The idea of starting a business is a daunting one. The problems can pile up—from the logistics to the actual business plan. However, inspiration can come in different packages (like buckets and containers). Here are some business ideas and anecdotes that may become a source of newfound inspiration for small businesses, entrepreneurs, or DIYers.
1. Food Truck and Delivery
Food trucks are a sign of independence and the American dream. A truck-plus-kitchen combo allows owners to bring their food all over town without having to create the kind of marketing buzz most restaurants do. This also helps owners meet new customers.
According to a small business study, despite the pandemic, food trucks are still projected to grow. The study also says that mobile chefs get to be more creative with their dishes, have more authority on the places they want to serve, and have the final say on their pricing. The food truck may sound like a lot of hard work, but the statistics show it’s not a bad business to get into.
An interesting food truck hack is using food-grade buckets and containers in all sorts of ways. Some food truck owners use food-grade buckets and containers as plates, refrigerator substitutes, and food delivery packages. The refrigerator hack is particularly helpful—it saves money by pairing a food-grade bucket with dry ice. This is perfectly fine since the buckets are food-safe and designed to keep food fresh in different conditions.
2. Home-Made Ice Cream Business
Food-grade containers help homemade ice cream makers store and serve their product safely.
Who doesn’t love ice cream? It’s a dependable dessert and a great companion snack in any situation. Ice cream is taken seriously because of its contributions to turning a good meal into a great one. Kidding aside, the simple homemade ice cream business has been growing—and having access to affordable food-grade buckets and containers is a big factor.
Making ice cream—or even finding a recipe for ice cream—is now easier than ever thanks to online research, recipe books, and TV cooking shows. The resources to create your own ice cream are widely available, but what most don’t teach is how to store it properly.
After finding the perfect recipe, an ice cream entrepreneur needs to find the perfect bucket or container. A bucket that can be kept in cold temperatures, can safely store food, and can be transported easily. Our ice cream and frozen yogurt containers check all the boxes. So what are you waiting for? Start your ice cream dreams now!
3. Cosmetics
Makeup is a perfect mixture of art and science. The idea of blending different colors to enhance appearance—while ensuring the materials used are safe—is a precise skill that only a few people can master.
One of the most interesting stories from indie makeup brands involves food-grade containers or cosmetic jars being repurposed as makeup packaging. Some customers say the different container sizes have helped them create multiple product variants. It’s fascinating how something so basic has helped artists spread their products and bring their visions to life.
4. Gardening and Farming
Farming and gardening are often seen as pursuits that require a big patch of land or a backyard with fertile soil. That perception has discouraged many potential gardeners and farmers. However, some have found ways to grow and sell quality plants and vegetables using food-grade buckets.
Ceramic pots and other traditional containers might seem like the default, but food-grade plastic buckets are often better for heavy-duty, space-saving, and portable gardening. They're more durable, malleable, and less likely to crack—even when filled to the brim.
These food-grade containers are also highly portable. If a plant is taking up too much space or needs more sun, you can move it without risk of damage. And beyond selling crops, another benefit of gardening is improved air quality—plants are natural air filters that help you live healthier and wealthier.
5. Small Business Ideas for Kids
Kids today are growing up with an instant-access mindset. While convenience is great, it can limit opportunities to learn patience, responsibility, and financial literacy. One way to balance that? Give them a chance to run a small business.
Here are two time-tested, bucket-powered business ideas that are perfect for kids:
Lemonade Stands
A lemonade stand is a classic way to teach kids entrepreneurship and service.
The lemonade stand is one of the most basic, kid-friendly business ideas that any parent can support. Teaching kids how to make and serve lemonade helps them understand service, reward, and simple math. Just grab a jug of ice, fill a food-grade bucket with lemons, and set them up with drinking cups.
Car Wash
Here’s a cool and refreshing way to earn money under the summer sun. A neighborhood car wash is great for teaching kids about teamwork, hard work, and having fun while learning. Just fill a few food-grade buckets with water, add some soap, and let them go to town scrubbing cars (with supervision, of course).
Turn Your Passions Into Profit
They say the secret to happiness is getting rewarded for doing what you love. This is especially true when your passion becomes your livelihood. Whether you're selling food, plants, cosmetics, or something entirely new, food-grade buckets and containers are essential tools that can help bring your vision to life.
Check out our Custom Printing Solutions to add your brand to your packaging, and browse our full selection of Buckets and Containers to find the best fit for your business.
Explore Our Packaging Solutions
From food-safe buckets to custom-labeled containers, we’ve got everything you need to launch and scale your ideas.
