6 BEST Bakery Supplies: Supplies Needed to Operate a Bakery (2024)

Essential Bakery Supplies

Baking supplies support a baker's inspiration. Without the right tools, the intricate, delicate designs bakers can produce with pastry wouldn’t be possible.

There are all sorts of bakery supplies out there, with some tools more durable than others. This guide walks through essential bakery supplies and how they’ll factor into your operations and budget. 

What is the difference between bakery supplies and equipment?

Bakery supplies are the temporary or fragile small wares you need to operate your bakery. Some have to be ordered weekly, while others only have to be replaced once a year.

The main difference between bakery supplies and bakery equipment is how often they need replacing. Temporary storage containers, parchment paper, baking sheets, and piping bags are typical examples of bakery supplies.

On the other hand, bakery equipment concerns the more durable tools necessary for the business. This equipment includes ovens, proofers, dry storage, coolers, pastry sheeters, display cases, and the like. 

Things to Consider Before Buying Bakery Supplies

Be mindful about selecting and purchasing supplies for your bakery. Careful decision-making can save you (and your staff) time and effort down the line. Make sure to balance your choices based on the quality and cost of the essential supplies.

Remember - bakery supplies are an investment in your business. So, pick supplies that fit your business's needs and budget. Shopping around can give you insight into the best prices on high-quality supplies. This research will help you make informed decisions about where you can cut costs.

What are the most common bakery supplies?

Food Supplies

Keeping track of your bakery’s key ingredients is central to the success of the business. Establishing reliable relationships with suppliers selling essential ingredients - such as flour, sugar, butter, and eggs - can help you manage inventory consistency.

Your ingredients list doesn’t stop there. Don’t forget to include the ingredients necessary to produce beautiful pastries and crusty bread, whether it be fondant, fillings, dry yeast, or spices. As you purchase ingredients, consider their shelf life. Certain dry ingredients last longer with proper storage and organization.

Kitchen Supplies

Lots of the technology essential for baking must be regularly replaced or maintained. Things like scoops, scales, turntables, cooling racks, and even stainless steel baking sheets get damaged during production.

Small appliances like stand mixers and blenders need maintenance pretty often too. The motors and fittings of those machines can wear out quickly with consistent use. And, some large equipment parts need to be replaced often, like the gaskets in commercial refrigerators.

Baking Tools

The tools that allow bakers to create artistry are part of the logistics of running a bakery. Silicone molds, stencils, piping bags, and cookie cutters help bakers to make exquisite and consistent confections.

There are other essential baking tools you can’t leave out of your bakery’s budget for supplies. Scrapers, measuring cups, silicone baking mats, and rolling pins are important tools. Also, you can’t forget cake decorating supplies, such as food coloring and sprinkles.

Baking Pans and Trays

Bakeware like stainless steel baking sheets and cake pans can be durable when cleaned and maintained properly. Yet, commercial kitchens put cookware through a lot of use, leaving things damaged over time.

When you’re budgeting for monthly supplies, don’t forget to include things like cupcake liners and parchment paper. In addition, plan to replace cupcake pans and baking trays as demand requires.

Storage Supplies

Storage containers don’t last forever. They take lots of abuse in busy bakery environments and often need replacing to maintain food safety standards and smooth kitchen operations.

Don’t forget that food storage must be labeled and dated for food safety standards. Everything from small mise en place containers to large dry storage containers must have clear labels.

Display Stands and Trays

To keep your display cases looking fresh, invest in a variety of display stands and trays. As with other supplies, these items get worn out, dirty, and can break with constant use. Design displays should be clean and complementary to your products.

Menus

Menus are high-traffic supplies, especially if you’re running a bakery with table service. They change hands multiple times each shift, often getting spilled on and torn. Track how many menus your bakery has at all times and budget for the cost of keeping them stocked.

How to Organize Bakery Supplies

Efficient organization practices help keep track of inventory and budget. Maintain a digital log of everything that comes into and leaves your bakery by making good use of your restaurant management software.

Another pro tip is maximizing your bakery’s storage space with shelving. Ensure that everything is clearly labeled and has a home in the building so that everybody knows where to find the supplies they need. This approach brings the added benefit of streamlining your managers’ inventory counts.

Where to Buy Bakery Supplies

Check out local restaurant supply stores and delivery services – they often offer wholesale prices. Local companies also tend to be reliable and personable.

There are lots of websites that have low prices on bakery supplies. It's possible to create reliable relationships with those supply companies. However, be aware that ordering supplies online can come with higher shipping costs.

Bakery Supply Essentials

Bakery supplies are essential to sales and food safety, making them a priority for your bakery’s operations and budget. With this guide, you can start building long-term plans for the essential supplies you need for your bakery. And, this includes more than just a list of things to buy - it’s also about maintaining your supply as well.

Opening a bakery and looking for more resources? Don’t miss On the Line’s latest features, from 12 Bakery Decor Ideas to How to Design a Bakery Floor Plan, Layout, and Blueprint.

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• Bakery Marketing Ideas
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