The baking industry in the United States is a billion-dollar industry, employing over 1 million people. It’s estimated that the industry sells around $400 billion in products. Additionally, it accounts for 2% of the country’s GDP, making it one of the largest industries in the country.
The industry is highly fragmented, with over 181,000 bakers in the country working for various organizations. The top 10 companies account for only about 25% of the market. The industry is dominated by small businesses, with the average company having only 11 employees. Nevertheless, the baking industry is a significant part of the foodservice industry, accounting for about one-third of all foodservice sales. If you want to be a part of this industry, there are a few things you need to do.
Invest In the Necessary Equipment
Starting a bakery requires you to have the right equipment. Here are some of the essential equipment you’ll need.
Oven
No bakery is complete without an oven. You’ll need an oven that can bake large quantities of product at one time. You should also consider getting an oven that has a steam injection system. This will help you produce moist and fluffy baked goods. Some of the best brands for ovens include Blodgett and Rational. The average cost of a commercial oven is between $5,000 and $10,000.
Proofing Cabinet
A proofing cabinet is a temperature-controlled environment that’s used to let the dough rise. This equipment is essential for making loaves of bread and other baked goods that require a rise time. Some of the best brands for proofing cabinets include American Panel and TurboChef.
Mixer
You’ll need a mixer to mix the ingredients for your recipes. A stand mixer is ideal, but a hand mixer will work in a pinch. Some of the best brands for mixers include KitchenAid and Cuisinart. The average cost of a commercial mixer is between $500 and $2,000.
Sheeter
A sheeter is a machine that’s used to roll out dough. It’s a piece of essential equipment for making pies, pastries, and other baked goods. Some of the best brands for sheeters include Acme and American Baker. The average cost of a commercial sheeter is between $1,000 and $5,000.
Scales
You’ll need scales to measure the ingredients for your recipes. It’s an essential piece of equipment for any baker. Some of the best brands for scales include Ohaus and My Weigh. The average cost of a commercial scale is between $100 and $200.
These are the essential equipment you’ll need. Ensure to invest in them whenever you can.
Get the Right Ingredients
You can’t bake without the right ingredients. Flour, sugar, yeast, eggs, butter, and milk are essentials you’ll need to have on hand. However, you’ll also need some additional ingredients.
One of the most essential is nitrous oxide for whipping cream. This gas makes whipped cream, frosting, and other toppings. It’s also used to inflate dough to make it light and fluffy. You’ll need a 580g nitrous oxide canister to ensure that you have enough for your daily operations. You might need more if you’re producing a lot more pastries.
You’ll also need specialized ingredients, such as cake and bread flour. Cake flour is a type of flour that’s milled to a fine consistency. It has a lower protein content, which makes it ideal for baked goods that are soft and fluffy. On the other hand, bread flour is a type of flour that’s higher in protein. This makes it ideal for loaves of bread and other baked goods that need to rise.
Be Willing to Put In the Hours
Baking is a time-consuming process. Many steps are involved, from mixing the ingredients to baking the final product. You’ll need to be willing to put in long hours.
You should also be aware that baking doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes, your baked goods don’t turn out as expected. When this happens, you’ll need to start again from scratch. It can be frustrating, but it’s all part of being a baker.
Have a Good Business Plan
Starting a baking company involves mixing ingredients and putting them in the oven. First, you’ll need to have a good business plan in place. It includes finding the right location, getting the necessary permits and licenses, and marketing your business.
You’ll also need to price your products competitively. This means knowing your costs and setting prices that will allow you to make a profit. If you’re unsure how to do this, many resources are available online and in libraries.
Baking is a hobby that you can turn into a business. However, there are some essentials you’ll need to get started. Ensure you have the essentials on lockdown to start your business on the right foot.
