Pole barns are a type of agricultural or commercial building that is made with wooden poles, typically anchored into the ground and covered with a metal roof and siding. They are a popular choice for business owners due to their affordability, versatility, and ease of construction.
In this blog, we will explore various pole barn business ideas and how they can be used for agriculture, commercial, recreational, and residential purposes. We will also cover some construction and design considerations for those who are interested in starting a pole barn business.
4 Pole Barn Business Ideas
Pole barns are versatile, durable, and cost-effective buildings that can be used for a variety of business purposes.
Here, we will explore four pole barn business ideas that can be utilized in different industries, including agriculture, commercial, recreational, and residential. Whether you’re looking to start a new business or expand an existing one, these pole barn ideas may provide you with some inspiration.
Idea 1: Pole Barn Businesses For Agriculture And Farming
Agriculture and farming businesses can greatly benefit from using pole barns due to their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Here are some ways that pole barns can be utilized in the agriculture and farming industry:
A. Livestock Shelter And Storage
Pole barns can be used to provide shelter for livestock, such as cattle, horses, and sheep. The open design of pole barns allows for plenty of ventilation, which is important for the health of the animals. Additionally, pole barns can also be used to store hay, feed, and other supplies needed to care for the animals.
Real-life example: Smithfield Foods, one of the largest pork producers in the world, uses pole barns to house their pigs. These pole barns are specifically designed to provide a comfortable environment for the pigs while also maintaining a high level of biosecurity.
B. Crop Storage And Processing
Pole barns can also be used to store and process crops, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. The open design of pole barns allows for easy loading and unloading of produce, while the metal siding and roofing protect the crops from the elements. Additionally, pole barns can also be used to process crops, such as drying, cleaning, and packaging.
Real-life example: Oregon Cherry Growers, a cooperative of cherry growers in Oregon, uses pole barns to store and process their cherries. The pole barns are used to dry and sort the cherries before they are packaged and shipped to customers.
C. Equipment Storage And Maintenance
Pole barns can also be used to store and maintain farming equipment, such as tractors, plows, and harvesters. The open design of pole barns allows for easy access to the equipment, while the metal siding and roofing protect the equipment from the elements. Additionally, pole barns can also be used as workshops for repairing and maintaining equipment.
Real-life example: B&D Equipment, a John Deere dealer in Oklahoma, uses pole barns to store and maintain their farming equipment. The pole barns are specifically designed to accommodate the size and shape of the equipment, while also providing a comfortable workspace for the technicians.
D. Examples Of Successful Agriculture And Farming Businesses Using Pole Barns
- Country Lane Farmers Market in Pennsylvania uses a pole barn as their main retail space for selling produce, meat, and dairy products.
- Misty Meadows Farm in Virginia uses pole barns to house their goats and sheep, as well as for hay storage.
- Miles Smith Farm in New Hampshire uses pole barns to store their hay and farming equipment, as well as for their educational programs and events.
Overall, pole barns can provide a cost-effective and versatile solution for agriculture and farming businesses. They can be customized to fit specific needs and provide shelter, storage, and workspace for animals, crops, and equipment.
Idea 2: Pole Barn Businesses for Commercial and Industrial Purposes
Pole barns are a popular choice for commercial and industrial businesses due to their affordability, versatility, and quick construction time. Below are some examples of how pole barns can be used for commercial and industrial purposes.
A. Warehousing and Distribution Centers
Pole barns are an excellent choice for warehousing and distribution centers due to their large, open floor plans and ability to customize the building to fit the specific needs of the business. Additionally, pole barns can be constructed quickly, allowing businesses to get up and running in a short amount of time.
Real-life example:
Pole Barns Direct is a company that specializes in providing pole barn kits for commercial and industrial use, including warehousing and distribution centers. They offer a variety of customizable options to fit the specific needs of their clients.
B. Manufacturing and Production Facilities
Pole barns can also be used as manufacturing and production facilities. Their open floor plans and customizable designs allow for large machinery and equipment to be easily accommodated, while also providing ample space for storage and production.
Real-life example:
Pole Barns USA is a company that specializes in providing pole barns for manufacturing and production facilities. They offer a variety of designs and customization options to fit the specific needs of their clients, including space for large machinery and equipment.
C. Retail and Office Spaces
Pole barns can also be used for retail and office spaces. With customizable designs and finishes, pole barns can provide a unique and modern aesthetic for businesses while also being affordable and quick to construct.
Real-life example:
The Outdoor GreatRoom Company is a manufacturer of outdoor living products that utilize a pole barn for their office and warehouse space. The pole barn provides a rustic and modern look that fits with its brand and products.
D. Examples of Successful Commercial and Industrial Businesses Using Pole Barns
- Tractor Supply Company – This national retail chain of farm and ranch stores has utilized pole barns for its warehouse and distribution centers since the company’s founding in 1938.
