The coffee truck business is one of the fastest-growing models in the food and beverage industry, combining the love for coffee with the flexibility of mobility.
From understanding coffee truck permits and mapping out a solid coffee truck business plan, to calculating realistic coffee truck daily earnings and designing smart marketing strategies, success comes down to planning and execution.
In this guide, we will take you step by step through the essentials, from startup costs and equipment to branding, operations, and growth strategies, so you can launch a profitable mobile coffee business anywhere in the world.
Key Takeaways
- A coffee truck business offers lower startup costs and more flexibility than a traditional café.
- Success depends on securing the right permits, equipment, and a clear business plan.
- Smart branding, location choices, and marketing strategies drive customer loyalty and growth.
- Average coffee truck daily earnings range from $500–$1,500, with strong potential to scale.

How to Start a Coffee Truck Business Step-by-Step
Launching a coffee truck business is not just about brewing a great cup of coffee, but about building a mobile café that is profitable, compliant, and sustainable.
To succeed, you will need more than passion for coffee; you will need a clear roadmap that covers planning, permits, startup costs, equipment, and operations.
In the next ten steps, we will break down exactly how to start a coffee truck business, from defining your concept to hitting the streets with confidence.
Step 1: Define Your Coffee Truck Concept
Every successful coffee truck business starts with a strong concept. Your concept is the foundation of your brand identity, the magnet that attracts customers, and the lens through which you design your menu, truck layout, and coffee truck marketing strategies. It is also what helps you stand out in a competitive mobile coffee business market.
When defining your concept, think about: Who are you serving? What makes your truck different? How will you keep your offerings profitable while appealing to local tastes?
Below is a guide to popular profitable coffee truck ideas, customer targets, and branding examples to inspire your planning.
Concept Type | Target Customers | Menu Focus | Branding Example |
---|---|---|---|
Specialty Coffee Truck | Coffee enthusiasts, office workers, students | Espresso-based drinks, cold brews, and single-origin beans | Minimalist, modern branding with emphasis on quality |
Eco-Friendly Coffee Truck | Conscious consumers, millennials, eco-shoppers | Organic or fair-trade coffee, plant-based milks, and biodegradable cups | Green or earth tones, eco slogans, and a visible sustainability message |
Event & Catering Coffee Truck | Weddings, corporate events, festivals | Customisable coffee bar, themed drinks, and add-on pastries | Elegant or festive branding tailored to events |
Budget-Friendly Truck | Commuters, students, and low-income areas | Classic drip coffee, teas, and simple snacks | Bold signage, value-based messaging (“Great coffee, fast!”) |
Fusion Concept Truck | Trend-seekers, young professionals | Coffee cocktails, matcha, bubble tea, global-inspired drinks | Creative, colourful, Instagrammable truck design |
Step 2: Research the Market & Competition
Before investing in your coffee truck business, you need to understand the landscape you are entering. Research ensures you know where demand is strongest, who your competitors are, and how your unique concept can stand out.
A well-researched market helps you design a realistic coffee truck business plan, choose the right locations, and avoid costly mistakes.
Your goal here is to answer three key questions: Who are my customers? Where are the most profitable locations? And who else is serving them, and how can I do it better?
Research Area | What to Look For | How to Apply It to Your Coffee Truck |
---|---|---|
Customer Demographics | Age, lifestyle, coffee preferences, and income levels | Tailor menu pricing and offerings to your core audience (e.g., premium cold brews for professionals, value options for students). |
High-Traffic Locations | Business districts, campuses, transport hubs, events, and markets | Position your truck where your target customers already gather daily. |
Competitor Analysis | Nearby cafés, kiosks, food trucks, menu, pricing, branding | Identify gaps (e.g., if competitors only sell drip coffee, offer specialty espresso drinks). |
Cultural/Regional Preferences | Drinking habits: espresso vs. iced coffee vs. tea preferences | Adjust menu to fit local tastes while keeping signature items unique. |
Regulatory Landscape | Parking rules, zoning restrictions, and local food truck regulations | Choose areas with fewer restrictions and assess the feasibility of permits early. |
Step 3: Write a Practical Coffee Truck Business Plan
A strong coffee truck business plan is more than a document; it is your roadmap to success. It helps you clarify your concept, calculate realistic coffee truck startup costs, project earnings, and prepare for challenges. It is also crucial if you need funding from banks, investors, or grants.
