hi to all,
I have been living in France for 5 years and after substantial research think I can make a good supplimentary income providing the expat community with bangers and bacon. Almost everyone I talk to says they miss a proper banger or a bacon sandwich.
Initially I intend to produce 2 or 3 different sausages, smoked and unsmoked back bacon and perhaps some black pudding all to order and also to promote at local markets. I currently have orders from 26 clients who are waiting patiently for me to get going!
I live in a Chateau 40 minutes from Bordeaux which is primarily a holiday rental business (we are fully booked for the summer before you ask!). The historical owners of the Chateau were producers of Foie Gras and sausages to the infrastructure is already here (kitchens, cold room,cutting tables, etc) however the equipment for production is missing. Hence I am looking for a good grinder, stuffer and packageing gear.
My question is on a limited budget should I buy quality second hand or cheaper new equipment? I estimate to be producing about 30lb a week to start with but this could expand considerably and quickly once the news gets round! I would also appreciate any advice on pitfalls from people who have tried similar ventures?