Choosing traders
Visitors want a few good choices, not ten of the same thing. A hog roast stall is a reliable draw, especially alongside a vegetarian option and something sweet.
Pitches
Give each trader a level, firm pitch with vehicle access and room for a queue that doesn’t block paths. Hog roasts need clearance from marquees, other stalls and trees.
Paperwork
Organisers often ask traders for insurance details, food hygiene registration, a risk assessment and gas safety information. Ask early and keep copies.
Payment models
Some events pay traders a fee for a catered package; others charge a pitch fee and traders sell to visitors. Agree this in advance.
How many food traders?
Too few traders means long queues; too many means traders don’t sell enough and may not come back. Think about expected visitor numbers, how long people stay and when they’ll be hungry. A good mix covers a hot main, a vegetarian or vegan choice, something sweet and drinks.
Waste and fat
Agree in advance how traders will deal with waste, cooking fat and grey water. Responsible traders take their own away; check this is part of the agreement.
The trader brief
Send every trader a short brief: arrival and departure times, vehicle routes, pitch size and location, what’s provided (power, water, lighting), paperwork deadlines and a contact on the day. It saves dozens of emails and makes the day run smoothly.
After the event
Ask traders how it went: footfall, queues, what sold. It helps you plan next year, and good traders appreciate organisers who listen.
Pitch layout
Group food traders together so visitors can browse, but leave space between hot-food traders for safety and queues. Keep hog roasts and barbecues away from marquees, children’s areas and the main walkways.
Choosing reliable traders
Ask traders for photos of their set-up, what they need on site and how they handle waste. A trader who answers clearly and quickly before the event is usually reliable on the day. Book early: good traders fill their summer calendars months ahead.
Covering dietary needs
Make sure the overall line-up includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, and that every trader displays allergen information.
Gas and fire safety
Many events have a fire safety officer or a site plan with rules for gas cylinders and cooking equipment. Share these with traders early, and check them on arrival.
Before you book a hog roast
Send us the event date and hours, expected visitor numbers, the pitch location and size, vehicle access times, how food will be paid for and any paperwork you need. We’ll tell you what we can offer and what we need on site.
Food that travels well
At big events, visitors often eat on the move. Rolls are ideal: hot, filling and easy to carry. Keep plated options for seated areas.
Quick answers
Does a hog roast need power?
Usually not to cook, as roasters run on gas. Lighting may need power.
How early should organisers book?
Several months ahead for summer events.
Planning an event? Tell us about it and we’ll check the date and send a quote.