Does Anyone Ever RENT a Roaster?

[Aliciajane]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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?

 

[JavaQueen]

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?

Why not both??

 

[Aliciajane]

On second thought...

Having now suffered through only half of the essays, I am truly inclined to agree to your suggestion.