A Sample Meal Prep Business Plan Template to Get Loans and Attract Investors

A meal prep business involves preparing and packaging ready-to-eat or easy-to-cook meals for customers.

These businesses cater to busy individuals, health-conscious consumers, or those seeking convenient, portion-controlled meals.

Meal prep services may offer various options, such as nutritious, balanced meals, special diet plans (e.g., keto, vegan, gluten-free), or family-sized servings.

With the rise of convenience culture and health trends, the meal prep industry has grown significantly, with the global meal kit market projected to reach $20.7 billion by 2027.

The key to profitability is maintaining high-quality meals, competitive pricing, and targeted marketing.

Meal prep companies also need to comply with food safety regulations and packaging standards to ensure product freshness and consumer safety

Steps on How to Write a Meal Prep Business Plan

1. Executive Summary

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. is a Chicago-based meal prep service focused on providing convenient, nutritious, and flavorful meals to health-conscious consumers.

We specialize in delivering fresh, chef-prepared, ready-to-eat meals that cater to various dietary preferences, including keto, vegan, gluten-free, and high-protein options.

By using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients, Mack & Chan® ensures every meal is fresh, balanced, and packed with nutrients.

Our customizable meal subscriptions give customers the flexibility to choose meal quantities, dietary requirements, and delivery schedules.

We aim to provide a convenient solution for busy individuals and families who prioritize health but lack the time to cook.

With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Mack & Chan® is set to become a trusted name in the meal prep industry in Chicago. Mack Carlos is the founder and CEO of Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc.

2. Company Profile

a. Our Products and Services

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. offers fresh, chef-prepared, ready-to-eat meals tailored to various dietary needs, including keto, vegan, gluten-free, and high-protein options.

We provide customizable meal plans with weekly deliveries, using locally sourced ingredients. Our services cater to busy individuals and families, ensuring healthy, convenient, and affordable meals that fit every lifestyle.

b. Nature of the Business

Our meal prep company will operate with both a business-to-consumer business model and a business-to-business business model for retailers and distributors.

c. The Industry

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. will operate in the food processing industry.

d. Mission Statement

At Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc., our mission is to provide convenient, healthy, and delicious meal solutions that empower individuals and families to live healthier lifestyles.

We are committed to delivering fresh, chef-prepared meals that cater to diverse dietary needs, using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, all while offering exceptional customer service.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision is to become the leading provider of healthy meal prep services in the United States, making nutritious eating accessible and convenient for everyone.

We strive to inspire positive change in the way people approach food, promoting wellness, sustainability, and balanced living in every meal we deliver.

f. Our Tagline (Slogan)

“Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc.: Healthy Meals, Delivered Your Way.”

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. will be formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

h. Our Organizational Structure

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Food Production Manager
• Quality Control Staff
• Administrative Assistant (Cashier)
• Kitchen Staff
• Logistics and Shipping Staff
• Customer Service Executive.

i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

• Mack Carlos (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 52 Percent Shares
• Kinston Jones (Board Member) 18 Percent Shares
• Klint Williams (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Kaysa Mackson (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Eden April (Board Member and Sectary) 10 Percent Shares.

3. SWOT Analysis

a. Strength

• Diverse Menu Options: Offering a variety of meal plans that cater to different dietary preferences (keto, vegan, gluten-free, high-protein), appealing to a broad audience.
• Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: Commitment to using locally sourced, fresh ingredients ensures premium product quality and supports sustainability.
• Convenience: Weekly meal deliveries provide busy customers with convenient, ready-to-eat meals that align with their health goals.
• Customizable Plans: The flexibility to tailor meal plans based on quantity, dietary restrictions, and preferences ensures customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Strong Brand Identity: Mack & Chan® is known for its customer-centric approach, positioning itself as a reliable provider of nutritious, affordable, and chef-prepared meals.

b. Weakness

• High Operational Costs: Maintaining quality standards and sourcing fresh ingredients can result in high operational costs, affecting profit margins.
• Dependency on Delivery Infrastructure: The business’s reliance on timely deliveries can be impacted by logistics challenges or delivery delays, affecting customer satisfaction.
• Limited Market Reach: Being based in Chicago limits current market penetration, with potential customers outside the region unable to access the service.
• Competitive Market: The meal prep industry is highly competitive, with several well-established players offering similar services, which could make customer acquisition difficult.
• Short Shelf Life of Products: The freshness of the meals and reliance on local sourcing may limit the shelf life of the products, requiring quick turnover.

