food truck business plan in chennai

  • Starting a Food Truck Business in India: A Complete Guide

Published on : 22/03/2022

Recent Post

  • Strategies to Apply in your Restaurant Marketing Automation
  • Omnichannel Marketing for Restaurants: 5 Key Tactics to Boost Customer Brand Recall
  • Why should you invest in a cloud kitchen?
  • Tips and tricks to scale up your bottom lines this Valentine’s

The Indian food industry has witnessed many evolutionary changes, one of them being the introduction of food trucks. Even though food trucks have been prevalent since the last decade, it wasn’t until a couple of years back that the food truck business caught on.

Starting from burgers and hotdogs to delicious South Indian foods and oh our favourite Chinese cuisine, you will come across food trucks selling a variety of cuisines in the country. Several factors have contributed to the growth of this industry type, out of which financing is a primary attribute. Considering everything, the capital required to open and run a restaurant is colossal. However, a food truck can be opened with a total capital of about INR 9 to 10 lakhs, which is most certainly an affordable range.

Starting a Food Truck Business in India: A Complete Guide

However, owning a food truck business is undoubtedly a blossoming idea. That’s why many aren’t aware of all the prerequisites one has to meet to open and operate a truck restaurant successfully. However, like all dreams, your food truck business is also possible if you stick around and read how to proceed! On this account, we have discussed everything you need to know to open a food truck business.

1. Decide your Cuisine

Your first job to do is to decide the type of food you want to serve. Like other industries, the food industry is divided into several categories based on the food type and the cuisine. 

Without deciding your cuisine and menu first, proceeding further will set you on a path of failure. This decision determines the truck size, the prospective location for business setup, the types of equipment you need, and many other attributes. inresto’s restaurant management solutions are built to optimize your ideal cuisine and menu types and enable you to avoid wastage and manage your food inventory effectively. 

Here are some of the popular food cuisines that are perfect for a food truck business:

  • American dishes like burgers, hotdogs, sandwiches, wraps, burritos, bagels, and others.
  • Various fruits and vegetable juices, beverages, shakes, and smoothies.
  • Authentic South Indian dishes like idli, sambar vada, dosa, uttapam, etc.

2. Understand the cost differentiation of starting a food truck

Every startup business needs capital. Usually, for a standard food truck, the total setup cost is around 8 to 11 lakhs. However, if you want a fully equipped food truck with advanced equipment and setup, the price can increase up to INR 16 to 20 lakhs.

Before we move further, let’s take a glimpse at the price differentiation so that you can understand how much to spend for which purpose.

  • For types of equipment like cooking stations, refrigerator, microwave oven, furniture, will cost you up to INR 2 to 2.5 lakhs.
  • Since you need to buy a truck, you need to spend around INR 3.5 to 5 lakhs based on the truck’s volume, features, and other attributes.
  • You will need an inventory of raw materials for cooking which will cost you around INR 15 to 25 thousand every month based on the amount, the ingredient types, and sales. Click here to know more about inventory management.
  • If you are working independently at the start of the business, you won’t have to worry about the staff cost. But, if you hire a staff, their salary will be about INR 15 to 20 thousand per month, per person. We definitely suggest that you hire at least one person on board so that there is effective management. While one is cooking, the other can take orders, serve, and collect payments.

3. Get the required food licenses

Without proper licenses issued by the government, you will not be able to register your business and make your dream come true. So, before you jump with excitement at the idea of owning a food truck, prepare for obtaining the licenses. Following are the legal documents you will need for conducting the food business:

  • If your business gross turnover is more than INR 12 lakhs annually, you will have to get the FSSAI license.
  • NOC is needed from the Chief Fire Officer since owning a food truck means fire hazard, which means that people’s lives are in danger, including yours.
  • Allowance letter from the municipality body of the area where you will be setting up the business.
  • Vehicle license to register your food truck business with the government.

4. Choose a proper location for the food truck business

food truck business plan in chennai

Since it is a truck, you cannot set it like an old, traditional restaurant. You have to focus on the area and the road from where you will start the food business. For choosing the location, you need to consider the three most important attributes.

  • You need to confirm with the municipality body about your truck’s parking since every food business needs a spacious ambiance to operate and serve meals smoothly.
  • Another factor that will matter is visibility. Make sure to choose a location that is regularly visited by flocks of people. This will help you to earn more revenue because most people like to grab a small meal on their way rather than going to a restaurant.
  • To beat your competition, you should look into ways to make your customer service and marketing unique and intuitive to build a loyal diner base.

5. Get the required finances for the truck business

If you cannot arrange all the money required for opening the food truck business, you can take help from different financing methods. For example, a loan will help you with the capital needed to start the truck and get everything in motion.

6. Look for brand marketing and promotion

Lastly, you need to market your brand, and for that, you need to rely on advertisements and social media. Many companies offer promotion and marketing services on the digital platform. You can integrate inresto’ s marketing solutions to simplify your marketing activities such as social media marketing, customized website and online delivery platform creation for your restaurant business, and much more. This will give you much-needed exposure to your business, and soon your customer base will grow.

Final verdict

Opening a food truck business might seem overwhelming at times. But, in reality, it is one of the easiest business models to set up. Follow these easy steps and build a successful food truck business for yourself.

Upgrade Your Restaurant Now!

Let's get started, subscribe to our newsletter.

food truck business plan in chennai

Find out how inresto can help you

myHQ Digest

How to Start a Food Truck Business in 2023? | Steps & Cost Explained!

A food truck business can be a cost-effective and flexible entry into the food industry, especially now with the growing demand for convenient dining and varied cuisines. From costs to strategies, kickstart your food truck business with this comprehensive guide. With the ability to adapt to changing customer preferences and target diverse locations, the food truck business presents an opportunity for entrepreneurs to tap into a dynamic market. This guide will discuss the essential steps of starting a food truck business and set you up for success in the competitive food industry. 

myHQ Virtual office

Steps Involved in Starting a Food Truck Business in 2023

Here are the steps involved in starting a food truck business in India:

Step 1: Conduct Market Research

Market research is the first step in planning for a food truck business. Beginning with the local food scene and target market, identify gaps in the market that your food business could fill. Consider factors such as location, cuisine, and pricing. Identify competitors and study what they are doing right and what they could do better. Understanding the market will help you build the foundation for a successful food truck business. 

Step 2: Choose Your Cuisine and Concept

Your food truck’s success largely depends on your menu and concept. Decide what type of cuisine you want to offer and create a menu that showcases your unique selling points. Consider factors like the popularity of the cuisine in your area, your culinary skills, and your passion for the food you plan to serve.

Remember that offering a small, focused menu can be more manageable and appealing to customers. With a focus on high-quality seafood and simple, crave-worthy items, The Lobster Truck in Los Angeles, California, serves as a great example of this. Their menu is centred around lobster dishes, including lobster rolls and lobster quesadillas.

Step 3: Create a Business Plan

It is no secret that a well-thought-out business plan is essential for guiding any business to success. A food truck business is no different, and your business plan should include the following:

  • An executive summary.
  • A description of your food truck concept.
  • Market research findings.
  • A detailed menu with pricing.
  • Financial projections, including startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue forecasts.
  • Marketing and sales strategies.
  • SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).

A solid business plan will serve as a roadmap and help you secure financing (in the form of loans or investments) if needed.

Step 4: Secure Financing

This brings us to the most critical part of starting a food truck business. You will require capital to purchase a truck, equipment, licences, and permits and to cover initial operating expenses. Some of the funding avenues you can explore are personal savings, bank loans, crowdfunding, or seeking investors. Be prepared with a compelling pitch that demonstrates your passion but also showcases your plan for the viability of your venture.

Step 5: Obtain Licences and Permits

Running a food truck requires various licences and permits, which can vary by location. It is recommended that you contact your local government or health department to understand the specific requirements in your area and ensure compliance. Common permits and licences include:

  • Business licence:  Register your food truck as a legal entity, such as an LLC or sole proprietorship.
  • Health department permit:  Ensure your truck meets sanitation and food safety standards.
  • Food service licence:  This allows you to legally prepare and sell food.
  • Parking permits:  Depending on your city’s regulations, you may need designated parking permits for your food truck.
  • Vendor permits:  Some cities require separate permits for mobile vendors.

Step 6: Design and Brand Your Truck

Your food truck’s appearance and branding play a significant role in attracting customers. Create a visually appealing design and logo that reflect your concept and cuisine. Consider hiring a professional graphic designer to ensure a polished and memorable brand image.

For example, Seoul Taco in St. Louis, Missouri, started as a food truck and has expanded to multiple locations. They serve a fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors and it is their catchy branding, in addition to delicious food, that has helped them thrive.

myHQ Virtual office

Step 7: Equip Your Kitchen

The heart of your food truck is its kitchen. Invest in high-quality, durable equipment that allows you to efficiently prepare and serve your menu items. Essential kitchen equipment includes:

  • Cooking appliances (grill, fryer, stovetop, etc.)
  • Refrigeration units
  • Prep tables
  • Sinks and dishwashing facilities
  • Storage space for ingredients and utensils

Step 8: Hire and Train Staff

If you can’t run the food truck on your own, hire a team that shares your passion and work ethic. Training your staff to prepare and serve food efficiently and maintain cleanliness is crucial to providing a consistent and quality customer experience.

Step 9: Create a Marketing Strategy

Building a customer base is essential for your food truck’s success. Develop a marketing strategy that includes:

  • Building a website and maintaining an active social media presence.
  • Utilizing food truck-specific apps and websites to reach potential customers.
  • Promoting your truck at local events, festivals, and farmers’ markets.
  • Offering loyalty programs or discounts to encourage repeat customers.
  • Partnering with local businesses for cross-promotion.

Remember that word-of-mouth recommendations can be powerful in the food truck industry, so always strive to deliver exceptional food and service. A great example of a successful marketing strategy is the one adopted by The Grilled Cheese Truck, which specializes in creative grilled cheese sandwiches. Their presence at events and social media engagement have contributed to their success.

Step 10: Build a Strong Online Presence

Needless to say, having a strong online presence is the best way to gain popularity and build credibility with your target audience. Maintain an active presence on online social platforms, update your website regularly with your menu, schedule, and location, and engage with your customers through online channels. For inspiration, refer to Kogi BBQ, Los Angeles, California, which is often credited with starting the gourmet food truck trend. Kogi BBQ�s innovative menu offers a fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine, but it is their active social media presence that has made them a staple in the Los Angeles food scene.

Cost of Starting a Food Truck Business in 2023

It is vital to conduct thorough research to create an accurate budget for the costs of starting and running a food truck business. This involves ‘shopping around’ to get quotations and estimates for your specific business idea and circumstances.

Given below is the table estimating the costs involved in starting a food truck business:

Food Truck Purchase/Conversion?15,00,000 – ?75,00,000
Equipment and Appliances?7,50,000 – ?22,50,000
Licenses and Permits?75,000 – ?3,75,000
Initial Inventory?1,50,000 – ?3,75,000
Vehicle Insurance?75,000 – ?1,87,500
Branding and Graphics?1,50,000 – ?3,75,000
Marketing and Promotion?75,000 – ?2,25,000
Commissary/Storage Space?15,000 – ?60,000 per month
Staffing (if required)Varies
Miscellaneous (repairs, contingencies)?1,50,000 – ?3,75,000

While the above offers a general estimate of costs to consider, please note that these cost estimates can vary significantly based on location, the condition of the truck, the menu and the scale of the operation.

coworking day passes

FAQs on How to Start a Food Truck Business

Here are some commonly asked questions about starting a food truck business:

How much does it cost to start a food truck business?

While the cost can vary significantly based on location, cuisine, and the food truck itself, you can expect an average investment of anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000. This budget should cover expenses like purchasing and/or customising the truck, equipment, permits, licences, initial ingredients, and marketing.

What permits and licences do I need to operate a food truck?

Common requirements include a business license, a health department permit, a food service license, and parking or vendor permits. Laws and regulations may vary based on location, so it is essential to check with your local government or health department to understand the specific requirements in your area.

What are some tips for marketing my food truck effectively?

Effective marketing is crucial for attracting customers to your food truck. Here are some tips:

  • Maintain an active presence on social media sites, sharing high-quality photos of your food and updates on your location and schedule.
  • Partner with local businesses for cross-promotion.
  • Offer loyalty programs or discounts to encourage repeat customers.
  • Attend local food truck rallies and events to increase visibility.
  • Consider using mobile apps and websites that track the locations of food trucks and allow customers to find you easily.

Are food trucks legal in India?

Food trucks have become increasingly popular in India and anyone can legally start a food truck business. It is important to note that one must obtain an FSSAI license to operate a food truck.�

Like any business, starting a food truck business requires careful planning, hard work and dedication. However, given the popularity of food trucks in 2023, there is no time like the present to embark on this exciting adventure. Having a solid business plan, conducting thorough market research and following the steps outlined in this guide will ensure you are best positioned to set up a successful food truck business. Remember that success may not come overnight, but with persistence and passion, your food truck can become a thriving business.

  • How to Start an Online Food Business in India With No Experience
  • How To Sell Packaged Food Online? | Guide For Selling Online Food
  • 7 Best Apps for Selling Home Cooked Food in India

Related Posts

Leave a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

comscore

  • Sustainability
  • Agriculture
  • Brand Campaigns
  • Watch inspiring videos
  • Advertise With Us
  • Press Coverage

Follow Us On

Download App

How to Start a Food Truck Business in India: Legal Permits, Locations & More

Opening a food truck means less investment and maintenance compared to a restaurant and covering as many locations as possible. Here’s a simple guide to get you started

How to Start a Food Truck Business in India: Legal Permits, Locations & More

O perating a food truck is much more than just making delicious food. It is about finding the right vehicle, acquiring necessary legal permissions, choosing your staff and finally identifying locations to maximise sales.

Take for example the case of Delhi-based Dosa Inc, a food truck business started by Jyoti and her husband Satya in 2012. After eight years, the truck caters to a network of 50,000 households across Delhi, Gurugram and Noida. They also have to be alert about the legal permits and hygiene protocols even today.

Like most food truck ventures, Dosa Inc was also started after the couple realised they wanted to take their local (South Indian) cuisine to people but at a low investment and easy maintenance of the vehicle. Another advantage of opting for movable eatery was to cover as many localities as possible. This included both, residential and commercial areas.

food truck business plan in chennai

Dosa Inc was established with an initial investment of Rs 10,00,000 and today it clocks revenue up to Rs 1.5 crores. They may sell their food items at lower prices compared to restaurants but they have still managed to churn profits and expand their business over the years. Read their full story here .

