Bakery Equipment: How to Choose It Wisely

Choosing bakery equipment depends on several factors. Depending on the size of your business, your budget, the type of products, or the desired volume, your choices will vary:

• A small business does not require the same equipment as a large bakery. Choosing a machine based on the size of your business is important.
• Bakery machines are often designed for specific types of products such as bread, pastries, cakes, and confections. It is important to select a machine suited to your main activity.
• Choose a machine that meets the needs of your business. For example, if you need to produce a large quantity of bread each day, you should choose a machine capable of producing that quantity of bread.
• The quality of bakery equipment is crucial to ensure regular and high-quality production. You should choose high-quality machines that are durable and capable of withstanding heavy use.
• The cost of bakery equipment varies significantly depending on the size and quality of the machine. Before you start looking for the necessary equipment, it is important to set a budget.
• It is important to research the most reputable and reliable brands in the bakery industry. Well-known brands are often more expensive, but they are of better quality and often offer better after-sales service.

Essential Bakery Machines and Tools

You need to select equipment that matches your needs. Here is a list of bakery equipment for opening your future bakery/pastry shop. Some bakery accessories are available directly in our online store or in our catalog. There are several essential machines and tools in a bakery; here are the main ones:

• Oven: In a bakery, the oven is essential. There are different types of ovens (combi ovens, rotary ovens, convection ovens, etc.). Choose the oven that best fits your business based on the size of your space, your production volume, and your budget.
• Mixing Machine: A mixing machine is used to knead dough. The size varies based on the amount of dough to be kneaded. They can be electric or manual.
• Dough Divider: A dough divider is used to divide dough into equal portions. It can be electric or manual.
• Storage Rack: The storage rack allows you to store your baking trays, pastry sheets, or stainless steel grids. At Maé Innovation, we offer storage racks in various sizes, from the standard 40x60cm to larger formats of 60x80cm. All are made of stainless steel and come with swivel wheels for easy movement.
• Baking Trolleys: Baking trolleys are used to bake your preparations in rotating ovens. This allows you to bake a large quantity of products more quickly. At Maé, we offer baking trolleys suitable for Eurofour and Bongard ovens in 40x80cm or 60x80cm sizes.
• Pastry Trays: Aluminum pastry trays ensure the baking of your pastries, croissants, and other biscuits. The trays provide excellent heat distribution and ensure perfect baking. They can also serve as preparation or storage supports. The pastry trays can be solid or perforated.

• Stainless Steel Grids: Grids are useful for cooling your products after baking. They speed up the cooling of your dough. You can find stainless steel grids in various sizes, with or without edges.

• Bread Molds: Bread molds allow you to shape your baguettes. The choice of your bread mold depends on the type of oven you use, as well as the type of dough (fresh or frozen). At Maé Innovation, we offer baking nets made of stainless steel, aluminum, and fiberglass.

Essential Bakery Utensils and Accessories

In addition to essential machines, here is a list of utensils and accessories needed in a bakery:

1. Tart Pan: A tart pan is used for baking tarts and quiches. At Maé, we offer the innovative Easy Tarte range, specially designed for accommodating doughs and pourable mixtures.
2. Brioche Mold: We offer a selection of brioche molds, perfect for pastry professionals. You will find all the necessary molds for making perfect brioches and charlottes in our store.
3. Bread Mold: The aluminized steel bread mold is suitable for various uses. You can bake bread, cakes, brioches, or even sandwich bread. Maé’s professional bread molds come with a non-stick coating that allows for easy removal and produces golden, soft, and tasty bread.

1. Bakery Mat: This perforated silicone-coated fiberglass baking mat is ideal for baking your viennoiseries. At Maé, we offer bakery mats in various sizes made from high-quality materials for perfect results every time.
2. Pastry Mat: This full silicone-coated fiberglass baking mat is ideal for making your biscuits. At Maé, we offer premium pastry mats available in different sizes, providing a crisp result.

What Are the Costs and Budget to Consider for Opening a Bakery?

Opening a bakery can require a significant investment in terms of time and money. The budget varies considerably depending on a number of factors, including the size of the business, the location, the type of equipment required, and the staff. Here is a list of the main costs to consider:

1. Purchase or Rental of the Premises: The cost of the location depends on where you want to open your bakery and the size of the premises.
2. Bakery Equipment: You will need bakery equipment such as ovens, mixers, storage racks, etc. This cost varies based on the quality and quantity of the equipment needed.
3. Raw Materials: Raw materials such as sugar, flour, or yeast represent significant expenses for bakeries. These products must be purchased regularly to ensure the continuity and regularity of your activity.
4. Staff: If you wish to hire employees, you must consider costs such as salaries, social charges, and insurance.
5. Administrative Expenses: Administrative expenses include licenses, permits, taxes, and other costs necessary to start your business.

In general, the total cost of opening a bakery ranges from 50,000 to 200,000 euros, depending on the factors mentioned above. It may take time for a business to become profitable. Therefore, it is important to plan a sufficient budget to cover initial costs and operating expenses during the first months of activity.