Did you know that food trucks require many permits and regulations including proper plumbing that is up to code? St. Matthew’s Plumbing provides resources and services to ensure your food truck is able to pass inspections and obtain the permits required to operate.
The competition is tough. It doesn’t matter if you consider yourself to be a chef, passionate cook, or eager entrepreneur. What does matter is your story and that you tell it in a way that stands out.
Running a food truck is a real business and should be approached as such. Here are a few things you might not know about food trucks and how St. Matthew’s Plumbing can help.
1. Food trucks require many regulations and permits
Local governments have strict rules, regulations, and permits for food trucks. They are in place with good intentions of keeping everyone safe, but it is something to be aware of and prepared for when you begin to start planning your business. Prepare for many forms and sometimes long delays in getting approval.
There are different laws set for food trucks so it is wise to prepare to take as much time on each permit, certification, or license to fully understand the document. Certifications and permits differ from city to city, so keep location in mind before beginning anything and make sure you can operate in the location you have in mind. All food truck plans must be approved by the KY Division of Plumbing and the truck has to pass an inspection by a Kentucky-certified master plumber.
2. A good business plan is critical
Food trucks may seem like fun, but they require serious business planning to be profitable and sustainable. Here are tips on creating a successful business plan:
- Do the research, crunch the numbers, and prepare for the unexpected like selling out sooner than expected, overpreparing and not selling enough, and potential truck break-downs or generator problems.
- Consider getting a trademark for your food truck.
- Try working in a food truck before opening your own so you will have first-hand experience and more context to better plan for your own.
Many food truck owners are surprised by how much money it takes to start the business. Be patient, plan for it to cost more than you expect, and learn other food truck best practices to create a successful business plan.
3. You can’t do everything by yourself
Don’t fall into the classic persona of the overworked, understaffed, but refuses to ask for help, entrepreneur. No one wants to work for or buy from people like that and your business will fail before even starting. The business responsibilities of running a food truck are many and will overwhelm you if you try to take them on by yourself. Find other people who are like-minded and who could help take your idea to the next level and make it a success.
Working with a great team will be rewarding in countless ways. You will be able to trust that they are doing what’s best for your business and having the right amount of dedicated workers will provide more opportunities for creative collaboration. Operating a successful food truck business doesn’t stop after your first day of business. It’s an ongoing job that requires hard work and a great team behind you.
4. Your fanbase is your lifeblood
Start advertising early. Once you have your branded truck, menu’s, gear, etc., start releasing teasers of menu items and events you’ll be at. Offer a promotion for the first 20, 50 or 100 customers, whatever feels right for you. Social media will become your best friend and can make or break your food truck business. It is a way to personally connect with your customers and take your customer’s experience to the next level.
Word of mouth is also a great tool. Your loyal customers will spread the word to their friends about the great food and service that you offer and alongside your social media efforts, your food truck phenomenon is fueled.
If you’re looking to start a food truck business in Louisville, LouisvilleKy.gov has comprehensive information on food trucks in the Louisville Metro including the process for obtaining permits. St. Matthew’s Plumbers serve all of Kentuckiana with trusted and reliable professionals. We have created a checklist to help you start your food truck business, which can be downloaded here. When it’s ready for inspection or needs service, request service online or contact us to see how we can help.