Kent Street Eats

Serving exceptional food while serving our community.

A mobile food van social enterprise transforming lives through culinary opportunities, breaking down barriers and building brighter futures for those who need it most. Our mission isn't just a statement; it's a lived experience. We know firsthand the challenges of starting anew, of facing closed doors because of a past mistake. This understanding fuels our commitment to offering genuine second chances, recognizing the immense potential within every individual, regardless of their history. We believe in the power of food to nourish not just the body, but the soul, fostering community and belonging where it's often most needed.

Our Vision & Values

Our core values guide every aspect of Kent Street Eats, ensuring we deliver both exceptional food and transformative social impact.

Inclusion

Creating opportunities for those traditionally excluded from the workforce, driven by a deep understanding of the barriers they face.

Excellence

Delivering outstanding food and service while maintaining the highest standards, showing what's possible with dedication and support.

Community

Building stronger, more connected communities through food and employment, fostering a sense of belonging for our team and customers.

Transformation

Facilitating positive life changes through meaningful work and skills development, guided by empathy and personal experience.

Sustainability

Operating responsibly to ensure long-term positive impact, ensuring our mission can continue to thrive.

The Business Model & Operations

Our mobile food van is the engine for our social mission. Every meal sold funds our training programs, turning a sustainable business into a vehicle for profound social change. We measure success not just in profit, but in the positive outcomes we create. Our operations are meticulously planned for efficiency and impact.

Legal Structure

A Community Interest Company (CIC) with a 20% dividend cap, ensuring the vast majority of profits are reinvested into our mission. Registered with the CIC Regulator within 12 months. VAT registered when turnover exceeds £85,000.

Target Market

Primarily office workers, students, and industrial staff (70% of revenue), with secondary focus on event attendees, residential customers, and late-night food service (30% of revenue).

Core Products

Signature dishes include Gourmet burgers (£6.50-£8.50), Artisan sandwiches (£4.50-£6.50), Wraps and salads (£3.50-£5.50), Daily specials (£8.50-£9.50), Sides and snacks (£2.50-£4.50), and Premium beverages (£1.50-£3.50). Menu prioritizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and accommodates diverse dietary requirements.

Location Strategy

Primary operating areas include business districts, event venues, university campuses, industrial estates, and residential areas. Flexibility allows adaptation to market demand. Lower overhead than fixed premises.

Daily Workflow

Operations run 6 days/week: 6:00 AM prep/inventory, 8:00 AM travel to location, 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM lunch service, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM restock/relocation, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM evening service, 9:00 PM cleanup/prep for next day. Weekly deep cleaning, inventory, and menu planning on Sunday.

Supply Chain

Primary suppliers are 3 local food distributors, with backup suppliers to ensure continuity. Weekly deliveries optimize freshness and inventory. 48-hour inventory management system minimizes waste. Seasonal menu adaptation based on ingredient availability.

Financial Projections

Our financial model is built for sustainable growth, ensuring long-term viability while maximizing social impact. The following charts provide a transparent look at our projected performance over the next three years. Interact with the buttons to explore detailed monthly data.

3-Year Profit & Loss Summary

Year 1 Operating Expense Breakdown

Detailed Monthly Financials

Initial Funding Sources

Our initial funding is well-diversified to ensure a strong start.

Source Amount
Director investment £1,250
Start Up Loans £24,000
Grant funding £5,000
Total Initial Funding £30,250

Key Cash Flow Insights

The initial £30,000 investment is for essential startup capital expenditures (van, kitchen fit-out, etc.) before operations commence, ensuring the business is fully equipped and legally compliant to trade. The following points summarize our operational cash flow:

  • Year 1 Operating Cash Flow: The cumulative operating cash flow for Year 1 remains consistently positive, with no temporary deficit. This indicates robust financial management during the startup phase.
  • Year 1 Net Profit: Year 1 projects a net profit of £2,609, demonstrating strong initial profitability.
  • Year-end Operating Cash Position: The business is projected to conclude Year 1 with a healthy cumulative operating cash balance of £7,107.
  • Year 2 Net Profit/Loss: Year 2 anticipates a small net loss of -£573. This is a planned phase within the growth trajectory, and the cumulative cash flow remains positive due to the strong Year 1 performance.
  • Strong Year 3 Net Profit: Year 3 projects a significant net profit of £15,934, providing evidence of model sustainability and indicating robust long-term profitability.
  • Year 3 End Operating Cash Position: The business is projected to conclude Year 3 with a cumulative operating cash balance of £37,983, £30,000 of which is committed to immediate reinvestment in a second vehicle to run a concurrent program from Year 4.

Our Social Impact

Beyond the financials, our true measure of success lies in the lives we transform. We are committed to providing tangible opportunities and tracking our progress towards building a more inclusive community.

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Individuals Supported

Over a three-year period.

0%

Program Completion

Target for participants completing the full 4-month program.

0%

Post-Program Employment

Target for graduates securing employment within 6 months.

Key Performance Indicators

Our commitment is measured by clear, actionable KPIs:

  • Employment Impact: Length of each contract: Four months. Percentage completing full four-month program: Target 92%. Percentage securing employment post-program: Target 75%. Average wage increase for participants: Target 25%.
  • Skills Development: Food safety certifications achieved: 100% of participants. Customer service training completion: 100% of participants. Financial literacy workshop participation: 90% of participants.
  • Community Impact: Local supplier spend percentage: Target 40%. Community events supported annually: 12+ events. Customer satisfaction rating: Target 4.5/5.
  • Business Sustainability: Revenue growth year-on-year: Target 15%. Customer retention rate: Target 70%. Days of operation annually: 300+ days.

