Mobile Coffee Fitout

Slave to the Grind

I'm new here and I'm hoping to get some advice from any members
who can help. I'm starting a mobile business using a horse float as
my coffee trailer as I like this concept and is a bit less expensive to
start up. However, I am struggling to find someone who is experienced
in doing a fitout for me in the south east suburbs of Melbourne. I know
what I want but just need some contacts in the industry. Any help/
advice/opinions would be greatly appreciated as I am eager to get
my business started.

Koffee_Kosmo

Welcome to the Crema Forum STG We have several mobile coffee projects on the forum from around the world We can advise but we need a little more detail as to a short list of - Equipment fit out Budget Power requirements Water requirements Coffee only or with food Have you tried a company called Coffee Bella They do mobile coffee trailers http://www.coffeebella.com.au/locations/ Here is a start to finish VW Combi from Ireland. -  http://www.bestcafes.com.au/forum/have-your-say/mobile-coffee-ireland/ KK

mycuppa

Welcome STG You may discover that the majority of the companies that do fitouts will want you to pay a "not-so-small" ransom to use their system, then may also make you sign an exclusive contract to supply all the consumables. I'm not talking about franchise systems here - these are the "turnkey" solutions. These companies have developed their systems based on certain vans, e.g. MB Vito, Hyundai iLoad, VW Caddy Maxi, etc. and because they have invested into the R&D to build the fitout, it's fair enough they make a profit. I supply quite a few independent mobile operators in SE Melbourne and some of them have progressed from franchise systems to their own fitout. In some cases, they had bit custom made, or adapted to suit the dimensions of their spaces. The design of such systems needs to be carefully thought out so that workflow and every available space is efficiently optimized. Your first port of call is the council EHO. Most councils these days have adopted standard mobile food permit regulations. It's very important you understand what is required for compliance, else you will be shutdown quickly. Items such as running hot water and cleaning sinks are critical. You may also want to re-consider your choice of horse-float versus a van unless of course you are intending to stay put or work on events. A van fitout keeps you very mobile and enables you to develop weekday runs or quick service to smaller events. Events these days are running with every decreasing spaces and more operators - so you need something quick and easy. Most of what you need is stainless shelving and benches so just about any decent sheetmetal provider can build something for you if you have a design (which is the critical element). Other items like generators (recommend Honda), pumps, water tanks, etc. are pretty standard and easy to get operational - basic plumbing and electrical works that can be performed by tradies. Focus on your design and layout with one keen eye always on your EHO compliance !.

Slave to the Grind

Thanks KK and My Cuppa for your replies. I have already done a lot of leg work with regards to my business including a business plan. Registration pending with council already based on finished trailer adhering to all regulations which I have all the relevant information for. After much research including market surveying I am looking at events short term with a permanent location as my long term goal. I do not require equipment in my fitout as I have purchased most items already over time. I need cabinetry, plumbing and electrics Including hot/cold water, 240v power. It has been suggested that caravan repairers may be the best port of call but if you have any Other suggestions it would be much appreciated. Would like to keep Price below $10000 if possible.

Slave to the Grind

Extra info. This will be a coffee trailer only with limited prepackaged Food. No cooking facilities required, only coffee machine(15amp), grinder, fridge, Blender. 120 litre water tank and 50 litre sullage tank. Preferably Looking at laminate style finishes as opposed to stainless steel. I think that's everything. Any more advice or suggestions are much appreciated.