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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

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

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

As the new year approaches, restaurant owners across the country are gearing up for upgrades, remodels, and fresh starts. Maybe you’re planning a kitchen overhaul, replacing outdated appliances, or giving your dining area a facelift. No matter the reason, there’s one important question that often gets overlooked: What are you going to do with your old equipment? If your plan is to “store it for now,” you might want to think twice. Why Waiting Costs You Money Commercial Read More

Tags: auctions, Restaurant Auction Services, restaurant equipment

As we wrap up 2025 and look ahead to 2026, the auction industry is continuing to grow at a rapid pace. Whether you’re just getting into the world of auction or are a seasoned professional, being ahead of the trends can help you make smarter decisions and maximize your returns. Here are a few key developments in the world of auctions you should pay attention to for the coming year. Digital Auctions are Here to Stay A development spurred by the Pandemic and a need to hold auctions in a Read More

Tags: auction tips, auction trends, auctions, Fabrication Equipment, restaurant equipment

As the final quarter of the year unfolds, businesses across Iowa and the Midwest are reviewing their financials and preparing for tax season. For many, this is a critical time to make decisions that can influence profitability, tax obligations, and operational efficiency heading into the new year. One strategy that’s often overlooked? Liquidating unused equipment and assets before December 31. Whether it’s restaurant equipment sitting idle, surplus inventory taking up valuable space, Read More

Tags: Year-end Liquidation

If you’re in the metalworking industry and considering selling equipment like CNC machines, welders, lathes, or presses, proper prep is key. Whether you’re upgrading equipment, downsizing, or closing a shop, investing a little time upfront can lead to better bids and a faster sale. At Backes Auctioneers, we’ve worked with countless metalworking shops all across Iowa and the Midwest. We know what buyers want, and what gets them to bid. This checklist walks you through five important Read More

Tags: auctions, CNC machines, Lathes, Machine Shop Auctions, Metalworking Auctions, Metalworking Equipment, Welders

Whether you're a seasoned bidder or a first-time seller, knowing what sells best at auctions can make all the difference. At Backes Auctioneers, we’ve seen clear trends emerge in 2025 that reveal which categories consistently attract competitive bidding and top-dollar returns. From industrial equipment to curated experiences, here’s a look at the most popular auction items this year — and why they’re in such high demand. 1. Auto Shop Equipment Auto body and repair Read More

Tags: auctions, Auto shop equipment, collectibles, construction equipment, food service equipment, restaurant equipment, Vintage auctions

When it comes to auto repair auctions, certain pieces of equipment consistently draw the highest bids — and for good reason. Paint booths, vehicle lifts, and frame machines are the backbone of any professional auto body shop, and buyers know their value. At Backes Auctioneers, we’ve seen firsthand how these high-demand items can transform an auction from routine to record-breaking. Why These Tools Command Top Dollar Paint Booths: Precision Meets Profitability Professional paint Read More

Tags: Auto shop equipment, Automotive auctions, Frame machines, Paint booths, Vehicle lifts