Council resolved to adopt a new mobile vending policy after reviewing concerns from local bricks-and-mortar business owners who have long complained that food trucks are stealing business from them.
The new policy is primarily to address mobile vendors operating in the popular tourist precinct of the Port Broughton foreshore within close proximity of local businesses.
This issue is not isolated to Port Broughton, with towns and cities around the world faced with trying to strike a balance between physical businesses and food trucks in their communities.
Councillors also took into consideration community support for mobile vendors, who some residents say provide different food and beverage options that are otherwise unavailable, help attract and retain people in Port Broughton and create a vibrancy and experience that attracts tourists. Some point to recent studies that show food trucks actually complement bricks-and-mortar businesses, especially restaurants.
However, councillors accepted the case to protect bricks-and-mortar businesses from “unfair” competition given some business owners warned they faced closure and ongoing hardship.
Maree Wauchope, CEO, of Barunga West Council said the Mobile Vending Policy and Mobile Guidelines and Locations will be amended to enforce the new restrictions.
“Councillors have resolved that there will be no mobile food vending within the Port Broughton township, except for during organised events,” Ms Wauchope said.
“Council is likely to receive requests for mobile vending permits now the school holidays and good weather is approaching. Council continues to support a policy that allows mobile vendors to service events in peak times, such as during the Christmas Festival and New Year’s Eve event.
“We acknowledge that mobile vendors can increase visitors to an area, and can offer a variety of food and beverages to a township. In particular, mobile food vendors can also cater for an increased population during peak tourist periods or during an event.
“They can however be seen as a threat to existing bricks-and-mortar businesses, and therefore a balance must be struck to ensure those who take significant risks and invest in permanent businesses in our community are afforded some protection to create a more level playing field.”