c. Opportunities

• Expanding Market: With growing awareness about health and wellness, the demand for meal prep services is increasing, offering significant expansion opportunities.
• Partnerships with Fitness Centers & Gyms: Collaborating with fitness centers, wellness brands, and health influencers could help attract a wider customer base.
• Expansion to New Cities: Expanding beyond Chicago to other major cities could increase brand visibility and customer base.
• Online Platform Growth: Developing a user-friendly app or website for meal ordering and customization could streamline the customer experience and improve sales.
• Health & Wellness Trends: Tapping into the increasing trend of healthy eating and sustainable food practices offers an opportunity to capture more health-conscious customers.

i. How Big is the Industry?

The meal prep industry is considered a significant industry because there is a growing demand for ready-to-eat meals.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

The meal prep industry is rapidly growing, with the U.S. meal kit market alone projected to reach $19.92 billion by 2027, expanding at a CAGR of 12.3%.

This growth is driven by increased demand for convenient, healthy, and customizable meal options.

Additionally, consumers’ growing focus on wellness and time-saving solutions further fuels industry expansion.

iii. Future Trends in the Industry?

The meal prep industry is poised for continued growth, driven by several key trends. First, health-conscious eating is expected to dominate, with consumers seeking nutritious, organic, and plant-based meal options. Companies will increasingly cater to dietary restrictions, such as keto, vegan, or gluten-free.

Second, personalization will play a major role. Meal prep businesses will offer customizable meal plans to cater to individual tastes and nutritional needs, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Third, sustainability will become a central focus. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, prompting businesses to adopt eco-friendly packaging, use locally sourced ingredients, and reduce food waste.

Lastly, technology integration will increase, with meal prep services offering mobile apps or online platforms for seamless ordering, subscription management, and meal customization, making the service more convenient and accessible.

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry? If YES, List them

Yes, there are existing niches in the meal prep industry:

• Keto Meal Prep
• Vegan and Plant-Based Meal Prep
• Gluten-Free Meal Prep
• Family-Sized Meal Prep
• Organic and Locally-Sourced Meal Prep.

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of Your Business in the Future?

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. will not sell franchises, but we will expand our distribution network across the United States and other parts of the world.

d. Threats

• Economic Downturns: During periods of economic uncertainty, consumers may prioritize budget-friendly meals over premium meal prep services, impacting sales.
• Rising Ingredient Costs: Fluctuations in the price of fresh and organic ingredients could increase operational costs and negatively affect profit margins.
• Competition from Meal Kit Delivery Services: Larger companies like Blue Apron or HelloFresh, with established customer bases, may offer stiff competition.
• Health & Safety Regulations: Strict food safety and packaging regulations could pose operational challenges and increase compliance costs.
• Consumer Preferences: Changing customer tastes and food trends may require continuous menu adjustments to stay relevant in a fast-evolving industry.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

• Freshly
• Blue Apron
• HelloFresh
• Snap Kitchen
• Green Chef
• Trifecta
• Snap Kitchen
• Territory Foods
• Sun Basket
• EveryPlate
• Home Chef
• MagicKitchen
• Purple Carrot
• Clean Eatz
• Factor
• BistroMD
• GoFresh
• Eat Clean Bro
• Real Eats
• Personal Trainer Food.

ii. Is There a Franchise for Meal Prep Business? 

No, there are no franchise opportunities for meal prep business.

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Meal Prep Businesses in the United States of America?

Meal prep businesses must comply with food safety regulations enforced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

These regulations include Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to ensure proper handling, processing, packaging, and storage of food products.

Businesses may need to implement Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) systems to identify and control potential food safety hazards.

Food products must adhere to labeling regulations set by the FDA. The labels should provide accurate and clear information about the ingredients, nutrition facts, allergen warnings, and any other required information.

Compliance with specific labeling requirements, such as those related to organic or gluten-free claims, may also be necessary. The use of specific ingredients in food-related products may be regulated.

For example, if the product claims to be organic, it must meet the standards defined by the National Organic Program (NOP).

