The global food truck market is not just a trend – it’s a revolution, transforming urban dining and redefining convenience for modern consumers. In a recent BBC podcast, Abdul Wasay , the forward-thinking Chief Operating Officer of The Business Research Company, shared exclusive insights into this rapidly expanding sector, shedding light on the trends, opportunities, and challenges that are shaping the industry’s future.
The global food truck market is on a steep growth trajectory, currently valued at $4.04 billion in 2024 and expected to reach $5.8 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 7.4%. This rapid expansion is driven by a broader shift in consumer behavior towards convenience, variety, and experiential dining – trends that food trucks are uniquely positioned to capitalize on.
"The food truck industry has become a global phenomenon, offering entrepreneurs a low-cost entry into the food and beverage market,” said Wasay. “The ability to adapt quickly to changing consumer tastes and move to high-footfall locations has made food trucks a powerful force in the modern culinary scene.”
For more insights from Abdul Wasay on the global food truck market, listen to the full podcast here
Wasay highlighted several critical factors driving the food truck industry’s explosive growth:
🛠️ Lower Startup Costs – Compared to traditional restaurants, food trucks require significantly less initial investment, making them an appealing option for aspiring entrepreneurs.
🚀 Convenience and Variety – These mobile kitchens cater to fast-paced urban lifestyles, offering diverse, high-quality, and affordable dining experiences.
🎨 Cultural Appeal – Street food isn’t just about taste – it’s about the experience, creativity, and community that it fosters.
📱 Social Media Impact – Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have transformed food marketing, enabling small businesses to reach millions through visually appealing content and direct customer engagement.
Beyond food trucks, Wasay also highlighted the broader potential of mobile businesses, from beauty salons on wheels to pop-up retail shops. These businesses are disrupting conventional business models by offering cost-efficiency, location flexibility, and direct consumer engagement – all while reducing the overhead costs associated with traditional storefronts.
“Mobile businesses are here to stay,” he concluded. “They offer a unique blend of flexibility and customer connection that is reshaping industries worldwide.”
Check out the full Food Truck Global Market Report 2025 here