Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hi all!  Please be gentle on me as this is my first time (posting here.)

Anyway, I`ve always wanted to start my own business.  My ultimate goal is to own a coffee shop/cafe.  I know that due to financial reasons, however, that is a ways off. 

As a way of starting small, I`ve been considering starting a "mobile barista" service.  Essentially, this would be a mobile coffee cart that could be taken to events (parties, corporate events, etc.) for a fee (based on number of people and time commitment.)  I would then be there to make all sorts of specialty coffee drinks.  I spent several years working as a barista in various coffee shops, so I have that knowledge.

Opinions as to whether this might be a marketable idea?

It`s a great idea.  Yes the coffee market is quite saturated but the demand is so high!  I know a guy who sells coffee from the back of a 1949 bread truck - turned coffee shop on wheels.  He has really good coffee, a great personality and a cool truck.  It`s a winning combo and he is well known in my town.  The orange truck became his image, the thing that made his company memorable.

To compete in the competitive coffee market, you gotta have something that sets you apart.

I think it is a great idea.  StarBucks on wheels!  Seriously, most events you can get your soda, slushy, beer, and maybe a regular cup of coffee, but not what you are offering.  i think you should go for it!  I don`t know if you live in the part of the country where we have winter, but many events like snowmobile races, 4-wheelers, skiing, etc. would be a great opportunity for you!

good luck!

p.s.  if you ever want to make money from home, on your down time, visit my website;

www.themomteam.com/crazyandlovingitmom

i think you would find it interesting.  And don`t let the name fool you.  We`re not just moms...  We market for a wellness company, and i absolutely love it.. 

Take Care!

Tina

Proud Member of The Mom Team

smith64@zitomedia.net

Thanks for the feedback.  I`vve considered the "coffee shop on wheels"  idea.  Kinda funny, there was actually an old bread truck for sale in my town a little a while ago, and I started thinking.....hmmmm.  I`ve also thought of a converted ice cream truck as a setup.  But of course, that requires the funding be available for a reliable (or at least semi reliable) vehicle.  As for finding a way to stand out, I already drive one of those little toaster cars, a Scion xB that I know would be a great advertising vehicle (pun intended.)

Thanks for all the ideas of locations, too.  Other ideas that came to my mind as it was racing while I was trying to get to sleep were weddings, graduation open houses, car dealership promotions (enjoy a free mocha while browsing our huge selection of new and pre-owned Crapola Co. automobiles.)  Yes, I live in a winter state (MI) so that opens up those possibilties as well.

good luck!, and keep me posted on your success!

Tina

yeah this seams like a good idea...I once thought about just a coffee delivery service...and I actualy have seen some around...It might be a good idea if you are on a super low budget

Nice idea, i hope it clicks. I have seen couple of mobile trucks serving breakfast but this will be nice to dedicate it to coffee only. Good luck in putting your steps to start a mobile coffee shop.

---------------------------------------------------------- ---------------

Innovative Business Ideas | Startup Shop Ideas | Small Business Opportunities | Home Based Business Ideas

-------------------------

Business Opportunities: http://www.startupbizhub.com

Hey!  This is definately do-able!  I am a barista and was recently asked to serve espresso beverages at a friend`s kid`s graduation party!  What FUN, FUN, FUN it was!  They provided all the equipment and it was just "home brew" stuff, but it made my entrepreneurial (sp?) mind go WILD!!  Imagine what I could do if I had the commercial equipment, a mobile cart, etc., etc., etc.  So, I got the research fingers moving online to see if there was anyone in my area doing it and well, not really.  SO, here I go! 

Do your research for your local food business requirements and search "espresso catering" in your area.  Good Luck and much success to us both - Great Minds Think Alike!!

You should firstly take a market investigation to help the choose of location or the taste of the local people. That`s important.