Welcome to The Roadmap with host Lee Heisman. Today, we’re joined by Tara Garrett, CEO and founder of Food Truck South, who has nearly 15 years of experience transforming the food truck industry through designing and building custom mobile kitchens. Leveraging her extensive background in the restaurant and bar sectors, Garrett combines practical expertise with a consultative approach to support her clients’ success.
Growing up in Atlanta, she worked in her father’s restaurants and bars during high school and college. Observing her father’s efforts to launch food trailers provided her early insights into the challenges of mobile food operations, such as mechanical failures and health inspections.
In 2011, Garrett foundedFood Truck South to offer a comprehensive solution for entrepreneurs starting in the mobile food industry. Her company transforms simple vehicles, ranging from FedEx vans to flower trucks, into fully operational kitchens equipped with stoves, plumbing, electrical systems, and custom interiors. She also offers practical training, guiding clients through daily operations, safety procedures, and maintenance to help them manage their businesses effectively.
“It was more about putting the whole package together for people instead of just building a truck or building a trailer, selling something used it really putting the whole package together.”
Her consultative approach extends to advising clients on the right vehicle for their business goals. High-end trucks can be costly, so Garrett often recommends trailers as a more accessible entry point, helping clients avoid financial pitfalls and operate profitably from day one.
A dedicated team supports the company’s success, with many employees staying for over a decade. Garrett attributes her staff’s dedication to upholding the company’s high standards and adhering to strict deadlines for custom projects.
Over the years, Food Truck South has expanded beyond traditional food trucks, creating boutique mobile businesses such as dental offices, medical units, and laundromats. The company has also partnered with FEMA and other government entities, showcasing its adaptability and broad capabilities.
Looking ahead, Garrett plans to continue evolving the business into a full-service mobile solutions provider, maintaining the same focus on quality, functionality, and design. She also envisions community events where past clients can showcase their trucks and share experiences, strengthening connections across the mobile business community.
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