Quick Overview
- 1#1: FlexiBake - Cloud-based bakery management software specializing in production scheduling, recipe scaling, and inventory control for efficient bakery operations.
- 2#2: BakeSmart - All-in-one POS and production software for bakeries that includes scheduling, inventory tracking, and recipe management to streamline daily operations.
- 3#3: MixBloom - Production scheduling platform designed for craft bakeries to plan baking runs, manage inventory, and forecast demand accurately.
- 4#4: Aptean Artisan - Enterprise ERP solution for bakeries providing advanced production scheduling, supply chain management, and real-time visibility into operations.
- 5#5: CIMPRO - Manufacturing execution system for food producers like bakeries, focusing on production scheduling, batch tracking, and quality control.
- 6#6: When I Work - Employee scheduling app with shift trading, time tracking, and communication tools ideal for small to medium bakeries.
- 7#7: Homebase - Free scheduling and time clock software for small businesses like bakeries, featuring labor forecasting and team messaging.
- 8#8: 7shifts - Restaurant and food service scheduling platform with labor budgeting, tip pooling, and compliance tools suitable for bakeries.
- 9#9: Deputy - Workforce management software offering shift scheduling, time tracking, and task management for retail and food businesses including bakeries.
- 10#10: Sling - Team scheduling tool with availability checks, shift reminders, and cost forecasting designed for hourly workers in bakeries.
Tools were evaluated based on core bakery needs like production scheduling, inventory control, and user-friendliness, alongside reliability, scalability, and overall value to ensure they cater to varying operation sizes and complexities.
Comparison Table
This comparison table assesses top bakery scheduling software tools, including FlexiBake, BakeSmart, MixBloom, Aptean Artisan, CIMPRO, and more, to guide bakeries in selecting the right solution. Readers will explore key differences in features like order tracking, shift management, and system integration, as well as usability and scalability, to optimize daily operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | FlexiBake Cloud-based bakery management software specializing in production scheduling, recipe scaling, and inventory control for efficient bakery operations. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | BakeSmart All-in-one POS and production software for bakeries that includes scheduling, inventory tracking, and recipe management to streamline daily operations. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | MixBloom Production scheduling platform designed for craft bakeries to plan baking runs, manage inventory, and forecast demand accurately. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Aptean Artisan Enterprise ERP solution for bakeries providing advanced production scheduling, supply chain management, and real-time visibility into operations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | CIMPRO Manufacturing execution system for food producers like bakeries, focusing on production scheduling, batch tracking, and quality control. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | When I Work Employee scheduling app with shift trading, time tracking, and communication tools ideal for small to medium bakeries. | other | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Homebase Free scheduling and time clock software for small businesses like bakeries, featuring labor forecasting and team messaging. | other | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 8 | 7shifts Restaurant and food service scheduling platform with labor budgeting, tip pooling, and compliance tools suitable for bakeries. | other | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Deputy Workforce management software offering shift scheduling, time tracking, and task management for retail and food businesses including bakeries. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 10 | Sling Team scheduling tool with availability checks, shift reminders, and cost forecasting designed for hourly workers in bakeries. | other | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
Cloud-based bakery management software specializing in production scheduling, recipe scaling, and inventory control for efficient bakery operations.
All-in-one POS and production software for bakeries that includes scheduling, inventory tracking, and recipe management to streamline daily operations.
Production scheduling platform designed for craft bakeries to plan baking runs, manage inventory, and forecast demand accurately.
Enterprise ERP solution for bakeries providing advanced production scheduling, supply chain management, and real-time visibility into operations.
Manufacturing execution system for food producers like bakeries, focusing on production scheduling, batch tracking, and quality control.
Employee scheduling app with shift trading, time tracking, and communication tools ideal for small to medium bakeries.
Free scheduling and time clock software for small businesses like bakeries, featuring labor forecasting and team messaging.
Restaurant and food service scheduling platform with labor budgeting, tip pooling, and compliance tools suitable for bakeries.
Workforce management software offering shift scheduling, time tracking, and task management for retail and food businesses including bakeries.
