With some of the most prominent new hi-tech solutions for professional kitchens to offer, companies in the USA are helping professional clients deal with and adapt to new requirements. With attention focused on the service aspect.

“In less than a year, the industry has changed like never before,” says Francesca La Chiusa, business development manager for Europe at Alto-Shaam. “We realise that the crisis is not over yet and that further challenges lie ahead, but in 2021 we will continue to drive forward through new innovations and an ongoing commitment to providing the highest service and support.” The pandemic has transformed consumer behaviour on a global scale, with a huge shift towards adopting new technology that enhances foodservice operations, as well as a noticeable increase in demand for off-premise, grab-and-go options. “Equally, we expect to see a greater focus on menu innovation, and that the demand for healthier food options will continue to increase.”

As for innovation in professional kitchens, the pandemic has forced restaurants, caterers and all foodservice operators to adapt their entire processes and offerings, as well as finding innovative ways to adapt their menus. “Versatile and multi-functional equipment can play a key role in maximising operations,” La Chiusa adds. “We have experienced a particular interest in more compact, ventless and multi-purpose equipment as a result of the new reality all operators face with regard to relieving crowded kitchen spaces. Our ovens, for example, allow operators to execute a variety of cooking applications while maximising food quality and consistency, even when cooking in high-volume. In addition, our innovative technology can be utilised to safely hold food at optimal temperatures and help reduce service times in any type of ‘à la carte’ restaurant or grab-and-go offerings.”

Waring will also be focusing on innovation in 2021. As Damien Hée, area sales manager (Europe) for commercial products at Waring-Conair Corporation explains. “We want to empower our customers to adapt, enhance and endure to overcome the challenges of today’s rapidly changing commercial foodservice climate. Our commitment is to help in the global reduction of food waste through education, innovative products and unique solutions in the pursuit of a sustainable future.”

More specifically, Waring is developing new key products to help operators reduce kitchen waste and modular solutions that enable them to save time and improve restaurant efficiency. One example is a food dehydrator, set to launch internationally in May 2021. “Food dehydrators,” Hée goes on, “help preserve foods and prolong their life, while allowing chefs to modify the flavour and texture of ingredients – which empowers creativity.”