Knowing how tedious the process can get, Jyoti shares her experience of setting up a food truck in a hassle-free manner.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure includes truck, base kitchen, staffing and locations.

The size and type of truck will depend on the cuisine you want to serve. Also, take into account the purpose of your truck, if it will be driven around or parked in a fixed location.

“The cost can be anywhere between Rs 5,00,000 to Rs 25,00,000. This will depend on the purpose of the truck, its cuisine and if it’s a second hand or a new truck. Our fully fitted out trucks have cost us Rs 10,00,000,” says Jyoti.

If opting for an old or second-hand truck, check for fitness certificate, registration, road tax receipt, and insurance. Refrain from purchasing really old trucks as they emit heavy pollution.

food truck business plan in chennai

In the beginning, the couple had purchased a tempo traveller but soon realised it was bulky and couldn’t move with heavy equipment in it. So, they switched to a CNG-run TATA Ace. The truck is environment-friendly as it does not cause vehicular emissions. Plus, while crossing borders at Gurugram and Noida, they don’t have to pay the Green fee, which amounts to Rs 800.

Next is the base kitchen (is optional) where the majority of the heavy cooking and cleaning is done, this needs to be in a commercial location and can be in a quiet place with lower rents. Dosa Inc’s sambhar and chutney is prepared at the base kitchen.

Staff hiring depends on the size of the truck and the type of cuisine served. In the case of Dosa Inc, the founders multi-trained the staff. For example, the driver of the truck is also the cashier.

Location is the most crucial factor that determines the growth of your business. “Decide the location as per the purpose of your truck – do you intend to remain in one location or intend to move between locations. You will also need permissions from local authorities, residential buildings and cops to function. Do not forget to study the footfall and demand analysis of the location,” she adds.

Cost Break Up of Running the Truck

  • Raw materials, packaging material, cylinder, electricity, etc: 25% COGS
  • Staff salaries, accommodation, food for staff: 30%
  • Rent of base kitchen rent and location: 15%
  • Equipment and vehicle repair and maintenance: 10% (fitness/permits/insurance, and other wear and tear)

Legal Permits

According to the FSSAI website, you will need the following licences and permits:

  • Employer Identification Number: The Revenue department uses this number to recognise your business and collect the relevant taxes from you, and employees.
  • FSSAI License: Needed only during registration, the license is needed if your turnover crosses Rs 12 lakh.
  • Business License: This is needed to run a food business. Depending on the city and state, and scope of services given, you may be charged a portion of your total sales or an annual fee, along with the license fee.
  • Vehicle License: You will require a truck and driver license. Depending on the width and weight of the vehicle, some states may need a commercial driver’s license to run the vehicle.
  • Seller’s Permit: In some states, food truck owners require you to apply for a seller’s permit so you can buy food and other goods at wholesale prices without paying sales tax.
  • Health Department Permit: The inspection and approval of your local health department will check if the quality of the food you serve is being maintained and under hygienic conditions.
  • Fire Certificates: The fire department will inspect your food truck if you’re practising cooking equipment on board. Fire Department
  • NOC for the kitchen is needed if it is over 90 sq meters in area.
  • Vehicle permits and fitness: Most of these have to be renewed yearly.
  • GST registration: This is needed once the turnover crosses Rs 20 lakhs

For each of the above-mentioned permits/licenses, you will need documents like PAN card, Proprietor’s KYC, some architect’s drawings of the kitchen, vehicle ownership related documents (for permits & fitness) and insurance.

Click here to know more.

All images are sourced from Dosa Inc

Edited by Yoshita Rao

Be a part of The Better India Community

Community

Please register to post your message

Check what other members are talking about -

laxmi Padma

My son in us ms completed very hard work he a small job in USA Mr darm Ajay kumar reddy my son is very suffering from USA in 3 years no h1be visa 🙏please Mam help me my son job Mam your story 1000 times seen in YouTube your helpful person Mam 🙏 my son

reply

What is Self-Esteem and Why Does It Matter?

Self-esteem is simply how much you value yourself. It’s about believing you’re worthy and capable. When you have high self-esteem, you feel confident, take on challenges, and accept yourself, flaws and all. On the other hand, low self-esteem means doubting yourself, needing constant approval from others, and often feeling not good enough.

Why does it matter? Because self-esteem affects everything—from your mental health to your relationships. People with healthy self-esteem are generally happier, handle stress better, and build stronger, more positive relationships. In short, self-esteem is the foundation for a positive, fulfilling life.

ASHWIN PATEL

All snakes/lizards on earth (both male and female) have pairs of reproductive organs.

Snakes do not have arms/legs/backbone, so unlike humans and other animals, it is not possible for them to mate with the same male organ and the same female organ as they cannot mate face-to-face or front-to-back. The two pairs of copulatory organs are contained in the cloaca located at the bottom of the male and female body in the left and right jaws in the lower front cave but the organs of each are independent of each other. When the left organ of the female is active for mating, the right organ of the male becomes useful and when the right organ of the female is active for mating, the left organ of the male becomes useful. After all, the choice always lies with the female. Both male/female genitals are never used at the same time or alternatively.

Male snakes can use both their sexual organs at different times. In case of females, the activity is a little different. In March or April, or whenever the breeding season begins, the first female snake becomes active and secretes fluids from a unilateral vagina to lure the male snake for mating. A nearby male can chase and capture a female with the help of his tongue and Jacobson’s organ. Sometimes more than one male fights together and the winner gets the female. For copulation, both male and female have to wrap themselves around each other so that the left or right side is internally stimulated by touch or light friction, and the genitals of both – her right genital if the female’s body is on the left, and the right genital if the male’s body is on the right – get stimulated, elongate and emerge from the cave, in which case about 25 to 30 percent of the tail of both bodies is raised above the lower surface and rotated 180 degrees in the sky. The sexual organs of both characters, which were previously dormant inside in a “V” shape, become more excited as they emerge and bend to face each other, becoming suitable for mating. The male’s penis, which is hook-shaped and barbed, maintains a strong grip after entering the female organ. During this mating, no one has to make unnecessary movements, and after ejaculation, both separate and easily make their way. They do not even look at each other. After some time, when the female is ready for another mating, her right genital will be used to mate with the new or old male, and the male’s left genital will be used. In short, the choice is made by the female from the very beginning, and the female decides from the very beginning which side of the male snake’s body – left or right – the female snake will wrap around. All snakes/lizards on earth (both male and female) have pairs of reproductive organs.

Male snakes can use both their sexual organs at different times. In case of females, the activity is a little different. In March or April, or whenever the breeding season begins, the first female snake becomes active and secretes fluids from a unilateral vagina to lure the male snake for mating. A nearby male can chase and capture a female with the help of his tongue and Jacobson’s organ. Sometimes more than one male fights together and the winner gets the female. For copulation, both male and female have to wrap themselves around each other so that the left or right side is internally stimulated by touch or light friction, and the genitals of both – her right genital if the female’s body is on the left, and the right genital if the male’s body is on the right – get stimulated, elongate and emerge from the cave, in which case about 25 to 30 percent of the tail of both bodies is raised above the lower surface and rotated 180 degrees in the sky. The sexual organs of both characters, which were previously dormant inside in a “V” shape, become more excited as they emerge and bend to face each other, becoming suitable for mating. The male’s penis, which is hook-shaped and barbed, maintains a strong grip after entering the female organ. During this mating, no one has to make unnecessary movements, and after ejaculation, both separate and easily make their way. They do not even look at each other. After some time, when the female is ready for another mating, her right genital will be used to mate with the new or old male, and the male’s left genital will be used. In short, the choice is made by the female from the very beginning, and the female decides from the very beginning which side of the male snake’s body – left or right – the female snake will wrap around.

Sounds Interesting? Share it now!

twitter link icon

  • Starting Up
  • Growing a Business
  • Inspiration
  • For Subscribers
  • Write for Entrepreneur
  • Tips White Papers
  • Entrepreneur Store
  • United States
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
  • South Africa

Copyright © 2024 Entrepreneur Media, LLC All rights reserved. Entrepreneur® and its related marks are registered trademarks of Entrepreneur Media LLC

Food Trucks Just Don't Work the Way as Shown In Movies, says This Entrepreneur Basically a restaurant on the go, the concept of food trucks is growing fast in India. This is how you can start one

By Shipra Singh Jan 30, 2020

You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Jyoti Ganapathy and Satya Sashikanth Koniki always wanted to start a restaurant serving south Indian cuisine. Due to permit issues and inability to find the desired location, the duo instead started a food truck just to start off and build a customer base. What started as a stop-gap arrangement is now a full-fledged business for the Delhi-based couple. "Once the truck and the business got moving, we realized that this is an untapped business opportunity in India," says Ganapathy, co-founder of Dosa Inc.

Started in 2013, Dosa Inc now serves over 13,000 customers across Delhi-NCR every month and claims to be the largest food truck company in India offering south Indian cuisine.

The concept of food trucks is growing fast in India, albeit in metro cities. A food truck is basically a restaurant on the go.

What is a Food Truck

Largely a Western idea, food trucks function in two formats.

The first type is the stand-alone eateries in the shape and size of trucks generally parked outside office buildings and malls. However, they are regular food hawkers parked in the same spot every day.

Another type is the ones that drive around the city and park in different areas on different days. They are a mobile eatery in true sense as they cook and serve while on move. Food trucks typically don't have a fixed location and serve in several parts of the city by reaching customers. Under this model, one can also set up a base kitchen for bulk cooking when the volume of work increases.

Why Start a Food Truck

Food truck is emerging to be a preferred food business model over restaurants for a variety of reasons.

Flexible location: A wrong location in restaurant business can break your business. In the case of a restaurant, location once fixed cannot be changed. However, a food truck gives you the freedom to choose and operate from multiple locations.

Lower investment: Setting up cost of a food truck is 30-35 per cent lower compared with a brick and mortar restaurant. You need lesser space, equipment, cutlery and furnishing. Even running costs of a food truck work out cheaper as you save substantially on staffing, electricity and rent/lease.

Room for experimenting: Lower costs make food trucks a better entry point for beginners as you have plenty of room to experiment and hone your product without worrying about financial risk.

Better outreach: Mobility factor gives food trucks an upper hand in customer outreach compared with a restaurant. "A stand-alone restaurant is dependent on the customer to find it, whereas a food truck can get itself out there to as many places and get customers to taste its food," says Ganapathy.

But, a word of caution here, food trucks are anything but what is shown in movies. "A lot of people start a food truck with a certain perception having seen the movie Chef or something on Eat St show. They imagine a big truck on the street, they imagine people flocking to it and eating the food. But that is just not the way a food truck works," says Ganapathy.

Running a food truck requires much more footwork and marketing to pull customers to try your food.

How to Start?

The foremost requirement of a food truck is the vehicle. The size of the vehicle mainly depends on the kind of cuisine you're looking to serve. For instance, a regular fast-food truck serving burgers, sandwiches and shakes may not require heavy infrastructure. So, a medium-size tempo traveler will serve the purpose. But if you want to open a pizza parlor, that'll require heavier fittings, such as an oven, a bigger vehicle like a traveler or a medium-sized truck will suffice.

Another food truck business model is to set up a base kitchen in the city where all the food is prepared and the truck is used to sell the food on the go. Dosa Inc works on this model. "In the case of south Indian cuisine, sambhar and chutneys have to be prepared in bulk and not separately with each serving. We had set up a dark kitchen quite early in our business because of the volume of food we had to prepare at once," Ganapathy explains.

Similarly, for an ice cream parlor, you need bigger machinery to prepare different flavors of ice-creams. So for such models, you can open a base kitchen for bulk cooking and set up a last-mile kitchen in the vehicle with basic fittings like a stove, fridge and a sink for heating and selling the food on the go.

Licenses and Permissions

Like any food business, you have to register with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to start a food truck. You won't need a license at the beginning as it's required only when your annual revenue is more than INR 12 lakh.

Get a state or national permit for the vehicle depending on how many cities your truck will be moving in. For instance, Noida falls in Uttar Pradesh, whereas Gurgaon is in Haryana; so a national permit is mandatory for operating in Delhi-NCR.

You may also have to get a health trade license from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi if you have a base kitchen and fire no-objection certificate if the space of your kitchen is over 90 sq. mt.

Choosing Location

After licenses, the most important step is to choose the right locations for your truck and how to market it. Ganapathy says the target audience of food trucks is families and residential neighborhoods. "We worked out our model not in streets or commercial areas because that's not where the demand of our food was. It was in residential areas," she says. She recommends choosing gated colonies, societies, lanes around hostels as your primary locations.

For marketing, you can distribute pamphlets and run campaigns on social media. WhatsApp has become the new-age method of marketing, explains Ganapathy. "Lot of societies are on MyGate or SocietyConnect; so we market our visits through WhatsApp groups." Most importantly, the truck will market your business so make sure to design it nicely and park it in areas where it is properly visible.

Once you have located the areas you want to operate in, work out a monthly schedule with dates assigned to different locations. For instance, Dosa Inc has fixed different residential colonies they go to on different days in a week. This way, their customers also know when to expect them.

Investments and Costs

You will have to make an initial investment on the vehicle and fittings, while the other costs will be your operational expenses.

One-time Investment

Truck: Key expense in starting a food truck is a fully-equipped vehicle whose price will depend on its size. A smaller tempo kind of vehicle will cost INR 3-4 lakh whereas a bigger vehicle like traveler will cost upwards of INR 8 lakh. A used vehicle will obviously cost 50-60 per cent less compared with a new vehicle.

Fittings: Equipment fittings will cost INR 4-5 lakh that includes both base kitchen and truck fittings.

Payment infrastructure: You will need a Web-based point-of-sale (PoS) terminal for billing, inventory keeping, CRM, analytics, etc., which will be INR 16,000-20,000 per terminal. You may also have to buy a computer or laptop and a printer for PoS that can cost you up to INR 35,000.

Miscellaneous: Apart from these defined expenses, add another INR 50,000 that will be spent initially for marketing, license fees and other miscellaneous costs.

Recurring costs

Staffing : Bulk of your costs will go into staffing. One head chef and one assistant to handle operational tasks can put you down by INR 50,000-60,000 per month. Of course, if you are the chef you'll save on this cost to a great extent and will only be required to hire assistants.

Utilities: Smaller repeat expenses will include fuel of the vehicle, annual insurance renewal, electricity bill and groceries and these will not be more than 25 per cent of your revenue.

Parking rental: The RWAs or local municipality of the area where you park charge a nominal rent every time you visit that locality.

Base Kitchen Rent (optional): If you plan to set up a base kitchen, a medium size shop in an inexpensive location will cost you around INR 18,000-22,000 per month.

