Few Essential Tips for Start-Up Foodpreneurs

Photo credit: Penn State via flickr.com

 

Despite the many economic downturns worldwide, many are still hopeful to make a name of their own in the business industry. And of course, when it comes to businesses, food ventures are a typical popular option. If you’re an aspiring food entrepreneur or you’re thinking of putting up a business of your own, hope you find the following tips helpful on your planning.

 

Know the different types of food businesses.

The food business industry is a broad one, so it’s necessary to figure out your main concept for your business first. Know about the different types of food enterprises. Apart from the traditional dining (fine dining or family/casual restaurants, ethnic restaurants, and fast food chains, for instance), you can also check out different types of mobile food businesses. Some of the types you can consider are food trucks, catering units, or vending carts. Of course, your main business concept should depend on your particular interests, your budget for this venture, and your areas of specialization.

 

Consider legal requirements.

Before starting any business venture, make sure to take into account different legal considerations. Requirements in getting permits or business license typically vary per state so I cannot give you a definite list of things for this. Apart from business permit, also think about other legal documents you’ll likely need, such as a tax certificate and health and sanitation license. Also think about zoning laws implemented in your locale if ever you’re planning to go for a mobile business.

 

Do a market research and competitive analysis.

If you want to be successful on your chosen niche, it should start with finding out how it is in your target industry. Who will be your target audience and where do you plan to put up your venture? Is your chosen area suitable for the business concept you have in mind? What are the particular consumer behavior and business trends in your target niche? Also know about your competitors. Who will be your competition and what business practices or strategies do they implement? Doing a market research and analysis can also help you work on developing your marketing strategy that will give a unique advantage for your business.

 

Think about practical considerations.

Your capital will greatly depend on your type of business and the particular products or services that you offer. Of course, apart from investing time and money in getting permits and choosing a location, another important consideration that will take up a big part of your budget is the food utensils and catering equipment. Aside from the typical dining/tableware and cooking utensils, you should also allocate budget on getting essential equipment such as ice maker, commercial freezers, food displays, and other catering supplies. Also take into account the budget you should allocate for your employees, supplies, and storage, as well as other start-up costs and considerations (one-time and ongoing expenditures). Make sure to develop an appropriate business plan and checklist so you can efficiently work on planning your funds for your venture.

 

For additional resources, check these out:

Marketing Your Food Business via Facebook

 

 

Selecting the Suitable Ice Maker

Photo credit: Air and Water, Inc. (commons.wikimedia.org)

Planning to buy an ice maker machine? There are several things you need to understand before making the purchase.

First and foremost, there are different types of ice makers and so it’s important that you determine which one will be best suitable for your needs. Read this article and I’ll try to give you an overview of the most commonly-available ice maker machines in the market:

Portable Ice Maker

If you are throwing a social activity, a portable ice maker should be most useful. This type of machine is recommended for simple gatherings because they are lightweight and small. Fitting them on counter spaces will not be a problem.

Never underestimate its small size, however, because it does a good job in producing ice. They are also very easy to use and clean and so it’s a perfect fit for your social events.

Built-In Ice Maker

On the other hand, built-in ice makers are what you need if you are thinking of getting one for your home bar. This can be installed in your bar and so you won’t even have to leave the room to get ice from the kitchen whenever they run out. You can stay in your bar and enjoy your drinks without unnecessary hassles.

Actually, RV and boat owners will also love these built-in ice makers. You’ll always have access to fresh ice as you install this on your RV or boat. Long road and boat trips with friends and family members will be more fun.

Outdoor Ice Maker

Last but not the least, we have outdoor ice makers which, as the name implies, are great for outdoor settings.

Are you having a barbecue party in your yard? Planning to throw a luau at the poolside? An outdoor ice maker should be a reliable companion. You can continue enjoying your party without having to visit the fridge several times. The ice you need will always be easily within your reach that’s why you can focus on the thing that matters most – entertaining your guests.

Typically, these outdoor machines come equipped with air-cooled condenser, reversible door, and removable bin. They’re also designed with enclosed back to protect them from rain.

If you need ice equipment for business purposes, you may check out Premier Sales & Rentals’ ice maker machine and other high quality equipment. You will see that you can rent many interesting items for very affordable rates.

Interesting Articles:
How to Make Homemade Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker (browneyedbaker.com)
How Do You Care For And Clean Your Portable Ice Maker? (icemakermania.com)