Bakery equipment plays an increasingly vital role in the success of your bakery operation. Knowing the limits of your existing equipment can make or break the success of your operation.

Professional baker and educator Ciril Hitz points out that replacing equipment is a pivotal strategy in maintaining a smooth and efficient production flow, while mitigating potential disruptions and financial strains in a business.

Record keeping is vital. Randy George of Red Hen Baking, a Vermont bakery, suggests implementing a detailed system in which all maintenance is written down on a strict schedule. He uses Google Calendar. “Remember that documentation means it actually happened,” George points out.

Reiser recommends that retail bakers come and run their product at the Reiser Customer Center and to work with Reiser’s bakery specialists, says John McIsaac, vice president of strategic business development, Reiser.

Most important is to provide a clear understanding of the products you want to produce, including the weights of the pieces, the hydration/dough yield and specific details concerning the dough and process, says Nate McDermott, director of technical sales, WP Bakery Group USA.

Budgeting is the first step to achieving long-term success, points out Austin Archdeacon, operations, Erika Record Baking Equipment. “Budgeting for equipment is paramount. What are best-case methods for budgeting and when to add and/or replace your bakery equipment?”

When it comes to commercial mixers, it’s important to consider what and how much you will be mixing, explains Carolyn Bilger, marketing director, Hobart. Purchasing a smaller mixer may be tempting from an upfront cost perspective; however, it can easily be overtaxed if it does not provide enough capacity. That can lead to additional costs for repairs and poor performance.

Ideally, you will be looking for equipment that can help simplify your bakery processes and ensure the highest quality products are produced, says Tim Levin, marketing manager, Empire Bakery Equipment.

Understand what you will gain. Benefits of using Oliver bakery equipment include increased productivity, improved consistency, reduced waste, and improved safety.