Many people dream of starting their own business, and one of the popular choices is a culinary business. Among the various types of food, meatball (bakso) has proven to be a consistent favorite that never fails to attract customers. Its distinctive taste, wide appeal across all demographics, and versatility in various variations keep this business alive, even in the face of intense competition.
But the question remains, how much capital is needed to start a meatball business from scratch? Do you need to have a storefront? Do you have to produce the meatballs yourself?
Don’t worry, let’s break it down one by one, starting from the business opportunities, estimated capital, to success tips.
Business Opportunities in Meatball Business
The culinary industry always has a special place in people’s hearts, especially meatballs! This food is suitable for consumption at any time of the day and has variations that can adapt to trends, such as lava meatballs, giant meatballs, and aci meatballs. Here are the reasons why meatballs can be a great business choice:
A Favorite Food for Many
Meatballs are a universal dish. From school children, university students, office workers, to housewives, everyone loves them. This means the target market is huge!
Suitable for Various Locations
A meatball business can be run in many different locations, such as the side of the road, your front yard, food courts, or even as a modern franchise. It’s flexible!
Good Profit Margin
With basic ingredients like meat, flour, and spices, you can sell meatballs at a competitive price while still making a profit. The more portions you sell, the higher your profit margin.
Creative Variations
From giant meatballs, spicy meatballs, cheese-filled meatballs to grilled meatballs, there’s no shortage of innovation. Your creativity can be a unique selling point.
Can Be Started Small
You don’t have to open a large shop right away. You can even start by selling from home or online as your first step.
Also Read: Small Capital Businesses That Don't Have Many Competitors Make Profits
Breakdown of Capital Needed to Open a Meatball Business
Now, let’s talk about the important part: estimating the initial capital. The capital required can vary depending on the scale of the business you wish to start. For a small-scale operation (such as selling from a cart or simple tent), here’s the breakdown:
| Requirement | Estimated Cost (IDR) |
| Simple Cart/Booth | 3,000,000 – 4,000,000 |
| Stove and Gas Cylinder | 800.000 |
| Large Pot + Cooking Utensils | 500.000 – 800.000 |
| Serving Utensils (bowls, spoons, glasses) | 400.000 – 600.000 |
| Tables and Chairs for Customers | 1.000.000 – 1.500.000 |
| Initial Raw Materials (meat, noodles, spices, etc.) | 1.500.000 – 2.000.000 |
| Initial Promotion Costs (banners, signage, etc.) | 300.000 – 500.000 |
| Reserve Capital (optional) | 1.000.000 |
Total estimated initial capital: IDR 8,500,000 – 10,500,000
If you plan to open a business from home (without renting a place or a cart), the capital can be even more affordable. On the other hand, if you intend to open a small shop, additional costs will be required for renovation, rent, or utilities.
Equipment Needed for a Meatball Business
To run a smooth meatball business, here’s the equipment you should have:
1. Cooking Equipment
- Gas stove + gas cylinder
- Large pot for boiling meatballs and broth
- Chopping board, knives, strainer
2. Serving Equipment
- Bowls and spoons
- Serving trays
- Glasses (if offering drinks)
3. Cart/Booth for Sales
If you’re selling outside or by the roadside, a cart is an essential. It can be custom-designed according to your business needs, including branding and storage space.
4. Additional Equipment
- Storage containers for meatballs, noodles, vegetables
- Buckets, towels, and cleaning supplies
- Handwashing station
5. Payment System
In today’s digital age, many customers prefer cashless payments like QRIS or e-wallets. Make sure you’re prepared to accept digital payments to provide more convenience and modernize your business.
Also Read: Want to Start a Fruit Juice Business at Home? Here's How to Make It a Big Hit!
Tips for Running a Successful Meatball Business
To ensure your meatball business not only survives but thrives, here are some tips that you can implement:
1. Find a Strategic Location
Busy places like near schools, offices, or markets are great options. If you’re selling from home, make sure it’s easily accessible and visible.
2. Use a Consistent Recipe
Taste is everything. Once customers like your meatballs, they’ll likely come back. But if the taste is inconsistent, they may not return.
3. Innovate the Menu
Don’t be afraid to experiment! For example, try adding variations like spicy meatballs, mozzarella-filled meatballs, or giant meatballs to attract customers.
4. Promote on Social Media
Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are fantastic platforms for promotion. Post appealing photos of your meatballs, share behind-the-scenes content, or customer testimonials.
5. Use Digital Payment Systems
Accept payments via e-wallets, QRIS, or bank transfers to make it easier for customers and reduce the risk of lost cash or incorrect change.
Also Read: Recommended Business Ideas with 3 Million Rupiah Capital and Huge Profits!
Conclusion
Starting a meatball business doesn’t always require a large capital investment. With a capital of around IDR 8 million, you can begin a small-scale meatball business. As long as you have the right intention, strategy, and a delicious recipe, this business can be a promising source of income.
To make your meatball business even more modern and hassle-free, use Ayolinx for handling online payments. From QRIS to bank transfers and e-wallets, all payment options can be managed on one platform. Convenient, fast, and customer-friendly! Start your meatball business now and let Ayolinx help you with payments!