Unlike traditional cafés, the mobile coffee business comes with unique considerations: parking permits, truck customisation, and fluctuating foot traffic.
A focused plan ensures you are ready to navigate these variables while showing potential investors you have done your homework.
Key Elements of a Coffee Truck Business Plan
Plan Section | What to Include | Importance |
---|---|---|
Executive Summary | Snapshot of your concept, goals, and funding needs | First impression for lenders or partners |
Business Description | Define your coffee truck concept, mission, and unique value proposition | Differentiates you from competitors |
Market Analysis | Insights into customer demographics, location research, and competitor analysis | Ensures your truck is positioned in the most profitable spaces |
Menu & Services | Coffee offerings, snacks, and add-ons like catering for events | Clarifies revenue streams and appeals to diverse audiences |
Marketing Strategies | Branding, promotions, digital presence, event partnerships | Outlines how you will attract and retain loyal customers |
Operations Plan | Staffing, truck maintenance, suppliers, and daily routines | Provides structure for smooth daily operations |
Financial Plan | Startup costs, operating expenses, daily earnings projections, break-even analysis | Demonstrates profitability and secures investor confidence |
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Step 4: Get Permits, Licences and Health Compliance
No matter where you operate, securing the right coffee truck permits and licences is non-negotiable. These approvals ensure your coffee truck business is legal, safe, and trusted by customers.
While the exact requirements vary globally, most governments expect mobile vendors to follow strict food safety, zoning, and public health regulations.
Getting your paperwork in order early prevents costly fines, forced closures, or reputation damage. Think of it as laying the legal foundation of your mobile coffee business.
Common Permits & Licences for Coffee Trucks
Permit or Licence | What It Covers | Where to Get Them |
---|---|---|
Business Licence | Registers your coffee truck as a legal entity | Local business registry (e.g., Companies House in the UK, CAC in Nigeria, State Registry in the US) |
Health Department Permit | Food safety inspections, sanitation, water or waste compliance | Local health authority (e.g., City Health Department in the US, Environmental Health Office in the UK) |
Food Handler Certification | Training for safe food and drink preparation | Accredited food safety providers (e.g., ServSafe in the US, FSSAI in India) |
Fire Safety Certificate | Ensures equipment, wiring, and gas lines are safe | Local fire authority (e.g., Fire Marshal in the US, Civil Defence in the UAE) |
Parking/Vending Permit | Grants permission to trade in designated streets or areas | Local council or city office (e.g., NEA in Singapore, Prefecture in France) |
Special Event Permits | Temporary licences for festivals, markets, and private events | Event organisers or municipal offices (e.g., County Councils in Ireland, Gewerbeamt in Germany) |
Step 5: Secure Financing and Budgeting
Starting a coffee truck business requires careful financial planning. From purchasing the truck to stocking beans and cups, your coffee truck startup costs will determine how much funding you need and how quickly you can break even.
Whether you are self-funding or seeking outside investment, a clear budget shows you are serious and prepared.
Most successful mobile coffee businesses start with lean operations but still budget for permits, branding, and a safety cushion for the first few months. Treat this stage as building the financial backbone of your venture.
Financing Options for Coffee Truck Owners
Option | How It Works | Best For |
---|---|---|
Personal Savings | Funding your truck from your resources | Entrepreneurs wanting full control |
Bank or Microloans | Borrowed funds paid back with interest | Owners with strong credit and formal plans |
Crowdfunding | Raise money via platforms like Kickstarter | Owners with creative concepts and strong stories |
Investor Partnerships | Equity or profit-sharing arrangements | Scaling quickly or launching multiple trucks |
Small Business Grants | Government or NGO grants in some countries | Startups in priority sectors (youth, women, green businesses) |

Step 6: Purchase and Customise Your Coffee Truck
Your truck is more than a vehicle; it is the heart of your coffee truck business. This step is where your vision comes to life: choosing the right van or trailer, fitting it with equipment, and wrapping it in branding that attracts customers from a distance.
A well-designed truck not only ensures smooth operations but also acts as your most powerful marketing tool.
