The food cart business relies on infrared heaters

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, Mark Hodesh came up with the brilliant idea of uniting a collection of individually owned food carts, each with their own unique flavors. These carts are often the cheapest and quickest lunch options for those who work at nearby businesses, but an ample supply of heat could dramatically expand the customer base. Infrared heaters are particularly important for the individual vendors who must sit outside for an entire work day.

There are currently six carts that are scheduled to open at the end of April, but Hodesh would like to add at least four more in order to create a wider variety of authentic foods, such as pizza, Indian, Thai and Jamaican food. According to AnnArbor.com, as of now the food choices are – San Street (Asian), Debajo del Sol (Spanish paella and tapas), The Lunch Room (vegan), Eat (sandwiches), Darcy’s Cart (breakfast burritos) and Humble Dogs (Texas-style fast food items).

With carts initially costing between $2,500 and $12,000, these independent owners will need to save money while providing comfort to their customers. The directional warmth of infrared heaters will compensate for the bitter lake-effect winds, while allowing the owners to save more money. Alternative options, such as propane heaters, cost about three dollars per hour, whereas Heat Storm devices cost less than 14 cents.