Opening a Bakery – Costs, Machinery & Checklist 2026

The Dream of Owning Your Own Bakery – What You Really Need to Know

Opening your own bakery – for many master bakers and career changers, this is a long-cherished dream. But between the dream and a successful opening lie careful planning, realistic cost calculations, and the right decisions regarding equipment.

In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know – from the first steps and permits to optimal equipment for your budget.

Opening a Bakery – The Requirements

Before you start, some basic requirements must be met.

Professional Qualification

In Germany, operating a bakery generally requires a master baker's certificate (Meisterbrief) in the baking trade. Alternatively, an employed master baker can be hired as a technical supervisor. Career changers without a master craftsman's certificate have the option of obtaining an operating license through a special exemption permit according to § 8 HwO.

Business Registration & Authorities

The following authorities and offices must be contacted: Trade Office (Gewerbeamt - business registration), Chamber of Crafts (Handwerkskammer - registration in the craft register), Health Office (Gesundheitsamt - food hygiene training and operating license), Building Authority (Bauamt - change of use of premises if necessary), Professional Association (Berufsgenossenschaft - compulsory membership), and Tax Office (Finanzamt - tax registration).

The Largest Cost Items When Starting Up

The question all founders ask: What does it really cost to open a bakery?

Overview: Startup Costs by Business Size

Small craft bakery: €80,000 – €150,000. Medium-sized bakery with shop: €150,000 – €350,000. Larger operation with production: €350,000 – €800,000.

Detailed Cost Distribution

Premises & Renovation (20–35% of total costs): Rental deposit, renovation measures for production rooms, ventilation systems, floor drains, and tiling work quickly add up. A professionally equipped production room of 80–120 m² costs between €30,000 and €80,000 for renovation.

Machinery (35–50% of total costs): Machinery is often the largest single item. This is where it's decided whether the venture will be economically viable or not. More on this in the next section.

Operating Supplies & Initial Equipment (10–15%): Raw materials, packaging material, work clothing, initial marketing measures, and ongoing costs for the first few months until profitability.

Miscellaneous (10–20%): Notary fees, consulting fees, insurance, IT systems, POS software.

What Machines Does a Bakery Need?

The machinery is the heart of every bakery. Which machines are actually needed depends heavily on the product range and planned production volume.

The Basic Equipment for Starting Up

1. Kneading machine / Spiral mixer

The most important piece of equipment in any bakery. For small to medium production, a spiral mixer with a 60–120 liter bowl volume is ideal. Reputable manufacturers like Diosna or WP Bakery offer reliable machines that last for decades. Our currently available range can be found under Kneading Machines.

New cost: €10,000 – €80,000. Used cost: €4,000 – €40,000.

2. Oven

Whether deck oven, rack oven, or shop oven – the choice of oven largely determines production capacity and energy costs. A good deck oven is the foundation for consistently high-quality baked goods. Available ovens and baking technology can be found in our category Baking Technology.

New cost: €20,000 – €80,000. Refurbished used cost: €6,000 – €25,000.

3. Dough divider and rounder

Indispensable for roll production. Saves enormous manual effort and ensures uniform dough pieces. Current models can be found under Dough Dividers and Rounders.

New cost: €12,000 – €40,000. Used cost: €3,500 – €20,000.

4. Proofing cabinet / Climate control unit

Controlled proofing is the key to consistent quality. A good proofing cabinet enables timed production and saves personnel in the early morning hours.

New cost: €8,000 – €20,000. Refurbished used cost: €2,500 – €7,000.

5. Bread slicer

Indispensable for sales. Customers today expect to buy freshly baked bread already sliced. Our available range can be found under Slicing Machines.

New cost: €2,000 – €6,000. Refurbished used cost: €600 – €2,000.

6. Factor in spare parts supply

If buying used, think long-term: Are spare parts still available for the model? For established manufacturers, this is usually not a problem. Specialized providers like Spare Parts for Bakery Machines reliably cover common brands.

Total Machinery Costs in Comparison

Basic equipment new: €57,000 – €181,000. Basic equipment refurbished used: €16,600 – €56,000. Savings: up to 70%.

New or Used? The Honest Cost-Benefit Analysis

One of the most important decisions at the start: Do you invest in new or used machines?

Arguments for used machines: Up to 70% cost savings compared to new price, proven technology whose reliability is known, immediate availability without long delivery times, same performance as new machines after professional overhaul, and higher budget for other areas like marketing or raw materials.

Arguments for new machines: Full manufacturer's warranty, state-of-the-art energy efficiency, current hygiene standards ex-factory, and no history of wear. Those looking exclusively for new machines can find our new machine range under New Machines.

Our conclusion: Especially when starting out, the budget is often limited. Professionally refurbished used machines from reputable manufacturers offer the same working results at a fraction of the price – and allow you to invest the savings in other important areas.

The Complete Checklist: Opening a Bakery

12 months before opening: Create business plan, conduct market analysis (competition, target group, location), financial planning and bank discussions, find suitable premises.

9 months before opening: Prepare business registration, contact Chamber of Crafts, negotiate and sign lease agreement, begin renovation planning.

6 months before opening: Apply for building permit and change of use, plan and order machinery, contact Health Office (HACCP concept), select raw material suppliers.

3 months before opening: Have machines delivered and installed, hire and train staff, set up POS system and accounting software, conclude insurance policies, prepare marketing and social media.

1 month before opening: Start trial operation, optimize recipes and production processes, launch opening marketing (flyers, social media, Google My Business), health department approval.

Opening: Plan opening event, inform press, build customer base.

Common Mistakes When Starting – and How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Underestimating capital. Many founders calculate too tightly. Always plan a buffer of at least 20–30% above your budget plan – unforeseen expenses are the rule, not the exception, when setting up a bakery.

Mistake 2: Wrong machinery. A kneading machine that is too small slows down the entire production. One that is too large causes unnecessary energy costs. Get expert advice – ideally from someone with real bakery experience. Our team is available for this under Contact.

Mistake 3: Underestimating location. Pedestrian zone or residential area? Walk-in customers or regular customers? The location significantly determines success or failure. Analyze the competitive situation carefully before signing a lease.

Mistake 4: Deciding alone. Use the consulting services offered by Chambers of Crafts, business consultants, and experienced industry professionals. Especially when selecting machinery, external expertise pays off. What other businesses say about working with us can be found on our References page.

Conclusion: Into Self-Employment with the Right Partner

Opening a bakery is an exciting but also challenging journey. With solid planning, realistic cost calculations, and the right machines, you lay the foundation for a successful business.

When it comes to machinery, you don't necessarily have to invest in new machines. Professionally refurbished used machines from renowned manufacturers offer the same reliability – and significantly save your start-up capital.

Altuntas GmbH has been advising on the establishment and modernization of bakeries for over 35 years. With over 100 immediately available machines and comprehensive expertise, we find the right equipment for your budget and your requirements.

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