When deciding how to start a coffee truck business, entrepreneurs often underestimate the impact of truck design and branding. Remember: people buy with their eyes first. The right look and messaging can be the difference between a passerby walking past or walking up for a latte.
Vehicle Options for Coffee Trucks
Vehicle Type | Cost Range (USD) | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee Truck (Van) | $35,000 – $100,000 | Fully mobile, self-contained, high-earning potential | Higher purchase and maintenance costs |
Coffee Trailer | $15,000 – $50,000 | Lower cost, can detach from towing vehicle | Needs a parking space and a tow vehicle |
Coffee Cart or Kiosk | $5,000 – $20,000 | Lowest startup cost, easy to move indoors or outdoors | Limited menu and capacity |
Customisation Essentials
Area | What to Include | Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
Interior Layout | Counters, storage, plumbing, and electrical setup | Smooth workflow and efficiency |
Power & Water | Generator, battery systems, clean or grey water tanks | Keeps operations independent and compliant |
Equipment Fittings | Secure mounting for espresso machines and grinders | Safety and stability while driving |
Exterior Branding | Logo, colours, menu boards, truck wrap | Attracts attention and reinforces identity |
Signage & Menus | Bold, clear, readable from afar | Draws in customers quickly |
Coffee Truck Marketing Strategies
Strategy | How to Apply It |
---|---|
Truck as a Billboard | Invest in a bold vehicle wrap with your logo, colours, and catchy slogan. |
Menu Board Psychology | Design your board to highlight bestsellers and profitable drinks at eye level. |
Instagrammable Design | Use unique colours, quirky slogans, or fun truck décor that customers want to share. |
Digital Integration | Add QR codes linking to your loyalty programme, online menu, or Instagram profile. |
Local Identity | Incorporate cultural elements, neighbourhood references, or local slang into design. |
Seasonal Branding | Update truck visuals and menu for seasons (pumpkin lattes, holiday specials). |
Event Partnerships | Co-brand at festivals, markets, or corporate events. |
Step 7: Buy and Install Essential Equipment
The right equipment is the backbone of any coffee truck business. Unlike a brick-and-mortar café, your setup must balance quality with space efficiency and mobility.
Every piece of gear should be durable, energy-efficient, and designed to handle the demands of a mobile coffee business.
This step is where your coffee truck startup costs often peak, but it is also where your customer experience is shaped. A reliable espresso machine or grinder can make the difference between repeat customers and one-time visitors.
Equipment | Purpose | Considerations |
---|---|---|
Espresso Machine | Core of the business: brews espresso shots | Choose dual-boiler or high-capacity models. It ensures stability during transit |
Coffee Grinder(s) | Ensures consistent grind size for espresso | Invest in at least two: one for espresso, one for decaf or speciality beans. |
Drip or Pour-Over Brewer | Serves batch coffee or artisan hand brews | Good for high-volume locations and customers preferring non-espresso drinks |
Blender(s) | Prepares iced coffee, frappes, smoothies | Adds variety and caters to younger markets or hot climates |
Refrigerator or Freezer | Stores milk, cream, syrups, and snacks | Compact, energy-efficient units are essential for limited space |
Water Tanks & Filtration | Provides clean water for brewing and cleaning | Critical for coffee quality; check local health regulations |
POS System or Cash Drawer | Handles payments (card, mobile, cash) | Mobile POS systems with contactless options increase convenience |
Generator or Power Source | Provides electricity when no plug-in is available | Quiet, fuel-efficient generators or battery systems are best |
Cleaning Station | Sinks, soap, and sanitation setup | Required by most health departments for compliance |
Storage Units | Organises beans, cups, napkins, and utensils | Must be secure and vibration-resistant for transit |
See Also: Is a Food Truck Business Profitable? Startup Costs, Challenges & Growth Tips
Step 8: Source Ingredients and Supplies
Even the best-equipped coffee truck business will not succeed without reliable, high-quality ingredients. Your beans, milk, syrups, and disposables are the lifeblood of your mobile coffee business.
Choosing the right suppliers ensures consistency, keeps costs under control, and helps you deliver a menu that matches your brand promise.
