Presentation is crucial in attracting customers and driving sales in the competitive food service industry. One effective way to showcase your delectable food items is by investing in the right display case for your business. A display case enhances the visual appeal of your products and keeps them fresh and accessible to customers. Whether you run a bakery, café, deli, or any other food service establishment, selecting the perfect display case is essential for your success. This article will guide you through the process of choosing the right display case for your food service business.
Assess Your Business Needs
Start by evaluating your specific requirements and the nature of your food service business. Consider factors such as the type and quantity of products you offer, the available space in your establishment, and your target audience. This assessment will help you determine the size, style, and features you should look for in a display case.
Determine the Display Case Type
Various types of display cases are available, each designed for specific purposes. Some common options include refrigerated display cases, dry display cases, heated display cases, and combination display cases. Refrigerated cases are ideal for showcasing perishable items such as cakes, pastries, and desserts, while dry display cases work well for non-perishable goods like bread and cookies. Heated cases are suitable for displaying warm foods such as pizzas and sandwiches. Combination cases offer versatile temperature control, allowing you to showcase both chilled and heated items.
Consider the Size and Capacity
The size of your display case should align with the available space in your establishment and the number of products you intend to showcase. A display case that is too small may limit your product selection, while an oversized display case can lead to inefficient use of space and higher energy costs. Additionally, consider the capacity of the display case in terms of the number of shelves, trays, or compartments it offers. Sufficient capacity will allow you to organize and display your products effectively.
Evaluate Temperature Control and Energy Efficiency
Temperature control is vital for refrigerated or heated display cases to maintain the freshness and quality of your food items. Look for display cases with reliable temperature control systems that offer a consistent and adjustable temperature range. Opt for energy-efficient models designed to reduce energy consumption and minimize operating costs. Energy-efficient display cases often come with features like LED lighting and advanced insulation.
Focus on Visibility and Accessibility
The main purpose of a display case is to inspire customers and entice them to make a purchase. Therefore, prioritize visibility and accessibility features when selecting a display case. Opt for models with large, clear glass panels that provide a full view of your products. Adjustable shelves and easy-to-open doors or lids ensure that customers can view and access the displayed items comfortably. Consider features like self-closing doors, angled shelving, and rotating displays to enhance visibility and convenience.
Prioritize Quality and Durability
Investing in a high-quality display case is essential for long-term performance and durability. Look for models made from sturdy materials, such as stainless steel or tempered glass, which are resistant to corrosion and damage. Check customer reviews and ratings to ensure the display case is built to withstand the demands of a busy foodservice environment. Additionally, consider warranties and after-sales support provided by the manufacturer or supplier.
Customize to Match Your Brand
Your display case should align with your brand image and aesthetic. Look for customizable options that allow you to incorporate your brand colors, logos, and signage on the display case. This customization helps create a cohesive and appealing visual experience for your customers.
Consider Maintenance and Cleaning
Efficient maintenance and cleaning are crucial for food safety and hygiene. Choose display cases that are easy to clean and maintain. Look for features like removable shelves, trays, or display racks that can be easily cleaned. Smooth surfaces, rounded corners, and easily accessible components make wiping down and sanitizing the display case easier. Additionally, consider models with self-cleaning functions or built-in antimicrobial coatings to simplify maintenance.
Take Note of Noise and Ventilation
Some display cases, especially refrigerated ones, may produce noise during operation. Choose a display case with noise-reducing features or quieter cooling systems depending on your establishment's layout and customer preferences. Additionally, ensure that the display case has proper ventilation to prevent heat buildup and maintain optimal operating conditions.
Set a Realistic Budget
Determine your budget before exploring display case options. While investing in a high-quality display case is important, you should also consider your financial constraints. Compare different models' prices, features, and warranties to find the best value for your money. Remember to consider long-term costs, such as energy consumption and maintenance, when assessing the overall affordability of the display case.
Seek Expert Advice and Do Research
Consulting with industry professionals or suppliers like Texas Restaurant Supply can provide valuable insights into choosing the right display case for your needs. They can assist you in comprehending the most recent trends, technologies, and regulations about display cases. Additionally, conduct a thorough research by reading customer reviews, comparing product specifications, and visiting trade shows or exhibitions to see display cases in person.
Test and Evaluate Before Purchasing
Request a demonstration or test the display case before making a final decision. It allows you to assess its functionality, performance, and suitability for your products. Consider factors such as temperature consistency, ease of use, and the overall customer experience when interacting with the display case.
Remember, the right display case can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your food items and drive sales. By assessing your business needs and considering important factors like type, size, temperature control, visibility, and maintenance, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your brand and supports the success of your food service business.
