Find Your Next Business Venture: Jacket Potato Van for Sale UK

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November 21, 2025

On November 21, 2025

So, you’re thinking about diving into the world of mobile catering, and a jacket potato van for sale has caught your eye? Brilliant! It’s a classic for a reason – simple, popular, and can be a real money-maker. This guide is here to help you figure out what’s what, from finding the right van to getting it kitted out and ready to serve up those delicious spuds.

Key Takeaways

When looking for a jacket potato van for sale, consider where you’ll operate. You’ll need permission from landowners or local councils, and might need specific licences depending on the pitch.
Make sure your van is properly equipped. You’ll need reliable cooking equipment like ovens or fryers, serving supplies, and importantly, all the legal bits sorted, like food hygiene certificates and Gas Safe checks if you’re using LPG.
Think about the practicalities of running the business. This includes marketing your van, managing your finances, and understanding the legal requirements to keep your business safe and above board.

Embarking On Your Jacket Potato Van Adventure

Understanding The Appeal Of A Jacket Potato Van

So, you’re thinking about getting into the mobile catering game with a jacket potato van? Smart move! Jacket potatoes are a proper British staple, loved by pretty much everyone. They’re filling, versatile, and can be served up with a huge range of toppings, from the classic cheese and beans to more adventurous options. This means you can cater to all sorts of tastes and dietary needs, which is a big plus.

Comfort Food Classic: People just love a good jacket potato, especially on a chilly day. It’s a reliable seller.
Customisable: You can offer a wide variety of fillings, from simple butter and cheese to chilli con carne or tuna mayo. This keeps your menu interesting and caters to different preferences.
Relatively Simple Operation: Compared to some other street food ventures, a jacket potato van can be quite straightforward to run once you’ve got your setup sorted.

It’s a business that can be run solo or with a small team, and the demand is pretty consistent throughout the year. Plus, the initial investment can be more manageable than setting up a brick-and-mortar shop. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door of the food industry. If you’re looking for a business that’s got a solid foundation, a jacket potato van is definitely worth considering. You might even find some good deals on used vans if you look around, perhaps through specialist dealers or online marketplaces.

Key Considerations Before You Buy

Before you go ahead and buy that van, there are a few things you really need to think about. It’s not just about finding a van that looks the part; it’s about making sure it’s fit for purpose and that you can actually operate legally and safely.

Vehicle Condition: Is the van mechanically sound? You don’t want to be breaking down constantly. Check the engine, brakes, and tyres. A pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic is a good idea.
Layout and Equipment Space: Think about how you’ll work inside. You’ll need space for your potato ovens, prep areas, storage, and serving hatch. Does the current layout work, or will it need a significant refit?
Power Source: How will you power your equipment? Most mobile caterers use generators or hook up to a mains supply. Consider the power requirements of your ovens, fridges, and any other appliances. Some vans are fitted with dual fuel coffee machines which offer flexibility.
Water and Waste: You’ll need a reliable water supply and a way to dispose of waste legally. Check if the van has adequate sinks and water tanks.
Legal Requirements: This is a big one. You’ll need to register your food business, get the right insurance, and comply with all food hygiene and safety regulations. Don’t forget about potential permits or licences needed for trading locations.
Budget for Refurbishment: Even if you find a van that looks good, you might need to spend money on customising it to your needs, fitting new equipment, or giving it a fresh coat of paint. Always have a bit of a contingency fund for unexpected costs.

Navigating The Market For Your Jacket Potato Van For Sale

Right then, you’ve decided a jacket potato van is the way to go. Brilliant! Now comes the fun part: actually finding one. It’s not like popping down to the local car dealership, but with a bit of know-how, you’ll be well on your way.

Where To Find The Best Deals

So, where do you even start looking? There are a few avenues to explore, and it’s worth casting a wide net.

Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Gumtree, and specialist catering equipment sites are your first port of call. You’ll find a huge variety here, from older, more basic models to fully kitted-out vans. Keep an eye out for listings that include detailed descriptions and plenty of photos.
Catering Vehicle Specialists: There are companies that specifically convert and sell used catering vehicles. A quick Google search for “used catering vans UK” or “mobile catering sales” should bring up some options. These guys often know their stuff and might offer warranties or support.
Auctions: Sometimes, you can snag a real bargain at vehicle auctions. You’ll need to be quick and decisive, though, and it’s often a case of ‘buyer beware’, so do your homework beforehand.
Direct from Other Traders: Keep an ear to the ground. If you know other mobile caterers, they might be selling up or know someone who is. Word of mouth can be surprisingly effective.