What You Earn

Like any food business, a food truck will also take 3-6 months to start getting sizeable customers. But you have to ensure that you start serving a minimum of 50 orders per day to build a sustainable business. A more effective way to achieve this would be to visit fixed residential areas on specific days to establish a base of repeated customers. You can also look at taking bulk orders for offices and parties.

To give you an estimate of what you can earn from a food truck business, once you have a sizeable customer base of 80-100 orders per day, you can easily book a profit of 35-40 per cent on your revenue after removing all the costs borne by you. While staffing will be 30-35 per cent of the revenue, groceries and other utilities will be another 30 per cent.

More Business Ideas

Tiffin Service

Online Tutor

Translation Business

Co-working Space

Heritage Walk Business

Microgreen Farming

Mobile App Developer

Graphic Designer

Pet Grooming

Entrepreneur Staff

Freelance Journalist

Most Popular Red Arrow

Edtech unicorn physics wallah launches pw school of startups to empower aspiring entrepreneurs.

The initiative aims to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with cost-effective programs, practical training, strategic mentorship, and access to capital, offering a comprehensive platform to transform ideas into successful ventures.

She Started a 'Fun' Side Hustle — Then It Earned $100,000 and Became a Multimillion-Dollar Business: 'Beyond What I Could Ever Have Expected'

Melissa Tavss, founder and CEO of boozy ice cream company Tipsy Scoop, was burnt out from her corporate job — so she revived a family tradition.

World Entrepreneur Day 2024: Lessons Learnt By Start-up Founders

August 21 is celebrated as World Entrepreneur Day to commemorate the spirit and hard work behind building start-ups that are on their way to bring the next big idea to the front

ChatGPT Finally Gives Businesses What They've Been Asking For

A new feature personalizes ChatGPT for every business client.

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Amazon Cloud CEO Predicts a Future Where Most Software Engineers Don't Code — and AI Does It Instead

In a leaked chat, Garman told Amazon employees that in about two years, "it's possible that most developers are not coding."

Successfully copied link

food truck business plan in chennai

  • Business Ideas
  • Best Products

How to Start a Food Truck Business in India – Complete Guide

  • April 29, 2024
  • by Next What Business Research Team

Do you want to know how to start a food truck business in India? Do you want to know about the plan, profitability, design, and promotion? If YES, you have come to the right place. Find in this post, a detailed step-by-step food truck business plan.

What is a Food Truck Business?

A food truck business is a mobile venture that offers culinary experience directly to customers on the streets. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants , food trucks are on wheels, allowing them to navigate different locations and cater to diverse audiences. This unique business model has gained popularity globally for its flexibility, creativity, and ability to serve a wide range of delicious dishes.

Food trucks are equipped with a kitchen and serving area, mounted on a vehicle for mobility. They often specialize in a specific cuisine or offer a diverse menu to cater to varied tastes. Food trucks operate on streets, at events, near offices, or in busy areas where foot traffic is high.

Is Food Truck Business Profitable in India?

Starting a food truck business in India can be a lucrative venture, tapping into the growing demand for on-the-go and diverse culinary experiences. While profitability depends on various factors such as location, menu, and operational efficiency, let’s explore some data points to understand the potential earnings.

Some of the key factors influencing profitability are location, menu pricing, operating costs, marketing costs, and average daily sales volume.

Successful food trucks in India can achieve daily sales ranging from INR 8,000 to INR 20,000 or more, depending on location and menu popularity. Considering an average daily sales figure of INR 15,000, monthly revenue can be around INR 4,50,000. Profit margins can vary, but a well-managed food truck business might achieve a net profit margin of 15% to 25%.

This business is a lot of fun to run. However, to be successful in this business you need to put in effort and dedication. If you are passionately looking at building a food truck business, take a look at the following steps mentioned below.

14 Steps to Follow to Start a Food Truck Business

1. market research .

Before starting the food truck business it is important to have market research for the locality and food culture of the place you want to cater to. You need to study the food culture of your target consumers. As the mobile food truck business is a capital-intensive business you need to be more careful about the proper approach and operating procedures.

2. Create a Food Truck Business Plan

After the market research create a detailed business plan for your mobile food truck business. You will need to determine how many vehicles you will initiate the venture. Fix long-term and short-term goals with a mission statement. Fix your promotional strategy. Calculate the startup budget with expected revenue return.

In starting a mobile food truck business you may have tied up with local restaurants and started to sell their products from your mobile cart. After getting a sufficient customer base and brand popularity you can think of your own cooked food.

3. Choosing the Right Food Truck or Commercial Vehicle

Selecting the right food truck or commercial vehicle is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of your mobile food business. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice:

⇒ Determine Your Business Needs

Identify the specific needs of your food business. Consider the type of cuisine you’ll be serving, the equipment required, and the space needed for food preparation. Your chosen vehicle should align with these requirements.

⇒ New or Used?

Decide whether you want to invest in a new or used vehicle. While a new truck may offer the latest features and technology, a used one can be a cost-effective option. Ensure that a used vehicle has been well-maintained and thoroughly inspected.

⇒ Vehicle Size and Layout

Choose a vehicle size that accommodates your kitchen equipment and provides ample space for your staff to work comfortably. The layout should be designed for efficiency, ensuring a smooth flow of operations from food preparation to serving.

⇒ Kitchen Equipment Compatibility

Check if the vehicle’s kitchen layout matches the equipment you plan to install. Consider the power requirements of your appliances and ensure the vehicle can support them. Customizing the interior to fit your equipment may be necessary.

⇒ Compliance with Regulations

Verify that the chosen vehicle complies with local health and safety regulations for mobile food businesses. This includes having the necessary permits and certifications. Compliance is crucial for both legal and operational reasons.

⇒ Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

Opt for a vehicle with good fuel efficiency to minimize operational costs. Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity of the vehicle. Consider the availability of spare parts and reliable service providers in your area.

⇒ Budget Considerations

Set a realistic budget for acquiring and customizing the food truck. Include costs for equipment, licensing, permits, and any necessary renovations. Be mindful of your budget constraints while ensuring you get a vehicle that meets your operational needs.

⇒ Brand and Model Reputation

Research the reputation of different brands and models in the market. Seek reviews from other food truck owners and assess factors like durability, reliability, and ease of customization. A reputable brand can contribute to the long-term success of your business.

⇒ Insurance Coverage

Ensure that the chosen vehicle can be adequately insured. Look for insurance policies that cover liabilities, damages, and theft. Insurance is a crucial aspect of protecting your investment and ensuring financial security.

⇒ Test Drive and Inspection

Before finalizing the purchase, conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle. Test drive it to assess its performance on the road. Check for any signs of wear and tear, and have a mechanic inspect the engine and other critical components.

4. Cost of Food Truck Vehicles in India

A)  new food truck:.

  • Average Cost: The cost of a new food truck in India typically ranges from ₹8 lakhs to ₹30 lakhs or more. Prices vary based on customization, size, and additional features.
  • Factors Affecting Cost: Considerations include kitchen equipment, vehicle size, and the extent of customization required.

b) Used Food Truck:

  • Average Cost: A used food truck can cost between ₹5 lakhs to ₹20 lakhs, depending on factors like age, condition, and any existing customizations.
  • Considerations: Ensure thorough inspection, check maintenance records, and assess potential renovation costs.

Some of the popular food truck vehicle brands in India:

  • Tata Motors:   Tata Ace and Tata 407 are commonly used for small to medium-sized food trucks.
  • Mahindra: Mahindra Bolero and Mahindra Supro are preferred choices for food truck entrepreneurs.
  • Eicher: Eicher Pro series
  • Ashok Leyland: Ashok Leyland Partner and Ashok Leyland Guru
  • Force Motors: Force Traveller is frequently converted into compact food trucks.
  • Piaggio: Piaggio Ape series
  • Swaraj Mazda: Swaraj Mazda Super and Swaraj Mazda Elite are used for food truck conversions.
  • BharatBenz: BharatBenz 914 and BharatBenz 1217 are preferred for food truck customization.

5. Food Truck License and Registration

Starting a food truck business in India requires complying with various licenses and permits to ensure legality and adherence to health and safety standards. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the regulatory landscape:

⇒ FSSAI License

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is mandatory for any food business, including food trucks. Apply for the FSSAI license through the official website. Provide necessary documents such as identity proof, address proof, and a food safety management plan. The license is typically valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on your preference.

⇒ Municipal Health License

Local municipal health departments issue this license to ensure that your food truck complies with hygiene and sanitation standards. Contact the local health department or municipal corporation office to understand the application process. You may need to submit your FSSAI license, vehicle details, and a site plan. Renew this license annually.

⇒ Police Eating House License

Some cities may require a Police Eating House License to operate a food business. Check with the local police department or licensing authority to understand the specific requirements. Provide details about your food truck, business plan, and security measures. Renew this license annually.

⇒ Fire Department No Objection Certificate (NOC)

This certificate ensures that your food truck is compliant with fire safety standards. Approach the local fire department to inspect your food truck. Implement necessary fire safety measures as advised. Renew the NOC periodically as required.

⇒ Vehicle Fitness Certificate

This certificate verifies the roadworthiness and safety of your food truck. Visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and submit necessary vehicle documents for inspection. Ensure that your food truck meets pollution control norms. Renew this certificate periodically, usually every year.

⇒ Trade License

A trade license is a municipal permit that legalizes your food business within a specific jurisdiction. Apply for a trade license from the local municipal corporation. Submit documents such as proof of identity, address, and property ownership or rental agreement. Renew this license annually.

⇒ GST Registration

If your projected annual turnover exceeds the GST threshold, you must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). Register for GST online through the official portal. Provide required documents, including PAN, proof of address, and bank details. Continuous renewal is not required; however, ensures compliance with GST regulations.

⇒ Shop and Establishment Act Registration

This shop and establishment registration is necessary to regulate conditions of work and employment in commercial establishments. Apply at the local labour department or online, providing details about your food truck business, ownership, and employees. Renew this registration periodically, usually every year.

6. Food Truck Location

Selecting the right location for your food truck in India is a critical decision that significantly influences your business’s success. A strategic and well-thought-out location can attract a steady flow of customers and enhance your brand visibility.

Understand Your Target Audience

Analyze the demographics of the area to ensure it aligns with your target customer base. Consider factors like age, income levels, and preferences. Identify areas with high foot traffic, such as commercial districts, markets, and popular hangout spots.

⇒ Research Local Regulations

Check local regulations and permit requirements for operating a food truck. Different cities may have specific rules governing mobile food businesses. Ensure compliance with zoning laws to avoid legal issues. Some areas may have restrictions on where food trucks can operate.

⇒ Scout Popular Food Truck Hubs

Explore existing food truck hubs or clusters in the city. These areas often attract food enthusiasts, creating a favourable environment for your business. Evaluate the presence of competitors in the area. While competition can be healthy, ensure ample demand to support multiple food trucks.

⇒ Consider Events and Festivals

Participate in cultural events, festivals, and seasonal markets where footfall is naturally high. These occasions can provide exposure and attract diverse customers. Establish connections with event organizers to secure spots at popular gatherings. This can be a lucrative avenue for increased sales.

⇒ Proximity to Business Centers

Position your food truck near business centers, corporate offices, and IT parks. Professionals working in these areas often seek convenient and quick dining options. Capitalize on the lunchtime rush by strategically parking near office complexes during lunch hours.

⇒ Explore College Campuses

Consider locations near college campuses to tap into the student population. Colleges are often vibrant hubs with students looking for affordable, tasty food options. Stay informed about college events, fests, and cultural programs, as these can draw large crowds.

⇒ Collaborate with Local Businesses

Collaborate with local businesses, such as cafes, breweries, or retail outlets, to park your food truck in their vicinity. This can create a symbiotic relationship and expand your customer base.

⇒ Leverage Social Media and Reviews

Leverage social media platforms to gauge popular food trends and locations. Engage with your audience to understand their preferences. Pay attention to customer reviews and feedback on food delivery apps. Identify areas with a demand for specific cuisines.

⇒ Conduct Trial Runs

Before committing to a long-term spot, conduct trial runs in different locations. Observe customer response, sales, and overall feasibility. Interact with customers to gather feedback on the location. Positive feedback and repeat customers indicate a favourable spot.

⇒ Evaluate Accessibility and Parking

Choose locations with easy accessibility for both pedestrians and vehicles. Ensure that potential customers can reach your food truck without hassle. Be aware of parking regulations and availability. A secure and legal parking space is crucial for the smooth operation of your business.

7. Source Raw Materials

Launching a successful food truck business in India requires meticulous planning, and one crucial aspect is sourcing high-quality raw materials. Here are some important tips for sourcing raw materials:

  • Local Wholesale Markets: Explore local wholesale markets, such as Azadpur Mandi in Delhi or Russell Market in Bangalore, for fresh produce. These markets offer a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other staples. Develop relationships with suppliers in these markets to negotiate prices and ensure a steady supply of quality ingredients.
  • Farmers’ Markets: Consider sourcing from farmers’ markets to access fresh and, in some cases, organic produce directly from local farmers. Be mindful of seasonal variations in availability and prices, adapting your menu accordingly.
  • Online Wholesale Platforms: Explore online platforms like Udaan, Jumbotail, or Metro Cash & Carry for the convenience of ordering bulk quantities from the comfort of your kitchen. Take advantage of bulk discounts offered by these platforms to optimize your procurement costs.

8. Food Truck Equipment

Some of the basic equipment types and where to source are listed below:

  • Commercial Kitchen Equipment Suppliers: Purchase major kitchen equipment, such as grills, fryers, and refrigerators, from authorized dealers or reputable manufacturers. Opt for suppliers offering warranty services and prompt maintenance to minimize downtime.
  • Online B2B Platforms: Platforms like Amazon Business or Industrybuying.com provide a range of kitchen equipment. Compare prices and read reviews to make informed decisions. Explore bulk purchase options on these platforms to benefit from discounts.
  • Local Dealers and Manufacturers: For specific or customized equipment, connect with local manufacturers or dealers who may offer personalized solutions. Schedule visits to their showrooms or manufacturing units to inspect the quality of equipment before making a purchase.
  • Rental Services: Consider renting certain equipment, especially if you’re starting on a budget. This can be cost-effective in the initial stages. As your business grows, you can invest in permanent equipment.
  • Second-Hand Markets: Explore second-hand markets or online platforms for pre-owned kitchen equipment. Ensure that the equipment is in good working condition. Negotiate prices and inquire about the equipment’s history before making a purchase.

