How to Start up and Run a Catering Van Business

Running a catering van business in the UK can be a brilliant way to earn a living doing something you enjoy — especially if you’ve got a passion for food, people and being your own boss. Whether you’re planning to serve up bacon butties at busy work sites, gourmet burgers at festivals, or barista-style coffee in town centres, this guide will help you get your wheels rolling.

Is a Catering Van Business Right for You?

Before you dive in, think honestly about your lifestyle and goals. A catering van isn’t just about cooking – it’s early mornings, long days, moving around, and sometimes braving the British weather. But if you enjoy variety, independence and hands-on work, it can be a rewarding business with solid profit potential.

Step 1: Do Your Research

Start by understanding the local demand. Where are the best trading spots in your area? What’s already on offer? Is there a gap in the market?

Visit local events, markets, industrial estates and business parks. Speak to organisers, local councils and other traders. Take note of what’s popular and what’s missing – that’ll help you shape your food offering and stand out.

Step 2: Choose Your Niche

Try not to offer “a bit of everything”. Instead, focus on a specific type of food or drink. Some popular ideas in the UK include:

• Street food (e.g., tacos, noodles, jerk chicken)
• Burgers and chips
• Coffee and pastries
• Vegan and vegetarian options
• Breakfast van for builders and commuters

Make sure what you choose is something you enjoy making — and something people will queue up for.

Step 3: Get the Right Catering Van

Your van is your kitchen, your shopfront, and your office – so choose wisely.

You can either buy a fully kitted-out van or have one converted. Costs vary, but you might spend anywhere from £5,000 for a basic second-hand setup, up to £30,000+ for something more bespoke.

Look for:

• Good condition and service history
• Enough space and storage
• Equipment suited to your food (griddle, fryer, fridge, etc.)
• Reliable power supply (LPG gas, generator or battery)
• Don’t forget branding – a well-designed van will help attract customers and make you look professional.

Step 4: Choose the Right Business Structure

When it comes to setting up your catering van legally, there are a few ways to do it. The most common are:

Sole Trader

This is the simplest option. You register with HMRC, keep records, and pay tax through Self Assessment. It’s easy to set up, but you’re personally responsible for any debts or legal issues.

Limited Company

Running as a Limited Company gives your business its own legal identity. It can offer tax advantages and limits your personal liability. You’ll need to register with Companies House, submit annual accounts, and follow more formal rules – but many catering businesses go down this route, especially if you’re planning to grow or take on bigger contracts.

LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)

If you’re going into business with someone else, an LLP can be a good choice. Like a Limited Company, it offers liability protection and a formal structure, but with the flexibility of a partnership. Each partner registers for Self Assessment and shares the profits, while the LLP itself is registered with Companies House.

Tip: It’s worth speaking to an accountant or business advisor before choosing your structure – especially if you plan to expand or hire staff.

Step 5: Sort Out the Paperwork

Here’s what you’ll need to stay legal in the UK:

• Register with your local council as a food business (at least 28 days before trading)
• Get a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate – it’s a legal requirement
• Obtain public liability insurance (and employer’s liability if you hire staff)
• Gas and electrical safety certificates for your equipment
• Vehicle insurance for business use
• Street trading licence or pitch permission (depends on where you’re operating)

Each council has different rules, so check with your local authority.

Step 6: Create a Business Plan

Even if you’re starting small, a clear plan will keep you on track. Include:

• Your food concept and menu
• Target locations and customers
• Setup costs and running costs
• Pricing and profit margins
• Marketing ideas (social media, local events, website)
• Growth goals (e.g., second van, regular contracts, festivals)

Work out how many meals you need to sell each day to make it worth your time – and plan from there.

Step 7: Find Your First Pitch

In the UK, catering vans operate in all sorts of places – building sites, retail parks, lay-bys, business estates, markets and events.

Start by:

• Contacting construction companies or office parks
• Applying for a local market pitch
• Booking space at local festivals or food fairs
• Parking in a public area (if allowed by the council)

Be polite, professional, and patient. It may take a while to find the best spot, but once you do, regular custom can build quickly.

Step 9: Stay Compliant and Keep Improving

Once you’re trading, keep things legal and safe:

• Maintain hygiene standards – councils can inspect you at any time
• Keep up with equipment checks and safety certificates
• Stay on top of costs and pricing
• Keep engaging with your customers – ask what they want and listen

The best catering vans adapt, improve and keep their food fresh and appealing.

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