One of the big decisions fish and chip shop owners have to make is whether or not to invest in their own commercial potato chipper. Some prefer to simply buy in pre-cut potatoes, while for others, only fresh-cut chips will do.
Let's take a look at what to think about when you're looking for a commercial potato chipper and at the benefits of having your own machine versus buying your chips from an external supplier.
How to find the right commercial potato chipper
When it comes to running a successful fish and chip shop, having the right restaurant kitchen equipment is key. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any chip shop is a commercial potato chipper.
These machines are designed to quickly and efficiently slice potatoes into chips, saving you time and labour while also producing a consistent product. But with so many different models on the market, how do you know which one is right for your shop?
Here are the key factors to consider when making your decision.
Chipper capacity
First and foremost, you'll want to consider the capacity of the chipper. How many potatoes do you need to slice at one time? Are you a small shop with only a few customers, or are you a busy quick service restaurant that needs to keep up with a constant stream of orders? The capacity of the chipper will determine how quickly you can get through your potato supply, so it's important to choose one that meets your needs.
Size of the machine
Another important factor to consider is the size of the chipper. What's the largest machine that will realistically fit in your kitchen? Do you need to trade-off the capacity of the machine for the amount of space it will take up?
It's important to choose a chipper that will fit comfortably in your kitchen without taking up too much space. Consider the size of your kitchen and the layout of your equipment when choosing a chipper.
Manual versus automatic
The type of chipper you choose can also make a big difference to your business. There are different types of chippers on the market, such as manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Manual chippers are the most affordable option, but using them is more time-consuming and labour-intensive. Semi-automatic chippers are more efficient, but they can be more expensive. Fully automatic chippers are the most efficient and require the least amount of labour, but they are also the most expensive. Consider your budget and the level of automation you need when choosing a chipper.
Chip size and shape
Another factor to consider when choosing a commercial potato chipper is the size and shape of the chips it produces. There are different chippers for different needs. Some chippers produce thin, delicate fries, while others produce thicker, more substantial chips.
More expensive models will allow you to produce multiple sizes and shapes of chips. Choose the chipper that will produce the type of chip that your customers prefer. And consider whether your needs may change in the future.
Durability and maintenance
Finally, you'll want to consider the durability and maintenance needs of the chipper. The last thing you need is a chipper breakdown ahead of a busy Friday night.
A good commercial potato chipper should be built to last and be easy to maintain. Look for a chipper that is made from a durable material, such as stainless steel, that are easy to clean.
Generally, larger, more complex machines will be more expensive to maintain. But they may come with better support from the supplier. Consider the warranty and level of customer support offered by the manufacturer before making your choice.
Benefits of investing in your own commercial potato chipper
There are several benefits for a chip shop of investing in their own commercial potato chipper versus buying pre-cut chips:
- Cost Savings: Buying pre-cut chips can be more expensive in the long run compared to buying potatoes and cutting them yourself.
- Freshness: Cutting your own potatoes allows you to ensure that the chips are fresh and have not been sitting in a warehouse or on a shelf for an extended period of time.
- Customisation: A commercial potato chipper allows you to cut the potatoes to your desired thickness and shape, allowing you to offer unique and customisable chip options to your customers.
- Control: Owning your own commercial potato chipper allows you to have control over the quality of the chips and the ingredients used, ensuring that they meet your standards and those of your customers.
- Branding: Using your own freshly cut chips can be a part of your brand identity, letting your customer know that you care about the quality of your product.
Slice through the competition with a quality commercial potato chipper
Choosing the right commercial potato chipper for your fish and chip shop is an important decision that will have a significant impact on your business. There are a number of benefits to having your own machine, but it does mean forking out a large up-front cost.
If you can get the right machine that performs reliably for years to come, your investment will pay off in terms of customer satisfaction, reduced labour costs and the ability to sell more fish and chips. With a little research and careful consideration, you'll be sure to find the right commercial potato chipper for your shop.
