Food trucks set to roll into the UK as mobile units become the in place to buy lunch
27 May 2011
Food trucks are taking the US by storm as the coolest places to eat as operators cash in on the concept of offering high-end, innovative street food at drive-through prices in a variety of changing locations.
Foodservice consultant Peter Backman says the trend could take off in the UK as the image of mobile catering starts to undergo a much-needed revamp. “Mobile units have the benefit of being relatively cheap to set up and run and are able to move to meet consumer demand. This new type of food truck is a far cry from the old-style greasy spoon mobile catering unit – these are smart, sassy, innovative and serve great food,” he said.
While the majority of US food trucks are independently-owned single units, some are becoming small chains with up to 10 trucks. National brands such as Taco Bell and Dunkin' Donuts are also moving into the market.
Mobile catering is far from new, but the revamped and improved food trucks have brought a new lease of life to the American catering sector, with units serving several hundred customers a day and specialising in anything from chicken dishes, pizza, burgers, tacos, Indian, and even cupcakes. Many offer innovative, quality food while others carry an environmental or sustainability message or design eye-catching trucks. Food trucks are found in large urban areas, although some authorities do prohibit them. Trucks typically park for around 90 minutes over lunch and then move on. Locations change daily so that customers are offered a choice of new concepts.