9. Arrange Funds

Starting a food truck business in India requires careful financial planning to cover various expenses. Clearly outline your expected expenses and revenue projections. Specify the amount needed for the food truck, permits, licenses, equipment, and working capital. Some of the popular ways to fund a food truck business in India:

  • Personal Savings
  • Family and Friends
  • Government Schemes
  • Angel Investors
  • Crowdfunding
  • Vendor Financing
  • Equipment Leasing

Read:   Best Personal Loan Apps in India for Instant Cash

10. Design the Outside of a Food Truck

This is an important part of a food truck business. Your food truck must look clean, attractive, and well-organized. It is better to hire a designer. Talk to him about your specific requirements and let him design a blueprint.

The food truck must have a specific storage area, cooking station, and serving area. Also, plan for the outside area of the truck. Decorate with your company name, logo, and attractive food images.

11. Menu Selection 

As in any restaurant business, menu selection is an important factor in the overall success of this venture. Select your menu according to the food habits of the people of the locality where you are starting the business. You will need to create menus that can be cooked with a simple process but deliver different attractive tastes.

You may keep some ready-to-eat foods like ice cream, cake, pastry, soft drinks, etc. Successful food truck business operators serve gourmet cuisine, delicacies from other countries, health foods, and speciality sweets like unique cupcakes and exclusive chocolates.

12. Hire Manpower

Running a successful food truck business requires a well-organized team to handle various tasks efficiently. Here’s a breakdown of the essential roles and the manpower required for your food truck:

a) Chef/Cook

Responsibilities:

  • Food preparation and cooking.
  • Menu planning and innovation.

b) Kitchen Assistants

  • Assisting the chef in food preparation.
  • Maintaining kitchen cleanliness.

c) Serving Staff

  • Taking customer orders.
  • Handling transactions.
  • Serving food to customers.
  • Managing cash transactions.
  • Handling billing and receipts.
  • Operating the food truck.
  • Ensuring timely arrival at designated locations.

f) Cleaner/Dishwasher

  • Cleaning utensils and equipment.
  • Maintaining overall cleanliness.

g) Manager/Owner

  • Overseeing overall operations.
  • Handling logistics and scheduling.
  • Managing finances and inventory.

It is advisable to procure uniforms for your employees. It not only builds brand value but also creates confidence in customers to have food from your food cart.

13. Buy POS Software

Choosing the right POS software for your food truck business is a critical decision that can impact your daily operations and customer satisfaction. Evaluate your specific needs and consider the scalability and features offered by different POS solutions before making a final decision

Key POS software options for food trucks in India:

  • Zomato Base
  • HDPOS Smart
  • eZee BurrP!

14. Promotion for Food Truck Business

Good food and the right service with a smile are very important aspects of a mobile food truck business. Choose a catchy name for your business expressing what you sell in a meaningful manner. Make an internet presence for your mobile food truck business. Creating a website is a must nowadays. Check our guide to create a website of your own or check the best e-commerce website builders if you want to create an online store.

On your website give all the menu details with price. Also, you can add some valued content about healthy food habits. Social media is now a useful tool for the mobile food business. You must have an account on Facebook and Twitter. These interactive social media will keep your customers updated about your happenings. You can also initiate a mobile application where people can check your real-time location, and menus, and can submit orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need special licenses to start a food truck.

Yes, several licenses are required, including a food license, health department permits, and a vehicle permit. It’s essential to comply with local municipal regulations.

What Types of Food Can I Serve in a Food Truck?

The type of food you can serve depends on your target audience and culinary expertise. Popular options include fast food, street food, snacks, and niche cuisines.

How Do I Choose the Right Location for My Food Truck?

Select locations with high footfall, such as busy streets, office areas, or popular markets. Consider local events, festivals, and fairs for additional opportunities.

How Can I Promote My Food Truck?

Utilize social media platforms for promotion. Engage with your audience, share appealing visuals of your dishes, and consider collaborations with influencers to boost visibility.

What Are the Operational Challenges of Running a Food Truck?

Operational challenges may include managing perishable ingredients, vehicle maintenance, fluctuating footfall, and adhering to health and safety standards.

Follow

Lio

Popular Posts

5 Proven Methods to Streamline Your Reconciliation Process

  • 5 Proven Methods to Streamline Your Reconciliation Process

How Automation Solves Reconciliation Challenges in Finance

  • How Automation Solves Reconciliation Challenges in Finance

Master Reconciliations: Reduce Risk, Increase Data Trust

  • Master Reconciliations: Reduce Risk, Increase Data Trust

Importance of Automated Reconciliation in Finance Businesses

  • Importance of Automated Reconciliation in Finance Businesses

Top 10 Automated Account Reconciliation Software and Tools

  • Top 10 Automated Account Reconciliation Software and Tools

How To Start A Food Truck Business In India

' src=

Surabhi Guleria

  • June 2, 2023
  • 13 Min Read

How To Start A Food Truck Business In India

Starting a food truck may look daunting at first, and it requires proper guidance to take the right first step. Here is our guide on how to start a food truck business in India to help you figure out the basics.

This article explains why launching a food truck business of your own, rather than owning a solitary restaurant, is a wiser option.

It is a complete walk-through of every stage involved, so let’s jump straight to it.

Benefits Of Running A Food Truck In India?

There are a lot of advantages in opening a food truck business in India, sometimes even more than an average business related to the food industry. Some of them are:

  • Minimal risk, small investment : If you spend wisely, a food truck will cost you less than INR 10 lakhs making it a lucrative low investment Idea for anyone in India
  • Limited resources needed : One of the major advantages of a food truck is its minimal reliance on materials. One could even begin with just a couple of things (costing you around Rs 4000-8000 per person).
  • Can gain a lot of experience : This is an excellent place to begin if you want to quickly learn about the different activities associated with establishing a food business. You can review data analysis procedures, have a deeper understanding of client likes and inclinations, perform critical operational tasks, administer promotion and advertising, and so on.
  • Catering at events : In addition to your regular services, you can try developing a couple of partnerships and serving at occasions such as corporate festivals. 

How To Start A Food Truck Business?

First and foremost, you must prepare a food truck business plan that will serve as a blueprint for your food truck’s potential development.

It’s reasonable to have concerns when launching a business, regardless of the size of it, hence why you should understand how to draft a business plan for your business.

Create, Share, Collaborate

Work with your team in real-time. create documents together and share the same on Whatsapp, Gmail, etc.

FREE OF COST

While having a food business in India may sound intimidating, the below steps will cover the basics of starting a Food Truck Business in India.

  • Choosing the right vehicle 
  • Investing in kitchen supplies and other raw materials
  • Obtaining necessary licenses and permits 
  • Hiring a competent workforce (if necessary)
  • Identifying and installing a suitable POS software for your food truck
  • Choosing a uniform for your employees
  • Investing in marketing and advertising
  • Calculating the start-up capital required 
  • Miscellaneous

1. Choosing The Right Vehicle

The very first task would be to pick the appropriate truck or commercial automobile. You will have a commercial truck that is at least 18 feet in length, and a newer model could probably cost Rs 7-8 lakhs, depending on the suggested catalog, which is Italian and Continental.

However, if you want to minimize the expense of buying a vehicle, then you can start off with a second-hand truck, which would cost half as much as a brand new model. 

When purchasing an older commercial truck, however, make sure it has a valid fitness certificate, company registration papers , road tax receipt, and insurance coverage. 

It also should not be older than 5 years, since several state governments, local authorities land environmental organizations are contemplating banning 10-year-old commercial automobiles in multiple cities because of pollution and other environmental risks.

With an extra investment of around Rs 1 lakh, you can get your old second-hand truck modified and customized from various bodybuilder shops as per your requirements and to make it more fun.

So, minus the cost of cookware and other supplies, the overall cost of the finished vehicle (old) is Rs 5 lakhs.

This cost looks to be exorbitant when compared to the 450 sq ft QSR business, which rents for roughly Rs 40,000, but again the food truck expense would just be immaterial in the long term since there is little to no rent or any other type of charges to pay, depending on the location.

How To Choose The Right Location?

Always pick the street or neighborhood where there are not many identical food sellers. It should have a strong stream of traffic to bring a lot of people and should have institutions with a bunch of young students and professionals in the vicinity.

Truck parking must also be structured such that it is not bothersome for commuters while yet being noticeable.

Furthermore, it is preferable to purchase a modest commercial vehicle instead of a large heavy one because large trucks are not permitted in some places, notably Delhi, before 9:00 p.m.

Also Read: Some Small Business Ideas For Indians

2. Investing In Kitchen Supplies And Other Raw Materials

Microwave, juicer mixer, freezer, griller, steamer, working tables, stove, exhaust equipment, generator, or giant batteries along with an inverter are all included in the overall price of kitchen hardware, which is roughly Rs 3 lakhs.

It is preferable to get new equipment because much of it is electrical. You would be spared of the regular servicing price of the machinery because new items arrive with a one-year warranty.

Furthermore, if you pick your equipment wisely and evaluate which items may be purchased secondhand, you can save a good amount of money that you can spend on other important tasks.

Other than cookware, raw materials can be stored for a week at a price of nearly Rs 30,000.

Furthermore, it is recommended to store minimal raw material during the first few weeks in order to preserve the freshness of the inventory and to observe the sales trend before procuring more.

Available in 10+ Languages

Hindi, English, Bangla, Urdu, Malayalam, etc. Now Work Comfortably in Your native language.

3. obtaining necessary licenses and permits.

The stated set of papers necessary is not available anywhere precisely because there are no definite laws governing food trucks/restaurant business plans in India .

Nevertheless, you must obtain the below-mentioned permits for your food truck in order to operate lawfully as a restaurant:

  • Fire Safety Certificate
  • Shop and Establishment License
  • NOC from RTO
  • NOC from Municipal Corporation
  • FSSAI Mobile Vendor’s License
  • Kitchen Insurance
  • GST Registration

The total expense of the document and licensing procedure might be around Rs 50,000. There are several consulting firms that can assist you with regard to licenses and other permits.

4. Hiring A Competent Workforce

In a food truck arrangement, a maximum of two chefs and one assistant are needed to maintain the full food truck’s activities.

Chefs might earn anywhere between Rs 13k and Rs 15k on average, while assistants can earn up to Rs 8000 on average.

You may engage two delivery people or collaborate with third-party transport and logistics that charge roughly Rs 40-50 per delivery if you wish to establish a delivery strategy for the vehicle.

Nevertheless, if you want to ensure a high standard of quality and leave a footprint in the foodservice industry, we recommend that you employ at least one delivery person who could also help you in procuring raw materials in the event of an emergency instead of relying on third-party logistics.

5. POS Software

Implementing reliable point of sale software that can preserve the safety of your data and provide accurate details regarding your inventory and sales is always a smart idea.

In today’s highly competitive environment, a solid POS could drastically affect your food business, like many establishments, including QSRs and other food enterprises, leverage consumer data to encourage repeat sales and obtain feedback.

An effective point of sale system might cost nearly Rs 24,000 per year or Rs 2000 per month.

6. Staff Uniform

A uniform lends an enterprise an overall brand feeling, that could enable you to earn higher levels of trust from your clientele.

A regular collar t-shirt will cost you at least roughly Rs 120, and because you only need five workers in this arrangement, two chefs jackets would set you back by approximately Rs 300, while the rest of the crew may get by with a t-shirt and a cap.

The overall price of all uniforms will be around Rs 6000 or Rs 7000.

Related: Other Business Ideas For People In Tamil Nadu

7. Marketing Of The Business

Food trucks, unlike QSRs, need fewer menus for circulation because their core operation is predicated on foot traffic rather than delivery.

To get the buzz up and going, the business owner can buy 15000 flyers at a price of nearly Rs 20000 and get a few billboards and posters put up in the adjacent target zone at a cost somewhere around Rs 10000.

Your Data Is Safe As A House

With daily backups, we ensure your data is safe and secure whether you lose your phone or it breaks down.

But nevertheless, in today’s information age, generating offline hype is no longer sufficient.

Maintaining a presence online is essential, as it will retain your customers and followers and keep your audience up to date on the whereabouts of a food truck every single day. It would allow you to develop a consistent inflow of consumers and develop your brand.

It can also be leveraged current followers to help distribute information about the food truck, such as by offering benefits or picking unique menu options. 

Besides that, keep records of local events and community functions and station the food truck near them.

Partnerships with event organizers, direct interactions with consumers, and giveaways such as t-shirts and flasks with the food truck logo may all help circulate the word about the mobile eatery.

We also recommend you list your website on various platforms like Swiggy , Zomato , AVCNET.ORG , etc which leads to more orders and honest customer reviews which help you in increasing your business’s quality and service.

8. Cost Of Starting A Food Truck

In India, the usual cost of setting up a food truck business is roughly ten lakhs. It varies significantly depending on the sort of automobile you choose and the kitchenware you own. The following is a cost breakdown for a food truck business in India:

Commercial VehicleRs 4-5 lakh
Kitchen suppliesRs 3 lakh
Licenses and PermitsRs 50,000
POS SoftwareRs 24,000
Raw materialsRs 30,000
Staff uniformRs 6,000
EmployeesRs 35,000
MarketingRs 30,000
Miscellaneous Rs 25,000

9. Miscellaneous

With the exception of the materials described earlier, you will need two cell phones, a calculator, an attendance record, a daily book, and 2-3 large trash cans to maintain cleanliness and hygiene if you are thinking of launching a food truck business.

This type of business, unlike all the other food business modes, has its advantages and disadvantages, such as location, which is a challenge for those other food business types.

In a food truck business, the entrepreneur can choose the location depending on the market details and analysis, with no rent or lease to pay, no electricity charges, less investment needed, and minimal operating expenses.

On the other hand, this business is relatively risky due to the absence of a clear structure or operating rules, but if handled effectively and professionally, this format may be regarded as the ideal food format in respect of investment returns.

The original investment in a food truck is substantially greater than in a QSR, but the best part is that the total running cost is drastically lower in the long haul than in a QSR or fast food cafe.

Besides normal business, which requires at least Rs 8000-9000 sales figures on a daily basis, a food truck may also profit from other gatherings and catering. A simple event or catering assignment might bring in up to Rs 30,000 in a day.

Maximize Your Online Business Potential for just ₹79/month on Lio. Annual plans start at just ₹799 .

How Can Lio Help?

Lio is a workspace available over mobile applications that can be used to organize, present and preserve data in a neat and safe manner. It lets businesses tabulate and safeguard their accounts, employee information , customer data, etc.  

Lio is useful for businesses, especially small businesses because it provides an effective solution to handle huge volumes of data of different forms.

The capacity to quickly access data helps businesses to make more educated decisions. It is quite flexible. It enables users to retrieve data from a range of devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

Entrepreneurs can organize and categorize accessible data, allowing multiple authorized users to access the same information from various locations and in a number of ways to achieve various goals.

