Ipswich Town F.C. New Technology Revolutionises Matchday Hospitality with Rational.

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Ipswich Town F.C. New Technology Revolutionises Matchday Hospitality with Rational.
RATIONAL UK

RATIONAL UK

Premium Supplier 6th March 2025
RATIONAL UK

RATIONAL UK

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Ipswich Town F.C. New Technology Revolutionises Matchday Hospitality with Rational.

As Ipswich Town Football Club, Suffolk’s only professional football team, embarks on an exciting chapter in the Premier League, the club is setting new standards in hospitality with cutting-edge kitchen technology, offering an array of hospitality options from casual dining to exclusive VIP packages.

To meet the demands of matchday and event catering, Ipswich Town has embraced Rational’s iHexagon cooking systems, including 2 iHexagon 6-1/1 and iVario units, transforming the culinary experience for fans and guests.

Christian Hood, Sous Chef at Ipswich Town, shared his insights on the cooking system’s impact:

“We have three main kitchens. They all vary in the size and capacities they churn out. Speed is key. You’ve got kick-offs at 3 o’clock. You want people in, fed, enjoying themselves.”

Catering to diverse needs, from the bowl food area in the Cobbold Stand for up to 80 guests to private boxes for 28, the iHexagon cooking systems ensure efficiency and quality without compromise.

“I first learned about iHexagon when my bosses went over to see the demonstration. They could not stop talking about how quick it was, the quality, and how reliable it is. So, then we had them installed. I was sceptical, and then it was like, wow.”

Christian highlights the system’s standout features: “No matter who turns up in the kitchen to work, it flows immediately. I can literally turn around and say to somebody without telling a lie, it’ll be two minutes, and two minutes later, it’ll be out, ready.”

The variable microwave technology and AutoDose cleaning system improve safety, reduce food waste, and deliver consistent results.

“The iHexagon has contributed to reducing food waste. Massive, massive drop. Because we only put through what we need, we don’t go through as much or waste any products.”

This innovation ensures Ipswich Town’s hospitality team delivers a premium experience, even during high-demand periods such as back-to-back matches.

“The iHexagon has been phenomenal. It’s brought about a new era to Ipswich Town Football Club.”

The revolution didn’t stop there, with the iVario elevating their kitchen operations even further.

“As soon as the iVario came in, it was a game changer,” says Carl Collins, Executive Head Chef at Ipswich Town FC.

“The iVario is a brilliant bit of kit for us. It does everything you need to do,” explains Collins. Previously, we just had a solid flat top with a couple of rings. not ideal for what we're using it for because the kitchen we're using it in is all electric which doesn't really help. The iVario transformed cooking with its ability to deep fry, pressure cook, and more, significantly reducing preparation time.

From making Irish stew in 30 minutes instead of two hours to sealing meats and boiling rice with a single button press, the iVario enhances efficiency. “It also saves kitchen space and reduces cleaning time to two minutes, keeping the workspace organised,” adds Collins.

With Rational’s innovative cooking systems, Ipswich Town FC has set a new standard for matchday hospitality, ensuring every meal is prepared with speed, precision, and quality. The club’s commitment to excellence in catering reflects its ambition on and off the pitch, delivering an unmatched experience for fans and guests alike.

We understand the importance of making informed decisions, especially when it comes to investing in innovative kitchen equipment. That's why we're thrilled to offer you the opportunity to trial the iVario, the game changer, for FREE for a full 6-week period prior to purchasing. www.rational-online.com/en_gb/lp/ivario-interest-ad/

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