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In many machine shops and commercial kitchens, unused equipment is easy to overlook. A CNC machine that hasn’t run in months. A mixer kept around out of habit. A prep table tied to a menu that’s long gone. Because it’s paid for and pushed out of the way, it rarely feels urgent. But over time, idle equipment doesn’t just sit around; instead, it depreciates. It quietly ties up capital while delivering nothing in return.  For machine shop and food service owners, unused Read More

When most people think of food service auctions, restaurants tend to come to mind first. While restaurants do make up a significant share of auction activity, they’re only part of a much larger picture. Across the food service industry, a wide range of operations rely on auctions as a practical way to manage equipment, unlock capital, and maintain healthy cash flow. For operators unfamiliar with auctions, their value is often misunderstood. At their core, auctions serve a simple purpose: Read More

In small manufacturing shops, unused equipment often goes unnoticed. It’s paid for, functional, and out of the daily production conversation — even when it no longer plays a meaningful role in the business. A machine that once ran full shifts now sees occasional use. Backup equipment purchased during a busy period was never fully integrated into the workflow. Specialized manufacturing equipment brought in for a single contract still takes up floor space long after the work is wrapped Read More

Automotive and fleet owners often underestimate how much value is sitting in their yard, shop, or storage building. Trucks that no longer fit your routes, service tools replaced by newer models, or surplus support equipment can still attract serious buyer interest — if the right pieces go to auction. Understanding what buyers look for, and why certain items consistently perform well, helps sellers make smarter decisions about timing, lot structure, and expectations. Below is a practical Read More

When you’re preparing to liquidate equipment from a restaurant, bakery, grocery store, brewery, or commercial kitchen, one question is sure to come up quickly: “Should these items be bundled together or sold individually?” The way you structure your lots can significantly affect bidder interest, auction momentum, and your final return. Choosing the right strategy doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning, and an understanding of how buyers make decisions, you Read More

Whether you're closing a location, remodeling your kitchen, or clearing out equipment that no longer earns its keep, the countdown to auction day moves quickly. The best results don’t happen by accident; they come from a clear, organized plan that positions your items for strong bidder interest. This 30‑day roadmap helps you take the guesswork out of auction prep and ensures your equipment is ready for a competitive, professional, and rewarding sale. Day 1–5: Start with a Read More

When your food service business has made the decision to close a location, remodel, or streamline operations, a well‑run auction can turn unused equipment into meaningful cash flow. In the world of food service, the difference between average sales and a strong return often comes down to preparation and smart marketing. This is true whether you run a hometown bakery, a full‑scale restaurant or brewery or anything in-between. The way you present your equipment, promote your auction, and position Read More

Restaurant and food‑service owners juggle thin margins, tight timelines, and fast‑moving equipment needs. When it comes time to sell, whether you're closing a location, upgrading your kitchen, remodeling, or simply clearing out unused inventory, an auction can turn equipment into predictable, timely revenue. The key is knowing how to position your items so they attract serious bidders and competitive pricing. Below are proven strategies food‑service operators use to get the strongest Read More

As the new year kicks off, many business owners take a fresh look at their inventory, equipment, and unused assets. Whether you run a machine shop, an auto repair business, or a multi‑department facility, January and February are some of the most profitable months to liquidate high‑value equipment through a trusted auction partner. At Backes Auctioneers, we’ve helped sellers maximize their returns for nearly 50 years, offering seamless support from your first phone call to the final Read More

Fifty years is a milestone that reflects not only longevity, but reliability, consistency, and a reputation built one auction at a time. As Backes Auctioneers enters its 50th year in business, we’re proud to celebrate a legacy shaped by thousands of successful liquidations, decades of industry expertise, and a commitment to helping Midwest businesses move forward with confidence. From small family operations to large multi‑site enterprises, our team has stood alongside business owners Read More