The market for fast food is huge, but the intense competition can make it difficult for start-up fish and chip shops or burger bars.
To compete successfully with large chains and established smaller food businesses, entrants to this market need a considered plan, knowledge of the industry and the right training.
In the UK we enjoy fast food more than our European neighbours.
The population is growing and as people's lives become busier there are plenty of people who don't want to cook after a day's work.
The alternative is to visit a fast-food outlet.
Demand for fast food is robust but the market is saturated and people must be mindful that feeding people isn't an easy career option
Selling food is obviously one of the oldest forms of commerce, and it will never exactly go out of fashion.
Fish and chip shops have been around since the late 19th century.
Demand for fast food is robust but the market is saturated and people must be mindful that feeding people isn't an easy career option.
Product options
The nation enjoys fish and chips, but fish and chip shops rarely rely on their core product alone.
Even though fish and chip shops have been serving people for around 150 years, it has improved its service by giving more product choice.
They usually sell other products to give consumers more choice, such as pizza, fried chicken and other foods.
Fish and chips itself is a unique type of product, but it faces competition from the kebab, burgers and other attractive products.
People who plan to open a fish and chip shop or burger bar need to think about what they are going to sell.
Variety in the menu is an advantage and puts you a step ahead of outlets that only sell fish and chips.
Training
Many people underestimate how much work is involved in a fast-food business.
In a small premises the fryer, stock controll, cleaniong and paperwork are often all be the responsibility of the owner.
People should get some training and experience in the catering industry before considering buying a fish and chip shop.
How much training is required is up to the individual.
As an owner, you need to be able to train any staff you hire, and you need the skills yourself before you can pass them on.
