Re: [CH] re: Gourmet Chili/Salsa Products/Program
ChefChile@aol.com
Thu, 29 Jan 1998 17:06:48 EST
In a message dated 98-01-29 09:12:04 EST, callen@sirius.com writes:
<<
I think a lot of us believe that what we cook could make it in the retail
market. I know my daughter-in-law and I have looked into selling our jellies
and salsas. My son is working to start a catering business. All of the
questions that appear to anger some are valid issues that we have/are
considering.
The biggest issue is insurance, particularily liability insurance, for that
time someone gets sick from eating your product. Any feedback as to how some
of the pros handle this one????
I remember last year someone posting the story that when he took in one of
his
dishes as a holiday gift to collegues that one remarked, ..."hoped that he
didn't get sick from it because then he would have to sue..." >>
About 10 years ago I started a small catering business. At first it under the
table since it was just at the request of friends, family and some co-workers.
It then blossomed into a nice little money maker. I then went legal and did
the whole licensing, permit, tax ID, insurance, etc, etc.
After going legal I was then able to advertise and offer things such as full
service bar on site for my clients. I also had the additional worries of
payroll and taxes.
My advice, (and we all know the value of advice given freely) is to start
small with friends and family, then if you are daring and willing to make the
move, go for it. Make it legal to protect yourself.
As for my own business, it failed after I bought a small deli and pizza shop.
Pizza Hut and Dominos decided to go at it in the delivery market and I didn't
compete well with them in my area. I also used all of my available capital
to buy the place and didn't hold enough in reserve to survive if business went
sour.
I am involved with starting my own catering business again, using the lessons
I learned the first time around. So call me a glutton for punishment.
Yours Truly in Supreme Heat
ChefChile@aol.com aka "John"
TCS Mystic Fire Priest
Monk of the SOB
Executive Chef Ring O' Fire C=:-)
Humble Servant to the Great Hab