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Whether you're a restaurant owner looking to liquidate assets or a savvy buyer hunting for high-quality equipment at a fraction of the retail price, commercial kitchen auctions are a goldmine.

At Backes Auctioneers, we’ve seen firsthand which items consistently attract attention and competitive bidding. Here are the 10 most in-demand commercial kitchen equipment items that buyers are actively seeking at auction.

Why This Matters for Sellers

If you're considering selling your restaurant equipment, knowing what’s in demand can help you maximize your return. Clean, well-maintained, and fully functional pieces in these categories tend to attract more bidders and higher final sale prices.

Why This Matters for Buyers

For buyers, understanding market trends helps you prioritize purchases and spot great deals. Auctions offer a chance to acquire premium equipment at a fraction of the cost, especially when you know what to look for.

Top 10 Commercial Kitchen Equipment Items

1. Commercial Refrigerators & Freezers

From upright reach-ins to undercounter units, refrigeration is essential in any foodservice operation. Brands like True, Turbo Air, and Traulsen are especially popular for their durability and energy efficiency.

2. Convection Ovens

These versatile ovens are staples in both restaurants and bakeries. Buyers look for well-maintained units from trusted names like Blodgett, Vulcan, and Hobart.

3. Griddles & Flat Top Grills

Perfect for diners, food trucks, and fast-casual spots, griddles are always in demand. Gas-powered models with thermostatic controls tend to fetch higher bids.

4. Commercial Fryers

Deep fryers are a must-have for any operation serving fried foods. Double-basket fryers and models with built-in filtration systems are especially desirable.

5. Ice Machines

Whether it’s a hotel, bar, or café, ice machines are non-negotiable. Buyers prioritize brands like Manitowoc, Hoshizaki, and Scotsman for reliability and output.

6. Prep Tables & Workstations

Stainless steel prep tables, sandwich/salad prep stations, and pizza prep tables are hot-ticket items. Their versatility and necessity in any kitchen make them auction favorites.

7. Dishwashers & Glasswashers

High-temp and low-temp commercial dishwashers are in constant demand, especially compact undercounter models for smaller operations.

8. Commercial Mixers

From 20-quart countertop mixers to 80-quart floor models, mixers are essential for bakeries and pizzerias. Hobart mixers, in particular, are known to spark bidding wars.

9. Charbroilers & Ranges

Heavy-duty cooking equipment like charbroilers and gas ranges is always sought after. Buyers look for clean, well-maintained units with minimal wear.

10. Food Warmers & Holding Cabinets

Maintaining food temperature is critical in catering and buffet-style service. Holding cabinets, heat lamps, and countertop warmers are consistently popular.

Ready to Buy or Sell?

Whether you're liquidating a single item or an entire restaurant, Backes Auctioneers is your trusted partner. Our restaurant auction services are designed to make the process seamless, profitable, and transparent.

Explore our upcoming auctions or contact us today to learn how we can help you get the most out of your commercial kitchen equipment.

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