your business will operate within the world around it.

5) SWOT analysis

SWOT is an acronym that stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats.

A SWOT analysis (a.k.a. SWOT matrix, situational assessment, and situational analysis) is a strategic planning, implementation , and management technique that owners and managers can use to identify variables that affect their business.

It’s broken into two distinct categories: internal and external. Strengths and weaknesses are internal, while opportunities and threats are external.

With those categories in mind, you can use the SWOT method to examine:

• Characteristics of the business that may give it an edge over competitors (Strengths)
• Characteristics of the business that may give competitors an edge (Weaknesses)
• Elements that the business could use to its advantage (Opportunities)
• Elements that may cause trouble for the business (Threats)

Identifying these variables before opening your doors can help you plan and prepare for the future.

6) Industry background

The industry background section of a food truck business plan is an overview of the niche in which you want to operate and a summary of your business’s position within that niche.

As a general rule, this section may answer some of the following questions:

• What sectors does the industry include?
• What is the size of the industry?
• Who are the major competitors in this industry?
• What are the markets for this industry?
• Who are the customers for this industry?
• What are the industry’s past and present sales figures?
• What are the projected sales figures for this industry?

This is just a small portion of what you may choose to include in the industry background section of your business plan.

You might start out with just a brief overview of the industry in question but, eventually — perhaps when you have a bit of experience under your belt — you’ll want to include as much information as possible.

Adding to this section of your business plan as you go along can help you identify new ways to position your food truck for success.

7) Competitor analysis

This is the place to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your current and potential competitors. Doing so can help you create both an offensive and defensive strategy that you can use to get a leg up on other food trucks in the industry.

If you don’t examine your competitors thoroughly (or systematically) enough, you may wind up with blind spots that can leave you at a serious disadvantage.

If this portion of the business plan seems outside of your wheelhouse, you may consider hiring a market research firm. They have the knowledge, skills, and tools to get the job done as quickly and as accurately as possible.

8) Market analysis

A market analysis is a brief introduction to three different views of the niche you want to enter:

• The industry as a whole (in this case, the food truck business)
• The competition your restaurant will face (e.g. other mobile food services)
• The marketing you’ll execute to bring in customers

Again, this section should be a brief introduction to these concepts. You can — and should — expand on them in their own individual section.

9) Marketing plan

A marketing plan is an outline of the advertising and marketing efforts you plan on executing in order to make your food truck visible to its target market.

A significant part of any marketing plan are the eight Ps:

• Promotion (as in advertising)
• People (as in employees who will represent the business)
• Physical aspects of the environment in which you’ll operate

You’ll also want to include a projected budget of expenses that apply to the marketing efforts you plan to put in place. This can help prevent your business from overspending on marketing during the difficult first days, weeks, and months of operation.

10) Operations plan

The operations plan is the place to describe the specific steps you’ll take to reach your objectives and goals.

A good operations plan includes plenty of details regarding the who, what, where, when, and how much of your business (you may have touched on these in the business description section, but it can be helpful to provide more detail on them in this section) .

These aspects of your business describe things like the personnel who are in charge of specific tasks, where daily operations will take place, a timeline for when business goals and tasks will be completed, and dollar amounts allocated to these activities.

Even if you’re the only one working in your food truck right now, it can still be a good idea to build an operations plan — even a rudimentary one — in preparation for future growth and investment.

11) Management summary

A management summary is a description of the reporting and relationship hierarchy within your food truck business.

In the early stages, you may be the sole employee and be responsible for every aspect of the operation. But, at some point, that may change as you hire new team members, add other vehicles, and expand into different markets.

You’ll want to be prepared for this growth, so it’s a good idea to create a management summary before things get going.

That way, you’ll know who is responsible for every aspect of the business, and your team will know who to approach with questions or problems.

Again, you may not need all of this information right away, but it can be beneficial to put it down on paper now so you don’t have to spend time thinking about it once your business gets going.

12) Financial plan

Just because this section is further down in your food truck business plan doesn’t mean that it is any less important. In fact, it is one of the most important components for securing outside funding from investors, banks, and other sources.

We recommend hiring a trained accountant to help you prepare this section so that it will be as detailed, accurate, and informative as possible.

In pretty much every way that counts, a food truck business plan is the same as a restaurant business plan. A mobile eatery and a brick-and-mortar eatery are both food service operations, and they both deal with similar variables.

So, if you’re having trouble wrapping your head around your food truck business plan, take some time to branch out and research restaurant business plans as well.

Get started with this article from the Sling blog: Restaurant Business Plan: What To Include Plus 5 Examples.

As you research, think of the business plan as a “road map” that shows you, and those who work with you, how to translate general strategies and ideas into actionable steps for reaching your business goals.

When you view your business plan as a map to success — as something that will guide you when things are going smoothly and, perhaps more importantly, when they aren’t.

With such a plan in place, you’ll be better prepared to develop everything from the boots-on-the-ground functional strategy to the mid-level business strategy all the way up to the driving-force corporate strategy .

Success through efficient workforce management

After you’ve created your food truck business plan, it’s time to make it a reality.

One of the biggest challenges in ensuring that your food truck runs smoothly and successfully is managing and optimizing your team.

Whether you have one employee, 10 employees, or 100 employees, you’ll need to give some thought to how you’re going to schedule your staff.

Ask yourself these questions:

• How can you create the perfect work schedule for your team?
• How will you deal with no call, no show employees ?
• How will you handle seasonal unemployment ?
• Do you need a rotating shift ?
• Will you need employees to work the night shift (or part of it)?

