Coffee Van Takings ... Why the Big Secret?

by Sabina
(East Midlands)


For years it has been my dream to own a mobile coffee business and I am now in a position to make this dream potentially come true. I want to go into this with my eyes wide open but no matter how hard I search, I am unable to find information relating to what sort of income I can realistically expect. I realise that this will depend on number of operational days, location etc, but even a ball park figure would be good. It's my dream but it needs to be a financially viable one ... I'll be giving up a full-time job to pursue this. Please could someone help?

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Oct 22, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Realistic Income from a Mobile Coffee Business
by: MobCater

Hello

That’s a really good question — and one that almost everyone asks before taking the leap! You’re right that income can vary a lot depending on location, hours, and events, but let’s break it down in simple terms so you can get a clear picture.

Average Daily Sales

For a typical small coffee trailer or van:

Quiet days (small sites or villages): £100–£200

Busy weekday pitch or industrial estate: £250–£400

Markets / events / festivals: £500–£1,000+ per day

Your average will depend on how many of each type you do.

Typical Weekly & Yearly Income

If you trade 5 days a week with a mix of quiet and busy days:

Weekly turnover: £800–£1,200

Monthly turnover: £3,000–£5,000

Yearly turnover: £35,000–£60,000

Top performers at big events or tourist spots can reach £70,000–£100,000+, but that usually involves weekends, long hours, and reinvesting in good branding and equipment.

Costs to Expect

Approximate monthly running costs (depending on setup):

Stock (coffee, milk, cups): £400–£800

Fuel / LPG / Generator: £100–£300

Site pitch fees: £200–£600

Insurance & licences: £50–£150

Van or trailer costs: £200–£500

Miscellaneous (repairs, marketing, etc.): £100–£200

After expenses, profit margins are usually around 30–45%.

So, if you turn over £4,000 a month, you might take home around £1,200–£1,800 after costs.

How to Increase Income

Offer iced drinks, pastries, and snacks.

Trade at high-footfall events (markets, retail parks, festivals).

Build a local following through social media and loyalty cards.

Keep regular pitches for weekdays and add events at weekends.

Final Thoughts
If you plan carefully and build gradually, a mobile coffee business can absolutely replace a full-time income. The first year is usually about learning and finding your rhythm — year two and beyond are where most see consistent profits.
Hope this helps to answer some questions.

Disclaimer:
This is general information for guidance. Every business is different, and results depend on your setup, pricing, and trading days. Always seek financial advice before leaving employment.

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