There are an estimated 200,000 commercial kitchens in Australia. Of these, approximately 10% are thought to require renovation.
“Commercial kitchen renovations are a significant investment, so getting them right is important. A well-designed and executed commercial kitchen renovation can make a big difference to the efficiency and productivity of your business, as well as improve staff morale,” says financial advisor and small business loan provider Shane Perry of Max Funding.
So, when is it time to renovate your commercial kitchen? Here are some signs that it might be time for a change:
1. Your Commercial Kitchen Is More Than Ten Years Old
Even if a commercial kitchen is well-designed and well-maintained, it will start to show its age after ten years. Appliances will become less energy efficient and may break down more often, while finishes and fixtures will also start to look dated.
2. You’re Regularly Running Into Capacity Issues
If your commercial kitchen regularly runs into capacity issues, it may be time to consider a renovation. This is especially true if you’re finding that you need to use additional storage space or hire extra staff to keep up with demand.
3. Your Commercial Kitchen Isn’t Compliant With Current Regulations
If your commercial kitchen doesn’t meet the current Australian Standard 4554 for the design, construction and fit-out of commercial kitchens, then it’s time for a renovation. This Standard sets out the minimum requirements for commercial kitchens’ design, construction and fit-out, including ventilation, lighting, flooring, plumbing and more.
4. You’re Planning To Change Your Menu
A commercial kitchen renovation is worth considering if you’re planning to make significant changes to your menu. This is because specific kitchen layouts and equipment may suit certain types of cuisine. For example, if you’re planning to introduce more fresh produce into your menu, you’ll need adequate refrigeration and storage space.
5. You’re Not Happy With The Look Of Your Commercial Kitchen
If you’re not pleased with the look of your commercial kitchen, then it might be time for a change. After all, first impressions count, and you want your customers to have a positive experience from the moment they step into your restaurant.

6. Your Commercial Kitchen Isn’t As Efficient As It Could Be
If your commercial kitchen isn’t running as efficiently as it could be, it might be time to consider a renovation. Several things can impact the efficiency of a kitchen, such as the layout, the equipment being used and how staff are utilizing the space.
7. You’re Planning To Sell Your Business
If you’re planning to sell your business, a commercial kitchen renovation can be a great way to add value to your property. A well-designed and executed renovation can make your kitchen more attractive to potential buyers and improve its functionality, making it more appealing to buyers looking for a fully operational business.
Give Your Commercial Kitchen A Fresh New Look
If you’re thinking about renovating your commercial kitchen, we recommend speaking to a professional kitchen designer or builder to get started. They’ll be able to assess your needs and help you create a kitchen that’s tailored to your business.
Commercial Construction and Renovation is your one-stop resource site for commercial kitchen design, construction and renovation. High-level commercial construction executives need reliable information to do their jobs well, and our publication provides just that. We focus on topics such as the collaborative management process required to produce timely projects that meet the budget.
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