3 Smart Steps For Investing In New Restaurant Equipment

Restaurants are unique businesses. Unlike so many others, they generally stay open on holidays and definitely stay open long passed traditional business hours on regular days. It goes without saying that restaurant equipment gets used quite a lot. We’re talking about every day for nearly the entire day!

As a restaurateur, it’s super important to make informed choices about your equipment. It can make all the difference in your kitchen’s efficiency and your eatery’s bottom line. Here are three smart steps for investing in new restaurant equipment:

Step #1: Use your menu to guide your needs.

What does your restaurant specialize in? Consider the dishes that keep your customers coming back through your front doors. Naturally, your equipment should align with the dishes that you serve. Let’s say, for example, that your eatery is highly heralded for its grilled meats. Investing in a high-quality grill would be a no-brainer. On the other hand, if your restaurant’s specialty is baked goods, a reliable convection oven would be essential.

Review your menu inside out. You will avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure that every piece of equipment you buy serves a purpose in your kitchen. “It is essential to carry out a detailed analysis of the type of cuisine that you plan to offer and the dishes that will be on the menu,” affirms Spain’s Frucosol, “The versatility of the equipment must be considered. Some devices can be used for a wide variety of dishes, which is beneficial to optimize space and investment.”

Step #2: Consider energy costs.

As you’re surely aware, electricity can cost your business a bundle. It’s certainly wise to consider energy-efficient equipment when looking to upgrade your kitchen. Be on the lookout for ENERGY STAR-rated appliances. They are known to consume less energy and therefore significantly lower your utility bills over time. Such equipment will not only save your restaurant money in the long run, they’re also the more sustainable choice.

“You can cut your utility bills by using energy-efficient commercial foodservice equipment,” affirms North Carolina’s Southbend, “Equipment that is energy-efficient uses less gas, electricity, and water, which reduces utility bills and can significantly affect your bottom line…Equipment that is energy-efficient is designed to operate at peak efficiency, which can lead to a longer lifespan.”

Step #3: Find the right sizes for your kitchen.

Bigger isn’t always better. It’s vital that you consider your kitchen’s layout and its available space. Oversized appliances can inhibit the craftsmanship and efficiency of your kitchen staff. Be sure to measure your space carefully. Consider the flow of movement in the kitchen when selecting new equipment. It’s a good idea to opt for compact, multi-functional pieces if space is limited. You should also make sure your equipment is placed strategically to enhance efficiency.

“Think about how your team will move around in the space and consider how your restaurant kitchen should be laid out,” encourages Monica Stockbridge of Toast, “Figure out how much space you’ll have for everything you need. The goal is to have an efficient layout that flows well without being overly crowded. Don’t forget to check the dimensions of every piece of equipment to ensure you can fit it all through the doors and into the kitchen.”

Could you use some help to afford the costs of buying new equipment?

Contact Synergy Merchants to learn about how our unique merchant cash advance program can get you the funding you need within 24 hours! Please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-718-2026 or email us at info@synergymerchants.com. You can also apply online for a free, no obligation quote!