I understand you're extremely busy. Operating a food truck is one of the most demanding businesses possible. It's hard to squeeze in marketing and branding when you're up early prepping for the day and up late cleaning your truck and paying bills. However, branding is essential to the success of your business. You need your name and food to be known by your customers and your soon to be customers. The food truck experience is much more than the food. People want to remember their entire dining experience. They want to be wowed by your truck name, look and feel as much as your food. You can have the best food in town, but if your not branding and marketing, no one will know about your food or know how to find you.
What's in a name?
We insure hundreds of food trucks across the country. We have seen all kinds of crazy names. A name is very important to get attention and to be remembered. Think Baby's Badass Burgers, I Don't Give a Fork, Haulin' Balls, Dump Pho King Truck, the list goes on. I'm not saying it has to be controversial, but something ordinary will definitely make the dining experience memorable.
Personalize
I love it when trucks get personal. One local truck puts stamps on their bags that says, make with love for "YOUR NAME." I sign up for emails from my favorite trucks, many of them personalize their emails to the recipient. Don't underestimate the value of the little things. Many people will eat where they are familiar because it;'s comforting meaning they may not think you offer the best food they have ever had, but they like the comfort of knowing what to expect. Build your customer base.
Wrap it up!
A wrap is a serious investment and a serious decision when you are starting up. I've said it before in previous entries, but DO NOT skimp here. The wrap is a customer's first impression. Many will decide whether or not to eat from your truck whether they like your look or not. Test design concepts with as many friends, family and anyone willing to provide an independent opinion before you make a decision. Look at previous designs by vendors before deciding on a vehicle wrap company. Getting a wrap is like choosing a tattoo; it's personal, meaningful and at around $4,000 it's pretty permanent.
Insure My Food Truck has been successful not only because of our quality product, but because of our recognizable brand. It takes a very long time to establish a brand, but taking the time when starting and spending a few minutes a day to work on your marketing will pay huge dividends down the road. I love taking branding and marketing. If you have any questions about branding your business, give me a call!