Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Start Your Own Kettle Corn Business

By Lela Perkins


Starting a business can be easy or difficult, depending on the type of business. A kettle corn business is not only lucrative, but also offers endless opportunities for expansion and money making, dependent on how much business owners are willing to put into the business. It also offers work flexibility and different options for operating the business.

One of the primary things to consider is the business licensing. Health licenses are a must, as is insurance and state business licenses. The business cannot legally operate without them. Decide if the business will be a traveling business or not, and if so, investigate if a separate health license will be needed in each country where business is taking place. Don't simply buy space at fairs, and events, without first having secured licensing. You may be asked for certificates of proof.

It's also necessary to decide methods of operating the business. Some businesses operate part time and some full time. Deciding if the business will operate from one central location, or will be a traveling business will assist in knowing what type of equipment is needed. If it will operate at such places as flea markets, fairs and ball games, with large numbers of people, planning for purchasing or rental of heavy duty equipment is probably needed.

Planning for this before starting will help access start-up costs, building and space rentals, licenses needed, and prepare for equipment purchases, packaging, uniforms, and other items. Prices can vary greatly on equipment, especially dependent on if the business will be a traveling business or not, or doing business at events with large numbers of people. The best idea is to do initial research on all options. This way nothing is left to the imagination, and there are no financial surprises.

For those who plan to sell product on the Internet check with state health departments and licensing boards. There may be additional rules or licenses to comply with. For those who will not operate from a separate location and plan to sell products on the Internet, check the rules. Those who plan to operate as a home business and prepare product at home may find several rules that relate to food and home preparation. These rules may vary from state to state.

Those that plan to ship products nationwide will also need to think about not only equipment, but also packaging, properly sealing and preserving product. Also think about how many different varieties of products will be offered, ingredients needed and assess costs. The more varieties offered the more possibility of appealing to a mass consumers. This is particularly important on the Internet.

Also consider how many months a year the business will operate. Will it operate year round, or only during certain seasons or months? If it will operate only certain months of the year consider leasing equipment instead of buying it.

Consider ways to make money during winter months for vendor operations and how to network with others. Some businesses, especially traveling businesses, may need to consider alternative methods of bringing in revenue. Planning ahead will help establish a lucrative kettle corn business.




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