What to Buy Used for Budget Management When Opening a New Restaurant

Opening a new restaurant is often the culmination of years of hard work and planning for people who are finally getting their small business off the ground. With so many variables and thin margins to consider, some restaurant owners don’t have the resources to put new appliances or equipment everywhere. If you find that you’re on a tight budget but need things to provide services to patrons, there are ways to find serviceable used items that work for you.

What to Buy Used for Budget Management When Opening a New Restaurant

Furniture and Dishes

While you shouldn’t be buying old and used cushions, hard furniture is easy to upcycle even if it appears in poor condition. Doing so can save you a great deal of money in furniture costs while also giving you the opportunity to customize the look to your restaurant. Vintage dishes, as well, can be purchased at pawn shops or antique stores for extremely low prices in bulk. While the price itself is low, the value it gives your restaurant in old fashioned charm can be great if paired well with the theme of your restaurant.

The Freezer

A good restaurant needs at least one freezer for long-term storage of meats and anything else you need to keep chilled for longevity. In most cases, a seller will let you know the precise dimensions of something like a used stainless steel three-door commercial freezer. You can use these measurements to determine if it is the right fit for you. They should also be upfront about any minor cosmetic blemishes, and they often pressure wash the freezer both inside and out before you pick it up for your convenience.

Slicers or Grinders

Meat processing equipment is one area that can have a couple of benefits if you buy pre-owned items. In addition to being easy on your budget, it is possible that you will discover machinery that is better for your needs than its new counterparts. Many brand new grinders or slicers have complex electronic components that you may not need but still drive up the price. Older equipment may be easier for you to use and clean.

Fryers

Fryers that run on gas tend to last a long time, so purchasing a secondhand one for your restaurant is sensible. The baskets are inexpensive and easy for you to replace when necessary. Check the oil cannister to make sure it doesn’t have any cracks that might cause leaks. The receptacle should be watertight.

Picking out the equipment that allows you to cook for your customers at a price that is right for you is no small task. There are some areas where it might make sense to buy new, such as commercial range. In many cases, ranges come with restrictions that may prohibit you from installing them in your restaurant if they’re pre-owned. Different areas have various regulations you’ll need to know. It’s also good to remember that if you buy discontinued equipment, you’re typically purchasing new items at used prices.                                                        

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About Dequiana Jackson

Dequiana Jackson, Founder of Inspired Marketing, Inc., helps overachieving women entrepreneurs conquer limiting beliefs and create marketing plans that grow their businesses. This includes one-on-one marketing plan development, digital product creation, web design and content marketing. Dequiana is the author of Know Your Business: How to Attract Ideal Clients & Sell More and runs the award-winning blog, Entrepreneur-Resources.net.

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3 comments

  1. What an instructive post! Starting a business is always a tough thing and you need to save as much as you can so you can invest heavily in promotion and marketing. it isn’t the time to splurge on stuff you can get for cheap.

  2. Is a good idea I have never think about it so interesting your post, it was really helpful.

  3. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! Yes, freezing and refrigerating equipment is an important part of investments in the restaurant business.

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