Additionally, certain additives, preservatives, or allergens may have restrictions or specific labeling requirements.

4. Marketing Plan

a. Who is Your Target Audience?

i. Age Range: Our target audience includes individuals across a wide age range, particularly focusing on adults and young adults who have a strong influence on their household purchasing decisions. This typically encompasses individuals aged 18 to 45 years old.

ii. Level of Education: Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. aims to reach individuals across various educational backgrounds.

iii. Income Level: Our target audience comprises individuals from various income levels. While our premium-quality food products may attract consumers with higher disposable incomes, we also offer options suitable for different budget ranges to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.

iv. Ethnicity: Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. aims to cater to a diverse range of ethnicities and cultural backgrounds.

Our products are not limited to any specific ethnic group and are intended to appeal to a broad customer base.

v. Language: We primarily communicate with our target audience in English, as it is the predominant language in the regions where we operate.

However, we strive to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for customers of various language backgrounds.

vi. Geographical Location: Initially based in Chicago, Illinois, Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. targets customers within the local and regional markets.

As we expand, we aim to reach customers across the United States, focusing on areas with a higher concentration of health-conscious individuals and those with a penchant for unique food products.

vii. Lifestyle: Our target audience consists of health-conscious individuals who prioritize high-quality, nutritious food options.

They seek products that align with their active and mindful lifestyles, including those following dietary preferences such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free.

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Build Relationships with players in the retail and grocery industry.
• Deliberately Brand All Our Vans and Delivery Bikes.
• Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
• Tap Into Text Marketing
• Make Use of Bill Boards.
• Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
• Turn Your Social Media Channels into a Resource

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Marketing through Direct Mail.
• Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
• Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
• Out-of-Home” marketing (OOH marketing) – Public Transits like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
• Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Marketing Platforms.
• Influencer Marketing.
• Email Marketing.
• Content Marketing.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
• Affiliate Marketing
• Mobile Marketing.

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Start using chatbots.
• Create a personalized experience for our customers.
• Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
• Create a community for our target market and potential target market.
• Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
• Use brand advocates.
• Create profiles on the relevant social media channels.
• Run cross-channel campaigns.

c. Pricing Strategy

At Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc., our pricing strategy is designed to offer high-quality, healthy meals at competitive prices. We offer tiered pricing based on meal plans, with options for single servings or bulk orders.

Discounts are provided for subscription plans and long-term commitments, ensuring both affordability and convenience for our customers.

5. Sales and Distribution Plan

a. Sales Channels

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. employs a comprehensive sales channel strategy to reach diverse markets.

Our products are distributed through traditional retail channels, including supermarkets, grocery stores, and specialty food stores.

Additionally, we have established partnerships with wholesalers to extend our reach and cater to a broader audience.

E-commerce platforms play a crucial role in our sales strategy, providing convenience for direct-to-consumer purchases.

We will collaborate with distributors to ensure efficient supply chain management, facilitating timely deliveries.

To strengthen relationships and foster brand loyalty, we actively engage with our customers through online platforms, promotional events, and participation in relevant industry trade shows.

b. Inventory Strategy

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. will implement a robust demand forecasting system to accurately predict customer demand for various products.

This can be achieved by analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and customer feedback, and considering seasonal fluctuations in demand.

We will adopt a Just-in-Time (JIT) Approach to inventory management to minimize inventory carrying costs and optimize cash flow.

This strategy involves ordering and receiving inventory from suppliers as close as possible to the time of customer demand.

We will develop strong relationships with suppliers to ensure a reliable and consistent supply of high-quality fresh ingredients including keto, vegan, gluten-free, and high-protein options.

c. Payment Options for Customers

• Credit Card
• Debit Card
• PayPal
• Bank Transfer
• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
• Mobile Wallet (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay)
• Check
• Electronic Payment Systems such as PayPal or Venmo

d. Return Policy, Incentives and Guarantees

Return Policy:

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. is committed to customer satisfaction. If customers receive damaged or defective products, they may return them within 30 days for a full refund or product replacement.

For returns unrelated to product quality, we offer exchanges or store credit, subject to product condition and approval.

Incentives:

To show appreciation to our valued customers, Cherry Mainsail® offers loyalty programs, seasonal discounts, and exclusive promotions.

Wholesale clients enjoy volume-based incentives, fostering long-term partnerships. Our referral program rewards customers for recommending our products, further enhancing the overall customer experience.

