Start a coffee cart or pop-up cafe

Market shoppers, commuters, event visitors, and workplaces or venues that hire you for the day.

Sales of coffee, tea and snacks per pitch or event, plus fees from private bookings such as weddings, corporate events and community days.

• Making good coffee quickly
• Friendly customer service
• Planning stock and logistics
• Working outdoors in all weather

• Register the food business with your local council (check the rules where you live and where you trade)
• Street trading often needs a licence or consent from the council, so check before trading on public land
• Public liability insurance, which markets and event organisers often ask to see
• Gas, electrical and generator safety checks on your equipment
• Income depends on weather and event dates, so keep some cash in reserve

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on whether you choose a cart, bike, van or stall, and on the quality of your equipment.

Things to check: register your food business with your local council, and check whether trading on public land needs a licence or consent. Organisers often ask for public liability insurance, and equipment may need gas and electrical safety checks.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £1,200 to £6,000, depending on your pitches, event dates and the weather. Income can vary, so it is worth keeping some cash in reserve. Expect to work at least 12 hours a week.