The Sling app can help you find solutions to those questions and conquer the challenge of managing and optimizing your workforce.

Sling not only includes powerful and intuitive artificial-intelligence-based scheduling tools but also many other features to help make your workforce management more efficient, including:

• Time and attendance tracking
• Built-in time clock
• Labor cost optimization
• Data analysis and reporting
• Messaging and communication
• And much more…

With Sling, you can schedule faster, communicate better, and organize and manage your workforce from a single, integrated platform. And when you use Sling for all of your scheduling needs, you’ll have more time to focus on bringing your food truck business plan to life.

For more free resources to help you manage your business better, organize and schedule your team, and track and calculate labor costs, visit GetSling.com today.

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This content is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal, tax, HR, or any other professional advice. Please contact an attorney or other professional for specific advice.

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Food

A Sample Food Truck Business Plan Template

The food truck concept has been around for centuries, right from when street vendors in ancient Rome made and sold delicacies to the public using wooden street carts. Today, that concept and the accompanying menus have evolved from just simple street food to different, complicated cuisines.

If you are looking to start a food truck business, you need a well-researched and detailed business plan. Aside from helping you cover all your bases, it makes available vital information about your new endeavor to potential investors. Since putting together a food truck business plan is such a vital step, it is advisable you write it before you even purchase a food truck.

Steps on How to Write a Food Truck Business Plan

Executive summary.

Beta Life Chops will be located in a large food cart pod near Portland’s Jade district known as Eastport Food Center. Our menu will include popular food options made with the creativity and uniqueness that our truck represents. Our eclectic style and consistency will make us a favorite among Portland foodies and ensure that our food maintains a loyal following amongst young professionals and college students.

With Eastport Food Centre nestled in one of the city’s most diverse neighborhoods and with an impressive social media following, Beta Life Chops is well-positioned to become a local go-to dining destination for anyone eager for a good, delicious, interesting fare at an affordable price.

Company Profile

A. our products and services.

• Hot Products: Burritos, tacos, flautas, Hunan Vegetables, Shanghai chicken, grilled chicken, Grilled cheese, pretzels, the chef specialty of the day
• Cold products: Seafood, sandwiches, rolls, wraps, and salads
• Drinks: Soda, freshly squeezed juices, hot chocolate, wine, beer, coffee
• Create your own: We will make available raw materials for our clients to combine anyway they want

b. Nature of the Business

• Specifically for food-conscious modern buyers
• Attending to all age groups
• Healthy choices
• Top menu customization
• Website and mobile app
• Festive truck event catering
• Customer feedback is an utmost priority
• Consulting chefs developing recipes
• Create your own recipe

c. The Industry

Our business will operate in the food truck industry. This industry is made up of businesses that are engaged in preparing and serving meals from a mobile truck.

d. Mission Statement

Our mission at Beta Life Chops is to create and serve a product line that fits nicely with health trends nationwide.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision at Beta Life Chops is to offer our customers out-of-this-world meals inspired by our eclectic style and consistency. We will always maintain a simple philosophy – serve only the highest quality product, prepare it in a clean and sparkling environment, and serve it in a warm and friendly manner.

f. Tagline or Slogan

Beta Life Chops – Trendy with Happiness

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

Beta Life Chops will be a member-managed Limited Liability Company, formed in the state of Oregon and operating out of a custom-built food truck in Jade District Portland. We believe that the LLC provides us adequate cover and protection to grow and diversify our revenue streams.

h. Organizational Structure

• Food Truck Manager
• Assistant Food Truck Manager
• Window Attendant
• Truck Cooks

 i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

Beta Life Chops will be a member-managed Limited Liability Company, formed in the state of Oregon and operating out of a custom-built food truck in Jade District Portland. Our Head Chef and Truck Manager Lillian Birch and Michelle William the Assistant Food Truck Manager remain the owner-operators and will share the responsibilities of day-to-day operations.

SWOT Analysis

A. strength.

Aside from the hands-on experience of our founders and chef, our strength lies in our financial capacity and eagerness to succeed in the business.

We have purchased a brand new mobile food preparation vehicle (MFPV) that can meet the needs of over 500 customers per day. We have also developed relationships with brand experts who will help to build our brand to a level where we can start selling franchises.

b. Weakness

Our intention of running our mobile truck business alongside other similar business offerings like training, consultancy services, and sale of the franchise can distract us from focusing our energy in one direction. We totally understand this and are striving to block any area that will sap our energy and make us underperform in our core business area – the sale of foods and drinks.

c. Opportunities

Our business location presents a massive opportunity for us at Beta Life Chops. Eastport Food Center is a large food cart pod near Portland’s Jade District, well situated in one of the city’s most diverse neighborhoods, and the 25 carts that reside here reflect that.

i. How big is the Industry?

According to industry reports, the market size of the US food truck industry measured by revenue is $1.2bn in 2023.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

The US food truck industry is growing rapidly and has outpaced the broader foodservice sector. Reports have it that it experienced a boom over the five years to 2022 owing to the surge in gastronomy in the United States. It is still expected to grow at an annualized rate of 6.6% in the coming years.

iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry

Here are the top trends in the industry according to experts.

