Starting your own takeaway food store is a great way to put your culinary skills to use. There is a lot to plan before you can become a store owner. Below are some tips and important regulations you should understand when starting your very own takeaway food store.
Starting your takeaway food store
Remember, before you can legally provide a takeaway food service you will first need to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN). An ABN allows you to be identified by and interact with other businesses. It is also a necessary requirement by the government for tax and administration purposes before you start trading.
Picking the right type of business structure for you and your business is crucial. This will determine the licenses you require, the tax you will pay and how much control you have over the business. There are many types of business structures within Australia whether you’re by yourself as a sole trader or engaged in a partnership with a business partner. Talking to a business lawyer is a great way to ensure you pick the best structure that suits your business.
Additionally, finding a name and most importantly a logo will help define your business within the industry. Protecting this is vital so registering your business name and trademarking your logo is something every business owner needs to do.
Location & food delivery platforms
Finding the right site is an exciting first step for any small bar owner. It’s a good idea to establish a relationship with a real estate agent in your area. Sign up to as many real estate emailing lists that you can and visit as many sites as possible. The site you choose is ultimately where you will be working. It’ll determine the type of customer your bar will attract and the level of foot traffic passing by.
If you can, try to look at an existing takeaway shop that has recently closed. Securing an already fitted out shop is invaluable and will save you and your partners plenty of money in the long run. Location is also important here, as you’ll want to be in an area where people are likely to go out to have a bite to eat, or near a business hub to attract more customers.
These days consumers are rushing to food delivery services such as Ubereats, Menulog and Deliveroo. Picking the right delivery service platform for your business can be a confusing task. However, this decision can be just as important the location of your business. Looking into delivery fees and what each company offers businesses like yours can determine how profitable your business will be. Thus, some of the newer delivery services such as DoorDash and 13Things have more attractive terms for businesses looking to join there platform. That’s why it is advisable to do some research into each platform and see which one suits you.
Understand the rules
The regulators governing takeaway food shop varies from state to state. Within NSW the NSW food authority alongside your local council regulate the take away food industry. It is important that you contact your local council if you intend to use a commercial space for take away food business, so they can grant you a license. The NSW food authority has listed the food safety controls you and your staff need to be familiar with. Also once your shop is open, it will be subject inspections from your local council authority. These inspections cover:
- physical condition of the facilities
- processes for food handling
- food safety skills and knowledge of food handlers.
Keep in mind, meeting the requirements of the Food Standards Code is vital, if you don’t your business will not be allowed to run. It could useful to consult was a small business lawyer. This will ensure you have met all the necessary standards and codes that your business needs to legally meet.
Conclusion
In these times more people are turning to takeaway food shops as an option for dining. Once you get through all the planning and council rules, opening a takeaway food store is an exciting and profitable way to get into the food industry.
