Category: Equipment

Catering, Equipment, Event Planning

German Sausage Cart

12 December 2023

We are always looking for new lines to add to our comprehensive line up of catering options. A German sausage cart is one that has been suggested regularly. We have always done hot dogs, or Frankfurters, as they are commonly known, so technically we already do German sausage. But we have never added a full line up with Bratwurst etc.

So, that is going to change. We were recently contracted by a major corporate client to provide lunch for five days at the opening of a new warehouse. The stipulation was something different everyday. We finished on the last day with Bratwurst and fries. This went down a storm, so we decided to add a full German sausage experience to our menu.

The initial offering is gonna look something like this;

Bratwurst

The famous German sausage, whose name translates as pretty much ‘Fried Sausage.’ This is probably the most popular of the offerings, and what many consider as the typical fare.

Frankfurter

Although fans of the frank might argue the point. Equally well known, and also hailing from Germany, this one tends more often in this country to go by its alternative name of hot dog.

Currywurst

Basically the aforementioned bratwurst, chopped into bite sized portions, then slathered in curried ketchup.

Kasekrainer

Basically a sausage with chunks of cheese inside, a fabulous combination, well it is if you happen to like cheese and sausages.

These will all come with a selection of typical condiments such as mustard, German ketchup etc, oh and the traditional sauerkraut, which happens to be finely chopped cabbage fermented by various lactic acid bacteria which gives it a distinctive sour taste.

If you want to book a German sausage cart for your event, check our service out!

Catering, Equipment, Event Planning, Food Trucks, Fun Story

What are the benefits of using food trucks for brand activation?

8 December 2023
Birmingham Bears Branded

Using food trucks for brand activation offers several benefits that can help businesses engage with their audience in a unique and memorable way. Here are some of the advantages of incorporating food trucks into your brand activation strategy:

  1. Increased Visibility: Food trucks are mobile and can be strategically placed in high-traffic areas, allowing your brand to reach a larger and more diverse audience. They can be present at events, festivals, or locations that are relevant to your target demographic.
  2. Novelty and Unique Experience: Food trucks provide a novel and unique experience for customers. People are often drawn to the idea of enjoying delicious food in an unconventional setting, which can leave a lasting impression.
  3. Interactive Engagement: Food trucks offer opportunities for interactive engagement. Customers can watch their food being prepared, interact with the staff, and provide instant feedback. This interaction can foster a deeper connection between your brand and your customers.
  4. Social Media Buzz: Food trucks are highly shareable on social media platforms. Customers often share their food truck experiences, including photos and reviews, which can create organic buzz and word-of-mouth marketing for your brand.
  5. Sampling and Product Promotion: Food trucks are an excellent way to offer samples of your products. This is particularly effective for food and beverage brands, but it can also work for other types of businesses. Sampling allows potential customers to try your products, increasing the likelihood of conversion.
  6. Branding Opportunities: Food trucks can be branded with your company’s logo, colors, and messaging. This serves as a mobile billboard for your brand and enhances brand visibility.
  7. Cost-Effective Marketing: Setting up a food truck can be more cost-effective than traditional advertising or brick-and-mortar retail spaces. It allows you to reach your audience without the overhead of a physical store.
  8. Flexibility and Adaptability: Food trucks offer flexibility in terms of location and menu. You can adapt your offerings and the truck’s location to suit different events or changing customer preferences.
  9. Data Collection: You can collect valuable customer data through interactions at the food truck. This information can be used for future marketing efforts, helping you better understand your audience.
  10. Cross-Promotion: Collaborating with other food trucks or businesses can lead to cross-promotion. This can help you tap into each other’s customer bases and expand your reach.
  11. Community Engagement: Participating in local events and festivals through a food truck can demonstrate your brand’s commitment to the community and enhance your brand’s reputation.
  12. Experiential Marketing: Food trucks offer a tangible and sensory experience. Customers can taste, smell, and see your products, creating a more memorable and sensory-rich brand activation.
  13. Innovative Marketing: Using a food truck is an innovative approach to marketing that can set your brand apart from competitors and demonstrate your creativity and willingness to try new strategies.

Incorporating food trucks into your brand activation strategy can be a creative and effective way to connect with your audience, increase brand visibility, and foster positive brand associations. It offers a dynamic and engaging approach that can leave a lasting impact on potential customers.

Early Branding For Thornes Toffees
Early Branding For Thornes Toffees
Equipment, Event Planning, Food Trucks, Fun Story

History of the Hamburger: From Hamburg to Global Icon

4 December 2023
Gourmet Burger Bar Hire

American Fast Food Icon

The hamburger, a quintessential American fast-food icon, has a history that extends far beyond its association with the United States. Its origins can be traced back to the bustling streets of 19th-century Hamburg, Germany, where the first prototypes of this beloved sandwich emerged. Over time, the hamburger has evolved from a humble street food to a symbol of globalization, finding its way onto menus in every corner of the world. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of the hamburger, tracing its transformation from a local delicacy to a global culinary sensation.

Origin in Hamburg, Germany:

The roots of the hamburger can be found in the German city of Hamburg, where the concept of minced beef, seasoned and shaped into patties, was a popular local dish. Immigrants from Hamburg, seeking new opportunities, brought their culinary traditions with them to the United States in the 19th century. It was in the bustling streets of American cities, notably New York, that the hamburger began to take on its modern form.