Team scheduling tool with availability checks, shift reminders, and cost forecasting designed for hourly workers in bakeries.
FlexiBake
specializedCloud-based bakery management software specializing in production scheduling, recipe scaling, and inventory control for efficient bakery operations.
Production Wheel: A visual scheduler that handles bakery-specific multi-day production timelines, auto-scaling recipes and assigning staff/resources dynamically.
FlexiBake is a cloud-based bakery management software tailored for production scheduling, staff rostering, inventory tracking, and order fulfillment in bakeries. It uses a unique Production Wheel to visualize and automate multi-day baking cycles based on orders, recipes, and resources, optimizing efficiency and reducing waste. The platform integrates seamlessly with POS systems and provides real-time forecasting, making it ideal for scaling bakery operations.
Pros
- Bakery-specific Production Wheel for complex multi-day scheduling
- Seamless integration of staff, production, and inventory scheduling
- Advanced forecasting and real-time adjustments to demand changes
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small home-based bakeries
- Initial setup requires data import and customization time
- Limited offline functionality as a cloud-based tool
Best For
Mid-sized to large bakeries and wholesale operations needing integrated production and staff scheduling for high-volume orders.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $199/month for basic plans, scaling to $500+ for multi-location enterprises (billed annually).
BakeSmart
specializedAll-in-one POS and production software for bakeries that includes scheduling, inventory tracking, and recipe management to streamline daily operations.
Production scheduling that automatically generates shift plans based on recipe demands, sales forecasts, and inventory levels
BakeSmart is a comprehensive bakery management platform that excels in employee scheduling, production planning, and labor forecasting tailored specifically for bakeries. It integrates scheduling with inventory tracking, recipe scaling, POS systems, and online ordering to ensure efficient operations from dough prep to delivery. The software helps bakers optimize staff shifts based on sales data and production demands, reducing waste and overtime costs.
Pros
- Bakery-specific scheduling tools that account for production batches, recipe yields, and peak baking hours
- Seamless integration with POS, inventory, and time-tracking for real-time adjustments
- Mobile app for on-the-go shift management and employee communication
Cons
- Higher pricing may strain very small or startup bakeries
- Initial setup requires time to input recipes and historical data accurately
- Limited advanced reporting customization without higher-tier plans
Best For
Mid-sized bakeries seeking an all-in-one solution for scheduling integrated with production and sales operations.
Pricing
Starts at $145/month for basic plan (1 location), scales to $295+/month for advanced features and multi-location support; custom enterprise pricing available.
MixBloom
specializedProduction scheduling platform designed for craft bakeries to plan baking runs, manage inventory, and forecast demand accurately.
AI-driven shift optimization that suggests coverage based on historical bakery demand patterns
MixBloom is a cloud-based workforce scheduling platform tailored for bakeries, enabling managers to create shift schedules, track employee availability, and handle time-off requests efficiently. It supports drag-and-drop interfaces for quick adjustments and includes messaging tools for staff communication during peak baking hours. While versatile for small to mid-sized operations, it lacks deep integration with bakery-specific inventory or production planning tools.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling for fast shift changes
- Mobile app for employees to view shifts and swap on-the-go
- Automated notifications and overtime alerts to prevent compliance issues
Cons
- Limited bakery-specific features like recipe-based labor forecasting
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Occasional sync delays with external payroll systems
Best For
Mid-sized bakeries with variable shifts and rotating staff that need reliable employee scheduling without complex production planning.
Pricing
Starts at $5 per employee/month (billed annually), with a free trial; enterprise plans custom.
Aptean Artisan
enterpriseEnterprise ERP solution for bakeries providing advanced production scheduling, supply chain management, and real-time visibility into operations.
Advanced finite capacity scheduling that dynamically adjusts baking schedules for real-time constraints like labor, equipment, and raw materials
Aptean Artisan is a comprehensive ERP system designed specifically for bakeries, providing advanced production scheduling, inventory management, and process automation. It excels in planning baking runs, optimizing resource allocation, and handling complex formulations across multi-site operations. The software integrates with MES for real-time shop floor control, making it suitable for industrial-scale bakeries focused on efficiency and compliance.
