The Art of the Brewery Build-Out: Sourcing Equipment Through Auctions
Building your dream brewery is an exciting venture, but the costs of new equipment can be staggering. Auctions offer a strategic path to acquiring quality brewery equipment at significant savings. This comprehensive guide will help you plan and execute your brewery build-out using auction-sourced equipment.
Essential Planning Before You Bid
Starting with clear production goals sets the foundation for your equipment needs. Consider your annual barrel production targets, core beer styles, and distribution plans. Whether you're planning a small taproom-focused operation or eyeing regional distribution, these decisions directly influence the size and type of equipment required.
Your brewery's layout is equally crucial. A detailed floor plan should account for production areas, cold storage, taproom space, and utilities placement. Understanding your space constraints helps ensure you bid on appropriately sized equipment that will fit your facility and allow for future growth.
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Core Equipment Categories
The Heart of Your Operation
The brewing system forms the cornerstone of your operation. A complete brewhouse includes the mash tun, kettle, and whirlpool, along with fermentation vessels and brite tanks. Don't forget the critical glycol chilling system - proper temperature control is essential for consistent, quality beer production.
Supporting Cast
Beyond the main brewing system, you'll need grain handling and milling equipment, water treatment systems, pumps, hoses, and cleaning equipment. These supporting elements are crucial for efficient operation and maintaining product quality.
Packaging and Service
Consider your packaging needs carefully. Will you focus on draft service, or do you need a canning or bottling line? Draft system components, kegging equipment, and storage solutions round out this category. For taproom operations, factor in bar equipment, glassware, and serving essentials.
Brewery Equipment from the auction we completed for Great Change Brewing.
Real-World Auction Pricing Guide
Based on recent brewery auctions conducted by Grafe Auction, here's what you can expect to invest in key equipment categories:
Complete Brewing Systems
- Complete 10-15 barrel systems: $17,000-25,000
- Larger 20+ barrel systems: $40,000-50,000
- Individual fermentation tanks (20-60 barrel): $3,500-5,000
- Brite tanks (20-90 barrel): $3,500-12,000
Packaging Equipment
- Automated canning lines (Wild Goose/Twin Monkeys): $15,000-45,000
- Basic can seamers: $200-550
- Professional keg washers: $3,000-7,500
- Keg sets (15.5 gallon): $50-100 per keg
Essential Support Equipment
- Grain mills/grist systems: $1,500-4,000
- Glycol chillers: $6,000+
- Transfer pumps: $400-1,100
- Air compressors: $1,700-2,750
- Steam boilers: $1,300-1,700
- CIP (Clean in Place) systems: $3,000-3,500
Taproom & Service Equipment
- Complete draft systems (15+ taps): $750-1,000
- Bar setup (sinks, ice bins, glass rinsers): $2,000-2,500
- Seating and furniture: $200-500 per set
- Glass and small ware: varies by quantity
Additional Infrastructure
- Walk-in coolers: $2,500+
- Forklifts: $5,000-6,000
- Pallet racking: $120-250 per section
- Stainless steel tables: $70-100 each
These prices reflect recent auction results and can vary based on equipment age, condition, and market demand. One significant advantage of auction purchasing is the potential for substantial savings compared to new equipment costs.
For example, a new 20-barrel brewing system might cost $150,000-200,000+* new, while similar used systems at auction have sold for $40,000-50,000. Similarly, new automated canning lines can cost upwards of $15,000-250,000+*, while quality used systems have sold at auction for $15,000-45,000 (prices vary by sizing and amount of automation).
Brewery Equipment from the auction we conducted for FINNEGANS Brew Co.
Strategic Auction Sourcing
Finding Quality Equipment
Industry newsletters, auction company websites, and brewery industry forums are valuable resources for finding equipment opportunities. Local business news can alert you to closing operations that may yield quality equipment.
Evaluating Potential Purchases
When reviewing auction listings, focus on documentation and physical condition. Request maintenance records and verify specifications. Attend preview days whenever possible to inspect equipment personally. Pay special attention to wear points, maintenance requirements, and replacement part availability.
Building Your System Strategically
A successful brewery build-out through auctions requires patience and planning. Start with core brewing equipment - your brewhouse system, fermentation vessels, and glycol system. These fundamental pieces form the backbone of your operation.
As your budget allows, expand into secondary equipment like additional fermenters, specialty tanks, and automated systems. This phased approach helps manage costs while ensuring essential operations can begin.
Financial Planning
Smart budgeting extends beyond purchase prices. Factor in transportation costs, installation expenses, and potential repairs or modifications. Professional services like rigging, electrical work, and plumbing can significantly impact your bottom line. Maintain a healthy contingency fund for unexpected expenses.
Brewery Equipment from our auction of Eastlake Craft Brewery.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Experience has shown that successful brewery builds avoid several common mistakes. Equipment compatibility issues, inadequate space planning, and underestimated utility requirements can derail your timeline and budget. Take time to verify specifications and plan installations carefully.
Budget oversights often stem from forgotten additional costs like shipping and installation. Create a comprehensive budget that includes ongoing maintenance and potential repairs. Build in financial flexibility for unexpected challenges.
Post-Purchase Success
Once you've secured your equipment, proper transportation and installation planning becomes critical. Coordinate with reliable shipping companies and experienced installers. Ensure all necessary permits are in place and prepare your space for equipment arrival.
Testing and certification form the final phase before production. Plan for pressure testing, electrical certification, and health department approvals. Document all modifications and maintain detailed maintenance records from day one.
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Moving Forward Successfully
Creating detailed documentation and training protocols sets your operation up for long-term success. Track equipment performance, maintain regular service schedules, and plan for future upgrades. This forward-thinking approach helps prevent costly downtime and ensures consistent product quality.
Planning Your Brewery's Success Story
Building a brewery through auction-sourced equipment requires careful planning and attention to detail. Working with experienced auction companies like Grafe Auction can help you navigate the process efficiently. With proper preparation and execution, you can create a high-quality brewing operation while maintaining cost effectiveness.
For more information about upcoming brewery equipment auctions or to discuss your specific needs, contact Grafe Auction. We're here to help you build your dream brewery, one piece at a time.