Establish a Business Plan 

If you are a new business an established business plan is a central guide for anyone looking to lease or rent a kitchen space. Identifying a food concept, desired markets, operational plans, and further marketing strategies show credibility and provide essential information for hosts to understand your business.

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Register your Food Business

Registering your food company or business is also crucial, this shows your new host that your business is legitimate. Registration through your local authority must be completed at least 28 days before food operations begin. If you have established a legal entity for your business you may need to provide additional registration documents as well.

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Trading History 

While new businesses should have a business plan, established brands should show a trading history before renting a kitchen. A trading history allows hosts to visualise your brand’s financial stability, business viability, and industry experience. 

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A Good Menu and Production Plan

It is crucial to detail the food you intend to prepare in the kitchen you plan to licence. Ensure that your menu is suitable for the venue and has the correct equipment and/or extraction. It is also important that your food and production process complies with health and safety regulations.

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Insurance 

Even though some locations come with insurance, it is important to clarify this with the kitchen host. Insurance documents should be provided to protect your company against any liabilities. Even more critical is ensuring you acquire the specific kinds of insurance needed to run the whole of your business. 

- Employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement in the U.K. if you have employees working in the kitchen. It covers you against claims from employees who suffer potential illness, injury, or harm due to their work for your business.

- Public liability insurance covers you against any claims related to property damage or injuries for third parties.

- Product liability insurance protects against claims of harm or injury caused by your business’s products. 

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Ensuring you acquire these types of insurance protects your business from potential liabilities and legitimises your business to all involved parties. 

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Understand Your Budget

Since costs will vary depending on the kind of kitchen you choose, carefully planning your budget is essential. Understanding the costs involved, the monthly licensing fees, the deposits required, and estimated bills will ensure you properly budget the right amount. Proactive planning and knowledge of every cost can help you manage your finances and prevent unnecessary overspending. 

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Food Safety Training Certificates 

Food Safety training is very important for any culinary business. Any employee or chef who handles food must get a food safety training certificate in the U.K. to guarantee proper sanitation and food handling practices. Providing previous health inspection reports is also a good idea for confirming your business has a good reputation, abiding by food and safety regulations. 

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Once you have everything prepared and ready to show to the host, the final step in renting a kitchen is acquiring and signing the rent agreement or licence to occupy. That is where Oya Kitchens is here to help. From the initial viewing and booking to check-out, our platform takes care of the entire journey of finding your ideal space. Once you’ve found the perfect kitchen, Oya can help your business manage the intricate licence/insurance processes so that you can focus on the success of your culinary ventures. 

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‍Click here to view our full range of kitchens on our marketplace and learn how Oya Kitchens can help you find the best kitchen space for your food brand.