Ice making and bagging unit
Make, bag and store your own ice in a small unit, then supply venues and events locally.
- A$40k-120k
- Full-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.
What it is
You run commercial ice machines and a bagging setup in a small industrial unit with cold storage, producing cubes, crushed ice or blocks to sell in bulk.
Your first three steps
- Get quotes for commercial ice machines, a bagger and a freezer room, and compare buying new with second-hand
- Find a small unit with suitable power and drainage, and ask your local council what food business approvals and zoning you'd need
- Line up a few anchor customers, such as local venues and caterers, before you commit to equipment
Who pays
Bars, restaurants, caterers, event organisers, fishing and seafood businesses, and local shops that stock bagged ice.
How it makes money
You sell bags or blocks at a price well above your running costs. You can also earn from bulk event orders, shop supply contracts and delivery fees.
Skills that help
- Basic mechanical know-how
- Food hygiene habits
- Managing orders and deliveries
Watch out for
- Making packaged ice is a food business, so check council registration, the Food Standards Code and any food safety supervisor requirements
- Water quality, machine cleaning and hygiene records
- High electricity use and equipment breakdowns, so cost these in and plan for repairs
- Public liability and product liability insurance, plus workers compensation if you hire
- Seasonal demand, with quieter winter months
🔒 Full research report for Australia
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
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