How to Start and Run a Mobile BBQ or Hog Roast Business

Thinking about firing up your grill for profit? A mobile BBQ or hog roast business is a brilliant way to turn your love of food into a rewarding career. Whether you fancy travelling to summer festivals, wedding venues or setting up at local markets, the UK offers plenty of opportunities. This guide will walk you through the essentials to help you start and run a successful mobile BBQ or hog roast business.

Why a Mobile BBQ or Hog Roast Business?

People in the UK love a good BBQ, and hog roasts are a showstopper at weddings, birthdays and corporate events. Unlike a bricks-and-mortar restaurant, a mobile set-up offers lower overheads and the freedom to go where the demand is. Plus, it’s a business that thrives in both urban areas and countryside towns, making it a GEO-friendly venture.

Step 1: Do Your Research

Before you spend a penny, look into your local market.

• Who are your customers? Think about event planners, couples getting married, or corporate teams looking for catering.
• What’s the competition like? Check out what other BBQ or hog roast caterers offer. Look at pricing, menu styles and service types.
• What’s your USP? Whether it’s homemade sauces, slow-smoked meats or locally sourced produce, you need a unique selling point that sets you apart.

Step 2: Choose Your Business Structure – Sole Trader, Limited Company or LLP?

Choosing the right structure for your business matters, both for tax and liability reasons.

• Sole Trader – Simple to set up and ideal when starting out on your own. You keep all the profits but are personally liable for any debts or legal issues.
• Limited Company (Ltd) – A more formal structure where the business is a separate legal entity. This can be more tax-efficient and offers limited liability protection. It also gives a more professional impression if you’re targeting larger events, weddings or corporate catering.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – A great option if you’re going into business with someone else but still want flexibility. It offers limited liability and splits profits between partners, who are taxed individually.

You can register a Limited Company or LLP through Companies House. It’s fairly straightforward and usually costs £50 if done online. Don’t forget to register for Self Assessment (for sole traders or LLP partners) or Corporation Tax (for Ltd companies). You may also need to register for VAT if your turnover exceeds the current threshold.

Step 3: Get the Right Licences and Registrations

Food businesses in the UK must follow health and safety laws. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Register your food business with your local council at least 28 days before trading – it’s free.
• Food hygiene certificate – Level 2 Food Safety is the minimum if you’re handling meat.
• Gas and electrical safety certificates – essential for your mobile equipment.
• Public liability insurance – to protect against injury or damage claims.
• Street trading licence – if you’re setting up in public spaces. Rules vary by local council.

Also consider business insurance for your equipment and vehicle, and the employer’s liability insurance if you’ll be hiring staff.

Step 4: Choose Your Equipment and Vehicle

This is your mobile kitchen, so choose wisely.

• BBQ grill or hog roast machine – investing in quality will save money over time.
• Gazebo or catering trailer – keep it smart and weatherproof.
• Fridge or chilling units – stay compliant with food safety rules.
• Generator – especially if you’re trading at festivals or rural events.

You can either lease equipment or buy it outright. For start-ups on a budget, second-hand gear from reputable suppliers can be a good option.

Step 5: Build a Simple Menu and Price It Right

Don’t overcomplicate things. Offer a short menu that focuses on quality, speed, and flavour.

Examples include:

• Whole hog roast with soft baps and apple sauce
• Pulled pork sandwiches with smoky BBQ sauce
• Beef brisket or ribs
• Grilled veggie skewers and plant-based burgers
• Add-on sides like coleslaw, potato salad or corn on the cob

Price smart – cover your costs, include your time, and don’t forget fuel, transport and set-up time. Fixed-price packages for events often work well.

Step 6: Branding and Marketing for Local Success

Your brand tells your story. Keep it clear, friendly and memorable.

• Choose a name that reflects what you do.
• Design a clean logo and signage – your van or gazebo is a moving billboard.
• Set up a simple website with menus, photos, contact details and FAQs.
• Use Google Business Profile for local visibility and reviews.
• Post regular updates on Instagram and Facebook, with photos from events.

For SEO (Search Engine Optimisation), use keywords such as:

• “mobile BBQ catering in [your town]”
• “hog roast wedding packages UK”
• “BBQ party hire near me”

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Mobile BBQ or Hog Roast Business in the UK?

The cost of setting up a mobile BBQ or hog roast business in the UK can vary widely depending on your set-up, equipment and whether you’re starting from scratch or already have some kit.

Here’s a general breakdown to give you a rough idea:

Items	Estimated Costs
Hog roast machine or large BBQ grill	£1,000 – £3,000
Catering trailer or gazebo + tables	£1,000 – £4,000
Chilling equipment (cool boxes, fridges etc.)	£300 – £800
Generator or power supply	£500 – £1,500
Food prep tools, knives, utensils, trays	£200 – £600
Initial food stock & packaging	£300 – £800
Business insurance & public liability cover	£150 – £500 annually
Level 2 Food Hygiene & Safety course	£20 – £100
Gas safety check (LPG certificate)	£80 – £150
Website & branding materials	£100 – £500+
Company formation (if going Ltd or LLP)	From £50 (online)

Total ballpark cost: £5,000 – £12,000+

If you’re keeping things simple with a gazebo, second-hand kit, and working as a sole trader, you could get started closer to £4,000–£6,000. A fully kitted trailer with top-end equipment and branding can easily push the start-up cost to £10,000+.

Tip: Start small and reinvest. You don’t need everything at once. Focus on essentials first – food quality, safety compliance, and a professional-looking set-up.

The Bottom Line

Running a mobile BBQ or hog roast business in the UK can be both profitable and enjoyable – especially if you love feeding people and being out and about. Set things up properly from the start, choose the right business structure, and focus on quality and customer service.

Whether you’re slow-roasting pork in Yorkshire or sizzling sausages in Surrey, you’ve got the freedom to go where the appetite is.

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