Guarantees:

We guarantee the quality and freshness of our ready-to-eat meals. Our commitment extends to ethical sourcing, sustainable practices, and transparency throughout the supply chain, ensuring confidence in every Cherry Mainsail® product.

e. Customer Support Strategy

Customer support is a crucial aspect of any business, including Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc.

Hence we will make sure we provide multiple channels for customers to reach out and seek support.

This will include a dedicated customer support phone line, email address, and online chat option on the company’s website. We will ensure that these channels are easily accessible and prominently displayed.

We will implement a system that allows customers to track their orders and receive regular updates on the status of their deliveries.

We will create a detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on the company’s website that addresses common customer queries.

We will also offer downloadable resources, such as care guides or recipe suggestions, to provide additional value to customers.

We will regularly evaluate and analyze customer support metrics, such as response times, customer satisfaction scores, and complaint resolution rates.

6. Operational Plan

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. operates with a comprehensive operational plan geared towards excellence.

Our state-of-the-art processing facility in Chicago, Illinois ensures the highest standards in ready-to-eat meal production.

Efficient supply chain management involves strong collaborations with local crop farmers, guaranteeing a consistent and quality raw material supply. Cutting-edge technology optimizes processing, enabling diverse product offerings.

Our strategic geographic location facilitates distribution across the U.S., with e-commerce integration expanding market reach.

Quality control measures are rigorously enforced at every stage, ensuring the delivery of premium fresh, chef-prepared, ready-to-eat meals.

a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Meal Prep Business?

A typical day at a meal prep business begins with receiving and organizing fresh ingredients, ensuring quality and freshness.

The kitchen team prepares meals based on pre-orders or set meal plans, focusing on healthy, balanced dishes.

Once meals are cooked, they are portioned, packaged, and labeled for delivery or pick-up. The operations team manages customer orders, updates the website or app with new meal options, and coordinates delivery logistics.

The marketing team engages with customers, ensuring promotions and social media content are updated.

Throughout the day, the staff maintains cleanliness and food safety standards while ensuring that all orders are completed efficiently and accurately.

b. Production Process (If Any)

At Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc., our production process begins with sourcing the highest quality ingredients from trusted suppliers. We prioritize organic, locally sourced produce and premium proteins.

Each day, our chefs carefully prepare meals based on customer orders, following specific recipes designed for balance and taste.

After cooking, meals are portioned into convenient, eco-friendly packaging, ensuring freshness and easy storage.

Each meal is labeled with nutritional information and storage instructions. Our quality control team inspects each dish for consistency and food safety standards.

Meals are then organized for delivery or customer pick-up. Our process emphasizes freshness, customization, and customer satisfaction, ensuring that each meal is both delicious and nutritious.

We also offer flexible meal plans to cater to various dietary needs, including vegan, keto, and gluten-free options.

c. Service Procedure

At Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc., our service procedure starts with customers selecting their meal plan through our website or app, where they can choose from various options like single meals or subscription plans.

Once the order is placed, we prepare the meals using fresh, high-quality ingredients. After cooking, each meal is carefully packaged and labeled with nutritional information.

For delivery orders, meals are packed efficiently for timely arrival. Customers can track their orders through our platform for convenience. For pick-up, we ensure orders are ready on time and stored correctly for easy transport.

f. The Supply Chain

At Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc., our supply chain begins with sourcing high-quality, organic ingredients from trusted local suppliers and farmers.

We prioritize fresh produce, premium proteins, and sustainably sourced items to ensure the best meal quality.

Once ingredients are received, they are stored under strict food safety guidelines to maintain freshness.

Our kitchen team processes and prepares meals according to customer orders, using precise recipes to maintain consistency. After meals are prepared, they are packaged in eco-friendly containers for delivery or pick-up.

We work closely with reliable delivery services to ensure timely and efficient distribution, ensuring that customers receive fresh, nutritious meals at their convenience.

g. Sources of Income

At Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc., our primary sources of income come from meal plan subscriptions, individual meal sales, and bulk orders for families or corporate clients.

Additional revenue is generated through seasonal promotions, special dietary meal plans (e.g., keto, vegan), and upsells of snacks or beverages. We also offer customized meal services for specific health goals, increasing profitability.

