Bakery Business in Israel

Setting Up Your Bakery for Success

The quality of your bakery products depends significantly on two factors: the equipment you use and the ingredients you source. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of selecting appropriate equipment and building relationships with reliable suppliers in Israel.

Part 1: Essential Bakery Equipment

Core Production Equipment

These fundamental pieces of equipment form the backbone of your bakery operation:

1. Ovens

The heart of any bakery, your choice of oven will depend on your specific needs:

• Deck Ovens: Ideal for artisan breads and pizzas. Popular brands in Israel include Sveba Dahlen and MIWE. Cost range: 40,000-120,000 NIS.
• Convection Ovens: Versatile for pastries and cookies. Brands like Rational and Unox are readily available. Cost range: 25,000-60,000 NIS.
• Rack Ovens: For high-volume production. Brands such as Baxter and Revent are commonly used. Cost range: 80,000-150,000 NIS.
• Steam Tube Ovens: Traditional option for excellent crust development. Brands like Polin and Tagliavini can be sourced through Israeli distributors. Cost range: 100,000-200,000 NIS.

Israeli Consideration: Factor in the higher electricity costs in Israel when choosing between gas and electric models. Many bakeries opt for energy-efficient models despite higher upfront costs.

2. Mixers

Essential for dough preparation:

• Spiral Mixers: Ideal for bread doughs. Brands like Diosna and VMI are available through Israeli distributors. Cost range: 15,000-50,000 NIS.
• Planetary Mixers: Versatile for various batters and creams. Hobart and KitchenAid commercial models are widely used. Cost range: 8,000-30,000 NIS.

Israeli Consideration: Many bakeries opt for mixers with higher capacity than initially needed to accommodate business growth without requiring replacement.

3. Proofers

For controlled dough fermentation:

• Proof Boxes: Walk-in or cabinet models depending on volume. Cost range: 12,000-40,000 NIS.
• Retarder-Proofers: Allow for overnight proofing and better scheduling. Cost range: 20,000-60,000 NIS.

4. Work Tables and Preparation Surfaces

Quality stainless steel tables that meet health code requirements. Cost range: 2,000-10,000 NIS each.

5. Refrigeration

• Reach-in Refrigerators: For ingredients and finished products. Cost range: 5,000-15,000 NIS.
• Walk-in Coolers: For larger operations. Cost range: 25,000-60,000 NIS.
• Display Cases: Refrigerated cases for perishable items. Cost range: 15,000-40,000 NIS.

Israeli Consideration: Choose refrigeration equipment rated for Israel's hot climate, particularly if your bakery is in areas like Eilat or the Jordan Valley.

Specialized Equipment

Depending on your bakery's focus, you might need:

• Dough Dividers and Rounders: For consistent bread portions. Cost range: 15,000-40,000 NIS.
• Sheeters: For laminated doughs (croissants, puff pastry). Cost range: 20,000-50,000 NIS.
• Bread Slicers: For retail bread sales. Cost range: 5,000-15,000 NIS.
• Decorating Equipment: For cake and pastry finishing. Cost range varies widely.

Point of Sale and Front-of-House Equipment

• POS System: Compatible with Israeli tax requirements. Popular options include Lightspeed and BeeBusinessSolutions. Cost range: 5,000-15,000 NIS.
• Display Cases: Both ambient and refrigerated. Cost range: 10,000-40,000 NIS.
• Coffee Equipment: If offering coffee service. Cost range: 15,000-50,000 NIS for commercial equipment.

Israeli Consideration: Ensure your POS system can issue receipts that comply with Israel Tax Authority requirements and supports Hebrew interface if needed.

Small Equipment and Tools

Don't overlook these essential items:

• Scales (digital, gram-precise for baking)
• Measuring tools
• Baking pans and sheets
• Proofing baskets
• Cutting and shaping tools
• Storage containers

Budget approximately 15,000-30,000 NIS for quality small equipment and tools.

Equipment Sourcing in Israel

Major equipment suppliers in Israel include:

• Shoval Food Equipment: Represents many international brands
• Lemel Industries: Specializes in bakery and pastry equipment
• Dugmak Food Equipment: Good source for both new and reconditioned equipment
• SRS Systems: Specializes in refrigeration solutions

Money-Saving Tip: Consider purchasing some equipment second-hand, particularly for starting out. The Israeli food equipment market frequently has quality used equipment available as businesses upgrade or close.