Lio is definitely for the win and using it for your business is only going to make your journey smooth and easy to track.

Step 1: Select the Language you want to work on. Lio on Android

Choose from 10 Different Language offered by Lio

Step 2: Create your account using your Phone Number or Email Id.

Create Account using your Phone Number or Email Id in Lio

Verify the OTP and you are good to go.

Step 3 : Select a template in which you want to add your data.

Choose from 60+ Templates offered by Lio And Start Adding Your Data

Add your Data with our Free Cloud Storage.

Step 4: All Done? Share and Collaborate with your contacts.

Share you files with friends and colleagues

In India, the idea of a food truck business, or an eatery on wheels, is gathering steam among businessmen and customers.

The popularity of food trucks can be attributed to the fact that it is a less expensive option to establish a full restaurant.

Hopefully, this guide helped you in understanding how to plan a food truck business in India as well as an estimate of the investment required.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Which licenses are required to start a food truck business in india.

These licenses are necessary to obtain before starting a food truck business in India:

– FSSAI License – Shop and establishment license – Approval from the municipality – Fire Saftey License – Vehicle License – GST Registration

How profitable is the food truck business in India?

Earnings per day might go as high as Rs 14,000 on a good day. The monthly income can be somewhere around Rs 4,20,000. So yeah, a food truck business is a highly profitable business for people in India.

Maintenance salaries and other expenses might drag the income down to Rs 3,00,000 per month.

Are food trucks legal in India?

Food trucks in India do not require a specific permit. Places where sellers provide meals to the public need authorization from the local municipal corporation. 

Is there a license required to sell homemade food in India?

Yes, you need to have a food license from the FSSAI to serve homemade food, but if you are operating on a small scale, you simply need to register.

Each FBO is needed to get an FSSAI Food License under the Food Safety and Security Act of 2006.

Why do some food trucks fail?

Food trucks fail for the exact reasons as restaurants do: an absence of strategy and financial support.

People have no understanding of how much effort is required and how little income is available.

They are prone to simply seeing the surface of a falsely attractive and lucrative lifestyle.

What is the cost to start a food truck?

The cost to start a food truck in India can vary depending on factors such as the type of truck, equipment, permits, and supplies, but generally ranges from 5-10 lakhs (INR).

Download Lio App

जीएसटी r1 क्या है और इसे कैसे फाइल करें, जानें आसान तरीका

Trading Business Ideas in India: 8 Lucrative Options

Trading Business Ideas in India: 8 Lucrative Options

' src=

Nice write-up. Learned so much about the food truck business.

' src=

Hello Bipasha,

I appreciate your warm words. Glad this article was beneficial for you.

' src=

Could you please recommend a few websites where I may buy food in bulk?

Hello Soumya,

Start by doing thorough local research. On the Internet, you can locate a wide variety of food options at websites like Food Service.com or Business.com, which provide directories of food and beverage companies.

' src=

I think this business is truly excellent. Can you please list a few pluses and minuses of the food truck business so that I may make a more informed decision?

Hello Neha,

Thank you for your kind words.

Here are some advantages of operating a food truck: There are many chances, you may design your own menu, and it’s less risky than starting a brick-and-mortar restaurant. The drawbacks include having to operate in a small area and following local zoning restrictions, having to pay for future repairs, and there being a lot of competition in this field. Do your homework and choose the options that are right for you.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

food truck business plan in chennai

Kanakkupillai Learn – India's Top Business Consulting Company

food truck business plan in chennai

  • +91 7305345345
  • [email protected]
  • Over 35,146 Startups and MSMEs Assisted
  • Rated 4.8 out of 5 on Google Reviews
  • 99.9% Satisfaction Guarantee

food truck business plan in chennai

How to Start a Food Truck Business in India?

  • Post author: Sumitha
  • Post published: November 17, 2023
  • Post category: Business Tips

Last Updated on November 17, 2023 by Sumitha

Starting a Food Truck Business in India

Starting a food truck business in India is an exciting venture that combines your passion for food with the thrill of entrepreneurship. The country’s diverse culinary landscape and the growing street food trend make it an ideal market for mobile food businesses . However, navigating the launching and running of a successful food truck requires careful planning and execution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to kickstart your food truck business in India.

1. Research and Conceptualization

Before you hit the streets with your food truck , conduct thorough research to understand the local food scene, target audience, and potential competitors. Identify the popular food items in the region and assess the demand for diverse cuisines. Additionally, consider your personal culinary expertise and preferences when conceptualizing your food truck menu. A unique and appealing menu can set your business apart and attract a loyal customer base.

2. Create a Business Plan

A well-thought-out business plan is crucial for the success of any venture. Outline your business goals, target market, budget, and revenue projections. Include details about your menu, pricing strategy, and marketing plan. A solid business plan will not only serve as a roadmap for your food truck but also be instrumental in attracting investors or securing loans if needed.

3. Legal Requirements and Permits

To operate a food truck in India, you must comply with various legal requirements and obtain the necessary permits. Register your business with the appropriate authorities, such as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India ( FSSAI ), and obtain a food license. Check with local municipal authorities for permits related to parking and vending in specific areas. It’s crucial to have all the required documentation in place to avoid legal issues that could jeopardize your business.

4. Choose the Right Location

Selecting the right location is critical for the success of your food truck. Consider factors such as foot traffic, proximity to offices or residential areas, and local events. Identify popular food truck spots and assess the competition in those areas. Additionally, collaborate with event organizers to participate in festivals, markets, and other events that can provide exposure and attract a diverse customer base.

5. Set Up Your Food Truck

Invest in a well-designed and functional food truck that meets all safety and hygiene standards. Collaborate with a reputable vehicle modification service to customize your truck according to your menu requirements. Ensure that the kitchen layout is efficient for food preparation and adheres to food safety regulations. Equip your truck with high-quality cooking appliances, storage facilities, and a clean water supply.

6. Marketing and Branding

Create a strong brand identity for your food truck, including a memorable name, logo, and branding elements. Leverage social media platforms to create anticipation and buzz before your launch. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your culinary creations, engage with your audience, and announce your launch date. Consider offering promotions or discounts to attract the first wave of customers and encourage word-of-mouth marketing.

7. Build an Online Presence

In the digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for business success. Create a user-friendly website that showcases your menu, location schedule, and contact information. Utilize social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to connect with your audience, share updates, and post mouth-watering images of your dishes. Encourage customers to leave reviews and testimonials to build credibility and attract new customers.

8. Pricing Strategy

Determine a competitive yet profitable pricing strategy for your menu items. Consider factors such as ingredient costs, preparation time, and local market prices. Additionally, monitor customer feedback and sales data to adjust your pricing strategy if necessary. Offering combo deals or loyalty programs can also incentivize repeat business.

9. Focus on Quality and Consistency

Consistency in both taste and quality is crucial for building a loyal customer base. Train your staff to adhere to standardized recipes and cooking methods to ensure that every dish meets your brand’s standards. Regularly assess customer feedback and make necessary adjustments to improve your offerings. Consistency will contribute to positive word-of-mouth and repeat business.

10. Adapting to Trends and Seasons

Stay attuned to food trends and adapt your menu accordingly. Introduce seasonal specials or themed items to keep your offerings fresh and exciting. Be open to experimenting with new flavours and cuisines based on customer preferences. By staying flexible and responsive to changing trends, you’ll keep your food truck business dynamic and appealing to a broad audience.

11. Customer Engagement and Feedback

Engage with your customers to build a sense of community around your food truck. Encourage them to share their experiences on social media, and consider organizing contests or giveaways to increase interaction. Actively seek customer feedback through surveys or comment cards to identify areas for improvement and address any concerns promptly. A satisfied and engaged customer base can become your brand ambassadors, driving new business through positive recommendations.

12. Financial Management

Maintain a meticulous record of your finances to ensure the financial health of your food truck business. Track expenses, revenue, and profits regularly. Consider investing in accounting software to streamline financial processes and make informed decisions. Monitor your budget closely, and be prepared to make adjustments as needed to ensure the sustainability and growth of your business.

Licenses Required for Starting Food Truck Business in India

Starting a food truck business in India involves obtaining several licenses to comply with legal regulations. The specific licenses required may vary slightly depending on the location and state regulations, so it’s advisable to check with local authorities for precise information. However, here are some common licenses you may need:

1. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India ( FSSAI ) License: This is a mandatory license for all food businesses in India, including food trucks. It ensures that the food sold is of the prescribed quality and safe for consumption.

2. Municipal Corporation Health License: You may need to obtain a health license from the local Municipal Corporation or Health Department to ensure that your food truck complies with health and hygiene standards.

3. Police Eating House License: In some states, you may need a Police Eating House License, which is issued by the local police department. It is a regulatory measure to maintain law and order.

4. Trade License: A trade license from the local municipal corporation is generally required to operate a business legally. It ensures that the business is carried out in a safe and healthy environment.

5. Shop and Establishment Act Registration : Registering under the Shops and Establishments Act is necessary for businesses operating within a specific jurisdiction. It covers aspects like working hours, holidays, and employment conditions.

6. NOC from the Fire Department: Depending on the size and nature of your food truck, you may need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local fire department to ensure fire safety compliance.

7. Vehicle License and Fitness Certificate: Ensure that your food truck is registered as a commercial vehicle and has a valid fitness certificate.

8. GST Registration : If your projected turnover exceeds the threshold limit, you need to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) as per the GST Act.

9. PAN Card: Obtain a PAN card for your business. It is essential for various financial transactions and compliance.

10. Insurance: Consider getting insurance coverage for your food truck, including vehicle insurance and liability insurance.

How does Kanakkupillai help start a food truck business in India?

  • Business Registration : These services can help you register your food truck business entity. This includes obtaining necessary licenses and registrations like the FSSAI, municipal health, and other local permits.
  • Legal Compliance: Kanakkupillai may assist in ensuring that your food truck business complies with all relevant laws and regulations. This involves staying up-to-date with changes in regulations and adjusting your business practices accordingly.
  • Documentation Assistance: They may provide support in preparing and submitting the required documents for obtaining licenses, permits, and registrations. This can save you time and ensure accuracy in the application process.
  • GST Registration: Assistance with Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration, if applicable, based on your business turnover.
  • Consultation Services: Consultation on legal and regulatory matters related to starting and running a food truck business in India.
  • Other Business Services: We offer additional services such as business advisory, accounting, and tax-related services to help you manage your food truck business more efficiently.
  • Support in Obtaining NOCs: Assistance in obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from relevant authorities, such as the police department and fire department.

Starting a food truck business in India can be rewarding, combining your passion for food with the thrill of entrepreneurship. By conducting thorough research, creating a solid business plan, and navigating the legal requirements, you can set a strong foundation for success. Choosing the right location, investing in a well-equipped food truck, and implementing effective marketing strategies will help you attract customers and build a loyal following. Focus on quality, consistency, and customer engagement to ensure your food truck business’s long-term success and sustainability in the vibrant and diverse Indian market.

Please Share This Share this content

  • Opens in a new window

You Might Also Like

Read more about the article How to Start Frozen Bottle franchise in India – Price/Cost, Investment & Eligibility

How to Start Frozen Bottle franchise in India – Price/Cost, Investment & Eligibility

Read more about the article Step by Step Guide to Start Mineral Water Plant in India

Step by Step Guide to Start Mineral Water Plant in India

Read more about the article Changes Applicable in E-Way Bill

Changes Applicable in E-Way Bill

food truck business plan in chennai

  • Login / Register

Menu

Know More About

  • Rent Agreement
  • Import Export code
  • Intellectual Property
  • Company Registration
  • Trademark Registration

Recent blogs

LegalDocs

Never miss an another update Subscribe Now

Linkedin

  • How to Start a Food Truck Business in India | LegalDocs

Food License to Start Food Truck

How to Start a Food Truck Business in India

--> 24th May 2019 04:01 pm FSSAI Leave a comment

Food Truck Business

Food truck business might be new for you, but it is not. Food truck business was introduced in India in the earlier 70’s and 80’s itself, but only due to acceptance of western culture since the 21st century we all are now aware of the term of Food truck. In India, the food truck business is expected to grow annually by 18\\\\\% until the year 2020 due to the behavior of the consumers towards fast food. It is also assumed that the food truck business in India will be worth US$ 27.57 billion by 2020. According to this, the food truck business has a very great scope to grow in India.

Requirements for Food Truck Business in India

Enough research  should be done.

Before you take any step ahead for initiating a Food truck business, you should have enough information regarding that topic. Therefore you need to do enough research about the business. The things you need to know about are mentioned below:

What do your competitors do?

Look for the best place to run a food truck business.

Make sure your food truck is having its own USP which will attract your customers.

Visit your competitor's shop and ask them about their drawbacks and benefits.

Understand what can be served to the customers and what they prefer to eat.

Decide the concept

You also need to know what will be your business concept or what ideas you are coming up with.

Decide the type of food which will be served

Try to include specialized items

Types of equipment required for running a Food truck

For running a food truck business you will require minimum types of equipment such as mentioned below:

New or second-hand Truck.

Staff (Chef - 1 or 2, Serving staff - 2 to 3 people)

Ingredients can be purchased in bulk by the vendors

Refrigerators or cooling box, Gas stove, Serving dishes or bowls, etc.

Types of equipment which will reduce man work.

Licenses Required to open a Food Truck Business in India

While initiating a Food truck business you need to get appropriate licenses. Most of the business shut down by not applying for the documents required to run a business. So let us understand what are the required documents for running a Food truck business in India.

1. FSSAI license

Food business operators have to register themselves under FSSAI (Food Safety and Standard Authority of India). FSSAI is an authority to provide a food license to the food business operators in India. There are three types of FSSAI license :

Basic FSSAI license - Annual turnover below 12 lakhs

State FSSAI license - Annual turnover above 12 lakhs and below 20 crores

Central FSSAI license - Annual turnover above 20 crores.

Documents required for FSSAI License registration

Passport Photo

Address Proof

List Of Food Category

Photo Id Proof

Blue Print/ Layout Plan

List of equipment

NOC From Municipality

Incorporation Certificate

List Of Directors /Partners

MOA And AOA

Water Test Report

Import Export Code

Procedure to Obtain Food License

1) The FSSAI registration procedure should be initiated by submitting Form A (application) to food and security office.

2) This application can be accepted or dismissed by the Department inside 7 days from the application date and the reality must be hinted to the candidate recorded as a hard copy.

3) In case the application is accepted, at that point, the division will allow a registration authentication with the FSSAI registration number and the photograph of the candidate.