A strong supply chain is also essential for scaling. If you dream of growing from one truck to several, you will need partners who can keep up with demand.
Key Ingredients and Supplies for Coffee Trucks
Category | What to Source | Considerations |
---|---|---|
Coffee Beans | Single-origin, blends, fair-trade, or organic | Partner with local roasters for freshness, or import speciality beans for uniqueness |
Milk and Alternatives | Dairy milk, oat, almond, soy, coconut | Cater to lactose-free, vegan, and health-conscious customers |
Flavourings and Syrups | Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, seasonal flavours | Adds variety and higher-margin drinks; look for premium brands |
Snacks and Pastries | Croissants, muffins, cookies, light sandwiches | Partner with local bakeries for fresh stock or pre-packaged options |
Tea and Alternatives | Green tea, chai, matcha, herbal blends | Diversifies menu and appeals to non-coffee drinkers |
Disposable Packaging | Cups, lids, straws, napkins, stirrers | Eco-friendly or compostable packaging is increasingly preferred by customers. |
Cleaning Supplies | Sanitisers, soaps, wipes, disposable gloves | Keeps operations compliant with health regulations |
Supplier Tips for Coffee Truck Owners
Tip | How to Apply It | Importance |
---|---|---|
Local Partnerships | Work with nearby roasters and bakeries | Builds community ties and ensures fresher ingredients |
Bulk Buying | Negotiate discounts for high-volume items like beans, syrups, and cups | Reduces long-term costs and improves profit margins |
Eco-Conscious Sourcing | Use compostable cups, lids, and straws | Appeals to eco-aware customers and strengthens the brand |
Backup Suppliers | Always have a secondary supplier for critical items | Prevents service disruption if your main supplier fails |
Consistency First | Stick to a reliable bean blend or syrup brand once chosen | Keeps flavours consistent, encouraging customer loyalty |
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Step 9: Set Up Operations and Train Staff
Once your truck is ready and supplies are stocked, it is time to establish smooth operations. A well-run coffee truck business depends on efficiency, consistency, and excellent service.
This means creating daily routines and, if you are hiring, making sure your staff are trained to deliver both quality coffee and warm customer interactions.
Even if you start solo, planning operations and training early will make scaling easier when you bring new team members on board.
Core Operational Areas
Area | What to Do | Importance |
---|---|---|
Daily Checklists | Create opening and closing routines (stocking, cleaning, cash prep) | Keeps operations consistent and reduces errors |
Inventory Management | Track beans, milk, cups, syrups, and reorder before running low | Prevents stockouts and wasted sales opportunities |
Hygiene & Sanitation | Schedule cleaning, sanitising, and equipment checks daily | Ensures compliance with health regulations |
Cash & Payments | Set up secure systems for cash handling and POS reconciliation | Protects revenue and reduces financial errors |
Customer Service Protocols | Train on greetings, upselling, and handling complaints politely | Builds a loyal customer base and positive reputation |
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Step 10: Launch and Grow Your Coffee Truck
With your truck equipped, permits secured, and staff trained, it is time to hit the road. Launching your coffee truck business is about more than just serving coffee; it is about creating buzz, attracting loyal customers, and setting the stage for long-term growth.
The first few weeks are critical: they establish your reputation and customer base. A strong launch strategy paired with ongoing growth tactics will keep your mobile coffee business profitable and visible.
Coffee Truck Launch Checklist
Task | How to Do It |
---|---|
Soft Launch | Start with a test run at a small market or event |
Grand Opening Event | Offer free samples, discounts, or loyalty cards on launch day |
Location Scouting | Secure high-traffic spots such as commuter hubs, offices, markets, and festivals. |
Local Partnerships | Collaborate with businesses, offices, or event organisers |
Social Media Launch | Post truck location updates, behind-the-scenes videos, and promotions |
Growth Strategies for Coffee Trucks
Strategy | How It Works | Growth Impact |
---|---|---|
Customer Loyalty Programmes | Offer “buy 9, get 1 free” or app-based rewards | Encourages repeat visits and builds a loyal following |
Seasonal Menus | Rotate drinks (pumpkin spice, holiday specials, iced summer brews) | Keeps customers coming back to try new options |
Catering & Events | Book weddings, corporate meetings, and festivals | Adds high-revenue opportunities beyond daily sales |
Multi-Truck Expansion | Add new trucks or expand into trailers and carts | Scales revenue and brand presence quickly |
Franchising or Brick & Mortar | Transition into a café or offer franchise opportunities | Long-term growth path for successful coffee truck brands |
See Also: How to Start an Ice Cream Truck Business – Permits, Equipment, and Pricing Guide

Coffee Truck Startup Costs, Daily Earnings and Profitability Breakdown
A common question for new entrepreneurs is: “How much can a coffee truck make daily?” The answer depends on your location, concept, and efficiency.
