With increasing market demand, the crystal ice cube business has become a promising choice. With relatively low capital and a straightforward production process, you can start this business without special skills. If you're interested in starting a crystal ice cube business, here are some tips from the BFI Finance team on how to get started and estimate potential profits.
1. Crystal Ice Cube Business Opportunity
1.1 Low Operating Costs
Unlike many other businesses, crystal ice cube production does not require a large capital investment or high operating costs. Equipment such as ice makers and freezers does not need to be brand-new. You can rent them initially to find the right fit or to test out the business first.
1.2 High Market Demand
Demand for crystal ice cubes is quite high. Businesses that offer drinks certainly need ice cubes. This demand is especially strong with the growth of MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) promoted by the Indonesian government. Crystal ice cubes are needed by small-scale businesses like street vendors and medium-sized businesses like restaurants.
In addition to food and drink, crystal ice is also used in laboratories, especially for research and experiments. Crystal ice plays an essential role in maintaining a consistently low temperature, which is crucial for cooling samples, calibrating equipment, and preserving reagents.
1.3 No Special Skills Required
You don’t need special skills to operate a crystal ice cube business. The necessary skills involve operating machinery, which anyone can learn. Additionally, you can earn extra profits by offering ice cube delivery to customers.
1.4 Doesn’t Spoil
One of the biggest advantages of running a crystal ice cube business is that the product doesn’t spoil. The physical properties of water allow ice to change form rather than expire, reducing losses from unsold products.
1.5 Business Expansion Potential
The crystal ice cube business has potential for expansion, especially in terms of distribution network growth. Connecting with companies that need ice cubes for their businesses, like cafes, restaurants, or beverage producers, can enhance your business. You can also use e-commerce to reach a broader customer base, particularly in urban areas.
1.6 Easy to Find Labor
Since the crystal ice cube business doesn’t require special skills, it’s relatively easy to find additional labor. Training new employees, from production to distribution, is simple. Even if an employee resigns, you can quickly find a replacement without a lengthy recruitment process.
2. Preparing for a Crystal Ice Cube Business
Before starting a crystal ice cube business, consider the following:
2.1 Water Supply for Production
Water is the main ingredient in ice cube production. Ensure that the water source is clean and free from bacterial contamination. Also, conduct water treatment processes, such as filtration, disinfection, and chlorine removal.
2.2 Electricity Needs
Crystal ice cube production requires a substantial amount of electricity. Ensure that the electrical installation at your location can support the ice maker’s power needs. Consider using a stabilizer to maintain a steady power supply.
2.3 PLN Electrical Panel
Ensure the PLN (Indonesian National Electric Company) electrical panel is properly installed by an experienced technician to avoid risks of short circuits or fires. If possible, separate the panel for the ice machine from panels for other needs to ensure power distribution aligns with machine requirements.
2.4 Ice Maker Machine
This is the primary equipment for the crystal ice cube business. Choose a machine that fits your production capacity and the available power. Some machines come with additional features like adjustable ice sizes and self-cleaning systems. Also, consider the machine's production speed and durability for a more efficient production process.
2.5 Packaging
Crystal ice cube packaging doesn’t need to be complicated. Use plastic bags of various sizes. Consider adding your business logo, phone number, and address to help customers remember and contact you again.
2.6 Freezer
A freezer is essential for preventing ice from melting. Ideally, crystal ice freezers should maintain a temperature of -18 degrees Celsius. The lower the temperature, the harder and longer-lasting the ice cubes will be. Match the freezer capacity to production volume and ice cube size.
3. Tips for Starting a Crystal Ice Cube Business
3.1 Check Power Capacity
Ensure your electrical setup can handle the ice maker. Calculate the total power needed and, if necessary, increase it before starting production.
3.2 Ensure Quality Water Supply
Good water sources include deep well water, bottled mineral water, or water from Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems. Test water quality regularly to meet safety standards, ensuring it’s free from harmful bacteria, viruses, metals, and chemicals.
3.3 Build Good Relationships with Customers
Establishing good relationships with customers will keep your business top-of-mind when they need ice cubes. If you work with a company or vendor, you can offer discounts on bulk purchases.
3.4 Ensure Location and Handle Permits
Survey and select a location for your crystal ice cube business. After choosing the location, make sure to handle all necessary permits, as these vary by region.
4. Estimated Costs for a Crystal Ice Cube Business
If you're interested in starting a crystal ice cube business, here’s an estimated cost breakdown:
4.1 Equipment Costs
Ice Maker: IDR 10,000,000
Freezer: IDR 6,000,000
Scale: IDR 500,000
Permits: IDR 1,000,000
Total: IDR 17,500,000
4.2 Monthly Operating Costs
Electricity: IDR 1,500,000
Water: IDR 300,000
Employee Salary (1 employee): IDR 1,000,000
Rent: IDR 1,500,000
Total: IDR 4,500,000
4.3 Estimated Profit
Assumed Crystal Ice Price:
IDR 15,000/10 kg or IDR 1,500/kg
Gross Profit:
200 kg (estimated daily sales) x IDR 1,500 = IDR 300,000/day
IDR 300,000 x 30 days = IDR 9,000,000/month
Net Profit:
Gross profit - Operating costs
IDR 9,000,000 - IDR 4,500,000 = IDR 4,500,000 per month
Keep in mind that the above estimates are for educational purposes and may vary depending on regional price differences and market demand.
BFI Finance can help with additional financing if you plan to start this business. We offer loans with vehicle BPKB or property certificate collateral, competitive interest rates, and flexible terms. Apply now at BFI Finance. #SelaluAdaJalan with BFI Finance.
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