• Rising demand for environmentally friendly food
• Growing vegan options and meat-plant blends
• More event partnerships and promotions
• More commercial restaurants experimenting with food trucks
• Increased technology and social media
• More peanut butter alternatives
• Flour alternatives
• West African cuisine
• Refined sugar alternatives

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

When looking to start a food truck business, here are some niche ideas to look into;

• Preparing and serving food from a mobile truck
• Preparing and serving beverages from a mobile truck
• Preparing and serving dessert from a mobile truck
• Serving prepackaged food and beverages from a mobile truck

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of your Business in the Future?

Yes, our plan at Beta Life Chop is to build our brand to a level where we can start selling franchises and offer training and consultancy services in the mobile food truck industry.

At Beta Life Chops, one of the threats that we may likely face is vehicular traffic in key cities. Traffic can delay not just our clients but our truck from getting to our business location before lunch break is over. In addition, government policies could also pose a great threat to the mobile food truck industry.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

• LGM Delicacies
• Eastport Beer Garden
• Grubtopia Comfort Soul Food(BBQ)
• Los Parceros (Colombian Food)
• Indian Hunger Point
• Lei’d Back Hawaiian Cuisine
• Samurai Sushi
• Off the Leash (Chicago Hot Dog)
• Japanese Express
• Northwest Gyros(Gyro &Shawarma)
• Bobablastic (Drinks & meals)
• Esan Thai (Thai Food)
• Mas Sabor ( Mexican Food)
• Turkish Agha (Turkish Cuisine)

ii. Is There a Franchise for Food Truck Business?

• Repicci’s real italian ice & gelato: $152,150 – $176,400
• Wayback burgers: $209,000 – $524,500
• Little caesars mobile pizza kitchen: $221,000 – $654,000
• Kona ice: $150,400 – $174,150
• Dairy queen: $1,101,135 – $1,856,655
• Cousins maine lobster: $187,150 – $815,450
• Johnny rockets: $597,100 – $1,189,000
• Toppers pizza: $292,146 – $530,652
• Gigi’s cupcakes: $226,700 – $425,500
• Captain d’s seafood: $709,300 – $1,231,400
• Cafe2u: $109,146 – $154,621
• Cheezious: $499,000 – $1,158,000
• Ice cream emergency: $129,700 – $179,650
• Sweet pea homemade ice cream: $40,250 – $110,500
• Mister softee: $158,500 – $181,000
• Tikiz shaved ice & ice cream: $132,000 – $144,000

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Food Truck Business?

Yes, the requirements to start a food truck business in the United States varies from state to state and even city to city. Food truck regulations most often fall into three major categories: health, zoning, and vehicle requirements. Health regulations handle the sort of equipment your truck must have, what permits you and your employees need, and whether you need a commissary kitchen.

Zoning regulations note the places you are permitted to park your truck for service, what types of neighborhoods are not allowed, and where you can park your truck overnight. There will also be laws on what type of vehicle you can use, what emissions regulations your truck must meet, where you need to register your vehicle, and if your truck driver needs to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Marketing Plan

A. who is your target audience.

i. Age range

At Beta Life Chops, we believe our target audience will fall within the age range of 14 to 45 years.

ii. Level of Educational

The level of education of our target audience will vary exponentially. There is a middle school and high school in our town. We expect students from these schools to frequent our business location.

iii. Income Level

The income level of our target market will be individuals that earn from $2,400 annually and above.

iv. Ethnicity

Our target market at Beta Life Chops will include anyone who is looking to taste local cuisine without having to pause what they’re doing and take time to go to a restaurant.

v. Language

There are no language restrictions at Beta Life Chops.

vi. Geographical Location

Our aim at Beta Life Chop is to serve the residents of Portland, Oregon, and surrounding areas as well as those who work in the Jade District.

vii. Lifestyle

• Families and Couples
• Local office workers
• Soccer/stay-at-home moms

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Interact with the local establishments like unions and service organizations and inform them about our business. In addition, offer them catering service for their events.
• Align with the right people that can be advantageous to our food business like event coordinators, tour guides, hotel personnel, etc.
• Speak to local companies’ management and offer to cater their events.
• Attend all the local events, like a farmers market, arts festivals, and carnivals.
• Always be easygoing and friendly with our prospective customers and never try to be too insistent.
• Always get involved in the local community’s activities
• Distribute our promotional business flyers and paper menus. We believe that the more we advertise the more advantage we will have over competitors.

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Ensure that our food truck exterior is extra appealing to attract passing customers
• Distribute food samples outside our food truck
• Advertise in local papers and magazines
• Sponsored listings on Yelp or other websites
• Participation in delivery services such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, etc

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Reaching out to local bloggers and websites
• Social media advertising
• Partnerships with local organizations (e.g., gym members get a free fruit cup with each wrap they purchase)
• Local radio advertising
• Develop a customer loyalty program

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Pay Per Click
• Use Facebook Advertising.
• Show Your Truck and Coils At Work On Instagram
• Encourage Engagement
• Post Consistently
• Make Posts Visual and Add Relevant Hashtag
• Engage with Customers and Followers
• Post About Food and Food Trucks

c. Pricing Strategy

At Beta Life Chops, our pricing will be moderate so customers will feel that they are getting great value when patronizing our trucks. We will also ensure that our pricing stays moderate and at par with competitors.

Sales and Distribution Plan

A. sales channels.

At Best Life Chops, our website and mobile app will bring our products to the eyes of the public. In addition, our presence at Eastport Food Centre will not go unnoticed as we will have nicely decorated trucks, food tasting events, and mini-contests. We will participate in fairs and local events and we will cater to weddings and parties.

b. Inventory Strategy

After extensive research, we intend to achieve a level of order accuracy and make everything easier by leveraging mobile POS software.