With lower overhead than cafés and the flexibility to move where demand is highest, a well-run coffee truck business can generate impressive daily earnings.
Understanding these numbers is key when planning your coffee truck business plan and setting realistic expectations.
Coffee Truck Startup Costs Breakdown
Starting a coffee truck business requires upfront investment, but compared to opening a traditional café, it is significantly lower and more flexible.
Below is a global estimate of coffee truck startup costs, which can vary depending on whether you buy new or used equipment, the level of customisation, and local permit fees.
Estimated Coffee Truck Startup Costs
Category | Estimated Cost Range (USD) |
---|---|
Truck or Trailer Purchase | $10,000 – $50,000 (used) or $50,000 – $100,000 (new) |
Customisation and Branding | $2,000 – $10,000 |
Coffee Equipment | $10,000 – $30,000 |
Permits and Licences | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Initial Inventory | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Marketing and Launch | $500 – $2,000 |
Insurance and Maintenance | $1,000 – $2,000 per year |
Working Capital | $5,000 – $10,000 |
Total Estimated Costs | $30,000 – $120,000+ |
Ongoing Monthly Costs for a Coffee Truck Business
Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
---|---|
Coffee and Ingredients | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Disposable Supplies | $500 – $1,500 |
Fuel and Vehicle Maintenance | $500 – $1,000 |
Staff Wages | $2,000 – $6,000 |
Permits and Parking Fees | $200 – $1,000 |
Insurance | $100 – $300 |
Marketing and Advertising | $200 – $800 |
Miscellaneous or Buffer | $300 – $700 |
Total Estimated Costs | $5,800 – $16,500 |
Coffee Truck Daily Earnings Breakdown
Sales Scenario | Cups Sold per Day | Average Price per Cup (USD) | Daily Revenue (USD) | Monthly Revenue (USD) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Low Volume (Quiet Area) | 80 – 100 | $3.00 – $3.50 | $240 – $350 | $5,300 – $7,700 |
Medium Volume (Steady Flow) | 150 – 200 | $3.50 – $4.00 | $525 – $800 | $11,500 – $17,600 |
High Volume (Prime Spot or Event) | 250 – 300+ | $4.00 – $5.00 | $1,000 – $1,500+ | $22,000 – $33,000+ |
Profit Margins
- Gross Margin: Typically 60% – 70%, as coffee and supplies are relatively cheap compared to the selling price.
- Net Profit: After deducting ongoing monthly costs ($5,800 – $16,500), most trucks net $3,000 – $10,000+ per month, depending on volume and efficiency.
Coffee Truck Break-Even Timeline
Your break-even point depends on startup costs, monthly expenses, and daily earnings. A lean setup will pay itself off faster, while a premium truck with staff may take longer.
Estimated Break-Even Scenarios
Scenario | Startup Cost (USD) | Average Monthly Revenue | Average Monthly Expenses | Monthly Net Profit | Break-Even Timeline |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lean Setup (Used Truck) | $30,000 – $50,000 | $12,000 – $15,000 | $6,000 – $8,000 | $4,000 – $7,000 | 6 – 12 months |
Standard Setup | $60,000 – $90,000 | $15,000 – $20,000 | $8,000 – $12,000 | $5,000 – $8,000 | 12 – 18 months |
Premium Custom Truck | $100,000 – $120,000+ | $20,000 – $30,000 | $12,000 – $16,000 | $8,000 – $12,000 | 18 – 24 months |

Risks and Challenges of Running a Coffee Truck Business
While a coffee truck business can be highly profitable, it is not without its hurdles.