2. Shop and Establishment License

When you are running any business in any premise you need to apply for Shop and Establishment license. Any commercial establishment, residential hotel, restaurant, eating-house, theatre or other places of public amusement or entertainment have to apply for Shop Act license .

Documents required for Shop Act License

The list of documents for obtaining Shop Act license varies as per the state. Following mentioned are the basic documents for obtaining Shop Act license for Food Truck.

Employer and the manager name.

Postal address of the Shop.

Establishment name.

Establishment category.

Photo of the establishment with the signboard.

Aadhar card.

Passport size photo of the owner with Food truck.

The procedure for obtaining the Shop Act License

Visit the Online Government portal.

Select an Option among “Individual” or “Organization”.

Enter your Mobile number on which you will receive an OTP.

Enter the OTP received on your mobile number.

Mention your E-mail address and other personal details for registration.

Set a Password and fill all the mandatory fields.

Click on “Submit”.

A verification link will be sent on your provided mail id.

Enter the valid credentials on the portal to login.

And login for further process.

Click on “Services” for New registration.

Select “Registration” - Form A (Fill all the required details and submit the form)

Application ID will be provided.

Open the application by entering the Application ID

You will be able to see the status of the application.

Upload your documents as per the requirement.

Make the payment.

The document status will be shown as in Scrutiny, which means the document is under verification.

Later the document status will turn into approved or rejected, you need to check this periodically.

In case your document is rejected then apply for it once again. You will receive a mail follow the instructions as per that and reply for Shop Act license.

When you see the status “Approved” download the document and take a print of it, it is necessary that the Shop Act license to be showcased in the business premise as the officers can come for verification.

3. GST Registration

The taxpayer who falls under GST criteria has to apply for GST registration . The threshold limit for GST registration is 40 lakhs for the supplier of goods and 20 lakhs for the supplier of services.

Documents required for GST Registration

The list of documents for GST registrations differs as per the entity type, below mentioned are the documents required for GST registration for running a Food truck business.

Proprietorship

PAN Card of Owner

Aadhaar Card Of Proprietor

Bank Details

Private Limited Company

PAN Card of Company

Aadhaar of All Directors

MOA, AOA, and Incorporation

Partnership/ LLP

PAN Card of Partnership

Aadhaar of Partners

Partnership Deed/ LLP Certificate

Procedure for obtaining GST Registration

Visit Online GST portal

Click on “Register Now”.

Fill the mandatory details (Individual details, Address details, Business details, Personal Email Id and Contact details)

Click on “Proceed.”

Enter the OTP received on your Mobile Number.

You will receive TRN (Temporary reference number)

Log in to GST portal and click on register now, enter your TRN and proceed with entering a valid CAPTCHA.

You will receive an OTP once again.

Enter the OTP and proceed further.

You have to edit the draft and provide all the required documents.

Once you provide all the required documents fill the declaration and Submit.

Provide your DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) while submitting.

ARN number will be generated after the submission of the details.

You can track your document using ARN.

4. Fire safety certificate

There will be some type of types of equipment which can easily catch fire easily, therefore while initiating a food truck business you need to get a Fire Safety Certificate from the Fire department.

In this digital world, there are basically two ways of promotion, One is Social media and another one is word marketing. Use social media websites to promote your business as much as possible. Create your website, your Facebook, Instagram pages, try to make it innovative. Give discounts and offers to the customers, create a bond between the customers.

Do not hesitate to talk about your business, and tell your friends your family to promote your business as well.

It is necessary to understand the business before you start it. You should be aware of every if’s and but of the business. It can also happen that your business may not lead to success in one go, but if you go accordingly by following every procedure then you will surely achieve something good.

Share this:

How to Register in MSME | LegalDocs

How to Register in MSME | LegalDocs

Beginners guide to online accounting - legaldocs.

Beginners Guide to Online Accounting - LegalDocs

Related Article

food truck business plan in chennai

5 Essentials for Maximizing Results From Seed Capital

One of my favorite consulting services is advising founders on how to build their startups. I work with a founder who knows what problem ....

LEAVE A REPLY:

Enter phone.

google login

We have send SMS on

An OTP has been sent on

Resend Resend in  

Please Call 9022119922 , in case of any issues

ezoto billing software

Get Free Invoicing Software

Invoice ,gst ,credit ,inventory, download our mobile application, app available on:, our centres, navi mumbai.

Unit no-307/308, Building No-3, Sector-3, Millennium Business Park, Mahape, Navi Mumbai, 400710

404, Jeevdani Apartment, Off Knowledge city Road, Sector 20, Airoli, Navi Mumbai

Bengal Chemicals, SV road, Prabhadevi, Dadar West, 400025

A 303 Nautica CHS, Casa Rio, Palava, Opp Super Market, Dombiwali East, Thane, 421204

F 803, Spectra , Casa bella gold, palava city, dombivali east, Thane, 421204

Shop 2, Mangal Murti Hights, Opp More, Rakshak Nagar, Kharadi

House No 170, Near PMC School, Baner, Pune, 411045

739, 15th Cross Road, KR layout JP Nagar Phase V, Banglore, 560078

F43, Flores, Near Begur Government School, Opp to Water Tank, Begur, Bangaluru, 560068

16/8, near Gandhi Medicos behind Agarwal sweets, old rajendra nagar, New Delhi

Customer Testimonials

Company incorporation, food license, rental agreement.

Left

WHY CHOOSE LEGALDOCS

Call

Consultation from Industry Experts.

Payment

Value For Money and hassle free service.

Customer

10 Lakh++ Happy Customers.

Tick

Money Back Guarantee.

Location

SHOW US SOME LOVE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook

© 2022 - All Rights with legaldocs

  • Shipping Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

phone

Get the Tata Capital App to apply for Loans & manage your account. Download Now

  • Personal Loan
  • Business Loan
  • Vehicle Loan
  • Loan Against Securities
  • Loan Against Property
  • Education Loan
  • Credit Cards
  • Microfinance
  • Rural Individual Loan New

Personal loan  starting @ 10.99% p.a

  • Instant approval
  • Overdraft Facility

All you need to know

  • Rates & Charges
  • Documents Required

Personal loan for all your needs

Overdraft Loan

Personal Loan for Travel

Personal Loan for Medical

Personal Loan for Marriage

Personal Loan for Home Renovation

  • Personal Loan EMI Calculator

Pre-payment Calculator

Eligibility Calculator

Check Your Credit Score

Higher credit score increases the chances of loan approval. Check your CIBIL score today and get free insights on how to be credit-worthy.

check-credit-score

Home Loan  with instant approval starting @ 8.75% p.a

  • Easy repayment
  • Home Loan Online
  • Approved Housing Projects

Home Loan for all your needs

  • Home Extension Loan

Affordable Housing Loan

Plot & Construction Loan

  • Balance Transfer

Home Loan Top Up

  • Calculators
  • Home Loan EMI Calculator
  • PMAY Calculator

Balance Transfer & Top-up Calculator

  • Area Conversion Calculator
  • Stamp Duty Calculator

Register as a Selling Agent. Join our Loan Mitra Program

Business loan  to suit your growth plan

  • Collateral-free loans
  • Customized EMI options

Business loan for all your needs

  • Machinery Loan

Small Business Loan

EMI Calculator

  • GST Calculator
  • Foreclosure Calculator

Looking for Secured Business Loans?

Get secured business loans with affordable interest rates with Tata Capital. Verify eligibility criteria and apply today

secure business loan

Accelerate your dreams with our Vehicle Loans

  • Flexible Tenures
  • Competitive interest rates

Explore Used Car Loans

  • Used Car Loan

Loan On Used Car

Explore New Car Loans

New Car Loan

Explore Two Wheeler Loans

  • Two Wheeler Loan

Used Car EMI Calculator

Two Wheeler EMI Calculator

Get upto 95% of your car value and book your dream car

A loan upto ₹5,00,000 to own the bike of your choice

Avail Loan Against Securities up to ₹40 crores

  • Quick access to finance
  • Zero foreclosure charges

Explore Loan Against Securities

Loan against Shares

Loan against mutual funds

  • Loan Against Securities Calculator

Avail Loan Against Property up to ₹ 7.5 Crores

  • Loan against property
  • Business loan against property
  • Mortgage loan against property
  • EMI Options

Loans for all your needs

Secured Micro LAP

Empowering Rural India with Microfinance loans

  • Quick processing

Want To Know More?

Avail a Rural Individual Loan

  • Working Capital Loans
  • Cleantech Finance

Structured Products

  • Equipment Financing & Leasing

Construction Financing

  • Commercial Vehicle Loan
  • Explore all Business Loans

Digital financial solutions to aid your growth

  • Simple standard documentation process
  • Quick disbursal

Most Popular products

Channel Financing

Invoice Discounting

Purchase Order Funding

Working Capital Demand Loan

Sub Dealer Loan

Pioneering Climate Finance through innovative solutions

Most popular products

Project & structured design

Debt Syndication

Financial Advisory

Cleantech Advisory

Financing solutions tailored to your business needs

  • Quick approvals
  • Flexible payment options

Our Bestselling Products

Structured Investment

Letter of Credit

Lease Rental Discounting

Avail Term Loans up to Rs. 1 Crore

  • Customise loan tenures as per your needs
  • Get your loan processed, sanctioned and funds disbursed digitally
  • Equipment Finance

Avail Digital Equipment Loans up to Rs. 1 Crore

  • Attractive ROIs
  • Customizable Loan tenure

Equipment Leasing

Avail Leasing solutions for all asset classes

  • Up to 100% financing
  • No additional collateral required

Ensure your business’ operational effeciency with ease

  • Wide range of equipments covered
  • Minimum paperwork
  • Construction Finance
  • Construction Equipment Finance

New Commercial Vehicle Financing

  • First time user
  • Retail and strategic Clients
  • Used Commercial Vehicle Financing

Moneyfy by Tata Capital

A personal finance app, your one-stop shop for comprehensive financial needs - SIP, Mutual Funds, Loans, Insurance, Credit Cards and many more

  • 100% digital journey
  • Start investing in SIP as low as Rs 500

SIP Calculator

Investment Calculator

  • Mutual Funds
  • Fixed Deposit

Wealth Services by Tata Capital

Personalised Wealth Services for exclusive customers delivered by a team of experts from a suite of product offerings

  • Inhouse research & reports
  • Exclusive Privileges & Offers

Financial Goal Calculator

Retirement Calculator

  • Download forms

Protect your family against unforeseen risks

Avail any of the Insurance policies online in just a few clicks

Bestselling insurance solutions

Motor Insurance

Life Insurance

Health Insurance

Home & Travel Insurance

Wellness Insurance

Protection Plan & other solutions

Retirement Solutions & Child Plan

Quick Links for loans

  • Used Car Loans

Quick Links for insurance

  • Car Insurance
  • Bike Insurance

Saving & Investments

Medical Insurance

Cardiac Insurance

Cancer care Insurance

Other Insurance

  • Wellness solutions
  • Retirement Solution Plans
  • Child Plans
  • Home Insurance
  • Travel Insurance
  • Mutual Fund

Choose from our list of insurance solutions

Retirement Solutions & Child Plans

Quick Links for Loans

  • Loan against Property

Cancer Care Insurance

Offers & Updates

Download the Moneyfy App

Be investment ready in minutes

Take a Tata Capital Home Loan

Lowest interest rates starting at 8.75%*

Apply for a Tata Card

Get benefits worth Rs. 18,000*

 alt=

Sign in to unlock special offers!

You are signed in to unlock special offers!

  • Retail Customer Login
  • Corporate Customer Login
  • My Wealth Account
  • Dropline Overdraft Loan

Quick Links for Insurance

  • Term insurance
  • Savings & investments
  • Medical insurance
  • Cardiac care
  • Cancer care

Personal loan

  • Rate & Charges

Loan Against Shares

Loan Against Mutual Funds

Avail a  Rural Individual Loan

EMI Calculators

Used Commercial Vehicle finance

Compound Interest Calculator

Home Insurance & Travel Insurance

Menu  

  • Loan for Home
  • Loan for Business
  • Loan for Education
  • Loan for Vehicle
  • Personal Use Loan
  • Loan for Travel
  • Loan for Wedding
  • Capital Goods Loan
  • Home Repair Loan
  • Medical Loan
  • Loan on Property
  • Loan on Securities
  • Wealth Services
  • What’s Trending
  • RBI Regulations
  • Equipment Lease
  • Circulating Capital Loan
  • Construction Loan
  • Leadership Talks
  • Dealer Finance
  • Shubh Chintak
  • Coronavirus
  • Government Updates
  • Lockdown News
  • Finance Solutions

Tata Capital > Blog > Loan for Business > How To Start Food Truck And Top 5 Food Truck Business Ideas In India

How To Start Food Truck And Top 5 Food Truck Business Ideas In India

food truck business plan in chennai

A food truck business houses a mobile kitchen in a large motor vehicle. This mobile kitchen can serve different areas of the city or the metro. In India, we are already used to buying Indian snacks and other street foods sold on pushcarts, etc. A food truck is a step up from these mobile carts. Also, food trucks in India serve various eclectic foreign cuisines like Italian, Mexican, Chinese, etc., to tempt the taste buds. The food truck experiment has been very popular in the U.S. and other countries, and it is beginning to take off in a big way in India as well. Food truck ideas are popular because:

  • A food truck can park and do business from anywhere in the city, increasing its reach.
  • A mobile food truck enables the owner to be mobile and access most areas for selling food and other edible items. Today it could be an apartment block; tomorrow it could be an office complex; and the day after, a school.
  • Both hot and cold items can be sold from a food truck. Piping hot food can be quickly cooked and served according to the diner’s wishes. 
  • A food truck naturally enables people to maintain social distance norms as buyers can safely park a certain distance away from the food truck and other diners or simply eat their food in the comfort of their car.
  • A wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including various other cuisines, are available on food trucks. Ideas for a food truck could range from cheesy pizza to spicy Chinese food to delicious tacos and burritos or ethnic dishes like a Kathi roll, depending on the food truck’s choice. These can be accompanied by a soft drink or ice cream if you so desire. This could be one of the most successful food truck ideas in India. 
  • Food truck ideas are emerging as a popular novelty in India and, according to ‘the Indian Retailer’, the business is expected to register an annual growth rate of 8.4%. 

The Top 5 Food Truck Business Ideas for Indians

Indians, as we have iterated before, are already accustomed to buying food from mobile stalls called “thelas,” or pushcarts. The food truck concept is a notch higher than the traditional portable stalls.