Pros
- Powerful finite scheduling engine optimizes production runs based on constraints like ingredient availability and capacity
- Deep bakery-specific features including recipe management and traceability for regulatory compliance
- Scalable for multi-plant operations with strong MES integration for real-time execution
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its enterprise-level complexity
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup process
- Less ideal for small bakeries due to overkill functionality and pricing
Best For
Mid-to-large industrial bakeries requiring integrated ERP with robust production scheduling and scalability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $50,000+ annually plus implementation fees, based on scale and modules.
CIMPRO
enterpriseManufacturing execution system for food producers like bakeries, focusing on production scheduling, batch tracking, and quality control.
Advanced formula scaling and yield-optimized scheduling engine that automatically adjusts batches based on ingredient availability and production constraints
CIMPRO is a bakery-specific ERP software that excels in production scheduling for bakeries and food manufacturers, handling complex formulas, batch production, and resource allocation. It integrates scheduling with inventory management, quality control, and shop floor execution to streamline operations. Designed for scalability, it supports real-time visibility into production runs, yields, and capacity planning.
Pros
- Bakery-tailored scheduling for formulas, yields, and multi-step processes
- Deep integration with ERP modules like inventory and quality control
- Scalable for mid-to-large operations with real-time shop floor tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to comprehensive ERP complexity
- Dated user interface requiring training
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and can be high for smaller bakeries
Best For
Mid-sized bakeries needing integrated ERP with advanced production scheduling for complex batch manufacturing.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $5,000+ per month for full suite depending on modules, users, and implementation.
When I Work
otherEmployee scheduling app with shift trading, time tracking, and communication tools ideal for small to medium bakeries.
Employee-driven shift trades and swaps with manager approval, reducing administrative burden for variable bakery staffing.
When I Work is a cloud-based employee scheduling platform designed for shift-based businesses, enabling bakery managers to create drag-and-drop schedules, handle shift trades, and track time via mobile apps. It supports features like availability-based auto-scheduling, notifications, and labor forecasting, which help coordinate early-morning baking shifts and variable staffing needs. While versatile for general workforce management, it lacks specialized bakery tools like production planning or ingredient inventory tied to shifts.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Robust mobile app for employee self-service and notifications
- Affordable scaling with auto-scheduling to optimize labor costs
Cons
- No bakery-specific features like recipe production schedules or perishable inventory management
- Advanced forecasting and reporting locked behind premium plans
- Limited integrations with POS or bakery management systems
Best For
Small to mid-sized bakeries focused on efficient employee shift management rather than full production or inventory control.
Pricing
Free for basic use (up to 75 shifts/month); paid plans start at $2/user/month (Essentials) up to $5/user/month (Enterprise).
Homebase
otherFree scheduling and time clock software for small businesses like bakeries, featuring labor forecasting and team messaging.
OpenShifts allows employees to claim available bakery shifts, reducing scheduling headaches and improving team satisfaction
Homebase is an all-in-one employee management platform tailored for shift-based small businesses, providing drag-and-drop scheduling, time tracking, and team communication tools. For bakeries, it excels in handling irregular early-morning shifts, overtime alerts, and labor cost monitoring to optimize staffing during peak baking and sales hours. Additional features like hiring, onboarding, and performance tracking make it a versatile solution for growing bakery operations.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with shift templates ideal for bakery routines
- Free plan for one location supports small bakeries starting out
- Real-time labor cost insights and geofenced time clocks prevent overtime overruns
Cons
- Lacks bakery-specific integrations like POS-driven demand forecasting or inventory management
- Advanced features like custom reports require higher-tier plans
- Scalability issues for multi-location or large bakery chains
Best For
Small to medium-sized bakeries with 1-50 employees needing simple, affordable shift scheduling and time tracking.
Pricing
Free Basic plan (unlimited employees, 1 location); Essentials $29.99/mo/location (billed annually); Premium/Growth plans $59.99+ with advanced features.
7shifts
otherRestaurant and food service scheduling platform with labor budgeting, tip pooling, and compliance tools suitable for bakeries.
