Espresso / Coffee Cart

Start-up cost for an coffee / espresso cart usually runs between $20,000 - $25,000. Major points to look for in a cart location are:

> High visibility
> High traffic counts
> Ability to have your commissary nearby, so you can access it easily
> A location that is safe

Security is always a factor. You want a location where your cart can either be locked up and stabilized in place, or can be pushed to a safe close-by location each evening.

In addition, if you are planning an outside operation, survey each location under consideration on a typical working day, through the 8-10 hour period when you would be open. Check on:

> How the sun will hit you at various times of the day
> What kind of protection you might have at one location compared to another, given driving rain, prevailing winds, etc.
>The cost to run electricity and utilities to the location

The Next Steps

After you have found your potential location check with your local bureaucracy for approval and what other steps you need to take if any.

Under certain conditions you may have the option of leasing your cart and equipment.

Before buying equipment call Bellissimo for recommendations. We do not sell any equipment, but can help you with contacts.

Make sure by your opening day that you and your employees are trained on how to make an excellent espresso beverage. If you need further assistance in any aspect on opening and starting up your coffee / espresso cart go to www.espresso101.com to see the consulting services our company provides.

If you are not ready for Bellissimo’s consulting services our manual Bean Business Basics will outline in detail what it takes to open a coffee shop business, coffee drive-thru, coffee cart or coffee kiosk. Call 800-655-3955 or click here to order online.

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