Why Equipment Decisions Come First
Equipment is usually the earliest decision in an opening schedule: imported units carry shipping lead times, custom fabrication takes weeks, and no MEP contractor can draw until equipment specifications are fixed. Leaving equipment to the tail end of the fit-out is the most common script for a delayed opening.
The 90-Day Timeline
| Stage | What the equipment side completes | Checkpoint |
|---|---|---|
| D-90 to D-75 | Lock the menu, complete the site assessment, first layout | Power, gas, water and drainage conditions confirmed |
| D-75 to D-60 | Finalise the equipment list, compare quotes, place orders | Long-lead items (imported, custom) ordered first |
| D-60 to D-30 | MEP works, coordination against the fit-out drawings | Positioning drawings issued to MEP, interface duties in writing |
| D-30 to D-14 | Delivery, installation, service connections | Access route measured (lift, door width), goods inspected on arrival |
| D-14 to D-7 | Commissioning, staff training | Every machine run for real, operation and cleaning handed over |
| D-7 to opening | Soft-run adjustments | Simulated peak load, layout and settings fine-tuned |
Ninety days suits a typical mid-size project. Chain formats can compress it; first openings or complex sites should keep more buffer.
The Three Usual Sticking Points
- Power applications: a capacity upgrade through the utility can take weeks or longer, which makes this the first item to start.
- Import lead times: lead times on popular and custom models move around, so confirm the current figure before ordering and write it into the contract.
- Fit-out interfaces: equipment positions out of sync with MEP drawings mean sockets and drains in the wrong place, the most expensive rework on site.
Common Questions
Is ninety days enough? It depends on scale and site conditions. Established chain formats can run faster; first openings, older buildings or power upgrades justify a longer runway with critical items started early.
Can fit-out and equipment run in parallel? They should, provided specifications are fixed first so MEP can build to the positioning drawings. The problem is fitting out first and choosing equipment later.
What should equipment acceptance cover? On arrival, check model and specification, inspect condition and accessories, and confirm warranty documents; after installation, run each machine before signing off.
One Contact for the Whole Timeline
Book a project consultation, or read who to hire for kitchen planning and how to buy commercial kitchen equipment.
Applied Kitchens, the commercial kitchen brand of Applied Solutions Group, provides integrated project delivery from site assessment and layout drawings to equipment supply, installation and commissioning, with schedule and MEP coordination under one contact.