Dreaming of serving artisan flat whites, creamy hot chocolates and fresh pastries from your very own coffee stall?

Whether you're looking to start a full-time mobile business or just test the waters at weekend markets, a pop up gazebo can be your perfect base of operations.

Setting up a coffee stall with a gazebo is cost-effective, flexible, and ideal for the unpredictable British weather. Here’s everything you need to know to get brewing and selling in no time.

Why a Pop Up Gazebo Works for Coffee Traders

Low Start-Up Costs

A permanent coffee shop can cost tens of thousands to launch. A mobile stall? Much less. With a good-quality pop up gazebo, a simple coffee machine, a table, and basic supplies, you can be trading in parks, markets, car boot sales, festivals or high streets.

You don't need to commit to a lease or pay business rates for a physical location. That makes it perfect for first-time entrepreneurs, side hustlers or seasoned baristas wanting more freedom.

Easy to Transport and Set Up

A pop up gazebo is compact and portable. It folds neatly into a bag, fits into most estate cars or small vans, and can be set up by two people fairly quickly. That's essential when you’re working with a small team or attending multiple events in a week.

Once it’s up, you’ve got an instant coffee kiosk- with shelter, signage, and a clean, defined workspace.

⛺ Read more: How To Put Up A Pop up Gazebo.

Weatherproof and Market-Friendly

You can’t run a coffee stall with soggy stock and customers leaving because they’re wet. A gazebo protects you, your machine, and your customers from the elements. Whether it’s raining, windy or blazing hot, your pitch stays dry, cool and welcoming.

Add sidewalls and leg weights, and you’ll be ready for most UK conditions year-round.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Running a coffee stall from a gazebo requires some planning. Here's a breakdown of the essentials to launch smoothly.

1. The Gazebo Itself

Choose a 3m x 3m pop up gazebo - this is the standard size for market stalls and gives you enough room for machines, prep space, display and customer interaction.

Look for:

• Waterproof, fire-retardant canopy (600D polyester is ideal)
• Strong aluminium or steel frame
• Sidewalls for wind/rain protection
• Tie-down kit and weights for safety
• Optional half walls for serving counter-style

Branded canopies with your logo and menu printed can also add a huge boost to visibility.

2. Power Source

Most coffee equipment needs power. You’ll need to check with event organisers whether there’s access to mains electricity. If not, you can:

• Use a quiet petrol or diesel generator
• Invest in battery-powered coffee gear (increasingly popular)
• Set up a gas-powered water boiler for tea and instant coffee options

Make sure any generator is safely placed away from customers and ventilated.

3. Equipment

Start with compact, mobile-friendly gear. Popular choices include:

• 1-group or 2-group espresso machine
• Coffee grinder
• Hot water boiler/kettle
• Fridge or cool box for milk
• Jugs, tampers, knock boxes, and cleaning kit
• POS system or cash box
• Cups, lids, stirrers and napkins

Tip: You don’t need to start with top-end equipment. Many great stalls use refurbished machines or starter packages.

How to Set Up Your Coffee Stall for Success

Create a Logical Layout

Divide your gazebo into key zones:

• Front: Service area - table, trade counter, menu board
• Middle: Machine and prep station
• Back: Storage, bins, cool box and personal items

This helps you stay organised and efficient when busy. Use collapsible tables and stackable storage boxes to make the most of your space.

Display Your Menu Clearly

Use a chalkboard, printed sign or hanging banner with clear pricing. Consider a menu that reads well from a distance - customers will often decide before reaching the front of the queue.

Highlight any specialities or dietary options (plant-based milk, decaf, gluten-free bakes).

Make it Visually Appealing

Use personalised bunting, fairy lights, rustic baskets or wooden crates to give your stall character. A smart, inviting space sets you apart from “just another coffee tent.”

A branded gazebo, apron or signage can also make a big difference to your professional image.

Tips for Success as a Mobile Coffee Trader

Be Fast and Friendly

In mobile coffee, time matters. People expect their drink quickly - especially at busy events or markets. Practice your workflow until you can deliver quality without delay. A smile and small chat go a long way too.

Stay Stocked

You’ll soon learn what sells fastest - usually lattes and teas, followed by sweet treats. Have enough cups, milk, sugar and stirrers to last the day, especially at longer events.

Offer Card Payments

Very few people carry cash now. A contactless card reader is essential. It helps you take more sales and makes life easier for everyone.

Promote Yourself

Set up an Instagram or Facebook page with your trading locations and photos of your stall. Use a QR code on your gazebo or cup stickers to encourage followers. Over time, you’ll build a local customer base.

Think Seasonally

Offer cold brew or iced coffee in summer, and spiced hot chocolate or festive specials in winter. These little tweaks keep things exciting and help you sell more.

Pros and Cons of a Coffee Gazebo vs a Coffee Van

Feature	Coffee Gazebo	Coffee Van
Start-up cost	Lower (typically £1,000–£5,000)	Higher (£10,000–£30,000+)
Setup flexibility	Very high (can pitch almost anywhere)	Depends on parking rules
Portability	Easy with a car/van	Requires vehicle space
Branding options	Fully customisable	Limited to paint/wrap
Maintenance	Low	High (vehicle upkeep)

A gazebo gives you more flexibility and lower overheads—perfect for starting small or testing your idea without major risk.

Good Luck With Your Next Venture!

Running a mobile coffee stall with a pop up gazebo is an exciting, flexible and surprisingly affordable way to get into the world of coffee trading.

With the right setup, a smart layout and great service, you can build a loyal following and take your brew anywhere - from farmers’ markets and festivals to school fairs and parks!