 Commercial Kitchen Rentals: We have come to realize that reporting about anything that appears new and then calling it the latest or newest must-do, must-have, must-see only dates the report and puts it in the trash bin sooner than most. However, I recently read an article and did a search on the Internet and noticed that there does appear to be a growing demand for commercial kitchen space nationwide. Apparently many folk are seeking to rent professional-level kitchen space to stir fry their business plans or to add flavorful seasoning to an existing operation.
Why?
In most states, it is illegal to prepare food for commercial purposes in a private or residential kitchen. Furthermore, building a licensed kitchen that complies to local, city, state, and federal mandates is cost-prohibitive to most small companies and individuals. The ingredients of a tasty recipe of bankruptcy a la mode might include an industry neophyte laying out cash for a commercially functional kitchen on a vision that is still in search of launch date could make for the ingredients of a tasty recipe of bankruptcy a la mode.
In plain talk there is a need for the service that results in an opportunity for providing such space. Rental rates vary but generally range from $20 to $30 hourly, plus insurance, and a security deposit. Each user or renter is responsible for complying with all ordinances involving commercial food preparation and related matters. Numerous shared kitchen facilities are open 24/7.
Making a Difference
Most of the facilities serve a role or offer a program that enables newcomers to the food industry guidance in all facets of running a business. The communal kitchens are referred to as food-business incubators. It is an on-the-experience preparatory course that results in well-prepared professionals in an industry where participants' diligence to governing business practices is a crucial to public safety. It is a unique and beneficial environment with sustainable purpose.
San Francisco-based La Cocina Community Kitchen is an example of a shared-kitchen space setting that is beneficial to professionals and newcomers alike. La Cocina rents space and offers a food-business incubator program that assists low-income businesses get to the next level. La Cocina's professional users vary greatly. From local caterers to specialty-food makers to bakers and more niches, the rental of kitchen space supports the facility's participative incubator program.
The facility has four complete prep stations and a full-range of commercial kitchen equipment. La Cocina is a 4,400 square foot, full-service, shared-use commercial kitchen. There are four complete prep stations (approx. 2,000 sq. feet), along with a full range of commercial kitchen equipment. The Odd Fellows (Eastland, Wash.), Kitchen Chicago, and the Chefs Commercial Kitchen Co-op of Los Angeles, Calif., are additional shared-kitchen facilities.
Fad or Find?
It is true that commercial kitchen space for rent has been around for years. So, it is not a new concept as much as there is an increase in demand for the service at this time.
But there is something cooking in those kitchens that could have the makings of a recipe for success.
For LxM James Rothaar
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