Rolling success: location selection criteria for gourmet food trucks

Purpose This study explores the criteria that gourmet food truck (GFT) operators consider when making location decisions for their mobile operations. Design/methodology/approach This research was conducted using an exploratory qualitative methodology. Semi-structured interviews with nine food truck operators were performed to observe their location decision-making processes and service operations. Findings The results led to the development of a five-theme framework that explains how food truck operators make location decisions. The framework is structured around five guiding questions: Where are locations available? When are operations permitted at that location? Why operate at that location? What products will be offered at the location? Which operations are required at the location? Originality/value This study builds on existing location theories to uncover criteria that GFT businesses use for selecting locations. It extends the criteria used in location decision literature to the GFT industry.