For coffee lovers looking to start their own business, opening a cold brew coffee cart can be a fun and profitable venture. Cold brew's popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, as people discover its smooth, less acidic taste. A mobile cart lets you bring this sought-after beverage straight to thirsty customers in high-traffic areas. If you have a passion for coffee and an entrepreneurial spirit, here is a guide to launching your own cold brew coffee cart business.
Why a Cold Brew Cart?
A cold brew cart offers lower startup costs than a cafe, as well as flexibility and portability to serve customers on the go. You can tap into the thriving cold brew market and introduce new customers to this tasty coffee option without a major upfront investment. A cart setup also allows you to be your own boss, choose your own hours and locations, and directly engage with caffeine-craving crowds.
Equipment Needed
Key equipment for a functional cold brew cart includes:
- Cold Brew Tower - An insulated tower with a tap where concentrated cold brew can be stored and dispensed. Towers keep cold brew chilled for hours.
- Kegs - Stainless steel kegs of around 5 gallons capacity to store concentrated and diluted coffee. You'll need at least two.
- Coolers - Rugged coolers to hold the cold brew kegs and keep contents cold.
- Hoses & Regulator - Food-grade hoses to connect kegs to the tower plus a dual body regulator.
- Cylinder - CO2 or nitrogen cylinder for dispensing coffee.
We recommend purchasing a specialty cold brew coffee cart start-up kit that has all of these components tested and ready to go. This saves you time sourcing individual supplies. Kits start around $2,500.
Creating Your Cold Brew
Next, perfect your cold brew coffee recipe! Cold brew concentrate steeps grounds in room temperature or cool water for 12-24 hours. This lengthy steep produces a smooth concentrate that you then dilute 1:1 with water. Tweak your own recipe testing bean types, coarseness, steep times, and water ratios. Serve coffee on ice or use milk to make tasty lattes. Offer flavor additions like vanilla or chocolate syrup too.
Getting Set Up
Once your equipment and brew dialed in, it's time to get your cart set up in a prime spot! Seek locations with heavy foot traffic that allow food trucks and carts, like busy city centers, office park strips, festivals, and events. Contact managers ahead to secure your space. Bring plenty of ice, cups, napkins, straws, and other serving supplies. Make eye-catching signs showcasing your offerings. Keep menu items limited at first as you build your customer base.
Spreading the Word
Use social media, flyers, and promotions to get the word out about your new cold brew coffee cart and entice people to stop by. Offer free samples so people can taste your superior cold brew. As you build a following, expand your locations and hours. Stay connected with customers on social and offer loyalty perks to keep them coming back.
Precision Control: Regulator and Cylinder
To achieve the perfect pour, precision is key. Our kit includes a regulator and cylinder designed to give you complete control over the dispensing process. Adjust the pressure with ease to achieve the desired flow rate, ensuring that each cup of cold brew is served with the utmost precision and care.
Quality Assurance: Testing Before Dispatch
We understand the importance of reliability in the fast-paced world of mobile coffee service. That's why we go the extra mile to test all components before dispatch. Our commitment to quality assurance guarantees that you receive a kit that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, allowing you to focus on what you do best – serving exceptional cold brew coffee.
In conclusion, our small coffee cart kit is a comprehensive solution for anyone looking to embark on a journey into the world of mobile coffee service or enhance their existing setup. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality, we invite you to experience the unparalleled satisfaction of crafting and serving the perfect cup of cold brew with our top-of-the-line components. Elevate your coffee game and let the aroma of excellence emanate from your small coffee cart.