The following are some food truck business ideas in India you can dabble with: 

  • Freshly prepared sushi rolls : Indians love Japanese (and Chinese) food. This would appeal to the palates of many millennials and could be a successful food truck idea in India.
  • Food trucks focused on serving only organic food: Because of the health benefits, this food truck idea would appeal to the health-conscious segment. With an increasing incidence of lifestyle diseases in India, this healthy food truck idea could potentially appeal to many people.
  • Fusion burger food truck: This food truck business idea would appeal to millennials and Gen-Z customers, especially if you decide to serve Asian sauces and traditional burgers or even give the burgers an Indian twist.
  • Shawarma: A shawarma food truck business idea could appeal to meat lovers, especially if served with traditional dill pickles that replicate the Lebanese style of making shawarma. Using pita bread and an assortment of vegetables will enhance the taste and be shawarma with a difference.
  • Gourmet gelato ice-creams: Indians are famous for their sweet tooth, and the Indian weather is most suitable for ice-creams. Customers will relish gourmet gelato ice cream in exotic flavours, especially to round off a lovely afternoon meal. This could be one of the most successful food truck ideas in India. 

How to Start a Food Truck Business?

Intrigued by the food truck business idea? Here are some of the necessary steps you have to take to start your dream food business:

  • Start with market research to analyze the market needs in terms of defined foods. A successful food truck idea will enable you to establish your market niche and develop a unique selling proposition for your food truck. This will also allow product differentiation, a unique food concept to compete for food trucks’ attention and facilitate establishing your target demographic. Creating a transparent, differentiated logo and a one-of-a-kind name for your food truck idea is necessary.
  • Establish all your company’s credentials and obtain the required licenses.  
  • Select the menu items for your food truck, whether they will be hot or cold items. This will also help determine the mobile kitchen dimensions and other kitchen parameters.
  • Buy essential equipment such as a good, sturdy, elongated truck that can accommodate a mobile kitchen, cooking systems, a point of sale system to record transactions, staff uniforms, etc.
  • Devise advertising and promotion strategies for your food truck and insurance.
  • Obtain the licenses and certifications: Obtaining food safety certifications is also necessary from the FSSAI, or the Food and Safety Standards of India, and a fire safety certification from the fire department to certify that your cooking area, boiler, gas, and grills are all fire protected. The local municipality should also give you clearance to supply food to the public in the different areas within the city. Lastly, a commercial vehicle license to carry on your ideas for a food truck business should be obtained from the Road Safety department.
  • Ensure that there is working capital for regular, recurring expenses like cooking ingredients, fuel, licenses, and permits, which are renewable annually. You must also provide for employee costs.  

Cost Outlay and Budgeting for How to Start a Food Truck Business

Every food truck business is different, meaning their cost outlay and budgeting will also be different: 

Total cost: The cost of opening a food truck idea can vary from Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs.

Truck cost: A good, wide-bodied, elongated truck to accommodate your mobile kitchen would cost anywhere from Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs. You have a wide assortment of truck manufacturers and brands to choose from to launch your food truck idea in India.

Equipment cost: Buying and installing state-of-the-art kitchen equipment would cost approximately Rs 2 lakhs to Rs 3 lakhs.

Licences and advertising costs: This could cost up to Rs 1 lakh. 

Working capital: You need to provide at least Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh for the liquidity reserve and working capital to buy groceries, provisions, and kitchen ingredients. 

You can quickly obtain a business loan from Tata Capital to kick-start your food truck ideas in India.

Tata Capital’s Business Loans

With TATA Capital, you can fund your dream food truck business: 

  • Loan corpus: The loan amount varies from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 75 lakh . Your financial requirements for funding the setting up of a food truck idea in India can be very quickly met.
  • Loan tenure : The loan tenure varies from 12 months to 36 months. You can easily plan your cash flows and reschedule your principal repayments and interest payments according to your convenience.
  • Collateral or security: The above loans are unsecured loans that do not require offering your business or personal assets as collateral.
  • Eligibility for applying for a business loan : The eligibility conditions are simple and include the following:

1. The age of the applicant for a business loan should be between 25 and 65 years old.

2. The business must have a profitable track record for three consequent financial years

3. The business’s sales revenue and turnover should indicate a positive upward trend.

4. Your CIBIL score must be 700 at the time of applying.

5. A qualified chartered accountant should audit all the financial books of account and financial statements.

  • KYC documents are required for securing a Tata Capital Business Loan: 1. All identity and address proof documents 2. Proof of business ownership, including partnership deeds, sole proprietor declaration etc. 3. Licence documents for carrying out the business and GST TIN 4. Documents relating to the company’s incorporation 5. Bank statements for the last six months certified by the concerned banker 6. IT returns and all business financial statements, including audited balance sheets and profit & loss statements.
  • Interest rates on a Tata Capital business loan: Interest rates on a Tata Capital business loan start at 19% p.a. The final interest rate levied would depend on the final assessment of your financial statements, CIBIL score, and other factors. The interest rate for your loan can be fixed or variable. In a fixed interest rate business loan, the EMIs remain fixed, and in the case of a floating interest rate loan, the EMI amounts will be variable. The floating interest rates are linked to the benchmark RBI’s repo-linked lending rate.
  • EMI calculator: Tata Capital provides an EMI calculator that enables you to structure your EMI amounts according to your cash flows and financial convenience. You have to enter the principal amount, the interest rate, and the loan tenure to find out the EMI installments payable by you. Fixed EMIs have fixed payment options, and in structured EMIs, you can customize your payments at your convenience to launch your food truck idea.

Key Takeaways

The food truck business idea has tremendous potential to be a growth sector in the economy. You can please your clientele’s palates by serving them piping hot or cold, fresh gourmet and exotic dishes at a reasonable price. If your USP is to market food products sold in gourmet, fine-dine restaurants, the public at large can derive enjoyment from eating such dishes at reasonable prices. Who can say, if you successfully start materializing your ideas for the first food truck business, you can even end up having a country-wide food truck business chain, couldn’t you? Don’t delay; if you have the means, strategy, and an excellent idea, contact Tata Capital today to obtain a business loan to fund your food truck and start your exciting food truck journey.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Most Viewed Blogs

Importance of Credit Facility in Business

Importance of Credit Facility in Business

Top 10 Profitable Big Business Ideas In India

Top 10 Profitable Big Business Ideas In India

The Latest Trends in Business Loans

The Latest Trends in Business Loans

Different Types of Business Loans & How to Choose the Right Business Loan for Your Needs

Different Types of Business Loans & How to Choose the Right Business Loan for Your Needs

Best Low-Investment Business Ideas In 2024

Best Low-Investment Business Ideas In 2024

How To Start A Dropshipping Business In India

How To Start A Dropshipping Business In India

10 Profitable Agricultural Business Ideas for Farmers and Entrepreneurs

10 Profitable Agricultural Business Ideas for Farmers and Entrepreneurs

10 Zero Investment Online Business Ideas In India

10 Zero Investment Online Business Ideas In India

How To Start Organic Farming in India

How To Start Organic Farming in India

How to Start Scrap Business in India?

How to Start Scrap Business in India?

Trending Blogs

Types of Business Loans in India

Types of Business Loans in India

5 Ways To Get A MSME Loan Without Collateral

5 Ways To Get A MSME Loan Without Collateral

Know More About Startup Loan

Know More About Startup Loan

Working Capital Meaning – Importance & Advantages

Working Capital Meaning – Importance & Advantages

  • Business Loan EMI Calculator

Used Car Loan EMI Calculator

Two Wheeler Loan EMI Calculator

Loan Against Property Calculator

  • Media Center
  • Branch Locator
  • Tata Capital Housing Finance Limited
  • Tata Securities Limited

Tata Mutual Fund

Tata Pension Fund

Important Information

  • Tata Code of Conduct
  • Master T&Cs’ Tata Capital Limited
  • Master T&Cs' Tata Capital Financial Services Limited - Pre 31st December, 2023
  • Master T&Cs' Tata Capital Housing Finance Limited - Pre 31st December, 2023
  • Master T&Cs' Tata Capital Housing Finance Limited
  • Vendor Feedback Form
  • Rate History
  • Ways to Service
  • Our Partners
  • Partnership APIs
  • SARFAESI – Regulatory Display - Tata Capital Limited
  • SARFAESI – Regulatory Display - Tata Capital Housing Finance Limited

Investor Information

  • Tata Capital Limited

food truck business plan in chennai

Our Private Equity Funds

  • Tata Capital Healthcare Fund
  • Tata Opportunities Fund
  • Tata Capital Growth Fund

Amalgamated Companies

  • Archived Documents of Tata Capital Financial Services Limited
  • Archived Documents of Tata Cleantech Capital Limited

Top Branches

Most important terms & conditions - home loans.

Download in your preferred language

Policies, Codes & Other Documents

  • Tata Code Of Conduct
  • Audit Committee Charter
  • Affirmative Action Policy
  • Whistleblower Policy
  • Code of Conduct for Non-Executive Directors
  • Remuneration Policy
  • Board Diversity Policy
  • Code of Corporate Disclosure Practices and Policy on determination of legitimate purpose for communication of UPSI
  • Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy
  • Vigil Mechanism
  • Composition Of Committees
  • Notice Of Hours Of Work, Rest-Interval, Weekly Holiday
  • Fit & Proper Policy
  • Policy For Appointment Of Statutory Auditor
  • Policy On Related Party Transactions
  • Policy For Determining Material Subsidiaries
  • Policy On Archival Of Documents
  • Familiarisation Programme
  • Compensation Policy for Key Management Personnel and Senior Management
  • Fair Practice Code - Micro Finance
  • Fair Practice Code
  • Internal Guidelines on Corporate Governance
  • Grievance Redressal Policy
  • Privacy Policy on protecting personal data of Aadhaar Number holders
  • Dividend Distribution Policy
  • List of Terminated Vendors
  • Policy for determining Interest Rates, Processing and Other Charges
  • Policy specifying the process to be followed by the Investors for claiming their Unclaimed Amounts
  • NHB registration certificate
  • KYC pamphlet
  • Fair Practices Code
  • Most Important Terms & Conditions - Home Equity
  • Most Important Terms & Conditions - Offline Quick Cash
  • Most Important Terms & Conditions - Digital Quick Cash
  • Most Important Terms & Conditions - GECL
  • Most Important Terms & Conditions - Dropline Overdraft
  • GST Details
  • Customer Grievance Redressal Policy
  • Recovery Agents List
  • Legal Disclaimer
  • Privacy Commitment
  • Investor Information And Financials
  • Guidelines On Corporate Governance
  • Anti-Bribery & Anti-Corruption Policy
  • Whistle Blower Policy
  • Policy Board Diversity Policy and Director Attributes
  • TCHFL audit committee Charter
  • Code of Conduct For Non-Executive Directors
  • Code of Corporate Disclosure Pracrtices and policy On determination of Legitimate purpose
  • List of Terminated Channel Partners
  • Policy On Resolution Framework 2.0
  • RBI Circular On Provisioning
  • Policy for Use of Unparliamentary Language by Customers
  • Policy for Determining Interest Rates and Other Charges
  • Additional Facility
  • Compensation Policy For Key Management Personnel And Senior Management
  • Guidelines for release of property documents in the event of demise of Property Owners who is a sole or joint borrower
  • Prevention Of Money Laundering Policy
  • Policy For Accounting Of Tax In Respect Of The Tax Position Under Litigation
  • Cyber Security Policy
  • Conflict Of Interest Policy
  • Policy For Outsourcing Of Activities
  • Surveillance Policy
  • Anti-Bribery And Anti-Corruption Policy
  • Code Of Conduct For Prevention Of Insider Trading

Tata Capital Solutions & Services

  • Loans for You
  • Loans for Business
  • Overdraft Personal Loan
  • Wedding Loan
  • Travel Loan
  • Home Renovation Loan
  • Personal Loan for Govt employee
  • Personal Loan for Salaried
  • Personal Loan for Women
  • Small Personal Loan
  • Required Documents
  • Application Process
  • Affordable Housing
  • Business Loan for Women
  • MSME/SME Loan

Vehicle Loans

More Products

  • Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS)
  • Credit Score
  • Rural Individual Loans
  • Structured Loans
  • Commercial Vehicle Finance
  • Personal Loan Pre Payment Calculator
  • Personal Loan Eligibility Calculator
  • Balance Transfer & Top-Up Calculator
  • Home Loan Eligibility Calculator
  • Business Loan Pre Payment Calculator
  • Loan Against Property EMI Calculator
  • Used car Loan EMI Calculator
  • Two wheeler Loan EMI Calculator
  • APR Calculator
  • Personal Loan Rates And Charges
  • Home Loan Rates And Charges
  • Business Loan Rates And Charges
  • Loan Against Property Rates And Charges
  • Used Car Loan Rates And Charges
  • Two Wheeler Loan Rates and Charges
  • Loan Against Securities Rates And Charges

food truck business plan in chennai

Uh oh, something went wrong

Please try again later.

Get the Reddit app

Chennai Managara Makkal Reddit Narpani Mandram -- சென்னை மாநகர மக்கள் ரெட்டிட் நற்பணி மன்றம்

Planning to start a foodtruck business in Chennai

Vanakkam makkalae!

I've been longing to start a foodtruck business in Chennai.

Main reason: I wanna do something of my own and I love food (who doesn't?) Side reason: I'm so tired of being a corporate slave subjected to unwanted politics and toxicity.

That being said, this would be my first venture and I find myself having a few doubts about this decision.

Is there anyone who has been through this road of setting up a foodtruck business? Would be great to hear any feedback/suggestions/advise on this journey. Especially related to the capital/resources needed and time taken to see positive returns (breakeven point).

By continuing, you agree to our User Agreement and acknowledge that you understand the Privacy Policy .

Enter the 6-digit code from your authenticator app

You’ve set up two-factor authentication for this account.

Enter a 6-digit backup code

Create your username and password.

Reddit is anonymous, so your username is what you’ll go by here. Choose wisely—because once you get a name, you can’t change it.

Reset your password

Enter your email address or username and we’ll send you a link to reset your password

Check your inbox

An email with a link to reset your password was sent to the email address associated with your account

Choose a Reddit account to continue

Food Truck Business in India: Meaning, Benefits, Ideas and Challenges

Food Truck Business in India

India is a land of diverse cultures where numerous variety of food items are consumed and therefore, the Indian food industry never stops growing and evolving. The latest addition to the food industry that is gaining momentum is the concept of food trucks. A food truck, which is like a restaurant on wheels, is a lucrative business idea whether you are an entrepreneur or an existing food brand. In this blog, we will discuss the meaning of a food truck along with its benefits and challenges. Additionally, we will explore the different food truck business ideas. 

What is a Food Truck?

