Why Equipment Finance Matters for Cafes
For a cafe, your equipment is your revenue. A commercial espresso machine, commercial oven, refrigeration unit or POS system are not optional - they are the backbone of your operation. When equipment fails or becomes outdated, it directly affects your ability to serve customers and generate income.
The problem is cost. Quality commercial cafe equipment is expensive. A single La Marzocca espresso machine runs $20,000 to $35,000. A commercial combi oven can cost $12,000 to $25,000. A full kitchen fit out can reach $80,000 or more. Very few small cafe operators have that capital sitting idle.
That is what equipment finance solves. Rather than draining your working capital or waiting months for a bank approval, a specialist business loan lets you get the equipment installed and generating revenue within days.
What Equipment Can Be Financed?
Almost any cafe equipment can be funded through a business loan or equipment finance arrangement:
- Commercial espresso and coffee machines (La Marzocca, Synesso, Nuova Simonelli, etc.)
- Commercial grinders
- Commercial refrigeration and cool rooms
- Commercial ovens, combi ovens and commercial toasters
- Dishwashers and glasswashers
- Point-of-sale (POS) systems and payment terminals
- Display cases and food warmers
- Commercial blenders and food processors
- Outdoor furniture, umbrellas and heating equipment
- Ventilation and extraction systems
How Much Does Cafe Equipment Cost in Australia?
| Equipment | Typical cost range |
|---|---|
| Commercial espresso machine (mid-range) | $8,000 to $15,000 |
| Commercial espresso machine (premium) | $20,000 to $35,000 |
| Commercial grinder | $1,500 to $4,000 |
| Commercial refrigeration unit | $3,000 to $12,000 |
| Commercial combi oven | $12,000 to $25,000 |
| POS system (hardware + software) | $2,000 to $8,000 |
| Commercial dishwasher | $4,000 to $15,000 |
| Full kitchen fit out | $40,000 to $150,000+ |
Finance Options for Cafe Equipment
Business Loan (most common option)
An unsecured business loan is the simplest and fastest way to finance cafe equipment. You borrow a fixed amount, repay weekly over 1 to 3 years, and there is no restriction on what supplier you use or whether the equipment is new or used. Amounts up to $150,000 are available without property as security. Approval in 24 hours.
Equipment Finance / Chattel Mortgage
A chattel mortgage is a traditional equipment finance product where the lender takes security over the asset (the equipment itself). This can sometimes offer lower rates than an unsecured business loan but is typically only available for new or dealer-sourced equipment, and the process takes longer. Better suited to larger assets like commercial refrigeration or high-end coffee machines from authorised dealers.
Business Overdraft (for emergency replacements)
If you have a business overdraft facility already in place, this is the fastest way to fund an emergency equipment replacement. You draw what you need immediately and repay as cash flow allows. If you don't have one set up yet, the application still takes 24 hours - but it is worth having one established before you need it.
Equipment finance at a glance
Eligibility Requirements
- ABN active for at least 6 months
- Monthly revenue of $6,000 or more
- Equifax credit score of 550 or above
- Australian citizen or permanent resident (owner/director)
- 6 months of business bank statements
Tax Considerations
Equipment purchased for your cafe business may be eligible for the instant asset write-off scheme depending on the asset cost threshold in the relevant financial year. Speak to your accountant about structuring your equipment purchase to maximise any available tax deductions. This guide is general information only and not financial or tax advice.
Get Your Equipment Financed Today
24-hour approval, no property required, no broker fees. Check what your cafe qualifies for.
Check eligibility nowFrequently Asked Questions
Can I finance a second-hand coffee machine?
Through a business loan, yes. Business loans have no restriction on whether the equipment is new or used. Traditional chattel mortgage products may require dealer-sourced or new equipment.
How long does approval take for cafe equipment finance?
Through a specialist broker using a business loan product, approval is typically within 24 hours for amounts under $150,000. You need 6 months of bank statements and your ABN details.
Do I need to show the equipment quote to get approved?
For a general business loan, no. You receive the funds into your business account and can pay the supplier directly. For a chattel mortgage, lenders typically require a supplier invoice or quote.