Browse our articles on storage and handling equipment and find primers on a wide variety of specific product categories, including articles on how to specify, when to replace products and much more.
Slush/smoothie machines have become more popular as an increasing number of operators recognize the profit potential of these beverages. Machines for creating smoothies and blended coffee beverages are now common in quick-service restaurants, while slushies remain a fixture in convenience stores.
Mobile bars provide many of the same services as a built-in bar but with the flexibility of being mobile. Operators can pre-stock these portable units to ensure they are ready to go whenever necessary.
Consultant Q&A on Mobile Bars with Tracy Taraski, manager of design services, The Bigelow Cos. Inc., Kansas City, Mo.
Operators can maximize the service life of mobile bars by becoming familiar with the components and making daily inspections of its various parts. When a service agent does need to be involved, the operator should ask questions and observe the inspection and/or repairs. The agent should be able to give helpful maintenance tips and advice.
Foodservice operators from all industry segments can use heated display merchandisers in the back or front of the house to keep food accessible and hot prior to serving. Self-serve units help create impulse sales opportunities in grab-and-go applications.
Consultant Q&A with Orlando Espinosa, principal, Orlando Espinosa + Associates LLC, Glen Mills, Pa.
Service Agent Q&A with George Loredo, service manager, PROTEX Restaurant Services Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas
Sandwich prep tables offer storage and prep space for ingredients that need to be cut, sliced or otherwise prepped before use. Operators can use these units for menu items other than sandwiches, such as burger toppings, pizza, salad and stir-fry dishes. They can also be used as dispensing units for other items, such as cold sauces and dessert toppings.
Consultant Q&A with Gary Jacobs, CEO of Jacobs | Doland | Beer, New York
As one of the most frequently used pieces of equipment, sandwich prep tables require extra care in cleaning and maintenance. The warning signs that a refrigerated prep table may need replacing include repeated or continuous failures of the different components within the unit. If the cost of repairs approaches the amount for a new unit, the prep table should be replaced.
The condition of front-of-house equipment visible to customers, such as heated display merchandisers, is a reflection of an operation. Keeping this equipment clean and properly maintained plays a critical role in the success of any retail operation, as the appearance of food displays will draw customers’ attention.