Spend out to save cash
Reduced running costs aren't the sole financial reason to buy energy-efficient equipment. Depending on the equipment being purchased, buyers may be able to take advantage of loans and tax benefits.
As the price of energy rockets, running costs are becoming a much bigger part of any pub's budget, both for food and drinks service. Buying a more energy-efficient machine will usually cost a premium, which understandably puts some buyers off.
However, if you are planning to keep the machine for more than a couple of years, the reduced running costs will more than cover the extra outlay. Depending on the equipment being bought, payback can be even quicker.
The Carbon Trust offers pubs interest-free loans on kitchen refurbishment, if they can demonstrate the new equipment will save energy. Loans can be anything from £5,000 to £100,000. Visit www.carbontrust.co.uk to find out more.
The Carbon Trust also runs the Energy Technology List (ETL). Only energy-efficient products can be included on the ETL and publicans who buy equipment from the list qualify for the Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme.
This gives major tax concessions, allowing the purchaser to write off 100 per cent of the cost against taxable profits in the first year. Visit www.eca.gov.uk/etl for more information.
Currently the only foodservice equipment category included on the ETL list is refrigeration.
The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA) is working with the Carbon Trust to expand this to include other categories such as warewashing and prime cooking equipment.
Although the introduction of the new categories is likely to take a year or more, the case for paying extra for energy-efficient equipment - whether on the ETL or not - is growing stronger all the time.
- CESA represents more than 130 companies which supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment. For more information visit www.cesa.org.uk.