Texas Restaurant Supply offers expertise in buying and selling used restaurant equipment for reliable transactions and fair valuations. Contact us today to fulfill all your equipment needs.
Many people think that used restaurant equipment needs to go to the dump, but that’s not true. High-quality restaurant equipment can be hard to find, and buying it new can be cost-prohibitive for many restaurant owners. Buying used is one way to get reliable equipment without breaking the budget.
With that in mind, you can sell your used restaurant equipment in many ways. The internet makes it easy to scout potential customers and see the demand for specific items. Doing some research can help you make money when you’re trying to offload old or unnecessary equipment.
Where to Sell Used Restaurant Equipment
Selling used restaurant equipment with so much technology at your fingertips is easier than ever. You can list used restaurant equipment via online platforms like:
- Craigslist
- eBay
- Facebook Marketplace
Sometimes selling online isn’t a great idea because of shipping costs, but using a website to list your items will increase your potential audience. Packing and shipping specific restaurant equipment can be challenging, so you might prefer to sell locally. You can still list some items online and arrange for local pickup to save yourself the hassle of shipping them.
You may decide to sell used restaurant equipment to an online supplier. They can arrange to pick up the items, which they may refurbish and sell through their site at a higher price to make a profit. Depending on the quality of your equipment, you could make money with this approach and not have any hassle regarding sales.
You can also make flyers to hang around town or post an ad in the local paper and its online classified section. This approach most likely means your potential buyers are local and can easily pick up the equipment without shipping and handling charges.
Sometimes you can sell used restaurant equipment without advertising. You might know of similar businesses and restaurants in your area that may need some of the used items. You can contact your restaurant network and see if anyone would prefer to buy used equipment from you instead of paying top dollar for new items.
You can also talk to your repair technicians. They likely service many businesses in the area and know if someone’s refrigerator just died or the oven needs repairs that cost more than the old model is worth. Sometimes, the service company may want to buy your old equipment to use its parts for other repairs.
Selling High-Demand Items
Research the items you need to sell to determine their worth. If you have high-quality goods that aren’t made anymore, you might be able to price them higher because people want them more. However, you don’t want to overcharge and get stuck with equipment you need to get rid of, so research will help you find the best price.
Using sites like those gives you a chance to promote the link to your social network while also ensuring people who need the item can find it when they search. You can either set a price or set it up for an auction on eBay or a “best offer” price on other platforms.
Selling Unnecessary Items
You may buy a piece of restaurant equipment thinking you’ll use it for new menu items, but things don’t turn out the way you think. Maybe there’s too much of a learning curve with the appliance, or the new menu doesn’t make the splash you expected.
In that case, you may try to sell your appliance back to the manufacturer. In some cases, large-scale suppliers and retailers will buy back used equipment that’s still in good working order. You most likely won’t get back the full purchase price and will have to pay for shipping and handling, but you know the equipment will go to someone who can use it.
Selling Multiple Items
When you have many items to sell, you may consider selling to a similar business, whether it’s another restaurant, a bakery, or a cafe. They may use a lot of the same equipment and want to buy new-to-them versions without having to pay top dollar.
The downside of selling to businesses is that you may have trouble finding them. You can reach out to businesses you know or post an ad, but there’s no guarantee anyone will need your equipment. Conversely, a business may take your best equipment and leave you with smaller or older pieces that are hard to sell on their own.
You can sell items in bulk to streamline the selling process. If you have a lot of appliances, you may want to pair or bundle them together to inspire one buyer to take it all. You could also offer discounts to people who buy multiple items. If they know they can buy three appliances and get a 15% discount, they may feel more inclined to take equipment off your hands.
You may choose to sell at an auction to get rid of your used restaurant equipment. It takes some time because the listings stay up for a week or two, but you may find customers getting into bidding wars over your items and increasing your profits. You’ll have to pay a few expenses, like commissions, and sometimes setup fees or removal expenses, but it’s a simple selling method.
However, the easiest way to sell multiple items is to sell directly to a restaurant equipment dealer. They can pay for everything upfront and then sell the items in their store. They won’t worry about having enough space for the equipment because they have storage space and a display floor, so they can buy everything at once.
Final Thoughts on Selling Used Restaurant Equipment
Whether you’re downsizing, closing your restaurant, or upgrading to new equipment, there’s no need to take your used items to the dump. Contact Texas Restaurant Supply to sell your used items and ensure they’ll find a new home. You’ll offload things you don’t need and make money in the process, so it’s a win-win situation.
Many restaurant owners find themselves with unwanted, used restaurant equipment, whether due to upgrading equipment or closing their doors.
When you need to get rid of used restaurant equipment, selling it can help you recover some of your investment in these pricey pieces and allow other restaurant owners to purchase the equipment at discounted prices.