Evolution in the United States:

While its exact origins in the United States remain a topic of debate, the hamburger gained popularity at the turn of the 20th century, particularly during the rise of the fast-food culture. Numerous accounts credit various American diners and restaurants for popularizing the hamburger as we know it today. One of the earliest and most notable mentions is Louis’ Lunch in New Haven, Connecticut, which claims to have served the first hamburger sandwich in 1900.

Rise of Fast-Food Culture: With the advent of the fast-food industry, the hamburger quickly became a staple on menus across the nation. The post-World War II era saw an explosion of fast-food chains, such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s, which played a pivotal role in cementing the hamburger’s position in American culture. The simplicity, convenience, and affordability of the hamburger contributed to its widespread appeal, making it a favourite choice for people of all ages.

Globalization and Cultural Integration:

As the world became more interconnected, the hamburger transcended its American roots and found its way onto menus worldwide. Its adaptability allowed for endless variations, incorporating diverse ingredients and flavors to suit local palates. From the Japanese teriyaki burger to the Indian masala burger, each culture added its unique twist, contributing to the hamburger’s evolution as a global culinary phenomenon.

The Modern Hamburger:

In the 21st century, the hamburger continues to undergo innovative transformations, catering to diverse dietary preferences and culinary trends. With an increasing focus on sustainability and plant-based diets, the rise of the veggie burger and plant-based meat alternatives has redefined the traditional concept of the hamburger, appealing to a broader audience concerned about health and the environment.

Conclusion: The history of the hamburger is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and culinary evolution. From its humble beginnings in Hamburg, Germany, to its status as a global fast-food icon, the hamburger remains a symbol of cultural integration and gastronomic innovation. Its ability to adapt and evolve with changing times has solidified its place in the hearts and taste buds of people around the world, making it an enduring culinary classic for generations to come.

Equipment, Event Planning, Food Trucks, Fun Story

Our Little Red Hot Dog Van

1 December 2023
Our Little Red Citroen Food truck

Looking for a sizzling, scrumptious hot dog experience that’s as unique as it is delicious? Look no further than the Little Red Hot Dog Van, your one-stop-shop for quirky hot dog cravings!

Built onto the chassis of a classic Citroen 2CV van, this just oozes gallic charm. Good food is no longer enough, you need a service that stands out on the ‘gram.’

Also available offering Pimms, Waffles, Hot Chocolate, doughnuts and much more.

Promotional Opportunities

This broad red panels make this ideal for branding if you want to use it for brand activation, exhibitions or other promotional usages.

We can apply simple graphics in house for events, or we have a local graphics company that can add full four colour printing graphics or even a full vinyl wrap.

Hire Our Little Red Hot Dog Van

Check out our other foodtrucks.

Equipment, Food Trucks, Fun Story

John W Sanders II, Update Power Generator

24 November 2023
Spartan Fire Truck Food Truck

Although going at a sedate pace due to the amount of work we have, we have been carrying out some of the preparatory work on turning our imported American fire truck, into a food truck.

On Board Power

The food truck was intended to be self sufficient, and as part of this it was intended to have on board power. There are a number of cabinets on the truck, but all were a bit tight for space to install a generator with a decent power output.

Eventually we happened on a Yanmar 25kva unit. At 3000rpm it would be a bit noisy so we were gonna need to put a bit of work into sound proofing, but with a minor alteration to the mounting feet, it slid in the rear compartment like it was made to measure.

Fire Truck Rear Compartment
Rear Compartment
Generator In Situ
In Situ

Noise

We acquired a noise meter to get a baseline reading, and at 1 metre we were experiencing an average of 105dB. Ouch!

We added a layer of Tecsound, intended to act as a barrier and also prevent noise transmission through the steel canopy. Then added some 50mm thick noise block sheet, which was basically around 40mm of high density foam, then a layer of lead, then a 6mm layer of foam to decouple the panel from the wall. To avoid blocking the end panel air flow too much we used a thinner 35mm version.

The reading after this was an average of 85dB, which sound being a logarithmic scale actually means we have cut the perceived noise level to around a quarter of what it started. Good, but we ideally want it down by another 10dB, or half again.

Most of the apparent noise appears to be coming from a combination of the top box housing the exhaust silencer and underneath the truck. The air intake and exhaust are actually underneath so these are basically open vents into the box.

Next Step

We have two more actions to try and solve this. First we are having baffled outlets made to cover both the inlet and outlet vents. A layer of soundproofing on the underneath of the cabinet floor would probably help as well.

Secondly we intend to box in the silencer with sound proofing.

Stay tuned for an update on where we get it too.

To try and keep the truck looking like a fire engine, rather then a funfair truck, we have piped the exhaust from the generator to one of the water pipe outlets on the unit, it probably needs a removable elbow and vertical pipe fitting for when it is in use, as that will also cut the noise down, but on the road it looks stock.

As far as we can tell in the UK, this will be the first fire truck food truck, well, American fire truck, I have seen a British Green Goddess in use to serve food, and a couple of typical Dennis type engines.