Understanding the risks early helps you prepare strategies to overcome them, avoid financial losses, and keep your mobile coffee business sustainable in the long run.
Challenge | Description | How to Mitigate It |
---|---|---|
Regulatory Hurdles | Navigating permits, parking rules, and health inspections can be time-consuming. | Research local laws thoroughly, keep all permits up to date, and build a good relationship with inspectors. |
Weather Dependence | Rain, snow, or extreme heat can drastically reduce foot traffic. | Diversify into catering and events, and invest in seasonal menu items such as iced drinks in summer or hot specials in winter. |
Location Competition | Popular spots may be saturated with cafés, kiosks, or other food trucks. | Scout underserved locations and differentiate through a unique menu or branding. |
Equipment Breakdowns | Espresso machines, grinders, or generators can fail, halting sales. | Invest in quality equipment, schedule preventive maintenance, and keep backup tools. |
High Operating Costs | Staff wages, fuel, and supplies can eat into profits if not managed. | Track expenses closely, buy in bulk and streamline staff scheduling. |
Customer Retention | Mobile nature makes it harder to build loyal daily customers. | Use loyalty cards, apps, and social media to keep customers connected to your location. |
Cash Flow Fluctuations | Daily sales vary with season, location, and events. | Maintain working capital reserves and plan for slow months. |
Scaling and Expansion Opportunities in the Coffee Truck Business
Once your mobile coffee business is profitable and stable, the next step is growth. Expansion does not have to mean buying a second truck immediately; it could be diversifying income streams, adding new products, or building a brand that extends beyond the street.
The goal is to grow strategically while protecting quality and consistency.
Growth Strategy | How It Works | Potential Benefits |
---|---|---|
Add More Trucks | Replicate your model in new locations or cities. | Increases sales volume and brand visibility quickly. |
Special Event Catering | Offer services for weddings, festivals, and corporate events. | High one-off revenues and exposure to new customer segments. |
Seasonal Pop-Ups | Set up in malls, parks, or markets during holidays or busy seasons. | Boosts revenue during peak times and builds brand awareness. |
Brick-and-Mortar Café | Transition from truck to permanent location or run both. | Establishes brand presence and attracts customers who prefer stability. |
Franchising Model | License your brand and system to other entrepreneurs. | Expands business with lower capital investment from you. |
Retail Products | Sell branded beans, bottled cold brews, or merchandise. | Creates passive income and strengthens brand loyalty. |
Collaborations & Partnerships | Work with local roasters, bakeries, or lifestyle brands. | Expands reach and creates cross-promotional opportunities. |
See Also: Starbucks Franchise- Cost and Top Coffee Shop Franchise Alternatives You Can Invest In
Conclusion
A coffee truck business blends passion for coffee with the flexibility of mobility and the potential for strong profits. With the right planning, permits, equipment, operations, and marketing, you can build a thriving mobile café that not only serves great coffee but also creates a memorable brand.
Start lean, stay consistent, and scale wisely; the opportunities are as limitless as your ambition.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to start a coffee truck business?
Startup costs typically range between $30,000 – $120,000, depending on whether you buy a used or new truck, the level of customisation, and equipment quality.
Do I need special permits for a coffee truck?
Yes. Most regions require a business licence, health permits, fire safety checks, and vending or parking permits. Always confirm with your local authority as requirements differ by city and country.
How much can a coffee truck earn daily?
On average, coffee trucks make $240 – $1,500+ per day, depending on location, traffic, and menu pricing. High-footfall areas and special events often generate the highest earnings.
Is a coffee truck business profitable?
Yes. With gross margins of 60%–70%, many trucks achieve monthly net profits of $3,000 – $10,000+ once operating costs are covered. Profitability depends heavily on location and efficient management.
How long does it take to break even?
Most trucks break even within 6 to 24 months, depending on startup costs and sales volume. Event catering can significantly shorten this timeline.
Do I need barista experience to start a coffee truck?
Not necessarily. While barista skills help, you can hire trained staff or take short courses. What matters most is strong planning, operations, and customer service.
Can a coffee truck operate year-round?
Yes, but the weather can affect sales. Many owners adapt with seasonal menus (iced drinks in summer, hot specials in winter) or by booking indoor or catering events during harsh seasons.