Mobile Coffee & Espresso Cart

Mobile coffee carts and trucks bring specialty coffee and espresso drinks to offices, events, farmers markets, and public locations, capitalizing on coffee's 400+ million cups consumed daily in the U.S.

With specialty coffee commanding $4-$7 per drink and coffee cart operators serving 100-300 customers daily, successful carts generate revenue of $80,000-$250,000 annually with profit margins of 60-75% on beverages.

The business requires coffee cart or small truck ($15,000-$70,000), espresso machine and grinder, coffee and supplies inventory, and mobile vendor permits.

Menu includes espresso drinks, drip coffee, cold brew, teas, and pastries from local bakeries.

Pricing typically $3-$7 for coffee drinks with $2-$4 cost of goods.

Success factors include quality coffee and barista skills, consistent locations building daily customers, friendly service, efficient drink preparation, and targeting high foot-traffic areas.

Most operators establish regular weekly locations (office parks, universities, events) plus weekend farmers markets and festivals.

The business requires early morning hours but offers afternoon flexibility.

Some operators expand to multiple carts with employees.

Marketing focuses on office workers, event organizers, and social media announcing locations.

With specialty coffee culture thriving and consumers seeking convenient quality coffee in 2025, mobile coffee offers accessible opportunities for coffee entrepreneurs serving artisan beverages at offices, events, and public spaces.