Doughnut stall at markets and events

Market shoppers, families at fairs and festivals, and event organisers who want a food stall.

Sales per doughnut or box of doughnuts, plus drinks. Low fixed costs mean you only pay pitch fees on days you trade.

• Baking or frying to a consistent standard
• Food hygiene basics
• Friendly customer service
• Planning stock for each day

• Register your food business with your council, usually at least 28 days before you start trading (check with your council)
• Public liability insurance, which most markets and events ask for
• Allergen information must be available for every product, check the rules for labelling and displaying it
• Check whether you need street trading permission for pitches outside organised markets
• Hot oil and gas equipment need safe handling and may need gas safety checks for a stall

Startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on your equipment, gazebo and stock, and whether you rent kitchen space. These are estimates, so price up each item and your insurance yourself.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £600 to £3,000, depending on how many days you trade and which markets and events you attend. That is revenue before ingredients, pitch fees and insurance.

Check that you register your food business with your council, usually at least 28 days before trading. Also check allergen information rules, public liability insurance, street trading permission outside organised markets, and gas safety for fryers.