Whether you’re planning a corporate event, festival, public event, or private party or wedding, hiring a coffee van is a surefire way to keep everyone happy and energised. In fact, it’s something that everyone expects nowadays.
But not all coffee vans are created equal. From the quality of the beans to the friendliness of the baristas, there’s more to consider than just a good cup of coffee.
Here are five key things to look for when hiring a coffee van:
1. Coffee Quality (Because Taste Matters)
At the heart of any coffee van is, well… the coffee. Check if the van uses specialty-grade beans, preferably roasted locally or ethically sourced.
Ask about the brewing equipment they use – a quality espresso machine and grinder can make a big difference. If possible, sample their coffee in advance, attend and event they’re at, check some images of the finished article (latte art is a big giveaway) or read reviews that mention flavour and consistency.
A skilled barista can not only make a coffee look incredible, a friendly one can turn a simple coffee stop into a memorable moment. Look for small teams who have been in the business for a while and who not only know how to pull a great shot but also engage with your guests.
Attitude, speed, and attention to detail count – especially at busy events.
2. Speed and scale of delivery
Consider the demand for coffee at your event. If you’re running a private corporate event with 50 people, then a nice-looking coffee van with a small machine will work well.
If, however, you’ve got a queue of thirsty athletes all needing their caffeine hit, they won’t take kindly to queuing up for hours while the machine heats up after every 5 coffees or teas.
It’s important to find coffee van providers who have dealt with events of your size and scale. If your demand is high – a rugby tournament, rowing regatta, or music festival, for example- then look for a company with more than one unit, who can keep the quality high, or who has 2 coffee machines in their unit.
3. Setup and Aesthetic
First impressions matter. A well-presented coffee van should be clean, stylish, and photo-friendly – especially important for weddings or branded events. Some vans offer custom branding options or signage to match your theme.
It’s up to you what look you’re after, and some companies may have a range of options to suit your taste. Ask for photos of past setups to get a feel for their look.
4. Menu Options and Flexibility
Not everyone drinks coffee. A good coffee van will also offer teas, hot chocolates, chai, and even cold drinks. If you need dairy-free or vegan options, check that they stock alternative milks and sweeteners.
Particularly in the hot summer months, iced coffees are more and more popular than ever. And you may want some pastries to accompany the morning coffee.
Check their menu options, the more inclusive the menu, the happier your guests will be.
5. Licensing, Insurance & Power Supply
This one’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. Make sure the coffee van has the right public liability insurance, food hygiene certifications, and if necessary, council permits. Ask if they need access to power and water or if they’re completely self-sufficient – this is especially important for outdoor or remote events.
And some coffee vans offer energy-saving benefits – our van for example, heats the water tank from the engine as it drives, saving energy throughout the day on heating the water.
Final Sip
Hiring a coffee van should be easy, enjoyable, and result in great coffee served with a smile. The overall experience of your guests, and how easy it is to work with the company when you hire a coffee van is really important.
By keeping these five things in mind, you’ll ensure your event guests are well-caffeinated and impressed.
If you’re currently exploring coffee van hire, take your time to research providers, read testimonials, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. The right van can add warmth, personality, and a serious caffeine kick to your event.
Need help finding a reliable coffee van near you? Drop us a message on hello@camper-cafe.co.uk – we’ll point you in the right direction.