- Rigid Global Buildings – This company specializes in pre-engineered steel and metal buildings but also offers pole barns for commercial and industrial use.
- B&B Manufacturing – This custom metal fabrication and manufacturing company utilizes a pole barn for its production and storage needs.
Idea 3: Pole Barn Businesses for Recreation and Entertainment
Pole barns are not just for industrial and commercial purposes. They can also be used for recreational and entertainment businesses, such as event venues, equestrian facilities, and sports and fitness centers. Below are some examples of how to pole barns can be used in the recreation and entertainment industry.
A. Indoor and Outdoor Event Venues
Pole barns are an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor event venues, such as wedding venues, music venues, and festival grounds. They offer a large, open space that can be customized to fit the specific needs of the event, while also providing a rustic and unique atmosphere.
Real-life example:
The Meadow Barn at Country Orchards is a popular wedding and event venue in Nebraska that utilizes a pole barn. The barn features a beautiful outdoor ceremony space, a large indoor reception area, and a separate space for the wedding party to get ready.
B. Equestrian Facilities
Pole barns are also ideal for equestrian facilities, such as horse barns, riding arenas, and training facilities. They offer a durable and customizable option for horse owners and trainers.
Real-life example:
Pole Barns Direct offers pole barn kits specifically designed for equestrian facilities, including horse barns, indoor and outdoor riding arenas, and hay storage.
C. Sports and Fitness Facilities
Pole barns can also be used for sports and fitness facilities, such as gyms, yoga studios, and indoor sports courts. They offer a large, open space that can be customized to fit the specific needs of the business.
Real-life example:
American Barbell is a manufacturer of high-quality fitness equipment that utilizes a pole barn as their manufacturing and distribution center. The large open space provides ample room for their equipment manufacturing and storage needs.
D. Examples of Successful Recreation and Entertainment Businesses Using Pole Barns
- Tanglewood Estate – This wedding and event venue in Tennessee features a beautifully designed pole barn as its main reception area.
- Walnut Hill Farm – This equestrian facility in Indiana utilizes a pole barn for its indoor riding arena and horse barn.
- CrossFit Apex – This fitness center in North Carolina uses a pole barn as its gym facility, offering a unique and rustic atmosphere for its clients.
In conclusion, pole barns offer a versatile and customizable option for businesses in the recreation and entertainment industry. With their durability, affordability, and unique aesthetic, pole barns are an excellent choice for businesses looking for a functional and attractive space.
Idea 4: Pole Barn Businesses for Residential Purposes
Pole barns are not only useful for commercial and industrial purposes, but they are also an excellent option for residential buildings. With their affordability and versatility, they can be used for a variety of residential purposes, such as custom homes, guesthouses, and garages. Below are some examples of how pole barns can be used in the residential industry.
A. Custom Homes
Pole barns can be customized to create unique and functional custom homes. They offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional stick-built homes and provide an efficient building process.
Real-life example:
Morton Buildings is a company that specializes in custom pole barn homes. They offer a wide range of floor plans and design options to create a personalized home that meets the specific needs of their clients.
B. Guesthouses and Vacation Rentals
Pole barns can also be used for guesthouses and vacation rentals, providing an affordable and comfortable space for guests.
Real-life example:
The Pole Barn House at Getaway Cabins is a popular vacation rental in Ohio that utilizes a pole barn as its main structure. The cozy and rustic interior provides a unique and comfortable atmosphere for guests.
C. Garages and Workshops
Pole barns can be used for garages and workshops, providing ample space for vehicle storage and hobworkspaces.
Real-life example:
Hansen Pole Buildings is a company that specializes in custom pole barn garages and workshops. They offer a variety of design options and can customize the building to fit the specific needs of their clients.
D. Examples of Successful Residential Businesses Using Pole Barns
- Sand Creek Post & Beam – This company specializes in creating custom pole barn homes, providing a unique and efficient building process for their clients.
- Barn Pros – This company offers a variety of pole barn structures, including guesthouses and workshops, providing an affordable and functional option for residential building needs.
- Barndominium Life – This website provides resources and inspiration for those interested in building their own pole barn homes or structures, offering tips and advice on the building process.
In conclusion, pole barns offer a versatile and cost-effective option for residential building needs. With their customizable design options and efficient building process, pole barns are an excellent choice for those looking to build a unique and functional residential space.
In conclusion, pole barns offer a multitude of business opportunities across a variety of industries, including commercial and industrial, recreation and entertainment, and residential.
Their affordability, versatility, and customizable design options make them an attractive option for businesses looking to expand or build a new structure. With real-life examples showcasing their success, it’s clear that pole barns can provide a functional and efficient space for any business need.
