The hospitality, events and catering sector has been one of the hardest hit in terms of COVID-19 restrictions. The reopening after the extended closure of many businesses was greatly welcomed. Especially as it was several months ahead of the earlier anticipated September timeline.
But the ‘new normal’ is presenting many challenges to operators, especially in implementing the 1 person per 4 square metre capacity ruling. This has been placed on businesses across many areas to safeguard patrons, but there has not been a definitive timeframe offered for how long this will need to be in place.
The challenge faced by the hospitality and catering sector – pubs, clubs, restaurants, event venues, cafes etc – is how to maximise their operation while complying with the regulations. Some innovative operators are looking to rejigging their businesses in various ways. Revising their seating layouts, reviewing their offerings and modifying their business plans.
Some strategies may include pivoting to takeaway and delivery offerings; altering the dining experience; or reducing the size of function spaces by dividing larger spaces into multiple smaller areas.
To implement these changes, investment may need to be made in new equipment to cater for revised business model. Commercial kitchens may need a layout change so less staff can work in the space in a more COVID-safe manner. Modified or new wash-up areas may need to be installed to comply with the new regulations. You may need to install additional or altered kitchen and prep areas to prepare the different styles of food offerings. E.g. a dedicated kitchen for the takeaway menu and a separate area for the fine dining. Seated areas may need to be expanded to comply with the 4 sqm rule while optimising your takings.
On the staff facilities side of the business, in order to qualify as a COVID-safe business, you may need to modify staff break spaces and shower/clean-up facilities.
As a safeguard, you may be considering installing a modified ordering system which requires a new IT installation with software, POS and accounting systems.
Assistance with your Equipment Investment
Investing in equipment at this point in time may seem an overwhelming prospect, but you can get assistance with cheap equipment finance and other helpful services with us at Jade Equipment Finance here.
As a professional equipment finance broker, our services are available to all sized businesses – whether you’re a small café owner, a large multi-venue corporation or a suburban publican, you can take advantage of the benefits of working with a finance broker.
We are accredited with multiple banks and lenders so we have greater choice when it comes to sourcing the best finance deals.
For the purchase of catering equipment, we provide the complete range of business loan types:-
- Chattel Mortgage
- Commercial Hire Purchase (CHP)
- Equipment Leasing
Each loan type has different features and benefits which you can review on our dedicated web pages and we strongly advise you to consult with your accountant as to which is best suited to your business objectives and accounting method.
We stand by our policy of sourcing the best interest rates and offering the cheapest equipment finance deals achievable, tailored to suit the individual business.
Our services include:
- Dedicated consultant so you have one point of contact to stay across your loan progress
- Negotiating interest rates and terms and conditions to suit individual businesses
- Large lender base, including industry-only sources to provide more choices for the best deal
- Fast-approvals, pre-approved finance
- Fully licensed professional finance brokers
And if you do want your own bank to finance your equipment, your Jade consultant will handle the negotiations on your behalf.
Equipment Financed
- Shelving, trolleys, food displays, work and preparation benches.
- Commercial ovens, grills, kitchen tools and other commercial cooking equipment.
- Banquet carts, pizza ovens, steamers.
- Refrigeration units, ice makers, self-serve fridges.
- Sinks, wash-out basins, dishwashers, glass washers and laundry machines.
- Waste disposal equipment, glass crushers.
- Fit-out, Furniture, and furnishings.
- Signage, décor changes.
- Bathroom facilities.
- Wine storage and cellaring systems.
- POS systems, IT Systems and computer equipment financing.
And just about anything you may need to set up, modify or upgrade your hospitality, food service or catering business.
Jade Equipment Finance provides finance for both new and used catering equipment. If you’re planning to buy at auction, contact us beforehand so we can equip you with pre-approved finance.
An incentive to get moving on your investment and acquisition plans is the extension of the Government’s Instant Asset Write Off stimulus measure. This measure was introduced in March 2020 with an original 30 June 2020 deadline. But in early June, that deadline was extended to 31 December 2020 to have any equipment operational in the business.
We stay across announcements of Government measures and support for business, especially in relation to the coronavirus crisis, so stay in touch and check back regularly for more news and articles that may assist you grow your business.
To discuss cheap equipment finance contact us on 1300 000 003 to speak with a Jade Equipment Finance consultant.