We believe that the Tablet-based ordering screens will offer our customer-facing person an easy way to input orders. This will ensure that sending orders to the cook, or remembering the nuances of each order becomes easier.

c. Payment Options for Customers

• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via mobile money transfer

d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees

At Best Life Chop, we will have an easy refund policy, with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. Since we are great at what we do, we will always take care of every customer complaint, including a full refund if that’s what it takes. Our other refund options include offering customers a replacement meal or coupons that give free meals for their use in the future. If they choose a refund for their meal, we will only refund in the same form of currency used for the purchase.

e. Customer Support Strategy

• Always make delicious food made fresh with locally sourced ingredients using exquisite techniques.
• Ensure that foods maintain their quality and taste.
• Having multiple foods for customers to choose from.
• Being flexible enough to cater to special requests by customers.
• Ensuring to get customers’ feedback and being open to suggestions.
• Leveraging social media and other tools to increase business reach.
• Using CRM to manage the database of clients.
• Considering customers’ opinions before making any major decision

Operational Plan

A. what happens during a typical day at a food truck business.

In this line of business, this is how a normal day goes;

• You have to begin early by picking up the truck and heading to the commercial kitchen space where you’ll prepare your menu items.
• After preparation, you have to move your truck to your parking location as soon as possible.
• See to the culinary needs of your customers as swiftly and efficiently as possible, especially if you have a weekday lunchtime location.
• Drive your truck back to the commissary or storage location where you can legally dispose of grease, wastewater, and other cooking waste, and thoroughly clean your vehicle.
• When not cooking or serving clients, you will have to reach out to your market via social media or the production of flyers, and other means of marketing your business.
• Gas up your vehicle and inspect it for repairs.
• Shop for your food ingredients daily or every few days. Your storage space will be limited, so you’ll shop often.

b. Production Process

At Beta Life Chop, one of our USPs (unique, selling, point) is that our foods will be cooked fresh in front of our customers. We understand that people want fresh food and not something that has been cooked a day or so before. Owing to that, our production process involves preparing and cooking their food in front of them.

c. Service Procedure

At Beta Life, we need to prepare the truck and pick up daily fresh food supply, after which we will proceed to our commissary kitchen to prepare some of the meals. We then have to load up the truck and head to our sales location where we will now finish the meal preparation as each customer demands.

We will consult with specialized chefs to develop our base of proprietary food recipes and sauces. Also note that we will offer desserts, drinks, and also cater special events. For such occasions, we will use our festive truck specially painted and decorated for the event.

d. The Supply Chain

Our aim is to only make use of fresh products sourced from locally grown organic crops. Have it in mind that our prices will be almost the same as those of any fast food, which will encourage the vast majority of customers to want to try our food.

e. Sources of Income

Our primary source of revenue includes;

• Food and beverage sales
• Food truck consultation

Financial Plan

A. amount needed to start your food truck business.

We need around $40,000 to $200,000 to start up Beta Life Chops.

b. What are the Cost Involved?

• Purchasing a Food Truck: $5,000
• Vehicle Inspection: $500
• Retrofitting and Bringing Our Truck to Code: $25,000
• Generator: $2,500
• POS Software System and Hardware: $1,500
• Paint: $1,000
• Truck Wrap: $2,500
• Initial Food Purchases $2,000
• Utensils, Papers, and Goods: $2,000
• Permits and licensing: $2,300
• Website Design: $500
• Initial Office Equipment and Supplies: $1,000
• Advertising and Public Relations: $2,000
• Professional, Legal, and Consulting Fees: $2,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility?

No, Beta Life Chops will be started in Eastport Food Centre and operated out of a custom-built food truck in Jade District Portland.

d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Food Truck Business?

• Commercial Kitchen and Commissary Rent
• Monthly Credit Card Processing Fees
• Truck maintenance

e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Food Truck Manager: $48, 072
• Assistant Food Truck Manager: $35,734
• Window Attendant: $31,330
• Truck Cooks: $28,442
• Prep Cooks: $21,780

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Food Truck Business

• Equipment loan/financing program
• Rollover for business startups (ROBS)
• Business credit cards
• Personal loan
• A microloan from Small Business Administration (SBA)

Financial Projection

A. how much should you charge for your product/service.

To find out a good price point for your products and offerings, you should observe other food trucks in your location. Find out how many meals they serve on a typical lunch hour and how much they charge. However, remember to be conservative in your estimation, and figure out how much you need to make to be profitable daily. Divide the number of meals you expect to serve by this number and this is what each meal should cost to hit that number.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $120,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $270,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $490,000

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

At Beta Life Chops, we expect to make;

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $36,000 (30% of revenue generated)
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $121,500 (45% of revenue generated)
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $269,500 (55% of revenue generated)

d. Profit Margin of a Food Truck Business 

In this line of business, a 30 percent profit margin is encouraging, but it will depend on your location, competition, efficiency, among other factors.

Growth Plan

A. how do you intend to grow and expand .

Our plan at Beta Life Chop is to build our brand to a level where we can start selling franchises and offer training and consultancy services in the mobile food truck industry.

b. Where do you intend to expand to and why?

• Bethany, Portland, OR
• Cedar Mill, Portland, OR.
• Oak Hills, Portland, OR
• West Linn, Portland, OR.
• Lake Oswego, Portland, OR
• Camas, Washington
• Stafford, Portland

Our reason for choosing these locations is because trucks flourish in their culinary scene, though in Portland they are called food carts.

