How to get a pitch on a trading estate?

by Sam
(Maidstone, Kent )


Hi all, I'm in the process of looking to purchase a catering trailer and finding a pitch. I have a spot in mind that I have always thought would be a great place for one. It's in a small trading estate that's in view from a busy main road.

I have sent numerous emails to the various stores and obviously received no reply, just wondering if anyone has any tips for getting through to the right person who may be able to make this sort of decision?

Thanks in advance.
Sam.

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Jan 16, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Catering Pitch Check List
by: David-

Hi Sam,

Great to hear you're taking the first steps toward setting up your catering trailer business! Securing a pitch on a trading or industrial estate can be challenging, but with the right approach, it's definitely achievable. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get through to the right people and secure that spot:

1. Identify Who Owns the Land
Estate Owners/Managers: Industrial estates are often managed by property companies or estate management firms. Check for signs at the entrance to the estate, as they often display contact details.

Individual Businesses: If the land is part of a specific store’s property, like a supermarket or DIY store, you’ll need to contact their head office or store manager.

2. Do Some Groundwork
Visit the Location: Stop by in person to speak to business owners, estate security, or staff. Ask if they know who manages the estate or makes decisions about leasing space.
Talk to Other Traders: If other mobile traders are nearby, they may have insights into the estate’s management or the process they went through.

3. Refine Your Pitch Proposal
Be Professional: Draft a concise proposal explaining why your catering business would be a good fit. Highlight benefits like attracting more visitors to the estate, offering convenient food for workers, or keeping the area tidy.
Include Details: Specify your planned menu, your commitment to health and safety, waste management, and how you’ll adhere to local regulations.

4. Direct Outreach

Phone Calls: Emails can easily get lost or ignored. Call the businesses or estate management office directly and ask for the person responsible for facilities or leases.
Visit in Person: If you can, visit the estate office or main business directly. Speaking face-to-face often gets quicker results than emails or calls.

5. Use Online Resources
Land Registry: If you're struggling to identify the landowner, check with the UK Land Registry. For a small fee, you can find out who owns the land.
Google and LinkedIn: Search for property management companies linked to the estate or individuals in decision-making roles.

6. Show Flexibility
Trial Period: If they seem hesitant, suggest a trial period for your pitch to prove it’s a good fit.

Rent Negotiation: Be ready to discuss fair weekly rent. For industrial estates, around £80–£120 per week is common, but it depends on location and demand.

7. Permits and Compliance
Before finalizing anything, ensure you're ready to provide necessary documents like:

Public liability insurance.
Food hygiene certificates.
Risk assessments.
Waste management plans.

8. Follow Up

Persistence is key. If you don't hear back, follow up with a polite email or phone call every few weeks. Be consistent but respectful.

Final Tip

Once you secure the pitch, maintain a great relationship with the estate or business owners. Keep the area clean, be friendly with workers and visitors, and stick to your commitments—it can open doors for even better opportunities in the future.

Best of luck

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