We’ll provide tips for getting it ready to move at the best price, then explain three options for where to sell used restaurant equipment.
What Is the Resale Value of My Used Restaurant Equipment?
The demand for a particular piece of equipment typically determines the value of the items you want to sell.
For example, restaurant owners will often search for great deals on large, expensive pieces like industrial stoves and hood vents before paying full price for new equipment.
However, restaurant owners will pay more for high-quality, well-maintained equipment that will last many more years than poorly-maintained equipment that might break down or need replacing.
The value can also fluctuate based on the local food scene in your area.
In Texas, where Mexican restaurants abound, there’s a much higher demand for blenders, tortilla warmers, and broilers than specialty items like hibachi grills or sushi fridges.
How Can I Prepare My Used Restaurant Equipment for Sale?
When you’re ready to sell your used restaurant equipment, the first step is preparing it for sale to increase its appeal to buyers and fetch a higher price.
Evaluate the Condition
Before you list your equipment for sale online or contact a local reseller, you must evaluate its physical and functional condition. Ensure that all the features work as intended and that there aren’t any missing components.
If anything is missing or broken, that doesn’t mean the equipment won’t sell, but you’ll need to be transparent about it so there are no misunderstandings or accusations later.
Clean It Up
First impressions matter, so you want your equipment to look as clean and well-maintained as possible, inside and out. If a buyer has to spend time scrubbing grime and grease to get it up to inspection standards, they will likely offer a lower price for their troubles.
Deep clean the interior and exterior of each piece, getting into every nook and cranny. You want it as close to new as possible. Then, do minor maintenance repairs like replacing worn-out knobs and tightening up all the screws.
Gather the Proper Documentation
Providing instruction manuals, service records, and warranties assures buyers that they are purchasing high-quality, well-cared-for, used restaurant equipment.
In particular, equipment still under warranty can often get a higher price because it reduces the buyer’s risk should the piece break down after its purchase.
Where To Sell Used Restaurant Equipment
Now that you’ve assessed the potential value and cleaned up your used restaurant equipment, it’s time to get the best price and recoup some of your initial investment.
You can take three primary sales avenues: local equipment resellers, online listings, and other restaurants. We’ll outline some of the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Equipment Resellers
Most large cities have local, used restaurant equipment resellers who buy the items, refurbish them, then sell them at a discount to other restaurant owners searching for that particular piece of equipment.
Working with equipment resellers is often the easiest way to sell used restaurant equipment.
The main benefits of this method include the following:
- Equipment resellers pay top dollar for your used restaurant equipment.
- They will often pick up and transport the equipment for you, so you don’t have to worry about shipping costs or renting a vehicle large enough to deliver it yourself.
- You don’t have to worry about managing online marketplace listings or haggling with multiple interested buyers over the price.
- You can sell your entire stock rather than parsing it out, making the process faster than other methods.
- There are no payment plans or crossing your fingers that the check will clear. Equipment resellers give you cash in hand.
Online Platforms
With online marketplaces readily available with a single tap, many restaurant owners have tried selling their used equipment through platforms like Facebook, Craigslist, and eBay.
This option can seem the most convenient, as you can take a few pictures of your item, post it with the asking price, then wait for the offers to flood in. However, managing an online sales posting is rarely that simple.
For example, you’ll need to field any questions that come your way about its condition and quality, even if you included that information in the description. You’ll also have to deal with people who want to haggle, offering far under the asking price to get a better deal.
Once you find a buyer, then there’s the question of transportation. Shipping comes with additional, often outrageous, costs while delivering the item takes time and money.
Even if the buyer is willing to pick up, you still have the human factor to deal with, including anything from no-shows to the potential dangers of meeting with people you’ve only spoken to online.
Direct Sales To Other Restaurants
The final option for selling used restaurant equipment is direct sales to other restaurant owners. Some people prefer this route because it “cuts out the middle man” and can potentially net them more on the sale price, but it’s not without drawbacks.
Finding an interested buyer is challenging unless you have an extensive network of other restauranteurs in the area. You’ll likely need to spend time asking around, which can delay the sale process and leave you footing the bill for storage.
You’ll also have to deal with the hassle of negotiating the asking price, which cuts into your returns, and figure out how to transport the equipment from your location to theirs.
Once you tack on the cost of vehicle rentals and gas, you’ve cut into the slim margin of money you would have made over working with a used equipment reseller.
Final Thoughts
Texas Restaurant Supply is the largest used equipment liquidator in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area, with over 35 years of experience and a reputation for paying top dollar for your equipment, whether selling a single item or liquidating all your stock.
Call us today at (972) 642-0513 for our DFW location or (972) 579-4612 for our Irving location, and schedule a pickup for your used restaurant equipment.
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