At Beta Life Chops, we envisage family succession as our business exit strategy. We strongly believe that this business exit strategy, unlike others, does not require that much involvement of external parties. In addition, it is also one of the easiest and most straightforward options when done right, and we hope to put together a well-detailed plan to ensure success.

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How to Start a Food Truck Business

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How to Write a Food Truck Business Plan

Simple Business Plan Outline

Business Plan Template

10 Qualities of a Good Business Plan

How to Start a Business With No Money

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Sample Business Plan For a Food Truck Business

Writing a business plan is an essential part of starting a successful food truck business. It acts as the guiding document that outlines the goals and objectives, informs decisions, and helps to secure the financing needed to launch the venture, whether it be from lenders or investors. For new food truck business owners, having access to a sample business plan can provide invaluable direction and insights on how to create their own food truck business plan .

Download our Ultimate Food Truck Business Plan Template

Having a comprehensive business plan in place is vital for any successful food truck venture. It will serve as the foundation for your operations, setting out the goals and objectives that will help guide your decisions and actions. A well-written business plan can also give you clarity on realistic financial projections and help secure financing from lenders or investors. An example of a food truck business plan is a great resource to draw upon when creating your own business plan to ensure that all the key elements are included in your document.

Below is an example food truck business plan to help you see what one should look like. It can provide a good starting point for writing a business plan for your food truck. However, it is not nearly as comprehensive and successful in raising capital for your food truck as Growthink’s Ultimate Food Truck Business Plan Template . But it can help you write a food truck business plan for your business.

Food Truck Business Plan Example – Barbecue Brothers On Wheels

Table of contents, executive summary.

• Company Overview

Industry Analysis

Customer analysis.

• Competitive Analysis

Marketing Plan

Operations plan, management team, financial plan.

  Download the Food Truck Business Plan Sample PDF here.

Barbecue Brothers On Wheels is a family-owned and operated BBQ food truck business founded by brothers John and David. After successfully operating their flagship mobile kitchen for the last five years, they are now looking to expand their operations and open up a second location. To do this, the Barbecue Brothers have crafted a comprehensive business plan that outlines their goals and objectives, as well as the steps they will take to achieve them.

The Barbecue Brothers plan to open their second food truck in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. With over one million people living within a five-mile radius, the brothers intend to capitalize on this large population by providing delicious and affordable BBQ cuisine that is prepared on-site with high-quality ingredients. To stand out from their competition, the Barbecue Brothers will offer unique menu items such as pulled pork sandwiches, beef brisket tacos, and smoked turkey wraps.

To fund this expansion effort, the Barbecue Brothers are seeking $250,000 in startup capital from Angel investors. This money will be used for purchasing a new truck and equipment as well as setting up the necessary kitchen space. With a successful track record of satisfied customers, the Barbecue Brothers believe they have what it takes to succeed in this highly competitive industry and are eager to get started on their next venture.

By following this business plan, the Barbecue Brothers will be able to reach their goal of becoming one of the top BBQ food truck businesses in Los Angeles. With your support, we can make our dream a reality and bring delicious BBQ cuisine to even more people.

Company Description

Barbecue Brothers On Wheels is a family-owned and operated BBQ food truck business that has been serving customers in Los Angeles for the past five years. Founded by brothers John and David, the business has quickly become one of the most popular mobile BBQ kitchens in town. With an emphasis on using only high-quality ingredients, they specialize in mouthwatering pulled pork sandwiches, beef brisket tacos, smoked turkey wraps, and other savory favorites.

The Barbecue Brothers have forged successful partnerships with many local businesses as well as organizations such as schools and corporate events which helps to expand their reach beyond just downtown Los Angeles. Their flagship food truck has been consistently recognized for its excellent customer service rating across all online sites helping them build a loyal following throughout their community.

John and David recognize the importance of giving back to those who are less fortunate than them so all profits generated from catering jobs are donated to local charities such as soup kitchens around Los Angeles county. Through these efforts combined with delicious recipes unique to this business, Barbecue Brothers On Wheels has achieved great success in developing its brand identity over the last five years but now they look towards further expansion into more locations within the Los Angeles area.

The food industry in the Los Angeles area is growing rapidly and becoming increasingly competitive. Food trucks offer an exciting alternative to traditional restaurant dining, allowing customers to enjoy high-quality, fresh, and affordable meals without having to commit to a single location. Over the past decade, food trucks have become increasingly popular in major cities across the US, with cities such as Los Angeles boasting over 2,000 licensed food trucks.

The main competition for Barbecue Brothers On Wheels is other food trucks in the area offering similar menu items. This competition forces businesses to stay ahead of their competitors by constantly innovating and reinventing their recipes and menu offerings. In addition, they must create a strong customer loyalty program that will encourage repeat customers and remain competitive on pricing due to a large number of options available to consumers.

Finally, Barbecue Brothers On Wheels must be prepared to scale quickly in order to keep up with the growing demand for mobile dining options in LA county. With careful planning and strategic investments, Barbecue Brothers On Wheels can succeed in this highly competitive market by setting itself apart from the competition.

The customer analysis for Barbecue Brothers On Wheels should focus on two main target markets: mobile diners, and BBQ aficionados.

