People might laugh at the idea that a hot dog cart owner can make a fortune off the hot dogs he sells every day. Well, let these folks laugh, but if you want to start a hot dog cart business, you might find Craig McLaughlin’s story inspiring.
Craig McLaughlin had worked as a beer truck driver for six years. He was an excellent worker, but he found that driving a beer truck was getting him nowhere. So he thought of a better job that would guarantee a stable income and ensure that there is food on his table. With the persuasion of his family and a lot of hope, McLaughlin was able to raise $ 6,000, allowing him to start a small business.
In 2002, McLaughlin began selling his dogs in an Armagh parking lot. His business was called Bull Dogs. He was able to sell one hundred and forty-seven hot dogs on his first day. However, McLaughlin soon realized that the business was not always fruitful. There were times when you found yourself staring at the dusty road while waiting to make your first sale of the day. The first years of his business were difficult. He handled his car meticulously despite many difficulties. He had no choice but to stay with his car six days a week even when the weather was unfavorable and all the road dust was coming his way. It was during these difficult times that McLaughlin became even more determined to succeed in his chosen business. Many people would come to him and tell him that he will never make it, but instead of being put off by these statements, the more he decides to try harder and prove everyone wrong.
McLaughlin’s first recipe was a beef hot dog on a potato bun. Customers can choose between ketchup or mustard, or both. Aside from the hot dog it sold, it also sold a variety of potato chips and sodas. It wasn’t long before McLaughlin found himself building a 16-by-18-foot shed to accommodate the onslaught of customers.
What started out as McLaughlin’s own business grew into a family business. Bull Dogs’ customers grew considerably, prompting McLaughlin to build a permanent structure that became the Bull Dogs restaurant. It is located at Route 56 and Philadelphia Street in Armagh. After thinking about it and getting a loan from the bank, McLaughlin opened the second Bull Dogs branch in Blairsville. In addition to their original beef hot dog recipe, they added fries with fresh cut potatoes and a soup for the day.
With the help of good words from your regular customer, there is no doubt that Bull Dogs has a long way to go.