New Business in Charlotte... (rental, home, organic) - City-Data Forum

jeweloflight · 01-03-2010, 05:43 PM

Some of you may remember me posting details of my desire to open an organic baking business in Charlotte some months ago, with a focus on gluten-free and vegan desserts.

All responses were very helpful, especially about Mecklenburg County regulations. I have since researched the health dept. rules, and am now looking to rent out commercial kitchen space in the Charlotte area. ( I originally wanted a home based business, but this is not allowed)

Does anyone know where I can start to even find out about renting a commercial kitchen? I would only need it 1 or 2 days a week to begin, until I could get my business off the ground and afford my own space. I have found cold calling to be very frustrating, and haven't had any luck so far.

Any help would be appreciated.

anifani821 · 01-03-2010, 06:10 PM

Hi, Jewel! I remember! That is great that you are going to be moving ahead with your business. I do think you have a market here.

I have tried to find a commercial kitchen to rent here, too. There were several in the Kansas City region where I used to live and so I never thought it would be difficult finding one here - but so far I haven't. I gave up about three years ago, so haven't look recently. So I hope someone will post who has the right info!

Good luck - just wanted to say HELLO and wish you success in your venture.

coastalgirl · 01-03-2010, 07:25 PM

I remember you too! How are you going to be selling your baked goods? The reason I ask is b/c if you don't need your own store yet, maybe you could rent the space from a bakery that is already established, use their kitchen after hours or something. Best of luck to you, I think you could really have a great business here!

jeweloflight · 01-03-2010, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coastalgirl

I remember you too! How are you going to be selling your baked goods? The reason I ask is b/c if you don't need your own store yet, maybe you could rent the space from a bakery that is already established, use their kitchen after hours or something. Best of luck to you, I think you could really have a great business here!

Yeah, that's what I created this thread for, to get any info about commercial kitchen space for rent. If you hear of anything, let me know! Thanks for the luck, I'll need it.

njmdpanc · 01-03-2010, 09:30 PM

Try a local church that has a kitchen. I did this many years ago in NJ. I rented a kitchen in a local church since they used it so infrequently. I negotiated a very low rental fee and agreed that they could have extra food I made to use to feed the hungry.
Win win for everyone.

Megax · 01-03-2010, 11:19 PM

Maybe ask the good folks at Johnson & Wales if they have any leads/connections?

etacarinae · 01-04-2010, 03:26 AM

Yes , I do recollect your initial query.
All suggestions are excellent , outstanding , superb!!
Also try the women's shelter , salvation army , Kohl's , or some of these mom and pop diners - jkng about Kohl's - they may be of assistance. Good luck in your endeavour!!

lumbollo · 01-04-2010, 04:38 AM

A friend of mine owns a catering business who rents an unused commercial kitchen at one of the county parks.

Belmarin · 01-04-2010, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeweloflight

Some of you may remember me posting details of my desire to open an organic baking business in Charlotte some months ago, with a focus on gluten-free and vegan desserts.

All responses were very helpful, especially about Mecklenburg County regulations. I have since researched the health dept. rules, and am now looking to rent out commercial kitchen space in the Charlotte area. ( I originally wanted a home based business, but this is not allowed)

Does anyone know where I can start to even find out about renting a commercial kitchen? I would only need it 1 or 2 days a week to begin, until I could get my business off the ground and afford my own space. I have found cold calling to be very frustrating, and haven't had any luck so far.

Any help would be appreciated.

Hi Jewel, I saw this on craigslist and it might be just what you are looking for:

KITCHEN AND BAKERY AVAILABLE/COMMISSARY (http://charlotte.craigslist.org/fbh/1534592205.html - broken link)

jeweloflight · 01-04-2010, 05:25 PM

Wow! Thanks you guys! So much good information and ideas. I'll follow up on some of these. I definitely am looking to be there and set up by the end of the summer, God willing, and all goes well. Thanks again! Whoo Hooo! ;-)