Mobile Diners : Mobile diners are those individuals who prefer to dine outside of a traditional restaurant setting, either at food trucks or other outdoor locations like events or festivals. These customers tend to be younger, single professionals or families with young children who are looking for convenience, affordability, and delicious meals. They also care about being able to support local businesses and the community.

Psychographics of this target demographic includes people on the go; tech-savvy consumers who are comfortable using online platforms for research and ordering; adventurous eaters who enjoy trying new foods; and those looking for a unique dining experience.

To reach these individuals, Barbecue Brothers On Wheels should invest in an effective digital marketing strategy that includes social media channels as well as online advertising.

BBQ Aficionados : The second target demographic for Barbecue Brothers On Wheels is barbecue aficionados – customers who have an affinity for barbecue cuisine and a preference for authentic flavors. These customers often look beyond just the taste of the food but also seek out restaurants that can offer something special in terms of atmosphere, customer service, quality ingredients, and presentation.

Psychographic characteristics of this group include adventurous foodies seeking out the best barbecue in town; those with a strong appreciation for craftsmanship in their meals; fans of small businesses looking to support local entrepreneurs; and those with a passion for cooking will appreciate the emphasis on high-quality ingredients used by Barbecue Brothers On Wheels.

To reach this audience effectively, Barbecue Brothers should consider investing in traditional print marketing materials such as flyers or brochures that can be distributed at popular BBQ joints around Los Angeles County. Additionally, they could participate in local festivals that draw large numbers of barbecue enthusiasts from all over California making sure to bring enough samples so everyone can get a taste of their signature dishes.

Competitor Analysis

For a BBQ food truck business like Barbecue Brothers On Wheels, competitor analysis is essential for success. In the highly competitive Los Angeles food truck industry, it is important to identify the main competitors and understand their strengths and weaknesses. Doing so will allow Barbecue Brothers to set themselves apart from the competition by offering something unique that will draw in customers.

The main competitors of Barbecue Brothers On Wheels are other BBQ-focused food trucks in Los Angeles County. These include notable names such as The Rib Whip, Pig Out Delights, Smoke N’ Grillers, and Hog Heaven BBQ.

The Rib Whip is known for its specialty sandwiches featuring slow-cooked meats paired with signature sauces and fresh vegetables on a hoagie roll. They cater to both lunchtime and evening crowds alike, serving up large portions at a reasonable price. Strengths of The Rib Whip include quality ingredients, generous portion sizes, affordability, convenience, and excellent customer service. However, one area where they could improve is the level of creativity in their menu offerings which may not be appealing to more adventurous or experimental eaters looking for something new every time they visit The Rib Whip.

Pig Out Delights serves classic BBQ favorites such as ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, macaroni and cheese topped with bacon bits, and sweet potato fries. Their signature dishes are made using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and come in generous portions that can easily be shared among two or three people. Strengths of Pig Out Delights includes freshly prepared meals made with high-quality ingredients at very fair prices as well as attentive customer service that many customers have come to expect from this establishment. Unfortunately due to its location away from popular downtown areas like Hollywood or Downtown LA, some customers are unable to try out this delicious cuisine unless they make a special trip out there- something many LA locals might not be willing to do just for some good BBQ!

Smoke N’ Grillers offer classic American BBQ fare such as brisket sandwiches slathered in house-made barbecue sauce along with sides like cornbread muffins or coleslaw salad. They focus on providing generous portions at an affordable price point while allowing customers to customize their own meals with various toppings and condiments. Strengths of Smoke N’ Grillers include their location in a busy part of town, competitive prices, and their ability to accommodate special dietary requests. On the other hand, Smoke N’ Grillers could improve its menu by offering more creative and unique dishes that can differentiate them from the competition.

Finally, Hog Heaven BBQ is a gourmet BBQ food truck that serves up only the finest cuts of meat prepared with signature rubs and sauces. They focus on delivering high-end dining experiences at an affordable price, setting them apart from other BBQ establishments in the area. Strengths of Hog Heaven include their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, their quality service, and their delicious dishes that consistently wow customers. However, they could improve by diversifying their menu with more budget-friendly options or dishes that cater to different dietary needs.

By understanding their competition, Barbecue Brothers On Wheels can identify areas of improvement as well as opportunities to stand out and attract more customers. They can focus on providing unique dishes that are only available at their food truck and focus on delivering excellent customer service. Additionally, they can look into utilizing local ingredients whenever possible in order to appeal to customers who are conscious of where their food is coming from. By doing these things, Barbecue Brothers On Wheels can become a leader in LA’s BBQ scene.

Barbecue Brothers On Wheels is the newest BBQ food truck to hit Los Angeles. Our mission is to provide customers with an unforgettable dining experience that combines quality ingredients, generous portions, and unique flavors for a price that can’t be beaten.

Our Product : We offer classic American BBQ fare such as brisket sandwiches slathered in house-made barbecue sauce enhanced by our signature rubs and sauces. All of our dishes are freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and come in generous portion sizes that can easily be shared among two or three people.

Price : At Barbecue Brothers On Wheels, we understand that value matters just as much as flavor so we strive to keep our prices competitive without sacrificing quality or taste. You won’t find better deals anywhere else!

Promotion : We will promote through digital channels such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter along with local advertising campaigns like print ads in newspapers and magazines. Additionally, word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers are key to helping us spread the word about Barbecue Brothers On Wheels!

Place : Our food truck is conveniently located on busy city streets where commuters have easy access during their lunchtime break or while they’re running errands. We also offer catering services for events such as office parties and family gatherings.

