Crestmont Capital Blog

Brewery Equipment Financing: Fermenters, Kettles, and Kegs

Written by Mariela Merino | August 15, 2025

Brewery Equipment Financing: Fermenters, Kettles, and Kegs

Launching or expanding a brewery requires significant investment in specialized equipment. Fermenters, kettles, and kegs form the backbone of your brewing operation, but the upfront costs can be steep. Whether you’re starting a small craft brewery or scaling a production facility, equipment financing can help you get the tools you need without draining your capital.

Why Financing Brewery Equipment Makes Sense

Brewing equipment is costly, but it’s also essential for maintaining product quality and meeting production goals. Financing allows you to:

  • Preserve Cash Flow – Keep funds available for marketing, staffing, and operations.

  • Start or Expand Sooner – Avoid waiting years to save for a full equipment purchase.

  • Stay Competitive – Upgrade to newer, more efficient brewing systems without large lump-sum payments.

Typical Costs for Brewery Essentials

Equipment Cost Range
Fermenters (7–30 BBL) $4,000 – $25,000+
Brew Kettles (Electric or Gas) $3,500 – $20,000+
Kegs (per unit) $100 – $200
Glycol Cooling Systems $5,000 – $15,000+
Complete Brewhouse Systems $50,000 – $250,000+

Prices vary based on capacity, material, and features.

Financing Options for Brewery Equipment

1. Brewery Equipment Loans

  • Fixed interest rates and predictable payments.

  • Ownership from day one.

  • Flexible terms for large purchases.

2. Equipment Leasing

  • Lower upfront cost with monthly payments.

  • Upgrade or replace equipment at the end of the lease.

  • Potential tax benefits (deductible payments).

3. SBA Loans

4. Vendor Financing

  • Some manufacturers offer direct financing plans.

  • Can bundle equipment, delivery, and installation into one package.

5. Brewery-Specific Financing Programs

  • Offered by lenders specializing in the craft beer industry.

  • Often include business consulting or industry-specific advice.

Featured Snippet: How to Finance Brewery Equipment

  1. Determine your brewing capacity needs.

  2. Get multiple quotes for fermenters, kettles, and kegs.

  3. Compare financing and leasing options.

  4. Prepare  business financial statements and forecasts.

  5. Apply with a lender that understands brewery operations.

Tips for Securing the Best Financing

  • Have a Solid Business Plan – Lenders prefer working with breweries that have clear growth strategies.

  • Consider Energy Efficiency – Some states offer incentives for eco-friendly brewing systems.

  • Build Supplier Relationships – Vendors may offer discounts or favorable financing terms to repeat customers.

Final Thoughts

With the right financing, you can equip your brewery with fermenters, kettles, and kegs that boost production, maintain quality, and fuel growth. Instead of delaying expansion, explore your funding options and start brewing success today.