Food service equipment refers to the utensils, crockery, cutlery, and other devices used to prepare, cook and serve food. These tools can be small appliances like mixers and blenders or large commercial-grade equipment such as ovens and refrigerators. Food service equipment is important for all food-related businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and catering firms.
Food service equipment is commonly used for cooking, serving, dishwashing, refrigeration, and storage purposes. Utilizing top-notch equipment can help improve the kitchen’s efficiency, reducing food wastage and enhancing the overall dining experience. Continue reading as we list the different types of food service equipment and shed light on recent developments in the food service equipment market.
Commonly Used Food Service Equipment
The following section details the common food service equipment used by most hotels and restaurants:
- Ovens
- Gas ranges
- Food processors
- Mixers
- Slicers
- Freezers and refrigerators
- Safety equipment
- Storage racks and shelving
- Serving ware
- Storage containers
- Sinks
- Microwave
- Washing equipment
Estimated Lifespan of Food Service Equipment
The lifespan of food service equipment depends on several factors, including their build quality, usage frequency, and maintenance level. Below are some general standards for estimating the lifespan of these tools.
Refrigerators and freezers: The lifespan of refrigerators and freezers depends on their quality, cleaning, and usage. But usually, they last anywhere between 10 to 20 years.
Cooking equipment: With frequent cleaning and preventive maintenance, cooking equipment such as grills and ovens can last 10 to 15 years.
Dishwashers: Commercial dishwashers usually last anywhere between 7 to 12 years. Frequent cleaning and proper maintenance can help in extending the dishwashers’ lifespan.
Small appliances: Small appliances like mixers and blenders have a slightly shorter lifespan than other commercial equipment. Depending on the quality and usage, you can expect them to last 5 to 10 years.
Market Analysis and Growth Drivers
The market for food service equipment was valued at USD 39.31 Billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to USD 64.53 billion at a CAGR of 5.2% in the forecast period.
With more and more customers preferring quick and efficient food services, hotel and restaurant owners are using automation equipment to simplify operations and improve service quality. The increasing adoption of automation equipment in the food service industry is creating a favorable environment for the food service equipment market growth.
Growing emphasis on food hygiene and safety is another significant factor driving the market sales. For instance, appliances like blenders and food processors are designed such that the food items stay hygienic and contaminant-free. Besides, these machines have features such as easy-to-clean surfaces that help maintain hygiene standards.
The Food Preparation Segment Is Expected to Witness the Fastest CAGR
With more and more people preferring ready-to-eat food products, there has been an uptick in the usage of food preparation equipment in commercial kitchens. These machines improve the efficiency of food service operations by reducing food preparation time. Besides, the growing trend of consuming nutritious food has increased demand for equipment like food processors, blenders and juicers that help prepare healthy food. Furthermore, the rising number of hotels, restaurants, and eateries also contributes to the food service equipment market demand.
Recent Developments
In August 2022, South Korean electronics corporation Samsung introduced Bespoke AI Oven in the European market. The oven makes meal preparation a breeze with its AI Pro cooking technology.
In April 2022, LG Electronics launched its new range of AI-powered home appliances. These AI-backed products include UV+UF Water Purifiers, Charcoal Microwaves, Frost-Free Refrigerators, and AI Direct Drive Washing Machines.
Conclusion
Food service equipment is an important component of the food industry and is crucial in ensuring food is prepared and served safely and efficiently. With the food industry evolving rapidly, the food service equipment market sales will only continue to increase in the coming years.