cbrown
1 posts since
Dec 28, 2008
2.
Re: Starting up a lunch truck business?????? Dec 28, 2008 12:55 AM
in response to:
LUCKIEST
Hi, I'm in Oregon, husband & I sold our retail business last year after 18 years of operations; I have been working in a "green collar" public sector job but realize that I miss being in business for myself and am definitely an entreprenauer at heart! This LUNCH TRUCK business question popped up on my Google search.
Our rural area is full of windmill construction projects, and I know the rule: "find a need and fill it". There is a huge, unmet need for services for these construction workers as well as the long-term employees of the wind projects, and I am focusing on the lunch truck idea. Specifically, a "gut wagon" type to bring snacks, sandwiches, drinks, etc around to the various sites mid-morning through mid-afternoon. There are 3 windmill construction sites within 10 miles that could be one route, plus 2 additional, larger construction projects within 30 mile range for additional routes.
My questions: what kind of customer base is required for a viable 1 person (or 2 person) business; financials such as food cost %; how to determine what to stock and source product; "prep" requirements esp for sandwiches/wraps (can it be done from home or only in a commercial kitchen); is having a hot food "special" for each day a good touch; and how to find a used truck? From my business background, I have the skills to write a business plan, deal with financials, manage inventory, serve customers, deal with all the regulations, etc. however, I do not have a restaurant background (only concession-stand type volunteer work), so the management and pricing of self-prepared food items is new to me.
Thanks for your help and any advice you can give.
