Does Anyone Ever RENT a Roaster?

Aliciajane

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Oct 10, 2004
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Hi - I'm relatively new to the forum (though I've been reading it for a little while now). My husband and I are currently writing a business plan for a coffeehouse that would include a custom roasting component. From the reading I've done, it seems like a good roaster could cost upwards of $14,000...is this not true?

Here's my question - and I hope it's not stupid - does anyone ever rent a roaster? Our thought is that we could rent for a year or so and then buy a roaster when our business was off the ground and survival more certain. Buying the espresso machine, etc. makes plenty of sense - but this big piece for the roaster does take a chunk of funding we'd rather put up after things are stable.

Any thoughts are helpful -thanks!
 

topher

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Aug 14, 2003
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What size roaster are you looking at? You can pick them up cheaper...My 2 kilo was around 5 grand...and you can pick up a five kilo(perfect for in-house roasting) for around 8 grand....if you have questions pm me
 

Coffee Guy

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Oct 19, 2003
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I know some roasters will contract roast or private label roast for you, and maybe even train you if you purchase the greens. However, renting a roaster to place on-site or even having you rent time on their roasters maybe risky. Especially with L&I issues, etc. Go on-line and see if there are local roasters in your area, give them a buzz and ask them if they'd be willing to help. Or as Topher said, you can find something like the two sizes he mentioned and give that a try.
 

JavaQueen

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Oct 18, 2004
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There are some roaster manufacturers that do financing. Or you could get financing through your bank (most banks are more than happy to do a leasing situation with you). Was it Ambex that used to do a free roaster program? I can't remember.
 

Aliciajane

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Oct 10, 2004
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Very helpful - thanks

You've all very helpfully attacked my question from several angles. What I've gathered is the following:

- No, I should not do something as risky as renting a roaster
- Roasters actually don't have to cost quite as much as I'd thought
- Financing can also help ease the initial financial shock


Thanks for the tips! I think I'll go brew a cup of coffee...I have 75 ninth grade essays to grade. Or should I take a painkiller instead?
 
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