Rolling in Profits: A Buyer’s Guide to Gelato Carts for Your Business
A Buyer’s Guide to Gelato Carts for Your Business
So, you’ve got dreams of serving up scoops of Italian-style gelato to fanatical customers, but you want to do it with style, mobility, and confidence you’ve made the right choices. Whether you’re launching a mobile gelato business or looking to add a revenue stream to your existing shop, a gelato cart could be your golden ticket.
But before you go picturing yourself in a sunhat, ringing a bell, and handing out cones like a 1950s ice cream vendor, let’s talk about what really makes a great gelato cart—and which one is right for your needs.
At Equipment & Concepts, we’ve spent years helping gelato businesses set up for success, and we know that choosing the right cart is about more than just good looks (though, let’s be honest, aesthetics matter). It’s about function, efficiency, and, of course, keeping your gelato at the perfect consistency while you’re out making people’s day one scoop at a time.
So let’s dig in!
Types of Gelato Carts
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to gelato carts. Depending on where and how you plan to serve, you’ll want to choose the right style for your business. Here are the main contenders:
1. Self-Contained Gelato Carts: “CLASSIC” (Glycol-Cooled)
Perfect for: Pop-up events, farmers’ markets, weddings, poolside and festivals
These carts come equipped with built-in refrigeration (the glycol is already installed), meaning you don’t need an external power source to keep your gelato cold. Just charge them up ahead of time, and you’re ready to roll.
Pros:
Fully self-sufficient – no need for an external power source after it is charged.
Sleek, professional presentation that draws a crowd
Great for high-traffic events where portability matters
Cons:
Limited storage – once you’re out of gelato, that’s it (so plan accordingly!)
Typically a higher investment than some other options
If you’re looking to make a statement and serve up gelato in high-foot-traffic areas, this is the way to go.
2. Static Gelato Carts: “VISION” (Need to stay plugged in at all times)
Perfect for: Storefronts, malls, or semi-permanent setups
If you have a brick-and-mortar shop and want to expand your presence outside your doors, a static gelato cart is a great option. These carts require a power hookup but can offer a gorgeous, Instagram-worthy way to display your gelato without taking up too much space inside your store.
Pros:
Great for expanding your brand presence outside a store
Larger capacity than fully mobile carts
Can be customized to match your shop’s aesthetic
Cons:
Requires a dedicated power source
Not as mobile as self-contained carts
A static cart is an excellent way to increase revenue and grab the attention of passersby without committing to a full-blown gelato truck.
Key Features to Look for in a Gelato Cart
Now that you’ve got an idea of the type of cart you need, here are a few key features that can make or break your experience:
Storage Capacity: How much gelato can it hold, and how long can it stay at the right temperature?
Refrigeration Type: Some carts use glycol-cooled refrigeration, while others require a continuous power source.
Mobility: Do you need to move it around frequently, or will it stay put most of the time? Let’s talk about how to transport your cart.
Aesthetics & Branding: Your cart is an extension of your business. Choose one that looks professional, matches your brand, and attracts customers. Your cart is fully customizable and we will walk you through the design process.
Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance: You don’t want to spend hours scrubbing melted gelato out of crevices. Trust us.
Other Considerations Before Buying
Still with me? Good—because there are a few more things you’ll want to consider before making the big purchase:
Budget: High-quality gelato carts are an investment, but they pay off when chosen wisely. Cheap options tend to lead to melty regrets.
Permits & Regulations: Every city has different rules about mobile food vending. Do your research before you roll out.
Logistics & Storage: Where will you store your cart when it’s not in use? How will you transport it? These are the fun, behind-the-scenes questions no one tells you to ask (but we just did).
Events & Marketing: Having a cart is one thing—getting people to come to it is another. Plan for promotions, collaborations, and event bookings.
Ready to Roll? Let’s Talk Carts.
Choosing the right gelato cart can set you up for success and open up a world of revenue opportunities. Whether you’re serving at high-end weddings, charming tourists in a bustling city, or giving your storefront an extra boost, the right cart makes all the difference.
At Equipment & Concepts, we know our gelato equipment like a kid knows the sound of an ice cream truck. If you need help finding the perfect cart for your business, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call (949-212-9753) or send us an email, or just start checking out our selection online—we’d love to help you get rolling!
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