Breaking into the food truck business isn’t for the faint of heart—but for those who do it right, it can be incredibly rewarding.
Recently, we heard the story of a New Zealand couple who shared their journey into the food truck world. Both held full-time, high-paying office jobs but spent over a year saving and planning before launching their venture. Rather than rushing in, they enrolled in food preparation training at Wintec and invested heavily in a top-tier, custom-built trailer—one of the most high-spec units in the country.
Despite their preparation, the early days were tough. Sales were painfully slow, with only a few transactions over several hours. They quickly discovered that even the best equipment and great food aren’t enough if you’re in the wrong location or lack clear signage. Their first site, unfortunately, was frequented by people walking or exercising—people not inclined to stop for food. On top of that, the menu and pricing weren’t clearly displayed.
But they adapted fast.
They shifted their focus to weekend markets and events, only to learn another hard truth: without a steady stream of foot traffic, you can’t break even. After working 12-hour days, paying market fees, and driving to and from venues, the returns were minimal. But they kept going. They invested in better signage, clarified their menu, streamlined their order-taking system, and focused on speed and service quality.
A few months in, their persistence began to pay off. Sales increased, word-of-mouth grew, and they started looking into expanding their kitchen setup to meet demand. Their biggest takeaway? Never compromise on your trailer build. A well-designed, functional space not only helps you cook faster and serve better—it sets the tone for your entire business. A poor-quality or undersized trailer limits your potential from day one.
Their story reflects what many experienced operators already know: food trucks are not a low-cost shortcut to success. They require upfront investment, planning, and a willingness to adapt on the go. But for those who approach it with care and commitment, the business can be more than profitable—it can be a deeply fulfilling lifestyle.
(This article is based on publicly shared experiences by a food truck owner on an online forum. It has been paraphrased and adapted for educational and informational purposes. If the original author believes this usage infringes on their rights, please contact us and we will remove or revise the content promptly.)
Start Your Food Trailer Business with TOP Trailers Ltd
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