Food trucks have gained in popularity and acceptance over the last few years and the competition for customers and territory has heated up. This makes it imperative for small business owners to remain innovative. Cleanliness and convenience are the signatures of the food truck industry. Making repairs and improvements will always be necessary to maintain your reputation and avoid costly work stoppages. The increase in competition has made it more difficult for brands to stand out. Measures need to be taken to increase brand awareness while providing a top quality product fast.

Equipment

Upgrading your equipment is one of the most important investments you can make as a food truck owner. There is a lot that goes into making equipment purchase decisions including quality, price, size, functionality and how easy it is to clean. Major purchases like stoves and refrigerators are only made every so often so make your decisions carefully as a bad purchase could affect your business for years to come.

Menu

Just like any other restaurant your food truck’s menu should be constantly evolving. Adding new and innovative recipes should be done periodically and developing seasonal dishes will also provide a spike in sales. Make sure as you new add items and remove dishes that aren’t selling. This will keep your menu streamlined and always fresh. Tweaking your menu to include combination platters will help you upsell drinks and side dishes.

Graphics

Your truck is a rolling billboard for your company and offers an inexpensive way to advertise to a very large audience. Your truck should be heavily branded with company colors, logos and slogans. Include website and social media information as digital avenues have become the best way to drive food truck business. Bright colors and large graphics will help your truck stand out. A good paint job or wrap will make your brand recognizable.

Additions

Small additions like shelving for condiments or an awning to keep your patrons out of the elements add to the convenience of your service. These and other upgrades can significantly improve the customer experience and create the most important aspect of the food truck industry; loyal followers. These additions could even include upgrades on your flatware, packaging and condiments. Making the eating experience less of a hassle and less messy is a major selling point for food on the go.

Increase The Fleet

Whether you’re replacing your current truck or adding to your fleet, your truck is the backbone of your business. If you’ve had a measure of success and the demand is there you may consider investing in an additional truck. This increases the reach of your brand and expands your customer base. Before making the investment you’ll want to weigh the risks. Since you can’t be two places at once, you’ll need to ensure you have a strong team in place to work the new truck.

Quikstone Capital Solutions has been providing small business owners with merchant cash advances to stabilize and improve their companies for more than 10 years. If you are in need of a cash to cover unexpected costs, or if you’re looking to make long overdue improvements, fast funding with a merchant cash advance could be right for you. With the ability to quickly qualify and get your money in a timely fashion, there is no more convenient business loan alternative.

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