When you’re looking, don’t just focus on the price. Think about the base vehicle itself. Is it reliable? What’s its mileage? A solid, well-maintained van is worth more in the long run than a cheap one that’s constantly breaking down. For example, Ford Transits and Fiat Ducatos are popular choices for a reason – they’re generally robust and parts are easy to find.

Essential Checks For Used Catering Vehicles

Buying a used van means you need to be a bit of a detective. Don’t skip these checks, they could save you a fortune down the line.

Vehicle Mechanics: Get a mechanic to give it a thorough once-over. Check the engine, brakes, suspension, and electrics. You don’t want to be dealing with major mechanical issues straight after buying.
Catering Equipment: Test every piece of equipment. Does the oven heat up? Does the fryer work? Are the gas connections safe? If you’re unsure, it’s worth getting a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect the gas system. You’ll need a Gas Safety Certificate for legal trading anyway.
Bodywork and Interior: Look for rust, especially around the wheel arches and chassis. Check the interior for damp or mould, which can be a sign of leaks. Make sure the layout makes sense for your planned operation – is there enough space for prep, cooking, and serving?
Weight: This is a big one. Catering vans can get heavy quickly with all the equipment and stock. Make sure the van’s Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is suitable for its intended load. An overweight van is illegal and can lead to hefty fines. A specialist can help you calculate this.
Paperwork: Check the V5C (logbook), MOT history, and any service records. Ensure the seller is the legal owner and there are no outstanding finance issues.

Remember, starting a mobile catering business involves more than just the vehicle. You’ll need to consider your menu and startup costs too. Taking your time to find the right van will set you up for success.

Equipping Your New Venture

Right then, you’ve got your van, and you’re buzzing to get started. Now comes the fun part: kitting it out! This is where your jacket potato dreams really start to take shape. You need the right gear to cook those spuds to perfection and serve them up with all the tasty toppings.

Essential Cooking and Serving Equipment

When you’re thinking about cooking, the heart of your operation will likely be a good quality oven or a robust griddle. For jacket potatoes, a fan-assisted oven is brilliant for getting that fluffy interior and crispy skin. Some people even opt for a dedicated potato oven, which can be a real game-changer. If you’re thinking of offering other hot food alongside, a commercial griddle is super versatile. You’ll also need a reliable power source. Many mobile caterers go for LPG generators, but increasingly, solar panels are being fitted to the roof, which is a nice eco-friendly touch and can sometimes help with pitch fees.

Here’s a quick rundown of must-haves:

Oven/Griddle: For cooking your potatoes and any other hot items.
Refrigeration: A good fridge is vital for storing your fillings, from cheese and coleslaw to chilli and beans. Make sure it’s commercial grade and can handle the temperature fluctuations of a mobile environment.
Prep Space: You’ll need surfaces for chopping, assembling, and plating. Stainless steel is your best friend here – it’s hygienic and easy to clean.
Serving Utensils: Think spatulas, tongs, ladles for sauces, and good quality knives.
Point of Sale: A simple till or a modern card reader to take payments.
Storage: Don’t forget storage for your ingredients, packaging, and cleaning supplies. Built-in cupboards and shelving are a lifesaver.

Legal and Safety Requirements

This bit might not sound as exciting, but it’s super important. You can’t just start serving food without ticking a few boxes. Getting your paperwork in order is non-negotiable.

Food Hygiene Certificate: You and anyone handling food need this. It shows you know how to keep food safe.
Gas Safety Certificate: If you’re using LPG equipment (which most mobile caterers do), you absolutely need a Gas Safe registered engineer to check your installations and issue a certificate. This is for your safety and your customers’.
Public Liability Insurance: This protects you if something goes wrong. It’s a must-have for any business, especially one serving food to the public.
Local Council Registration: You need to register your food business with your local council at least 28 days before you start trading. It’s free and means they know you’re operating and can offer advice.

It might seem like a lot, but getting these sorted means you can focus on what you do best – making and selling delicious jacket potatoes. You can find a good range of mobile catering equipment, including ovens and fridges, on sites like free classifieds for catering vehicles and equipment.

Getting your new business started means you’ll need the right gear. From ovens to fridges, having dependable equipment is key to success. Don’t let outdated or unreliable kit hold you back. Visit our website today to explore a wide range of top-quality catering equipment that will help your venture shine.

Ready to Get Started?

So, there you have it! Thinking about jumping into the world of mobile catering with a jacket potato van? It really seems like a cracking idea, especially with how popular street food is right now. We’ve covered a lot, from finding the right van to making sure you’ve got all the bits and bobs you need to get going. Remember to do your homework, check with the local council, and get all your paperwork sorted. If you’re looking for equipment, companies like MobCater have loads of gear that could be just the ticket. Good luck with your new venture – hope it’s a tasty one!