Reporting and Evaluation

Transparency and accountability are central to our social mission.

  • Quarterly CIC reports submitted to the regulator.
  • Annual social impact assessment conducted.
  • Participant feedback and outcome tracking implemented.
  • Customer satisfaction surveys regularly conducted.
  • Financial performance reviews conducted periodically.

The Team Behind the Mission

Our leadership team brings a unique blend of lived experience, operational expertise, and a shared passion for social change.

Evan - Business Director

Evan is the heart of Kent Street Eats, bringing invaluable lived experience of the criminal justice system. This role transcends professional duty; it is a deeply personal mission. His journey provides authentic leadership and profound empathy, directly shaping our programs to ensure their efficacy and transformative impact on participants. He possesses firsthand understanding of the stigma and barriers individuals with criminal records encounter, and his vision is dedicated to dismantling these through practical, empowering opportunities. Responsibilities encompass overall strategy, critical stakeholder relationships, rigorous social impact measurement, and authentic community engagement. Evan's personal narrative forms the very foundation of Kent Street Eats, inspiring both our team and our community to believe in the power of second chances.

Owen - Ops & Training Manager

Owen is an experienced professional who proficiently combines extensive operational food service expertise with an unwavering passion for training delivery. He recognized in Evan's vision a powerful opportunity to effect tangible change. He will manage daily operations, ensure uncompromising quality control, and deliver the comprehensive training program to participants. This integrated role ensures seamless coordination between commercial operations and training objectives, demonstrating how a profitable business can concurrently achieve profound social good. His dedication is rooted in witnessing the real-world impact of meaningful work.

Advisory Board & Professional Services

We are supported by a strong network of experts and professionals to ensure robust governance and effective operations.

  • Advisory Board: Includes a local business leader (finance/operations), a criminal justice professional, a food industry expert, and a community organization representative.
  • Professional Services: Engages an Accountant for annual accounts and VAT returns, a Legal Advisor for employment law and CIC compliance, and a Marketing Consultant for brand development and digital strategy.

Appendices & Supporting Details

For a more in-depth understanding of our operational specifics and support structures, please refer to the following appendices.

Appendix A: Equipment Specifications and Suppliers

Kitchen Equipment Detailed List:

  • Commercial gas griddle (60cm) - £650
  • Double basket fryer - £480
  • Bain marie hot holding unit - £320
  • Commercial microwave - £180
  • Food processor - £120
  • Digital scales (x2) - £80
  • Hand blender set - £45
  • Prep knives and cutting boards - £85
  • Serving utensils and ladles - £60
  • Storage containers set - £45
  • First aid kit and fire extinguisher - £135

Recommended Suppliers:

  • Nisbets (catering equipment) - Trade account available.
  • Booker Wholesale (food supplies) - CIC qualification for account.
  • Brakes Food Service - Delivery service available.
  • Local farmers markets - For fresh produce partnerships.

Appendix B: Training Curriculum Framework

Level 2 Food Safety Certification Pathway:

  • 14-hour structured course.
  • Practical assessment component.
  • CIEH/RSPH accredited certification.
  • Cost: £85 per participant.
  • Pass rate target: 95%.

Customer Service Training Modules:

  • Communication skills and active listening.
  • Conflict resolution and difficult situations.
  • Product knowledge and upselling techniques.
  • Cash handling and payment processing.
  • Cultural sensitivity and diversity awareness.

Employability Skills Development:

  • CV writing and interview preparation.
  • Time management and punctuality.
  • Professional communication.
  • Workplace rights and responsibilities.
  • Financial planning and budgeting.

Appendix C: Location Analysis and Trading Permits

Priority Trading Locations:

Tier 1 Locations (Daily Operations):

  • Canterbury Business Park - 500+ employees, high lunch demand.
  • University of Kent campus - 17,000 students/staff population.
  • Canterbury City Centre (Whitefriars area) - High footfall.
  • Royal Mail sorting office - Opportunity for early morning trade.

Tier 2 Locations (2-3 times weekly):

  • Ashford Designer Outlet - Strong weekend trade potential.
  • Folkestone seafront - High tourist season potential.
  • Dover ferry terminal - Market for shift workers.
  • Local industrial estates - Consistent worker demand.

Tier 3 Locations (Events and Markets):

  • Canterbury Farmers Market (Saturday).
  • Whitstable Harbour Market.
  • Local festivals and community events.
  • Private hire and catering opportunities.

Permit Requirements and Costs:

  • Canterbury City Council street trading: £400/year.
  • Ashford Borough Council: £350/year.
  • Dover District Council: £300/year.
  • Event-specific permits: £25-50 per event.
  • University campus license: £200/year.

Appendix D: Social Impact Measurement Framework

Participant Tracking Metrics:

Pre-Program Assessment:

  • Employment history and barriers identified.
  • Skills assessment baseline established.
  • Support needs identification completed.
  • Personal goal setting initiated.
  • Risk assessment and safeguarding protocols established.

Monthly Progress Reviews:

  • Skills development milestones tracked.
  • Attendance and punctuality tracked.
  • Behavioral observations and feedback recorded.
  • Goal progress and adjustment documented.
  • Additional support requirements identified.