Starting a street food business in the UK can be a brilliant way to turn your love of cooking into a living. With minimal set-up costs and a growing demand for exciting food on the go, there’s never been a better time to bring your flavours to the street.
Whether it’s tacos, toasties, jerk chicken or falafel wraps – here’s a practical guide on how to start and run a successful street food business, including how to operate legally through a Limited Company or LLP when needed.
1. Start with Research
Don’t dive in without understanding your market. Visit local food festivals, lunchtime markets and community events. What foods are already out there? What’s missing? Is there a crowd-pleasing idea you can deliver with your own twist?
Pick something you’re passionate about. If you love making it, chances are people will love eating it.
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2. Create a Business Plan That Works for You
Keep it simple. Your plan should help you stay focused without drowning you in paperwork. Cover:
- What you’re selling
- Your ideal customers
- Cost of ingredients and running expenses
- Pricing strategy
- Where you’ll trade
- Your business structure (see below)
3. Decide on Your Business Structure: Sole Trader, Limited Company or LLP?
There’s no one-size-fits-all here, but here are your main options:
Sole Trader
Many street food traders start as sole traders – it’s quick to register, and you keep full control. However, you’re personally responsible for all debts, and that’s a risk if things go wrong.
Limited Company (Ltd)
Running your street food business through a Limited Company is a smart move if you’re aiming for a more professional image, looking to grow, or want legal separation between your personal assets and the business.
Benefits include:
- Limited liability – your personal belongings are protected
- Potential tax efficiencies once you’re earning more
- A more professional image for bookings and private hire
To register, go through Companies House. You’ll need to:
- Choose a company name
- Appoint at least one director
- Register an office address
- File annual accounts and a confirmation statement
- Keep proper financial records
It comes with more admin, but many traders find it’s worth it once they get established.
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
If you’re starting the business with someone else—say, a friend or relative—you could consider an LLP. This structure gives you both flexibility and limited liability protection, without some of the formalities of a traditional company.
It’s useful if you want shared ownership and flexibility, while still protecting each partner from personal debt beyond their stake in the business.
4. Sort Your Legal Requirements
No matter your business structure, you’ll still need to:
- Register your food business with the local council (at least 28 days before trading)
- Get your food hygiene rating after inspection
- Complete a Level 2 Food Safety course
- Have Public Liability Insurance
- Check if you need a street trading licence for your location
Trading through a Limited Company or LLP? Make sure your registration reflects this, and use your company’s name and details where required.
5. Get the Right Equipment
Your stall or trailer needs to be functional, safe, and attractive. Essentials include:
- A gazebo or trailer
- Cooking equipment
- Gas, generator or power source
- Handwashing facilities
- Food storage and prep space
- Clear menu board and pricing
Keep it clean and branded. A well-kept pitch builds trust at a glance.
6. Find Great Places to Trade
Try a mix of:
- Local markets – Regular footfall, especially in towns and cities
- Food festivals and events – More seasonal but higher turnover
- Street trading pitches – Often available through the local council
- Private bookings – Great for weddings, parties, or corporate events
If your business is a Limited Company, many organisers will expect your registration number and public liability certificate when you apply.
7. Build a Strong Brand
You don’t need to spend a fortune on design, but your business should be memorable. Think:
- A catchy name that reflects your food
- A simple logo and menu layout
- Bright, clear signage
- Clean stall appearance
- Friendly service
If you’re a Limited Company or LLP, make sure your branding includes the registered name somewhere (usually small print is fine).
8. Market Your Business Online
Street food may be local, but a strong online presence makes a huge difference. Here’s what to focus on:
- Google Business Profile – so people can find you in maps and search
- Instagram and TikTok – share photos, menus, and videos
- Facebook – useful for local events and regular updates
- A simple website – especially helpful if you want to attract private bookings
Add your company number or LLP details on your website footer if you’re registered.
9. Manage Your Money and Grow
Street food margins can be tight, so good bookkeeping is vital.
- Use tools like QuickBooks, Xero, or a spreadsheet
- Track stock, pitch fees, income and tax obligations
- If you’re a Limited Company or LLP, you’ll need to file annual accounts
Get an accountant early on—especially if you plan to scale, take on staff, or trade at larger events.
10. Stay Consistent and Learn on the Go
Street food isn’t just about cooking. You’re a chef, marketer, cleaner, and customer service rep all in one. Make your food consistently great, be warm and welcoming, and take feedback seriously.
Traders who last are the ones who evolve, listen to their customers, and stay organised behind the scenes.
Final Word
Running a street food business in the UK is challenging, but if you’ve got the passion and put in the graft, it can become a fulfilling way to earn a living. Whether you trade as a sole trader, form a Limited Company, or partner up as an LLP – make sure your setup suits your goals, offers protection, and sets you up for success.
So go on—get out there, serve something amazing, and bring your food to the people.
FAQs
Yes, in most cases. If you’re trading on public land, you’ll likely need a street trading licence from the local council. Requirements vary across the UK, so always check with the specific council where you plan to trade. For private land or events, the organiser usually handles permissions, but you’ll still need to be registered as a food business.
Start-up costs can range from £2,000 to £10,000+, depending on your set-up. A basic gazebo stall is cheaper, while a fully kitted-out trailer or van will cost more. You’ll also need to budget for things like equipment, branding, insurance, and initial stock. Many traders start small and reinvest profits as they grow.
You can prepare food at home if your kitchen meets hygiene standards and is registered with your local Environmental Health team. However, you can’t trade from your home unless it’s a permitted venue or you’re offering delivery/pre-orders. Most street food sales still happen at public events, markets, or pop-ups.
There’s no single winner, but popular options include burgers, loaded fries, tacos, grilled wraps, Asian street dishes, and vegan options. What matters most is flavour, value, and something memorable. Dishes that are easy to eat on the go and priced around £7–£12 tend to perform well.
Yes, but you’ll need to meet all standard employer responsibilities—such as paying minimum wage, having employer’s liability insurance, and enrolling eligible staff in a workplace pension. Even for casual or part-time help, make sure you’re doing things by the book.
A Limited Company is usually owned and run by one or more directors and offers protection for your personal assets. An LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) is better if you’re going into business with a partner and want more flexible ownership, but still want legal protection. Both structures require official registration and annual filings.
Yes – most events will only accept traders with a food hygiene rating of 3 stars or above, and many require a 5-star rating. You’ll be inspected by your local council once you’ve registered your food business and started operating.
Only if you have a proper alcohol licence, such as a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) or a premises licence. These are handled by the local council and have strict rules. Serving drinks, even low-alcohol options like mulled wine or craft beer, without a licence is illegal.
Yes. At the very least, you’ll need Public Liability Insurance to cover accidents or injuries. Most markets and event organisers will ask for proof. If you employ staff or have expensive equipment, consider adding Employers’ Liability Insurance and Contents Cover too.
You can trade all year round, but it depends on your set-up and demand. Many traders focus on spring to autumn when outdoor events are frequent, but winter markets and indoor food halls are great for staying active in colder months. Consider investing in a weatherproof stall or trailer to extend your season.
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