Catering Van Finance – Fast, Friendly and Built Around Your Business
Looking for catering van finance? You’re in exactly the right place.
At First Oak Capital, we help business owners, food truck start-ups, and mobile catering professionals across the UK get the funding they need to bring their ideas to life. Whether you’re launching a burger van, expanding a coffee trailer fleet, or upgrading your current catering setup—we’re here to offer quick, clear, and flexible finance solutions that match your ambitions.
We know that in the world of mobile food, speed and simplicity matter. That’s why we cut the waffle and keep things moving, so you can focus on cooking, serving, and growing your brand.
Why Choose First Oak Capital for Catering Van Finance?
Because we’re specialists—and we know what’s at stake.
Your catering van isn’t just a vehicle. It’s your workspace, your brand on wheels, and your business in motion. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, the right finance can help you move faster without draining your working capital.
Here’s why businesses across the UK trust us:
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✅ Access to a panel of specialist and niche lenders
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✅ Finance for new and used catering vans
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✅ Fast approvals—often in 24 to 48 hours
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✅ Start-ups and new limited companies welcome
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✅ Friendly, one-to-one service from real people
We take the time to understand your business, your vision, and your cash flow. Then we help you fund the vehicle that gets you where you want to go.
What Is Exactly is a Catering Van?
A catering van—also called a mobile kitchen, food truck, or street food van—is a vehicle fully fitted with cooking equipment, storage, and utilities to serve hot or cold food on the go.
They’re used by:
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Street food traders
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Festival and event caterers
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Coffee van operators
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Mobile dessert businesses
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School and council caterers
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Wedding and private event providers
Whether you’re flipping burgers, pouring artisan coffee, dishing out curries or frying doughnuts, your van is your business—and we’re here to help you finance it.
Yes, We Help New Limited Companies
Just starting out? Don’t worry—we love working with ambitious new food entrepreneurs.
Many of our lenders are open to start-ups and new limited companies, especially when there’s a clear plan, a growing market, and the right attitude behind the brand.
We’ll guide you through the whole process—from building a strong application to choosing the right finance type. Even if you’re buying your first food truck, we’ll help you do it the smart way.
Used Catering Van Finance
Used vans are a great way to get started quickly without the upfront cost of a brand-new build. We regularly help businesses finance catering vans bought from:
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Trusted dealers
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Private sellers
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Catering vehicle conversion specialists
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Auction platforms
If the vehicle meets the required standards for condition and age, we can usually help you fund it. We also assist in checking VAT, registration history, and compliance via tools like the DVLA MOT History Checker.
Flexible Finance Options for Catering Vans
No two businesses are the same, and your finance shouldn’t be either. We offer a range of finance products tailored to your business type and goals:
Hire Purchase
Own the catering van outright after your final payment. Great for long-term investments and tax planning.
Finance Lease
Spread the cost over a fixed term, with flexibility at the end. Ideal if you want to upgrade later or keep payments low.
Operating Lease
Perfect for seasonal or short-term use. Use the van without full ownership commitment.
Refinance
Already own a van? Release cash tied up in it with a refinance deal—ideal for growing businesses that need capital.
We’ll help you decide which option is right for you and make sure you understand everything before you sign.
Industries and Traders We Support
We’ve helped clients across a wide range of catering and hospitality models, including:
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Independent street food businesses
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Farmers’ market vendors
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Event and festival operators
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Artisan coffee brands
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Corporate and wedding caterers
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Mobile dessert and drinks services
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Local authorities and school catering teams
Whether you’re a one-person outfit or building a fleet of mobile kitchens—we’re ready to support your journey.
How Our Process Works
We’ve made the application process as easy as placing an order at your food truck window.
Step 1: Make an enquiry
Send us a message or call for a quick, no-pressure chat about your catering van needs.
Step 2: Tell us about your business
We’ll ask a few simple questions to understand what you’re buying, your goals, and your budget.
Step 3: We search the market
We use our lender network to find a tailored finance solution for your van and your business.
Step 4: You pick the option that fits
We explain your options clearly—so you can choose what works best for you, with no hidden fees.
Step 5: We handle the paperwork
Once approved, we get everything signed and finalised quickly.
Step 6: You hit the road
Your supplier is paid and you’re ready to start serving customers.
It really is that straightforward.
What Makes First Oak Capital Different?
We’re not just another finance company—we’re a team of real people who genuinely love helping businesses grow.
With us, you’ll get:
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Friendly, human support (no call centres)
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Fast responses and honest answers
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Lenders who understand mobile catering
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Help at every stage of the process
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A long-term relationship—not just a transaction
Whether you’re buying one van or building a street food empire—we’re with you.
Apply Now – Get Finance for Your Catering Van
If you’re ready to bring your food business to life or take it to the next level, let’s make it happen. With our help, you can fund the catering van you need—without the stress or delays.
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Fast finance
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Friendly service
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New and used vans
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Start-ups welcome
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Transparent, flexible options
Ready to borrow smarter?
Click here to apply now or speak to one of our friendly brokers today.
Q: Can I get finance if my business is new?
A: Yes! We work with lenders who regularly support new and recently formed companies, especially when there’s a good plan and a solid idea.
Q: Do you finance used catering vans?
A: Absolutely. We help clients fund used vans from dealers, private sellers, or conversion companies.
Q: What if I want to convert a van into a catering unit?
A: We can often finance the base van and the conversion work, depending on the provider and your credit profile. We’ll guide you through it.
Q: How quickly can I get a decision?
A: Many applications are approved within 1–2 working days. We move fast because we know you’ve got customers to serve.
Q: Can I buy from a private seller?
A: Yes, we can often arrange finance for vans purchased privately, subject to standard checks.
Q: What deposit will I need?
A: It varies. Some lenders offer 100% finance, while others may ask for 5–10%. We’ll always show you the most cost-effective option.
Q: Is there a fee to apply?
A: No. It’s free to enquire and there’s no obligation to go ahead. We’re here to help you explore your options.