The sound of an ice cream van is one of the most iconic signals that summer has arrived in the UK. From busy beaches and bustling parks to family events and music festivals, ice cream vans are a staple of British summertime—and the demand is only growing.
If you’re considering purchasing a new or upgraded ice cream van this season, now is the perfect time to take action. With summer fast approaching, mobile vendors are getting ready to capitalise on peak footfall. At Sorbus Finance, we specialise in helping businesses like yours secure tailored, flexible finance to invest in the vehicles you need—without tying up your cash flow.
Whether you’re an established operator or just starting out in the world of mobile catering, read on to learn how Sorbus Finance can help you fund your next ice cream van and hit the road with confidence.
Why Investing in a New Ice Cream Van Makes Sense
The mobile catering industry has seen a strong resurgence in recent years, and ice cream vans remain one of the most profitable and versatile options for seasonal traders. But consumer expectations have changed. Clean presentation, eco-conscious design, and modern service equipment are becoming must-haves rather than nice-to-haves.
Investing in a new or upgraded ice cream van can bring a host of benefits:
- Improved reliability: Newer vehicles reduce downtime and maintenance costs, ensuring you stay on the road during the busiest months.
- Better branding opportunities: A clean, professionally finished van serves as a moving billboard for your business.
- Energy efficiency: New models often come with lower fuel consumption or electric alternatives, ideal for environmentally-conscious operators.
- Compliance: Stay ahead of ever-tightening environmental regulations, particularly in Low Emission Zones.
If your current van is showing its age—or you’re looking to expand your fleet—upgrading ahead of the summer season can give you a serious competitive advantage.
Top Ice Cream Vans We Help Finance
We’ve worked with mobile caterers across the UK to help fund a wide range of ice cream vans, from traditional soft-serve models to fully electric units. Here are some of the most popular choices our clients invest in:
Whitby Morrison Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Whitby Morrison Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – The gold standard of modern ice cream vans. These vehicles combine the reliability of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with Whitby Morrison’s industry-leading build quality. Perfect for operators who want a robust, professional look with all the latest dispensing equipment built-in.
Ford Transit Ice Cream Vans
Ideal for those looking to get started or expand their fleet affordably. The Ford Transit chassis offers a balance of practicality and affordability, with excellent customisation options available through specialist converters.
Electric Ice Cream Vans
As more towns and cities introduce Clean Air Zones, electric ice cream vans are rapidly becoming a smart investment. These quiet, efficient vehicles are perfect for urban environments and future-proof your fleet against evolving emissions standards.
Vintage or Custom Vans
For those targeting weddings, private hire, or premium events, a vintage-style van—perhaps a restored Bedford CF or Citroën HY—offers aesthetic appeal with strong earning potential. We can also finance custom builds tailored to your business vision.
How Sorbus Finance Supports Ice Cream Van Businesses
We understand that funding a new commercial vehicle can be a significant decision. That’s why we work to make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible. At Sorbus Finance, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach—we take the time to understand your business, your cash flow, and your goals.
Our key features include:
- Tailored Asset Finance Options: Choose from hire purchase, finance lease, or refinance—whichever works best for your business setup.
- Fast Turnaround Times: We know time is critical. Our streamlined process ensures fast decisions so you don’t miss the summer trading window.
- Trusted Supplier Network: We work closely with trusted UK vehicle suppliers and coachbuilders, so we can help connect you with reputable sources.
- Support for Startups and Established Traders: Whether you’re starting with your first van or adding to an existing fleet, we can support your journey.
- Fixed Monthly Payments: Predictable, manageable repayments help you stay in control of your finances while generating income from day one.
We also handle all the admin—from liaising with the supplier to coordinating your documentation—so you can stay focused on your business.
Real Clients, Real Results
We’ve helped dozens businesses invest in their growth, including family-run ice cream traders and regional event caterers. From securing finance for a first-time purchase to upgrading a long-serving vehicle, we’re proud to have played a part in helping our clients thrive.
One recent client told us:
“We were struggling to get approval elsewhere as a seasonal business, but Sorbus understood our needs straight away. They helped us secure finance for a new electric van and we were trading at local events within weeks. We’ll definitely be coming back for van number two!”
Your Summer Starts Here
Summer trading season is short—but lucrative. Make sure you’re not stuck in the garage while your competitors are out on the road.
If you’re considering purchasing a new or used ice cream van, Sorbus Finance is ready to help you take the next step. With access to competitive lenders and a friendly, knowledgeable team, we’ll make sure your finance is as smooth as your soft-serve.
Let’s Get You Funded
📞 Call our friendly team today on 01246 383500
🌐 Or visit www.sorbusfinance.co.uk to make a quick online enquiry
Make this summer your most successful yet—with the right van, the right finance, and the right support from Sorbus.
P.s Thinking about other mobile catering options? Check out our latest blog on mobile catering!
