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cost to hire a mobile hot chocolate bar

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mobile Hot Chocolate Bar in London?

During the colder months of the year (usually October through to February), mobile hot chocolate bars are a standout addition to events across London. From corporate Christmas parties and seasonal events to staff appreciation days and promotional brand tours, these premium hot chocolate bars offer a memorable way to engage guests and create an experience they won't forget.

A professionally staffed hot chocolate station will provide guests with more than a warm drink. Using real Belgian chocolate, customisable menus (including vegan options and seasonal flavours), and an option to brand every touchpoint, it's a versatile solution for both private and large-scale events.

But how much does it cost to hire a mobile hot chocolate bar?

In this blog, we’ll break down typical pricing, what’s included, key factors that affect the overall cost, and how to get the best value for your event.

What Is a Mobile Hot Chocolate Bar?

A mobile hot chocolate bar is a fully equipped, portable drinks station serving freshly made hot chocolate at events, staffed by professional baristas. They are designed to be flexible and impactful, and can be set up almost anywhere, from office Christmas parties and indoor staff appreciation events to seasonal celebrations like Christmas light switch-ons, shopping centre activations, and promotional brand tours in busy city locations.

These bars come in various formats, including compact carts, pop-up counters, and modular bar setups, which makes them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

Beyond the way they look, this service will more often than not be led by experienced teams who manage every aspect, including setup, service, and clean-down.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mobile Hot Chocolate Bar in London?

The cost of hiring a mobile hot chocolate bar will vary depending on the type of event and your specific requirements. Instead of a one-size-fits-all rate, each booking is tailored individually based on factors such as event type, duration, number of guests, and the level of customisation you’d like.

Elements that can influence your quote include:

  • Event type and duration (e.g., staff appreciation, promotional tours, Christmas celebrations)
  • Guest numbers and service window
  • Menu complexity and seasonal extras
  • Branding choices, such as branded cups, custom uniforms, or themed setups
  • Event location and logistics

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering for a few dozen people or a large-scale, high-footfall event, packages can be adapted to suit your objectives, service requirements, and brand presence.

Contact our team for a customised quote tailored to your event needs.

What’s Included in the Price?

When you hire a mobile hot chocolate bar, you are paying for so much more than just hot drinks. A high-quality service package will typically include everything needed for a seamless, professional guest experience.

Here’s what’s usually included in the price:

  • Trained barista staff to manage the full service
  • Premium hot chocolate made with real Belgian chocolate
  • Portable bar setup (cart or branded kiosk)
  • Toppings such as whipped cream, marshmallows & sprinkles
  • Set up and pack down before and after the event

Packages can often be tailored depending on your event needs, from branded equipment to custom menus and extended out-of-hours service.

What Affects the Cost of Hot Chocolate Bar Hire?

While mobile hot chocolate bar hire typically has a base cost, several factors can influence the final price, such as:

  1. Guest Numbers: More attendees = more hot chocolate, more toppings, and possibly more baristas.
  2. Service Duration: Longer service windows (like a full day at a busy event) will increase the cost of staffing and ingredients.
  3. Branding and Customisation: Personalised cups, branded aprons, and signage will incur additional costs.
  4. Add-Ons: Extras such as mince pies, mulled wine, or cold drinks can be added, but this will increase the final price.

Tailored packages will make it easier to align with your priorities, whether that’s guest volume, visual impact, or maximum brand exposure.

Optional Extras and Upgrades to Consider

For events that need something a little more bespoke, most mobile hot chocolate bar hire packages can be tailored with custom extras to elevate the guest experience or align with your brand.

Popular optional upgrades include:

  • Vegan or dairy-free hot chocolate and whipped cream
  • Flavoured syrups such as hazelnut, mint, or spiced apple
  • Branded takeaway cups, aprons, and signage
  • Dessert pairings like mince pies
  • Seasonal drinks like mulled wine

These additions not only enhance the service but also create memorable touchpoints, which is especially important for seasonal events or campaigns focused on increasing brand visibility.

Tips to Get the Best Value for Your Budget

Hiring a mobile hot chocolate bar in London doesn’t have to stretch your event budget, and with the right planning, you can maximise impact and control costs.

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your booking:

  • Book early: December is the busiest time of year, and prices often rise the closer you get.
  • Ask about packages: You may be able to bundle your hot chocolate bar with coffee service or desserts for a better value.
  • Think off-peak: Weekday mornings or mid-week events can be more affordable than prime weekend slots.
  • Be strategic with timing: Book service hours around peak foot traffic, not the entire event.
  • Brand wisely: Focus on high-impact items like takeaway cups or menus rather than branding everything.

A few thoughtful decisions can go a long way in keeping costs down while still delivering a polished, memorable experience.

Looking to Elevate Your Winter Event Experience?

If you’re planning a Christmas event, promotional brand tour, or an end-of-year celebration, a mobile hot chocolate bar is a simple yet effective way to add value, create meaningful engagement, and leave a lasting impression.

From fully branded setups to premium ingredients and professional barista service, it’s a high-quality solution designed to fit seamlessly into your seasonal events.

If you're exploring hot chocolate bar hire in London this winter and want a setup that’s flexible, professional, and built around your objectives, get in touch with us today to start planning.

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