The cloud kitchen, alternatively known as a ghost kitchen, is a business model involving a professional restaurant or cooking facility where delivery-only meals are prepared and sent out for consumption. Standard cloud kitchens do not have an allocated space for customers to dine inside or order their food through a window.
In today’s modern society, everything people do relies on technology. Whether you are a business owner or a customer, most interactions we have on a day-to-day basis are more likely through a screen than in real life. For many entrepreneurs, this can be a great opportunity to venture into a new path and start an online food business.
Setting up your own cloud kitchen holds several advantages that you can reap for years to come. Have a look at the few steps you can take to get started on your new business.
Register your business
Getting the proper license and certification is a vital step to starting your cloud kitchen. Since your customers cannot physically visit your store, getting registered is one of the best ways to ensure food quality, safety, and legal compliance.
You need to secure some major licenses such as a Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the fire department, and other required licenses that ensure your business is operating safely and responsibly.
Set up your location
With traditional food businesses, location is everything if you want to attract a steady stream of customers each day. However, with a cloud kitchen, the sole space you need to keep in mind is your workstation.
While you can take up just about any kind of space for your business, many owners look towards shared kitchens to bring down the initial costs of the investment. Some kitchens also come with provided kitchen appliances such as an induction cooker or gas stove.
Work on your online reputation
Since your business is operated through online platforms, it is important to build your reputation with a good marketing strategy.
Consider posting ads on relevant food websites and social media to attract your first few customers. You can also engage with your audiences by replying to their comments and sharing relevant and relatable stories.
Decide on your order and delivery system
Having an in-house ordering and delivery system can be beneficial as you hold all control over your operations. However, some business owners may find it more convenient to hire a third-party logistics provider to cater to more customers in a wider area.
Create the menu
Developing your menu is one of the most exciting parts about starting a cloud kitchen. Depending on the type of food establishment you are putting up, your food options can range anywhere between 10 to 50 items. Additionally, you can also focus your themes on a specific cuisine.
Take it to go
In the ever-evolving digital age, starting a business online has been one of the most popular strategies companies have used to appeal to the modern citizen. Through cloud kitchens, the initial investments you make are reduced compared to opening a restaurant, which makes it a great opportunity to grow with fewer risks.
About the Author
Mykie is a marketing professional from Smeg Philippines, an Italian kitchen appliance brand. In her free time, she enjoys channeling her creativity through writing about home, lifestyle, and food trends.