Advantages

  • A kiosk business have a upfront investment for a kiosk or a cart ranges from just $2,000 to $10,000.
  • Flexibility is another advantage to staying small. License agreements for carts and kiosks are shorter and are usually renewed every month up to one year depending on the location.
  • These temporary locations can also work well for seasonal businesses that only need to be open for a limited time.

Options for starting a cart or kiosk business

  • Include opening a permanent location in a mall and leasing a cart.
  • Whether you lease or buy a cart depends on your product and location. In malls, you generally lease a cart from mall management. The cost of leasing depends on the season and mall traffic volume but is usually at least $800 per month for space and a cart, and can get very high in a good location.
  • Carts come in many sizes and styles with varying capabilities. There are carts for specific types of food, some with refrigerators, grills, steamers–even small ovens so you can bake on location.
  • Don’t limit yourself to making one item, in case it doesn’t sell well and you have to switch gears.