A food truck is like a moving restaurant that serves a range of food and beverages to consumers at different places. Cooking equipment and kitchen facilities are fitted inside these trucks and therefore, you can make and serve food right away from a truck. 

Below is a picture of a food truck selling a variety of food items – 

food truck business plan in chennai

Therefore, a food truck is like an alternative to a conventional restaurant. They are becoming popular because of their capacity to deliver delicious and distinctive food choices at places like street corners, festivals, events, workplaces, and more. 

Food Truck Business in India

The food truck industry in India has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. According to a report by BlueWeave Consulting (2023), the market size of food trucks in India was approx $152.45 million in 2022. In the same year, the government of Delhi announced that they would introduce a food truck policy inspired by the regulations seen in the United States and the United Kingdom.

The food truck market in India can be divided into three segments based on offerings: Food, Beverages, and Desserts & ice cream. All three segments occupy an equal share of the market. Further, various factors have contributed to the growth of the food truck business in India such as a change in the preferences of consumers, urbanization, the rise in millennials, etc. 

Moreover, in the future, specifically between 2023 to 2029, the Indian food truck industry is expected to perform well with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.23%. Therefore, the industry presents significant growth opportunities for entrepreneurs. 

Benefits of the Food Truck Business

The following are the benefits of the food truck business. 

food truck business plan in chennai

Lower Initial Investment

As compared to a traditional restaurant, a food truck business requires a lower initial investment.   You just need to buy a truck and cooking equipment and if you want to provide a sitting facility to customers, you can simply set up a few tables and chairs. 

On the other hand, to open a traditional restaurant, you need to find a proper place and set up furniture inside that includes a counter, sofas, dining tables, fans, etc. Therefore, it requires a considerable investment. 

Flexibility

As food trucks are like mobile restaurants, they offer high flexibility. If you want to try different locations to set up your business, you can do so by moving the food truck from one place to another. Moreover, you can also place the food truck in events and festivals and adjust to changing market dynamics. 

Unique Experience for Customers

Food trucks offer unique and casual dining experiences to customers. If they don’t feel like going to a proper restaurant, they can just have their favorite meal while passing by a food truck. Generally, food trucks appeal more to the younger generations are they are trendy. Therefore, you should accordingly design the food truck business plan. 

Less Operational Expenses

If you are operating a food truck, you don’t need to spend much on electricity, staffing, and other maintenance. These expenses increase if you operate at a fixed location. Therefore, in the food truck business, you get the benefit of lower operational expenses. 

Personalization

Operating a food truck gives you a chance to engage personally with the customers. In this way, you can understand their tastes and preferences in a better way and accordingly modify your servings. Therefore, the food truck business brings the benefit of personalization. 

Food Truck Business Ideas

Generally, the following offerings are popular amongst food trucks  – 

  • Sandwiches, pizza, burgers, tacos, and wraps 
  • Beverages such as cold drinks, soft drinks, cold coffee, juice, smoothies, etc. 
  • Desserts including ice cream, brownies, waffles, doughnuts, etc. 
  • Local food items belonging to a particular place e.g., momos and chhole kulche in Delhi, different types of chaat e.g., bhel puri and pav bhaji in Mumbai, vada pav and masala dosa in Pune, etc. 
  • Vegan food items like salads, soups, crispy tofu, etc. 
  • Korean dishes like ramen, fried chicken, etc. 

Famous Food Trucks in India

The following are some of the examples of famous food trucks in India – 

  • The Lalit Food Truck Company, New Delhi 
  • Bombay Food Truck, Mumbai 
  • The Cheese Truck, Pune 
  • Delhi Food Truck Co., Gurgaon 
  • S.W.A.T., Bangalore 
  • Road Kill, Bangalore 
  • Henny’s Gourmet, Pune 
  • Burgertron, Pune 
  • Desi Firangii, Chandigarh 
  • Chaska, Chennai 

Challenges in the Food Truck Business

While the food truck business has its benefits, it comes with a set of challenges as well. 

The following are some of the common challenges faced by food truck businesses – 

  • There is a limited space inside the food truck. Therefore, sometimes it becomes difficult to store equipment and operate from the same place.  
  • As food trucks are like mobile restaurants and in most cases, their seating area is not covered, seasonal changes like heavy rain and extreme heat affect their operations. 
  • There is high competition in the market as the concept of food trucks is new and emerging. 
  • The license cost for food trucks is higher in India. Therefore, it increases the initial investment in the business. 
  • Finding a suitable location and parking restrictions are some of the other challenges faced by food trucks. 

In conclusion, food trucks present a promising venture with their flexibility, creative concepts, and low entry barriers. Also, given the opportunities in the market, the food truck business is profitable in India. It is like a revolution in the Indian food industry that is here to stay for a longer period of time.

Chandan Todi

Share This Story

featured-image

Our Policies

Our services.

Head Office : Stepup India Legal Solutions Private Limited Flat no 202, 2nd Floor,U-A-3/1, Above Vaibhav Jewellers, Ajmera Housing Complex, Pimpri – Pune 411018 Email: [email protected]

By continuing this page, you agree to our Terms & Conditions , Privacy Policy and Refund Policy © 2024 – Stepup India Legal Solutions Private Limited. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: This portal is owned and operated by a Stepup India Legal Solutions Private Limited and in no way represents any relation with any Government Authority or body.Please note that we are a facilitating platform enabling access to reliable professionals. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal services ourselves. The information on this website is for the purpose of knowledge only and should not be relied upon as legal advice or opinion.

Free Consultation

Get response within 15 min

food truck business plan in chennai

Get the latest updates and offers in your inbox for free!

Flat 20% OFF on All Services

Limited Time Offer

Get 20 Min. Free Consultation From Qualified CA / CS/ Lawyers with 10+ Years Experience

Best Fast Food in Grozny, Chechnya

Fast food restaurants in grozny, establishment type, traveler rating, restaurant features.

food truck business plan in chennai

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Suicide Bombers Kill at Least 46 At Chechen Government Offices

By Michael Wines

  • Dec. 28, 2002

Suicide bombers plowed two explosive-laden vehicles through a military perimeter today and blew up the headquarters of Chechnya's pro-Russian government in Grozny, killing at least 46 people and wounding scores more in two terrific blasts.

It was the deadliest bombing inside Chechnya in more than three years of war, and it sent yet another powerful signal that militants seeking to split the semiautonomous Chechen region from Russia are far from being subdued.

The last signal came barely two months ago, when Chechen separatists took control of a Moscow theater and terrorized hundreds of hostages for several days. The government raid that ended that crisis resulted in the deaths of nearly 130 civilians.

The regional government office in Grozny, the Chechen capital -- which was opened to great fanfare barely 20 months ago as a beacon of political stability -- was among the most protected buildings in the area.

Russian television showed images today of civilians and soldiers, many soaked in blood, stumbling or being carried from the wreckage of the four-story concrete building. A huge crater near the entrance, more than a dozen feet deep, marked the site of the explosions.

Tonight Russia's Emergencies Ministry put the death toll at 46. Another 70 people were reported to have been taken to hospitals, at least 20 of them critically injured. But an Emergencies Ministry official said the number of injured could reach 200, because the blast had destroyed a nearby two-story building, containing a canteen and government offices, as well as the main building.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

IMAGES

  1. Food Truck Business plan|| Street Food Stall|| Food Vendor Business || Indian food truck business

    food truck business plan in chennai

  2. How to Write a Food Truck Business Plan [Template]

    food truck business plan in chennai

  3. Food Truck Business Plan

    food truck business plan in chennai

  4. Must-Have Food Truck Templates for Your Restaurant Brand

    food truck business plan in chennai

  5. Free Printable Food Truck Business Plan Templates For Success [PDF

    food truck business plan in chennai

  6. How to Write a Food Truck Business Plan

    food truck business plan in chennai

COMMENTS

  1. How to Start a Food Truck Business in India

    9. Calculate The Cost Of Opening A Food Truck Business In India. The average cost of starting a food truck business in India is around 10 Lakhs. It varies mainly according to the type of vehicle you are opting for and the kitchen equipment. Here is the overall cost distribution for a food truck business in India:

  2. Guide to Starting a Food Truck Business in Tamil Nadu

    #FoodTruckGuideTN #FoodTruckStartup#FoodTruckBusiness #FoodTruckChennai#TamilNaduFoodTruck #FoodTruckLicense#FoodTruckCosts #ChennaiFoodScene#MobileFoodBusin...

  3. Starting a Food Truck Business in India: A Complete Guide

    Understand the cost differentiation of starting a food truck. Every startup business needs capital. Usually, for a standard food truck, the total setup cost is around 8 to 11 lakhs. However, if you want a fully equipped food truck with advanced equipment and setup, the price can increase up to INR 16 to 20 lakhs.

  4. How to Start a Food Truck Business in 2023?

    Step 1: Conduct Market Research. Market research is the first step in planning for a food truck business. Beginning with the local food scene and target market, identify gaps in the market that your food business could fill. Consider factors such as location, cuisine, and pricing. Identify competitors and study what they are doing right and ...

  5. A Smart And Handy Guide On How To Start A Food Truck Business in India

    1. Low investment, low risk: A food truck would not cost you more than INR 10 lakhs if you spend carefully. 2. Fewer resources required: One big advantage of a food truck is that you have a low dependency on resources. You can even get started with 1-2 resources (costing you around 4-8K INR per person). 3.

  6. How to Start a Food Truck Business in India: Legal Permits & More

    O perating a food truck is much more than just making delicious food. It is about finding the right vehicle, acquiring necessary legal permissions, choosing your staff and finally identifying locations to maximise sales. Take for example the case of Delhi-based Dosa Inc, a food truck business started by Jyoti and her husband Satya in 2012.

  7. How To Set Up a Food Truck Business

    Base Kitchen Rent (optional): If you plan to set up a base kitchen, a medium size shop in an inexpensive location will cost you around INR 18,000-22,000 per month. What You Earn. Like any food ...

  8. How to Start a Food Truck Business in India in 14 Steps

    14 Steps to Follow to Start a Food Truck Business. 1. Market Research. Before starting the food truck business it is important to have market research for the locality and food culture of the place you want to cater to. You need to study the food culture of your target consumers. As the mobile food truck business is a capital-intensive business ...

  9. How To Start A Food Truck Business In India

    Book Free Live Demo. While having a food business in India may sound intimidating, the below steps will cover the basics of starting a Food Truck Business in India. Choosing the right vehicle. Investing in kitchen supplies and other raw materials. Obtaining necessary licenses and permits.

  10. Ultimate Guide to Start Your Food Truck Business in India

    The first step is to select the appropriate truck for your business. The food truck price would be around 7-8 lakh rupees and that's for a fresh commercial vehicle which is at least 18 feet in length, based on the offered menu, which is Continental and Italian. Trucks from Mahindra & Mahindra, Ashok Leyland & Tata, are available on the market.

  11. How to Start a Food Truck Business in India?

    Equip your truck with high-quality cooking appliances, storage facilities, and a clean water supply. 6. Marketing and Branding. Create a strong brand identity for your food truck, including a memorable name, logo, and branding elements. Leverage social media platforms to create anticipation and buzz before your launch.

  12. Perfect Food Truck Business Plan to Start Your Successful Food Truck

    The cost incurred will significantly increase and become close to ₹20 lakhs if you are planning for going for a well-equipped food truck. Here is a brief breakdown of the upfront and operational costs you will incur when establishing and running a food truck business: ₹20,000-₹30,000/month.

  13. How to Start a Food Truck Business in India

    Select the Right Commercial Vehicle or Food Truck. The first step in the checklist to start a Food Truck Business in India is to select the right Commercial Vehicle [1] or Food Truck. In the case of a new Foods Truck, the owner would need at least 18 feet long space, which would cost him/her around Rs 7 to 8 lakhs.

  14. How to Start a Food Truck Business in India

    Licenses Required to open a Food Truck Business in India. While initiating a Food truck business you need to get appropriate licenses. Most of the business shut down by not applying for the documents required to run a business. So let us understand what are the required documents for running a Food truck business in India. 1. FSSAI license

  15. Starting a Food Truck Business in India

    To start a food truck business, one needs to plan as per the following defined steps: Identify the right commercial vehicle or the food truck: One can invest in a new customized vehicle or buy a used vehicle and customize it. Choose the size that fits the requirement. Choosing the right location for the truck to operate from One needs to look ...

  16. How To Start Food Truck & Top 5 Foodtruck Business Ideas In India

    Every food truck business is different, meaning their cost outlay and budgeting will also be different: Total cost: The cost of opening a food truck idea can vary from Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs. Truck cost: A good, wide-bodied, elongated truck to accommodate your mobile kitchen would cost anywhere from Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs.

  17. Planning to start a foodtruck business in Chennai : r/Chennai

    All the best in finding a place to park your food truck. 1. FoodiePanda90. • 1 day ago. I will suggest you start small first and expand. Start like a small cart and when you have succeeded go for a mini van then a truck would be wise. I have seen many food business shut doors in few months or weeks in Chennai.

  18. Food Truck Business in India: Meaning, Benefits and Challenges

    Conclusion. In conclusion, food trucks present a promising venture with their flexibility, creative concepts, and low entry barriers. Also, given the opportunities in the market, the food truck business is profitable in India. It is like a revolution in the Indian food industry that is here to stay for a longer period of time.

  19. 1 லட்சம் முதல் Food Truck Business

    This Video is About Food Truck Business Ideas in Tamil.இந்த வீடியோவில் நடமாடும் உணவகம் - Food Truck தொழில் ...

  20. THE BEST Fast Food in Grozny (Updated 2024)

    Best Fast Food in Grozny: See Tripadvisor traveller reviews of Fast Food Restaurants in Grozny.

  21. PDF Russia's Chechen Wars 1994-2000: Lessons from Urban Combat

    • A thought-out plan, albeit one for subduing small pockets of re- sistance in a defeated city rather than attacking a defended metropolis, governed troop movements and limited confusion. • A better, if still incomplete, seal of the city was effected. • Improved food and supply provisions kept soldiers from starving

  22. Grozny

    Grozny (Russian: Грозный, IPA:; Chechen: Соьлжа-ГӀала, romanized: Sölƶa-Ġala) [15] is the capital city of Chechnya, Russia.. The city lies on the Sunzha River.According to the 2021 census, it had a population of 328,533 [16] — up from 210,720 recorded in the 2002 census, [17] but still less than the 399,688 recorded in the 1989 census. [18]

  23. Suicide Bombers Kill at Least 46 At Chechen Government Offices

    At least 46 people are killed and about 70 others are wounded, at least 20 critically, as suicide bombers plow two explosive-laden vehicles into pro-Russian government headquarters in Grozny ...