Smart Scheduler with AI-driven labor forecasting that auto-generates optimal shifts based on predicted sales and historical data
7shifts is a robust employee scheduling and management platform originally designed for restaurants, offering drag-and-drop scheduling, labor forecasting, time tracking, and team communication features that can be adapted for bakery operations. It helps bakery managers create efficient shift schedules for early-morning bakes, manage variable staffing needs during peak hours, and track labor costs against sales forecasts. While not bakery-specific, its intuitive tools streamline staff coordination for small to mid-sized operations.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Labor forecasting and auto-scheduling based on sales data
- Mobile app for clock-ins, shift swaps, and communication
Cons
- No dedicated bakery features like production batching or recipe scaling
- Pricing increases with active employee count and multiple locations
- Limited native inventory or POS integrations tailored to bakeries
Best For
Small to mid-sized bakeries prioritizing straightforward staff scheduling and labor cost management over production planning.
Pricing
Free for 1 location up to 20 employees; paid plans start at $29.99/location/month + $2.25/active employee/month (billed annually).
Deputy
enterpriseWorkforce management software offering shift scheduling, time tracking, and task management for retail and food businesses including bakeries.
AI-powered Auto-Scheduler that automatically optimizes shifts based on predicted demand and availability
Deputy is a versatile workforce management platform designed for employee scheduling, time tracking, task management, and team communication across various industries. For bakeries, it supports creating flexible shift templates for early-morning baking rushes, handling variable demand from orders and holidays, and monitoring labor costs against sales forecasts. While not bakery-specific, its mobile-first approach and integrations with POS systems make it adaptable for managing bakery staff efficiently.
Pros
- Drag-and-drop scheduling with overtime alerts ideal for fluctuating bakery shifts
- Mobile app for easy clock-ins and shift swaps, perfect for on-the-floor bakers
- Labor forecasting and costing tools to optimize staffing against production needs
Cons
- No built-in bakery-specific features like inventory tracking or recipe-based demand planning
- Pricing scales with active users, which can add up for small single-location bakeries
- Advanced forecasting requires higher-tier plans and some setup complexity
Best For
Medium-sized bakeries or chains with multiple shifts and locations seeking robust, scalable scheduling without industry-specific customization.
Pricing
Starts at $3.50/active user/month (Essentials, billed annually); scales to $5+ for Plus/Enterprise with advanced features like forecasting.
Sling
otherTeam scheduling tool with availability checks, shift reminders, and cost forecasting designed for hourly workers in bakeries.
Built-in labor cost forecasting and alerts to prevent budget overruns
Sling is a versatile employee scheduling platform designed to help businesses create optimized shift schedules, track labor costs, and facilitate staff communication. For bakeries, it excels in managing variable shifts for early-morning baking crews, overtime alerts, and employee availability. While not bakery-specific, its drag-and-drop interface and mobile app make it a solid choice for streamlining workforce management in fast-paced environments.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with templates for recurring bakery shifts
- Real-time notifications and shift trading to handle last-minute changes
- Strong labor cost tracking to control expenses during peak baking hours
Cons
- Lacks bakery-specific features like production planning or ingredient-based forecasting
- Advanced reporting and integrations require premium upgrades
- Limited customization for complex multi-location bakery operations
Best For
Small to medium-sized bakeries seeking an affordable, user-friendly tool for basic shift scheduling and labor management.
Pricing
Free plan for core features; Pro at $1.70/user/month (billed annually), Business at $3.25/user/month.
Conclusion
After reviewing 10 bakery scheduling tools, FlexiBake rises as the top pick, excelling in specialized production scheduling, recipe scaling, and inventory control for optimized operations. BakeSmart, a close second, impresses with its all-in-one POS and production features, streamlining daily workflows. MixBloom, ranking third, stands out for craft bakeries, offering accurate demand forecasting and precise baking run planning. Each tool suits unique needs, but FlexiBake leads as the most comprehensive option.
Ready to enhance your bakery’s efficiency? Start with FlexiBake and unlock smoother, more coordinated operations today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison