Lil Orbits Mini Donut Concession Van Business, Established, Great Profits!

Lots of PICTURES at bottom of sell.com listing :) Price is listed, but offers will be considered - please send us a note only if you are serious.
This item is also listed on ebay under: Lil' Orbits Mini Donut Concession
item # 200074399563
BE SURE TO WATCH OUR PICTURE SHOW ~ ALL PICTURES CAN BE ENLARGED
You are bidding on an established turnkey business that has currently been operating in the Calgary and Area region of Alberta, Canada. All information below is provided as if you were picking up our clientelle. Should you wish to start 'new', your success may duplicate ours if you choose to select events and work as we have. The business is over 9 1/2 years old, and includes everything you need to drive up to your first event, set-up and start "making money with mini's". The full details of the business and what is included follows.....
(Please be sure to read and understand all details provided. Should you have any questions, we are more than pleased to answer them for you. As well, we will post all answers for anyone who is interested in watching this item through to the end of the auction).
Serious Bidders Only Please :)
THE VEHICLE
The Van is in great shape. As it has mostly made only short journeys around town with only two major journeys south to an event in S. Alberta and once to the U.S.A. The mileage is original and low. It starts well, and has been reliable. With my husband/co-owner being a former mechanic, all oil changes and mechanical have been kept up to date. The details on the van are as follows:
-1985 Chev Step Van P30
-Approx. 67,000 original reading on the odomoter. (Actual reading is available upon request... this is close though - I just haven't posted the original because we are in our off -season, and the van is in storage until April). I have OVER estimated the approx. to be on the safe side. I think the actual is closer to 64)
-New Wiper Blades
-Two New Batteries
-New 2.5 Gallon 110 Volt Hot Water Heater
-350 Chev Engine
-Fold Down Step for Customer Service
-Tires are fair but will need replacing over the next few years

THE DONUT VAN
The Van was designed for concession use. It is completely wired with its own electrical panel that runs all of the machinery needed to make donuts. The floor is hardwood laminate flooring. The serving counter is red laminate, and the 'cooler counter' is painted white. All the cupboards and doors are melamine/laminate. The van has a side window that locks and opens from the outside for serving. There is a vent located above the donut machine as well as one in the hood fan. The interior walls are steel, as is the roof. The van is pretty much ready at any time to plug in, set-up, and start serving. Included in the donut van package is the following:

- 2400G Lil Orbits Mini Donut Machine - like new - only approx. 300,000 donuts on it (I'm actually sure its more like 250 - 300k or less, again, I'm just estimating high so as not to be low, and its not right out my door - its in storage - so unfortunately I can't just whip out and check it) The 2400G is capable of making 2400 donuts per hour/200 -1 doz bags per hour. We upgraded to the 2400G just at the beginning of last season. We found our profits increased significantly in just this change. The gas component allows for fast reheating, so when you are in "full swing", you have little to no down time with the gas fired burner. As well, the machine is more economical to run. The machine itself will run off of a 12v battery. The other electrical requirements are for everything else; mixer, hot water heater etc.
-Hopper
-Hopper Motor
-Servo Motor
-Catch Tray with rack
-All serving utensils
-Oil Catch bin
-Oil Syphon
-Propane connection system and new (this fall) propane tank
-Fresh Water Holding Tank 30 Gallon
-Three Sink CRHA approved cleaning facilities
-Kitchen Aid Mixer with 2 stainless steel 18g bowls for mixing
-Weigh Scale for measuring mix
-Containers for holding all motors, equipment, and supplies
-Cinnamon/Sugar Containers with dispensers
-Donut Mix container
-Large Fan with anchoring used for ventilation etc.
-16ft Mini Donuts Sign
-All jacks and other blocking used to stabilize/level the van
-Fire Extinguisher
-Approx. 50 ft. cording for hooking up to 220 power, as well as two other cords that allow for you to hook up to other 220 sources that are wired differently than most (ie: generator)
-Two Large Coolers for Soda/Pop and Water Service

TRAINING
This was not offered to us when we purchased the van 9+ years ago. Even so, we found the machine easy to learn quickly and we were able to increase our speed to maximum output with only a few hours logged on.
Having said that, we will pass on whatever experience that we can ~ which will only enhance your success that much more.
Upon pick-up (As ALL "Shipping" or in this case Delivery/Pickup arrangements are the sole responsibility of the purchaser) we would be pleased to spend time with you , to demonstrate how to set-up, take down, run the machine, mix the batter etc. in a "dry run" type setting to assist you with your operations.
We also will provide our own manual (created by us) that addresses set-up, take down, care and use, as well as minor trouble shooting. All that will prove to be very valuable information to have "on hand".
The machines themselves are truly "work horses" that can run well into the million mark (as our first machine did) and keep on running, with simple and regular maintenance that anyone can do. We will go over all these details with you. In addition to the original demonstration, we will offer you:
-Technical Advise and support, on an as needed basis for 1 month following your purchase.
-Information, as needed, on how to winterize and store the van for the off-season months, and to prepare for upcoming seasons. As well, all contacts for parts, service etc. will be supplied.

OTHER SUPPLIES
-5000 waxed bags to make your first $20,000.00
-10 bags of mix (to be purchased fresh just prior to pick-up). We average approx. $750.00 per bag, which equates to your first $7500.00!!
-Burnt CD if desired, with all of our signage designs etc. that we print off for regular as well as seasonal events.
-Two wooden stools for sitting/serving/breaks
-Four NEW RED Long Sleeve T-shirts (sizes to be provided by successful bidder for immediate ordering from supplier)
-Two Bar-style aprons with "Mini Donuts" logo on front
-Two Full Front aprons with "Mini Donuts" logo on front

CONTACTS
The only "contract" we have is with the Millarville Farmer's Market. As this is the case, we can only include with our business, the Millarville contract. This is a great event, and is evidence that you can simply pick up just one "great" event, and be successful if that is all you chose to do. The Millarville Market also allows us to take full advantage of all of their Ag/and other events, such as The Millarville Rodeo, Canada Day, The Millarville Races, and Christmas at Millarville.
All other events that we have done, we typically take on, on an as desired basis (our desire, not theirs). These events do not offer ongoing contracts, but we have worked them as consistently as "The Market". Simply put, the bookings are a matter of making contact to the co-ordinators (whose names and contacts info we will provide), and comitting to attending as a Vendor.
We could literally work every weekend and double up on many, if we wanted to. If we were willing to work Sundays, I would guarantee that we would more than double our income in our first year. We get asked to do many events we refuse, and, rodeos in particular, I believe would be a good market, but are an example of typically a 2 day - 3day weekend.
The events are no secret. You will be provided with all infromation as to where we have worked and provided with as many contact numbers as we have.
A very significant advantage is that you can pick up where we left off. Most event organizers get approached by quite a number of other similar vendors (Treats, crafts, etc.). Our experience is that Mini Donut Vendors are few and far between in our area, and ours is a very welcomed call when we choose to add events to our scheduling. Our business, we are told by the CRHA, is the only "Mobile" Donut Van on the CRHA (Calgary Regional Health Authority) files that is active throughout the year. This essentially means that our business is that much more in demand for local events etc.
With regard to the CRHA, we will also provide all approval methods etc. which are required to operate within our area. Most places will have similar requirements, so this information is helpful.
We have been CRHA approved for the entire time we have operated, and have an excellent rapport as a more-than-compliant business, meeting all CRHA standards.

PROFIT MARGINS
We have always run the business based on how much money we wanted to make. Other than Millarville, the convenience of deciding when and where has always been quite a luxury to have.
When we are operating the machine at "full tilt", we can produce up to 2400 donuts per hour, or 200 bags. We sell the donuts for $4.00 for 1 bag or 2 bags for $7.00. At $4.00 per bag, this equates to anywhere from $800.00 per hour down to $600.00 per hour depending on your line-ups (you WILL have them:) ), and how fast you are running the machine. Either way, that's Amazing eh? This of course does not inclued pop or water sales. Its funny how people (including us!! - pre "donut days) always underestimate how much money there is to be made in donuts! Believe it or not, the variable in how much money you make per hour is YOU! My kids could all finish this phrase "The faster we work...." (because I say it all the time) "... the more money we make". Its true. When you run the machine at full capacity YOU can increase your profits immensely (another great reason for good training). If you need to slow it down at first, expect that. Its a very easy machine to run, but it does take a few hours logged on the machine to get the 'hang' of the speed thing. You definitely NEED a fast "bagger". Your bagger is the key to your increase in sales. On a side note.... I typically pay my helpers (yes, even my 10 year old!) $10. - $12. per hour ~ and they're worth every penny! My kids sometimes "fight" to see who goes with me to do donuts... .this is usually directly controlled by their amount of , or lack of 'fundage' at any given time! :) Adults who regularly purchase from us (you WILL have "regulars"), often comment on how our "helpers" have quite nicely mastered "money changing skills", "customer service", and "professionalism".
As far as events go. They vary. For instance, we have a local festival held each year called The Lilac Festival. At this event, we ran into the $3200.00 mark for gross profits in one day, last year. That said, at a good event, you really can average $1000.+ a day. Over the last 9 years, we have come to know what weekends/events yield us the most profits and know how much we can usually expect to earn. The nice thing is - and this is where the "every day's a good day when you're making donuts" phrase comes from - that you don't have to do any prep work! You drive there, set up, make money, clean up and leave. Put the van in the driveway 'til next week - do all your "dishes" and you're ready to go for the following week. The only thing you need to remember is to fill the water tank with fresh water, and keep your propane full. (One 20lb bottle will do up to 18 hours of donuts). I typically buy all my supplies in bulk, so I may visit suppliers maybe 3-4 times throughout the season. I do this, because the supplies we use do not spoil in the time we go through them, AND...they're all locally available! If I need something urgently, I can usually send a "runner". (Again, all suppliers names and contact info will be provided to the successful bidder - most supply to all of Canada and some parts of the U.S.)

REASON FOR SELLING
This was a tough decision to make, and I am still of the opinion that if we sell ..."great", if we don't ... "great". I always say that "everyday is a great day when you're making donuts!", and its true.
We have found that making "minis" really is a license to print money - as the donut ads claim! I have no regrets and am fully confident that who ever purchases the business from us will easily earn back their investment within the normal business start-up time. We found this to be our experience, and have no reason to expect it to be otherwise. The business is truly based on how hard you want to work... if you want to work every day and every weekend, I'm sure there are events that you could find that would accommodate you. For us, we only worked Saturdays, and the very odd weekend as a whole. Obviously we can not project ones income, as it is entirely based on how many events you choose to do. However, I do believe it would be entirely possible to earn back your initial investment in a single season, if you desired to do so. We do offer a significant advantage in having established all of our regular contacts over the past 9.5 years, and this is obviously an asset.
Our children are growing fast! Retirement is just around the corner (with regular full-time job), and the timing is great for us. As well, there are other ventures that offer us significant opportunities at this time. We have absolutely no regrets...The donut van has funded vacations away (up to two months), adventures closer to home, the purchase of a boat, the priviledge of assisting our children with tuitions and University needs, the opportunity to make greater contributions to our charitable donations, and among many other things, has afforded us the luxury of keeping Mom at home with our ten children. Overall, it has been a wonderful journey, that is filled with fun, and funny memories, and we are fully confident in selling it to whomever would like to pick up where we left off, knowing that our success is easily duplicated!

TERMS OF SALE
Honestly, I hate this part of ebay... it always sounds so "hard nosed"... but it must be stated for clarity, and to protect both parties. That said:
All sales are final, and no refunds will be offered.
Within 24 hours of the auction closing, a $750.00 U.S. deposit must be made through paypal.
Thereafter, the balance is due upon pick-up in the form of a Canadian Bank Draft, Canadian Money Order, Certified Cashiers Cheque or Cash.
All funds are to be remunerated in U.S. dollars.
The pick-up/delivery/shipping is solely the responsibility of the purchaser and not the seller. All costs associated with transporting, insurance, registration etc. are the responsibility of the purchaser.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE ASK THEM PRIOR TO BIDDING. SERIOUS BIDDERS ONLY PLEASE!!

If you bid on this item, please understand that you are entering into a legal agreement (as per ebay terms and conditions) between you and I, with ebay as the mediator in all transactions. Any person bidding on this item without meeting the terms of this sale will be reported to ebay with appropriate actions taken, and will receive very negative feedback. Again, please be sure that you are satisfied with all the information and bid with serious intent.

GOOD LUCK BIDDING AND REMEMBER : "SEASONED EBAYERS" - DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO BID, FOR "NEW EBAYERS" - CHECK OUT EBAY'S TIPS ON BIDDING SUCCESSFULLY TO ENSURE THE OUTCOME YOU DESIRE. KEEP IN MIND THAT IF YOU POST YOUR MAXIMUM BID, EBAY WILL ONLY ADVANCE YOUR BID AS OTHER BIDDERS PUT THEIR BIDS IN, BUT IT IS A GREAT WAY TO WIN WITHOUT HAVING TO KEEP A CLOSE 24 HOUR WATCH ON YOUR ITEM!

IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL PICTURES, PLEASE JUST LET ME KNOW, AND I HAVE PICTURES OF THE ELECTRICAL PANEL, PUMP, WATER TANK, ODOMETER ETC. THAT CAN BE SENT TO YOU IN A PDF FILE.

AGAIN, PLEASE ASK ANY QUESTION THAT YOU MAY HAVE... WE ARE MORE THAN PLEASED TO ANSWER ALL YOUR QUESTIONS, AND WILL POST ALL ANSWERS THAT MAY BE OF ASSISTANCE IN HELPING YOU TO MAKE YOUR DECISION. PUT US ON YOUR "WATCH THIS ITEM" LIST!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST.... AND DON'T FORGET:
"EVERYDAY IS A GREAT DAY, WHEN YOU'RE MAKING MINI DONUTS!"