Where can I look for a concession stand business for sale?

A concession stand that works fairs, festivals and markets is a different search from a street food truck. Kettle corn, mini donuts, popcorn and lemonade stands often sell without a public listing, because the owner knows the people who would buy. Start wide, tell several channels what you are after, and expect the right one to take some patience.

Listings and brokers

Search business-for-sale listings under the product name as well as “concession”, since owners describe the business by what they sell. Some brokers handle small food businesses, and a short call can tell you whether they see this kind of sale. Save a search so you hear about new listings quickly, and read each one for what is actually included.

Equipment dealers and event circuits

Dealers who sell kettles, fryers and trailers know which operators are tiring or retiring. Event organisers see the same vendors every season and may know who wants out. Ask politely, say what you can take on, and leave your details. These conversations are slow but they reach sellers who never list.

A business or a used trailer?

A used trailer for sale is not the same as a business for sale. Ask what the sale includes beyond equipment: sales records for each event, the spots the owner has held, supplier arrangements and recipes. If the seller only offers the unit, you are buying equipment and starting over with the organisers.

• Ask which events the stand worked last season and which are confirmed again.
• Ask for sales records broken out by event, not one total.
• Ask whether the organisers know about the sale and will accept you.
• Ask who holds the recipes, brand name and social accounts.