At Barbecue Brothers On Wheels, our goal is to provide customers with an unforgettable and unique dining experience. Our daily operations focus on delivering quality food that is freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Every day we will start by preparing the sauces and rubs for our signature dishes as well as preparing the sides. Once all of the ingredients are prepped and ready, we will begin cooking on-site to ensure that every order is served hot and fresh.

Staff Requirements:

For the successful day-to-day operations of Barbecue Brothers On Wheels, we need a team of dedicated individuals.

• Chef – To prepare the signature dishes using fresh ingredients and signature sauces.
• Cashier – To take orders and process payments in a timely manner.
• Food Runner – To deliver orders to customers quickly and accurately.
• Cleaner – To make sure the food truck is clean and presentable for customers.

We need a variety of supplies in order to run our business effectively. This includes ingredients, paper products, cleaning supplies, and small wares. We will focus on sourcing all of our supplies from local vendors to ensure that we are using quality ingredients while supporting the local economy.

Our menu consists of classic American BBQ fare such as brisket sandwiches, pulled pork, and ribs. We also offer sides like slaw, potato salad, and baked beans. In addition to our regular menu, we will offer daily specials that can range from tacos to nachos.

Customer Service:

At Barbecue Brothers On Wheels, we strive to provide our customers with the best possible experience. Our goal is to make sure every customer is satisfied by delivering excellent customer service that is prompt and friendly. Additionally, we will listen to feedback and make changes as necessary to ensure that customers are always happy with their experience.

The safety of our customers and staff is paramount. We will adhere to all regulatory standards and best practices when it comes to food handling and sanitation. Additionally, anyone working in the food truck must wear protective gear such as gloves, masks, and hats.

John and David are the co-founders of the Barbecue Brothers On Wheels. John, who has a background in culinary arts, is the head chef and primary visionary of the business. He oversees operations and ensures that all dishes are made with the finest ingredients. His passion for barbecue stems from his childhood in Texas where he fell in love with the art of making authentic, mouth-watering barbecue.

David is an experienced business professional and handles the administrative side of the operation. He focuses on marketing, financials, and customer relations. His goal is to make Barbecue Brothers On Wheels a household name by providing unbeatable quality and service.

With their founding Members John and David teaming up, Barbecue Brothers On Wheels is set to be the go-to BBQ food truck for city dwellers.

At Barbecue Brothers On Wheels, we understand that the financial aspect of running a business is integral to its success. We have formulated a financial plan that will help us achieve our goals and ensure the longevity of our business.

Startup Costs:

To get our business up and running, we need to cover a variety of startup costs such as purchasing equipment, leasing a truck, and acquiring ingredients.

Operating Costs:

Once we are open for business, our operating costs will include labor and overhead expenses. We plan to keep these costs in check by implementing cost-saving methods and leveraging technology to streamline processes.

Revenue Model:

Our revenue model relies on selling our signature products and daily specials at a fair price. We will also pursue additional revenue streams such as catering and delivery services.

Profitability:

Our goal is to achieve profitability within two years of launching the business. We plan to do this by increasing revenue through catering services and expanding our customer base, as well as reducing expenses by maximizing efficiency and maintaining ongoing cost-saving practices. Additionally, any profits will be reinvested into the business to further expand our services and capabilities.

Commitment to Excellence:

At Barbecue Brothers On Wheels, we are committed to delivering the highest quality product and service possible. We strive to use only the freshest ingredients and prepare our dishes with care. Our staff is highly trained in customer service, food safety, and proper food handling techniques.

We understand that quality is paramount and that is why we will never sacrifice our standards. We want to build a long-lasting business that customers can trust and rely on for delicious, mouth-watering barbecue cuisine.

Sample Menu

• Fried Catfish
• Pulled Pork Sandwich
• Smoked Sausage Platter
• Hand-cut French Fries
• Baked Beans
• Collard Greens
• Corn Bread Muffins
• Cobbler Pie

Financial Projections

Balance sheet.

[insert financial statement]

Income Statement

Cash flow statement, food truck business plan example pdf.

Download our food truck business plan pdf here. This is a free food truck business plan example to help you get started on your own food truck plan.  

How to Finish Your Food Truck Business Plan in 1 Day!

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Food Truck Business Plan Template

Download our template and start creating your food truck business plan today.

Updated June 25, 2023 Reviewed by Brooke Davis

Are you ready to start a food truck business? You will have many questions at this beginning stage, and a sample food truck business plan can help you find answers.

With the right food truck business plan, you will be better prepared to find investors and get your company on the road.

A food truck costs less to start up than a brick-and-mortar business, but it still requires capital to get going.

Once you know how to write a business plan for a food truck, you can seek the money you need to get started and outline a plan for success.

Why You Need a Business Plan for Your Food Truck Business

How to write a business plan for a food truck, food truck business plan sample.

Many people think: “It’s a food truck; it’s simple. Why do I need a business plan?” A food truck requires planning, just like any other successful business. It would be best if you answered questions like:

• What food will you sell?
• Is there a demand for your product?
• Who will be your customers?
• Where will you travel?
• What are your startup and ongoing costs?
• What will your revenue look like?

A business plan sets the essential details you need for yourself and anyone looking to invest. Successful food truck businesses create a consistent schedule of where they will be and how they will communicate their location.

They know how they will buy their products and how much they will mark up to make a profit.

You must plan accordingly if you invest tens of thousands into a food truck. If you want others to support you, they need to know what they are getting into.

