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How to Start a Jiffy Truck Food Business in the UK

by Krisztina Hegedus
(Bexhill On Sea)


Hi David!
My dream is to start the little burger van in some industrial park near me.
But looks like I have to give up, as it is impossible to find a pich.
I called a council, but they have only 3 place in the whole town (Hastings).
Now I was thinking to buy a jiffy truck and try to sell food form there.
But I have no idea how to start. Should I buy a food or should I make them myself.
Is it possible to make all the food in the morning, before I start?
Amy info will help me!
Thank you: Krisztina

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Apr 07, 2025
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by: David-

Hello Krisztina,


First off—don’t give up just yet! It might feel like doors are closing, but honestly, you're just at the very beginning of the journey, and there are ways forward. I’ve been in mobile catering for over 20 years, and trust me, loads of people have started out feeling the same way. So let’s break this down together and look at your Jiffy truck idea step by step—what to expect, what works, and how to get going the smart way.

Why a Jiffy Truck Can Be a Brilliant Plan
Jiffy trucks (those little food delivery vans with built-in hot and cold compartments) can be a clever alternative when fixed pitches are hard to come by—especially in busy towns like Hastings where council pitches are limited and often snapped up by long-timers.

With a Jiffy truck, you bring the food to the people, which gives you flexibility and avoids fighting over a fixed pitch. You can trade in industrial estates, business parks, builders' yards, offices—wherever there's a hungry crowd and no canteen in sight.

Step 1: Understand What a Jiffy Truck Is Best For
These trucks are great for:

Grab-and-go lunches (burgers, hot dogs, breakfast rolls, jacket potatoes, wraps, pasta pots).

Pre-made meals you can keep hot in the warmer or cold in the chilled side.

Regular rounds—same stops at the same times each day.

They’re not ideal for cooking from scratch on the van—you prep everything in the morning and just serve it out hot or cold.

Step 2: Make or Buy the Food?

Now this is a big one. Here's the honest truth:

Making the food yourself:

More profit per item.

More control over taste and quality.

You’ll need time, equipment, and food safety training.

Requires a registered kitchen (your home can be used if it meets hygiene standards).

Tip: Start small with a few fresh items like hot breakfast rolls, toasties, or daily specials, and build from there.

Buying ready-made food:
Less prep, less stress in the morning.

You can start faster.

Lower profit margin, and less exciting for customers long-term.

Best of both? Many people do a mix—buy in some things like drinks, crisps, and sweet snacks, but make the hot food and sandwiches fresh.

Step 3: Can You Prep in the Morning?
Yes, absolutely—and that’s what most Jiffy van traders do.

You’ll typically:

Cook and chill or hot-hold food safely before you set off.

Pack your van with a mix of hot meals, cold items, drinks, and snacks.

Follow food safety rules (hot food must stay above 63°C, chilled below 8°C).

Tip: Time is your best weapon. A good morning routine is key. You’ll need 2–3 hours to prep, load, and be ready to leave around 10am to catch early lunch trade.

Step 4: Finding Customers (Without a Fixed Pitch)
This is where the magic of a Jiffy truck comes in.

Here’s what works:

Drive around industrial estates and look for places with staff but no café nearby.

Pop in and speak to receptionists or site managers. Be friendly, explain what you offer, and give out a little menu.

Offer a trial stop, show up daily or weekly, and build trust.

Once people rely on you for lunch—you’re in.

Tip: Your first few weeks are about testing locations, listening to what people want, and adjusting your round.

Step 5: What You Need to Get Started Legally
Don’t skip this bit—it’s easier than you think, but important:

Register as a food business with your local council (free, needs 28 days before trading).

Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (online course, £10–£20).

Get your Jiffy truck inspected—it needs to be clean, hygienic, and suitable for food transport.

Public liability insurance (£5m cover is standard—around £150–£250/year).

Food safety management system (like Safer Food, Better Business—it’s free and helps you stay compliant).

Final Tips from Experience
Start simple. Don’t try to offer 50 items—stick to 5–8 bestsellers and do them well.

Keep your prices fair but profitable. Offer meal deals like "Burger, crisps, and drink for £5."

Make friends with your customers—they’re your best advertising.

Be consistent—same time, same days, even if it’s quiet at first.

Consider offering card payments—very few people carry cash now.

You’ve Got This. Never Ventured Nothing Gained.

You’re clearly passionate, and you’ve got the spark. Don’t let the lack of a fixed pitch stop you—Jiffy trading is a smart, flexible route into mobile catering, and it can grow into something brilliant. Loads of successful traders started this way, especially in areas where councils make it tough. Hope this helps somewhat and best of luck

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