If you are planning to open a smoothie bar, and you are not sure of all the equipment you need to start the business, then you need not worry anymore because you are reading the right article.
In this article, we will look at some of the essential equipment you would need to open your smoothie bar, what the equipment is used for, and of course, the amount it will cost you to purchase the equipment.
List of Equipment You Need to Start a Smoothie Business
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Commercial Blenders
One of the essential equipment that is needed in a smoothie bar is a commercial blender. As a matter of fact, without a good blender, you cannot produce smoothies.
Commercial blenders are used for blending the ingredients used in making smoothies. Commercial blenders are designed to handle frequent use in a high-volume setting and can be used in a variety of ways from mixing thick smoothies and milkshakes or blending frozen cocktails to creating creamy soups and sauces.
Although you can use the regular blender to make smoothies, but it is advisable to use a commercial blender because commercial-quality blenders are designed to be more powerful, durable, and efficient than regular blenders.
Cost: $74.39 – $259.99
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Refrigerator
Another essential piece of equipment you should budget for if you want to open a smoothie bar is a refrigerator. Refrigerators are to store fresh fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and other perishable ingredients that are needed when making smoothies. Refrigerators also help in chilling smoothie drinks, water, and other drinks that are sold in the smoothie bar.
Cost: $223.54 and LG refrigerator with bottom freezer, $995
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Preparation Tables
The preparation table is yet another basic piece of equipment that is needed in a smoothie bar. As the name implies, the preparation table is used to cut, and prepare the ingredients and also to produce smoothies.
The preferred preparation table for the smoothie bar should be stainless steel. This is so because stainless steel last longer, and they are easy to clean after every use.
Cost: The price varies based on size, and type
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Sinks and Dishwasher
Another major piece of equipment you should budget for if you want to open a smoothie bar is a sink and dishwasher. A sink is used for washing hands and cleaning equipment. The dishwasher is used for cleaning utensils and containers.
Cost: The price varies based on size, and type
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Smoothie Dispenser
A smoothie dispenser is yet another important piece of equipment you will need if you want to open a smoothie bar. Essentially, a smoothie dispenser is used to dispense smoothies.
For example, if you plan to offer self-serve options in your smoothie bar, then you should make plans to buy smoothie dispensers that customers can easily use to pour their own drinks.
Cost: $59.99 – $152.99
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Ice Machine
Apart from a refrigerator or freezer, you will need an ice machine if you want to open a smoothie shop. Ice machines are used to produce ice that is needed when serving smoothies. If you operate a very busy smoothie bar, then it is advisable to go for a high-producing ice machine.
A high-producing ice machine helps ensure you have enough ice for smoothies and other blended drinks. In addition to making the right type of ice, choose one that can meet your volume without using too much kitchen space.
Cost: $172.96 – $399.99
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Storage Containers and Dispensers
Another essential piece of equipment that you will need if you want to open a smoothie bar is storage containers and dispensers.
Storage containers and dispensers as the name implies are used for storing ingredients like fruits, nuts, and toppings, and dispensers for syrups and sweeteners. There may be no specific container you can use for your smoothie bar, but whatever choice you make, make sure they prevent light from penetrating because light can degrade some vitamins and antioxidants in your smoothies.
To prevent these effects, you should use airtight and opaque containers to store your smoothies. Glass jars with tight lids are a good option, as they are easy to clean and reuse.
Cost: The price varies based on the type and size of the container.
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Cups, Lids, and Straws
Of course, you know that you cannot operate a smoothie bar without cups, lids, and straws. Cups, lids, and straws are used to serve smoothies to customers. As the world is going green, we recommend that you opt for disposable or reusable cups, lids, and straws.
Cost: The price varies based on the type, size, and quantity.
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Menu Boards and Signage
Another essential piece of equipment that is needed to operate a smoothie bar is menu boards and signage. Manue boards are used to display your menu (products), and perhaps the price of your product offerings. Signage on the other hand is used for giving directions or showcasing any information that you want your customers to know.
Cost: The price varies based on size, and type.
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Point-of-Sale (POS) System
Point-of-Sale (POS) System is yet another essential piece of equipment that you should make provision for if you are planning to open a smoothie bar. The Point-of-Sale (POS) System is used for receiving payment from customers.
Trust me, in this dispensation where people are going cashless, you will be doing your smoothie bar a dis-service if you don’t have a Point-of-Sale (POS) System. Interestingly, the Point-of-Sale (POS) System helps in managing orders, tracking sales, and processing payments efficiently.
Cost: The cost varies
In conclusion,
Apart from all the equipment needed to operate a smoothie bar, it is important to note that most smoothie bars also serve snacks, juice, and other drinks hence they make provision for other equipment. You may also want to consider buying commercial juicers if you plan to offer fresh juice options in addition to smoothies.
Of course, you know you should make provisions for furniture like tables and chairs or barstools for customers to enjoy their smoothies on-site.