With accelerated cooking appliances making up a key part of a commercial kitchen operations as chefs look to improve cook times and speed up processes within the kitchen, businesses need continued and consistent support and service/maintenance for this equipment to keep kit running efficiently and to improve cook times. What are some of the latest features within your products or latest products that can help operators to boost the energy efficiency of their kitchen operations and save on energy costs as the challenging economic landscape continues to impact businesses?
What are some of your latest accelerated cooking products/product features and which products are you currently experiencing most demand for?
Today's kitchens demand efficiency, faster cooking times, lower energy bills, and a commitment to sustainability are all top priorities. Designed for rapid and consistent cooking RATIONAL's cooking systems such as the combi-steamer iCombi Pro and the advanced bratt pan iVario address these needs with innovative technology and intelligent features.
The iVario is up to four times faster, compared to conventional kitchen appliances. This speed can really increase productivity, even with fewer chefs in the kitchen. Similarly, the iCombi Pro offers 50% higher productivity, 10% shorter cooking times.
Both iCombi Pro and iVario are champions of versatility. The iVario Pro tackles boiling, deep frying, shallow frying, and pressure cooking, eliminating the need for multiple cooking appliances and their associated energy demands. Similarly, the iCombi Pro excels in roasting, baking, and steaming. This flexibility empowers kitchens to streamline operations and utilise space, further reducing energy usage.
In terms of purchase cost and energy usage costs, how do your accelerated cooking options compare to other forms of prime cooking equipment, and which features of your products can support operators in reducing energy costs?
Both the iVario and iCombi Pro boast impressive energy savings compared to conventional equipment. The iVario Pro's advanced patented heating system, iVario Boost delivers outstanding results while using up to 40% less energy and the pressure-cooking option. It is also up to four times faster than conventional cooking appliances. The iCombi Pro follows suit, offering a 10% reduction in energy consumption over its market-leading predecessor.
Hibernian FC, a Scottish football club, has seen a significant decrease in energy consumption after replacing multiple appliances with RATIONAL's iCombi Pro. Gordon Halladay, kiosk manager at Hibernian Football Club’s Easter Road stadium, oversees the fourteen kiosks that serve over 20,000 hungry fans on matchdays. “Hibernian FC is aiming to be the greenest football club in Scotland, so improving our sustainability is a big priority for us,” he says. “Being able to cook 150 pies in 12 minutes is a huge advance, and not having to use lots of difference appliances, constantly turning them on or off, means we’ve seen a significant reduction in the amount of energy we use.”
Tom Wilkinson of Replenish Kitchen comments. “Our RATIONAL cooking systems provide a reduced environmental impact,” Operators can enjoy increased productivity whilst reducing energy consumption. By investing in RATIONAL products, operators and chefs gain future-proof solution for accelerated cooking times but with the bonus of lower energy costs, and a more sustainable kitchen.
What are some of the latest developments or trends you have noticed in this category, and do you predict any major trends that will affect operators this year?
The hospitality industry is undergoing a revolution, embracing modern technology to streamline operations, minimise energy consumption, and operate more sustainably. This shift isn't just about efficiency; it's a response to a growing consumer demand for ethical businesses and a commitment to a greener future. Forward-thinking operators understand that technology is no longer optional – it is the key to unlocking a successful, sustainable kitchen. RATIONAL innovative cooking systems are designed to be the heart of this smart kitchen revolution.
Operators are also embracing digitalisation connection for real-time monitoring and control. RATIONAL's ConnectedCooking platform does just that, turning the iVario and iCombi Pro into connected powerhouses. This digital kitchen management solution can roll out cooking programs, update system software and record HACCP data.
With features like intuitive interfaces and the new iCareSystem AutoDose, the autonomous cleaning system for iCombi Pro tabletop units, RATIONAL cooking systems products empower operators to navigate the evolving kitchen landscape, focusing on what matters most – creating delicious food consistently with less waste and higher profit margins.