7. Financial Plan

a. Amount Needed to Start Your Meal Prep company

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. would need an estimate of $2.5 million to successfully set up our meal prep manufacturing company in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all our staff for the first month of operation.

b. What are the Costs Involved?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $20,300.
• Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $10,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $15,500.
• Insurance – $12,400.
• Rent/Lease – $850,000.
• Other start-up expenses include commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($1,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $350,000
• Start-up Inventory – $250,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $1,750
• Equipment and trucks – $750,000
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $5,000
• Miscellaneous: $5,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much will it cost?

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. will not build a new facility for our meal prep company; we intend to start with a long-term lease and after 8 years, we will start the process of acquiring our production facility in a centralized location in the city.

d. Ongoing Expenses for Running a Meal Prep company

• Ingredient Procurement – Regular purchasing of fresh produce, proteins, grains, and other meal components.
• Packaging Costs – Containers, labels, and eco-friendly materials for meal storage.
• Labor Costs – Wages for chefs, kitchen staff, and delivery personnel.
• Rent/Lease – Cost of renting kitchen space or operational facilities.
• Utility Bills – Electricity, water, and gas for the kitchen and office.
• Marketing & Advertising – Costs for online ads, social media promotions, and local marketing.
• Delivery Costs – Fuel and logistics expenses for delivering meals.
• Insurance – Coverage for liability, property, and business interruption.
• Software/Technology – Subscriptions for meal ordering platforms, scheduling software, and website maintenance.
• Quality Control & Compliance – Expenses related to ensuring food safety standards and inspections.

e. Average Salary of your Staff?

• Chief Executive Officer – $85,000 Per Year
• Food Production Manager – $75,000 per year
• Quality Control Staff – $60,000 per year
• Administrative Assistant (Cashier) – $50,000 per year
• Kitchen Staff – $50,000 per year
• Logistics and Shipping Staff – $55,000 per year
• Customer Service Executive -$45,000 per year.

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Meal Prep Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Pitching your business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
• Source for soft loans from your family members and friends.

8. Financial Projection

a. How Much Should You Charge for your Product/Service?

We will charge based on the type of meal plan, portion sizes, dietary preferences, and location. Below is an itemized breakdown with approximate pricing:

• Single Meal Orders – $8 to $15 per meal, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
• Weekly Meal Plans – $60 to $150 per week for 5 to 7 meals, typically offering discounts for bulk orders.
• Custom Meal Plans – $10 to $25 per meal, based on customer preferences (e.g., vegan, keto, gluten-free).
• Family Meal Packs – $50 to $100 per meal pack for 4-6 servings.
• Corporate Meal Plans – $10 to $20 per meal per person for corporate catering, depending on group size and complexity.
• Subscription Plans – $200 to $600 per month, offering 10-30 meals depending on frequency.
• Additional Snacks/Drinks – $2 to $5 per snack or beverage.
• Premium Meals or Specialty Diets – $15 to $25 per meal for high-end options like organic, paleo, or gourmet meals.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $1.2 million
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $2.5 million
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $3 million

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1) (Profit After Tax): 20%
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2) (Profit After Tax): $25%
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3) (Profit After Tax): 30%

d. Profit Margin of a Meal Prep Company Product/Service

The ideal profit margin we hope to make at Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. will be between 15 and 30 percent depending on the packaging size.

9. Growth Plan

a. How do you intend to grow and expand? By opening more retail outlets/offices or selling a Franchise?

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. will grow our meal prep company by first opening other production plants in key cities in the United States of America within the first five years of establishing the business and then will start expanding overseas by exploring the export market.

b. Where We Intend to Expand to and Why?

Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. plans to expand to the following cities.

• Orlando, Florida
• Nashville, Tennessee
• San Francisco, California
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Austin, Texas
• Denver, Colorado
• Seattle, Washington
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Dallas, Texas.

10. Exit Plan

The founder of Mack & Chan® Meal Prep Company, Inc. plans to exit the business via family succession.

We have positioned structures and processes in place that will help us achieve our plan of successfully transferring the business from one family member to another and from one generation to another without difficulties.

The company has successfully developed a detailed transition plan to smoothly hand over responsibilities to the new successor.

This includes transferring ownership, training key personnel, and communicating with employees, customers, and suppliers about the change.