Donut machines come in all shapes and sizes, from counter top models and floor models to full service concession stands. Full service donut shop equipment differs from the doughnut making equipment used by a convenience store who just wants to add fresh doughnuts to its already existing inventory. Doughnut concession stands use mobile doughnut equipment to take their product to their customers.
If you want to break into the doughnut business, you must first decide exactly what part of the market you are going after:
1. Choose doughnut equipment for the full service donut shop.
2. Buy donut supplies for your doughnut business.
3. Take your donut machine on the road.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Choose doughnut making equipment for your donut shop
Donut machines differ in how much they produce per hour, size, expense to run and other factors. How much space do you have in your kitchen? Minimum doughnut equipment you must have is your doughnut proofer, doughnut fryer and a sugaring and icers table.
I recommend: Belshaw sells doughnut equipment for every need. If space is sparse or you are just adding fresh donuts to your existing line, their counter top donut fryer produces the most while taking the least space.
Bestovens offers new and used donut making machines. Used equipment can save on start up costs, so check their inventory for special deals on their doughnut machines.
Buy donut supplies for your donut making equipment
You need more than just your donut making machine; you also need donut cutters, spatulas, mixing bowls, whisks and more. Commercial use doughnut equipment sustains the heavy usage of a busy donut shop
I recommend: Katom offers a full line of bakery and doughnut accessories from donut cutters to mixing bowls.
Mission Restaurant Supply offers commercial baking supplies including cutters, rolling pins and timers.
Take your donut machine to county fairs
Candy apples, cotton candy and doughnuts are just a few of the aromatic smells you find at the county fairs. Take your mobile donut shop equipment to the next fair, or even park it in the parking lot of busy strip malls and watch your profits grow.
I recommend: Lil' Orbits offers mobile donut concession trailers. You can sell regular doughnuts or minis with their mini donut machine maker. Check out their entire line of mobile donut units.
Russell Concessions offers a 7x12-concession trailer that is just right for coffee and mini donuts. They will customize it for your exact needs.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Check your warranties for any new or used doughnut making equipment you purchase. Warranties are especially important if the equipment is used. If you do decide to buy doughnut equipment "as is," make sure it works properly before you buy. You can also purchase business insurance that covers your doughnut equipment beyond the limitation of the warranty.
The official source of Doughnut Equipment is the Doughnut Equipment page at Business.com