Running a school snack business offers promising profit potential with relatively affordable capital. This opportunity becomes even more appealing due to high market demand among students. For instance, selling in the canteen of a medium-sized elementary school typically gives access to dozens or even hundreds of students, who take breaks twice a day. You can imagine the potential sales turnover and profits from selling school snacks.
Moreover, profits can also be earned by selling outside school areas, such as through online platforms, home-based businesses, or seasonal bazaars.
In this article, the editorial team at BFI Finance shares some popular school snack business ideas and tips for running them successfully. Read on to learn more!
Disclaimer: The estimated business capital for each school snack mentioned below is based on medium-scale production capacity using adequate equipment. Actual costs may be lower or higher than the estimates provided, depending on raw material prices in your area.
1. Types of School Snacks
Before delving into tips for starting this business, here are some popular school snack ideas you can explore:
1.1 Cilok
Cilok is a traditional snack made from tapioca flour mixed with wheat flour. The dough is shaped into small balls, boiled, and served with savory peanut sauce. According to BlackGarlic.id, the raw material cost for cilok is around IDR 3 million. With its chewy texture and sweet-spicy peanut sauce, cilok is a favorite among students. You can sell a portion for IDR 5,000.
1.2 Fried Snacks (Gorengan)
Fried snacks like tempeh, tofu, fritters, and fried bananas are universally loved. Starting this business requires an initial capital of around IDR 2 million. Their crispy texture and affordability make fried snacks popular among students. Prices start from IDR 2,000 per piece, depending on size and type.
1.3 Sweet Corn with Milk and Cheese (Jasuke)
Jasuke, made from boiled sweet corn with condensed milk and grated cheese, is a simple yet popular snack. Starting costs are approximately IDR 1.5 million. Its sweet and savory combination makes it a healthy and appealing choice. Prices begin at IDR 5,000 per portion.
1.4 Seblak
Seblak, a spicy snack made from boiled raw crackers, is typically served with sausages or meatballs and spicy seasonings. Starting capital for this business is around IDR 2 million. Its bold spicy flavor makes it a hit with students. One portion starts at IDR 12,000, depending on the toppings.
1.5 Chocolate Banana Rolls
These rolls are made by wrapping ripe bananas and chocolate in spring roll wrappers, then frying until crispy. Initial costs are approximately IDR 5 million. This snack is loved for its crispy exterior, soft interior, and delicious chocolate filling. Sell them for IDR 2,000 per portion.
1.6 Egg-based Snacks (Cilor & Maklor)
Cilor (cilok with eggs) and Maklor (macaroni with eggs) are unique snacks combining boiled dumplings or fried macaroni with egg omelets. Starting this business requires about IDR 2 million. They are loved for their chewy texture and savory flavor. Prices start at IDR 2,000 per portion.
1.7 Rolled Eggs
Rolled eggs are a classic snack made by frying whisked eggs and rolling them onto skewers. This business requires an initial investment of around IDR 2 million. Popular for their savory taste, they can be sold in bundles, such as 5 pieces for IDR 10,000.
1.8 Thin Pancakes (Kue Leker)
Thin pancakes filled with chocolate, cheese, or bananas are made from a batter of flour, eggs, and milk. Start-up costs are around IDR 5 million. These crispy pancakes are loved for their texture and sweet fillings. Prices start at IDR 5,000 per portion.
1.9 Crispy Tofu
Crispy tofu is a snack made from white tofu, cut into small pieces, coated in batter, and fried until crispy. According to several sources, the estimated initial capital for this snack is around IDR 5 million. This snack is highly popular due to its crunchy texture and savory taste. It is a great business idea for school snacks because it appeals to both children and adults. A portion of crispy tofu is typically priced at IDR 10,000 and contains five pieces of tofu.
1.10 Pinch Cake (Kue Cubit)
Pinch cake, or kue cubit, is a small cake made from flour and milk, topped with sprinkles or cheese. With an estimated initial capital of IDR 2 million based on our references, you can start a kue cubit business for school snacks. Its sweet and soft taste, combined with appealing toppings, makes it a favorite among school children. A portion of kue cubit is usually sold for IDR 10,000–12,000 and contains 4 to 6 pieces.
1.11 Grilled Sausage
Grilled sausage is a simple yet beloved snack among children due to its savory flavor and enticing aroma. The preparation involves grilling sausages over a flame or on a pan and coating them with sauces such as barbecue or sweet-spicy chili. With an estimated cost of IDR 5 million for ingredients, according to our sources, this snack is ideal for schools because of its quick and attractive presentation. One grilled sausage can be priced starting from IDR 10,000, depending on the type of sausage and sauces used.