Part 2: Finding Reliable Suppliers in Israel

Ingredient Suppliers

Building relationships with quality suppliers is crucial for your bakery's success:

1. Flour and Grains

• Stybel Flour Mills: One of Israel's largest flour producers, offering various types from all-purpose to specialty flours.
• Kemach Ha'aretz: Known for high-quality flours including organic options.
• Teva Castel: Specializes in whole grain and alternative flours.

Israeli Consideration: Note that Israeli flour often has different protein content and absorption rates compared to American or European flours, which may require recipe adjustments.

2. Dairy Products

• Tnuva: Israel's largest dairy producer
• Tara: Known for high-quality dairy products
• Gad Dairy: Specializes in cheeses and specialty dairy

Israeli Consideration: If seeking kosher certification, ensure your dairy suppliers meet your required kosher standards.

3. Sweeteners and Chocolate

• Sugat: Major sugar supplier
• Klil: Offers a range of sweeteners
• Carmit Candy Industries: For chocolate and confectionery ingredients
• Shaked Tavor: Imports specialty chocolates like Callebaut and Valrhona

4. Fruits, Nuts, and Specialty Ingredients

• Tzukit: Major dried fruit and nut supplier
• Adanim Tea: For tea infusions and flavorings
• Spices Way: Extensive range of spices and herbs

5. Packaging Supplies

• Packit: Comprehensive range of food packaging
• Pyramid Packaging: Specializes in bakery packaging
• Amcor Flexibles: For custom packaging solutions

Wholesale Markets and Distribution Centers

Consider sourcing from these wholesale markets for certain ingredients:

• Shuk Hatsafon (Tel Aviv): Wholesale market for fresh produce
• Mahane Yehuda (Jerusalem): Has wholesale sections for bulk purchasing
• Food City (Rishon LeZion): Concentration of food industry suppliers

Building Supplier Relationships

In Israel's business culture, strong personal relationships with suppliers can lead to better service, flexibility, and sometimes preferential pricing:

• Start Early: Begin building relationships with potential suppliers 2-3 months before opening.
• Request Samples: Test ingredients before committing to large orders.
• Negotiate Terms: Discuss payment terms, minimum orders, and delivery schedules.
• Visit Facilities: When possible, visit supplier facilities to better understand their operations.
• Join Industry Associations: Groups like the Israel Bakers Association can provide supplier connections and recommendations.

Israeli Business Tip: In Israel, it's common and expected to negotiate terms with suppliers. Don't accept the first quote, especially for major equipment purchases.

Managing Ingredient Costs

Controlling ingredient costs is essential for profitability:

• Track Price Fluctuations: Certain ingredients (like butter and nuts) can have significant seasonal price variations in Israel.
• Consider Bulk Purchasing: For non-perishable items, but factor in storage costs.
• Develop Alternative Recipes: Have backup recipes for when certain ingredients become too expensive or unavailable.
• Leverage Seasonal Produce: Incorporate seasonal Israeli fruits for better pricing and quality.

Equipment Maintenance and Service

Establish relationships with equipment service providers:

• Manufacturer-Authorized Service: Often provides the best support for major equipment.
• Independent Technicians: May offer more flexible scheduling and competitive rates.
• Preventative Maintenance Contracts: Consider annual contracts for critical equipment.

Israeli Consideration: Due to import dependencies, some replacement parts may take longer to arrive. Plan accordingly and keep essential spare parts on hand when possible.

Conclusion: Making Smart Equipment and Supplier Decisions

Your equipment choices and supplier relationships will significantly impact your bakery's operational efficiency and product quality. Take time to research options, visit other bakeries to see equipment in action, and gradually build a network of reliable suppliers who understand your specific needs.

Remember that in Israel's tight-knit food community, your reputation with suppliers matters. Prompt payment and clear communication will help you build the strong relationships necessary for long-term success.

For personalized recommendations on equipment and suppliers for your specific bakery concept, contact our team for a consultation.