A food truck business plan lays out important details to attract the right kind of capital investors.

To develop your business plan, you must be prepared to cover critical topics and include the correct information.

If you use the template and complete each section correctly, you will have a well-formed business plan for you and potential investors.

1. Executive Summary

The first section of your food truck business plan should be the executive summary. This is an introduction and overview for whoever is reading the plan. It should make an excellent first impression and offer concise information without too much detail.

The executive summary highlights what your food truck business will look like and how it will be successful. It is considered by many to be the most crucial section of your business plan.

As for any startup business, you must build a solid case for the idea’s merit and why others should get financially involved. A typical executive summary includes sections such as:

• The target market for the food truck
• The business model
• Marketing and sales strategies
• Competition in the area
• A financial analysis
• Who the owners and staff will be
• An implementation plan
• What food will you offer, and why is it appealing

This section can contain a mission statement that describes your business values and philosophy. It should focus on concrete and achievable future goals for the company.

2. Management Team

Your business plan should include ownership information and details about the management team. A detailed outline of responsibilities sets the tone for how your food truck will run and makes expectations clear to everyone involved.

It also demonstrates to investors that you have considered how you will run your business effectively.

Ownership information should include the following:

• Full names of all owners
• The legal structure of the business (limited liability company, sole proprietorship, partnership, etc.)
• Percentage of ownership for each owner
• Types of ownership (partner interests, capital expenditure basis, stocks)

You also want to include information that fully outlines and profiles your management team. For each individual, this should have their

• Full legal name
• Position and summary of responsibilities
• Education and background
• Any relevant prior employment
• Past business success
• Food industry training or recognition
• Salary and benefits information

3. Products and Services

This is the section where you talk about the most essential part of your business — the food you will sell. Your business plan’s products and services section should include the full menu you plan to use at the opening.

If your full menu isn’t yet prepared, get it done to include it in the business plan. Including a fully designed menu shows you are ready to start your food truck immediately.

This section will also address:

• How will you order supplies
• Product costs and sale prices
• Why customers will eat your product over others
• How the product offerings will change over time
• How will you measure product sales success

Addressing each of these details is important to investors. It also provides guidelines to keep your good ideas practicable and achievable in a competitive food truck business market.

4. Customers and Marketing

Knowing who will buy your product is vital to a food truck business plan. This section will outline who will be interested in your food and why they will buy it. Are you focusing on a certain demographic, or is your food pleasing to many different types of customers?

You must outline this information and provide sufficient facts. One of the most common mistakes in business plans is to make statements without supporting evidence.

Your market research should be included here to show why you will have customers who will utilize your business.

Marketing is a key factor in the success of a food truck. How you advertise can make or break your brand recognition and ultimately affect your sales.

Your business plan should answer questions like:

• Will your truck contain brand advertising and logos?
• Will you have a social media presence? If so, what will it look like?
• Will you advertise on TV, radio, or other methods?
• Where will you go to sell your food? How will you let customers know where you will be?

This information is crucial and should be addressed in detail in this section. Be specific with your marketing strategies.

Vague information demonstrates that you have failed to clearly outline how you intend to advertise your food truck to the public.

5. SWOT Analysis

This section should address your business’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The SWOT section is a framework used to evaluate how a company will compete in the market.

It analyses internal and external factors affecting your food truck’s success. It uses realistic and fact-based data, not your best hopes. This section should utilize actual data-driven market research.

The analysis should focus on why the product line will be successful against its competition. It should answer questions like:

• What is our competitive advantage?
• Where can we improve?
• What threats does our company face?
• What technology or other resources can we use to expand our market?

Answering these questions in detail provides key insights into how your food truck business will succeed despite any challenges.

With this information, investors can be assured their capital is wisely invested, and you are the right choice.

6. Financials

This section focuses on financial projections for the food truck company. It offers information about how your business will perform. Your financial information should address your break-even point and how you will exceed that amount.

The owners and investors must know how much money it will take to cover expenses, much less see a profit.

This section should also include:

• Financial projections based on mathematical models
• Monthly expenses for the business for supplies, employees, and more
• Price points for products
• Variable costs of goods, gasoline, truck maintenance, and more
• Projected revenue

This information should be backed up with complex data from your market research.

7. Operations

This section will outline the nitty-gritty operational details of your food truck business. It will include information related to products and services but will also outline crucial details like:

• Potential vending locations
• Business hours
• Business licensing and other legal requirements
• How many employees will you hire, what are their wages, and any benefits
• Food truck design
• Cooking and cleaning procedures

These crucial details show how you will get the job done each day. Every business owner understands it takes work — not just a great idea — to succeed.

Investors know this too, and will look for your business operations plans.

8. Appendix

The appendix is the place to include legal documents and other important information relevant to the rest of your business plan. Here you can provide the following:

• Copies of legal permits
• Photos of the product
• Customer reviews
• Market research on which your data was based
• Other relevant information
• Letters of reference
• Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

This section is meant to bolster the rest of your business plan and end on a positive note. Pictures of smiling people eating your food may leave a positive image for anyone who has read your business plan.

The appendix is flexible and meant to give you options.

Legal Templates can provide a free sample food truck business plan to help you get started. Whether you are just beginning the process or ready to look for investors, we can help.

Use a template builder to build your business plan step-by-step. See the food truck business plan sample below:

You can download a business plan in Word format here  or start creating your food truck business plan using our document builder.

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

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ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

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SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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