1.12 Mochi
Mochi is a traditional snack made from glutinous rice flour, filled with peanut paste or chocolate, and coated with powdered sugar. Its chewy texture and sweet flavor make it a perfect snack for school children. With an estimated initial capital of IDR 2 million according to Parapuan.co, mochi is a unique and affordable snack option. Its distinctive taste and reasonable price make it an appealing choice for school vendors.
1.13 Cirambay (Cireng Sambal Ramen)
Cirambay, short for cireng sambal ramen, is a creative snack shaped like noodles, fried until crispy, and seasoned with various flavors. This snack is easy to make and popular due to its crunchy texture and savory taste, which can be tailored to children’s preferences. It is an ideal snack to sell in practical packaging in school environments. A portion of cirambay costs around IDR 10,000–15,000.
1.14 Steamed Bun (Bakpao)
Bakpao is a soft steamed bun typically filled with mung bean, chocolate, or meat. This snack is well-known for its fluffy texture and delicious flavor. Starting a bakpao business requires only IDR 1 million in initial capital, according to Okezone. Bakpao is not only a filling snack but also a favorite among schoolchildren due to its portability. A small bakpao is priced at IDR 5,000–10,000.
1.15 Spider Web Cake (Kue Jaring Laba-Laba)
Spider web cake, or kue jaring laba-laba, is a unique snack resembling a spider web pattern. Made from flour, milk, and sugar, the batter is fried or baked until crispy. Its eye-catching appearance and sweet taste make it popular and nostalgic among schoolchildren. A portion of spider web cake costs approximately IDR 5,000, depending on the design and size.
1.16 Lidi Noodles
Lidi noodles are thin, stick-like snacks that are fried and coated with various powdered flavors like cheese, spicy, or barbecue. Their crunchy texture and distinct seasoning make them a favorite among kids. This business requires an initial investment of about IDR 5 million, according to bisnisukm.com. The practical packaging and affordable price make lidi noodles a lucrative school snack option. A small portion of lidi noodles costs IDR 5,000–10,000.
1.17 Ice Pops (Es Lilin)
Ice pops, or es lilin, are frozen treats made from milk, syrup, or fruit juice, sealed in small plastic bags. Variations in flavors like strawberry, chocolate, or melon make this snack a hit with children, especially during hot weather. Easy to make and visually appealing due to its vibrant colors, ice pops are an ideal school snack. A portion of es lilin is priced at IDR 2,000–5,000.
1.18 Corn Dog
Corn dog is a modern snack consisting of sausage or cheese coated in a cornmeal batter and fried to perfection. Its crispy exterior and soft interior, combined with its easy-to-handle presentation, make it a favorite among schoolchildren. A small portion of corn dog is priced at IDR 10,000–15,000.
2. Tips for Starting a School Snack Business
After identifying various types of school snacks, you need to understand the basics of starting your business effectively.
2.1 Market and Competitor Research
Before starting a school snack business, conduct market research to understand the types of snacks popular among schoolchildren in your target area. Observe existing vendors, including the types of products they sell, their pricing, and how they attract customers. This research will help you determine unique snacks that can compete while meeting market demand. For example, if there are already many fried snack sellers, you might try offering modern snacks like corn dogs or mini pancakes with different flavor options.
2.2 Choose a Strategic Location
The location of your business significantly influences its success. Choose a spot near schools or busy areas frequented by children. Ensure the location is easily accessible, visible, and has sufficient space for selling. A strategic location will help you attract students, especially during their school breaks or dismissal times. You might also consider selling in school cafeterias. Ensure all potential locations have the necessary permits to avoid issues later.
2.3 Product Testing
Before launching your products, conduct trials to achieve consistent flavors that align with children's preferences and other target customers. Involve friends, family, or even local children to taste-test your snacks. Their feedback is essential for identifying the strengths and weaknesses of your snacks. Ensure that the taste, texture, and presentation are appealing enough to attract children.
2.4 Promotion
Use creative promotional strategies to capture the attention of children and their parents. You could offer special discounts during the initial launch or provide value packs for bulk purchases. Visual promotion is also essential, such as displaying attractive menu boards with eye-catching images.
2.5 Use Attractive Packaging
Child-friendly and appealing packaging can be an additional draw. Opt for colorful packaging, featuring cute characters or unique product names. Additionally, ensure the packaging is safe and hygienic to maintain customer trust. With engaging packaging, your school snack business can attract not just children but also school staff and parents.
#SelaluAdaJalan with BFI Finance! Need extra funds to start your business? Explore financing options with BFI Finance, regulated by OJK. Find out more about vehicle or property-backed loans on our website.
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