A good sign that a trend is reaching the mainstream is the publication of a Dummies book on the topic. So it comes as no surprise to those following the food truck industry that Running a Food Truck for Dummies was recently released.
The guide is written Richard Myrick, a great choice to author this book. He's an expert on food trucks and the editor and founder of Mobile Cuisine, an online website covering the mobile food industry.
The strength of this book, in my opinion, are the chapters on how to build a food truck business plan and market a food truck.
The business plan section goes deep on cash flow and income statement details.
It also stresses the importance of having enough startup capital to survive the first year of operation.
I really liked the section on key performance indicators (KPIs). All small businesses should identify and track their KPIs, yet I continue to be amazed how few do. Kudos to Richard for covering this topic in-depth.
I also liked the sections on marketing and using social media. Our research on food trucks show almost all food trucks use social media and most owners consider it their main way to reach customers and prospects. Aspiring food truck owners clearly need to come up to speed on social media.
We've interviewed a lot of food truck owners and prospective owners. Most are passionate and knowledgeable about food, but few have strong business skills. This is no surprise - our research on entrepreneurial artists had the same results.
But to be successful as a food trucks owner, being a successful business person is as important as being a great chef. This book will help develop the business skills needed to survive and thrive.
Anyone running a food truck, or considering entering the mobile food business, should invest $16 and buy this book. The ROI will be huge.
Visit the Dummies site for video interviews with Richard and highlights from the book.
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