Precision Refrigeration, the Thetford based Foodservice Refrigeration manufacturer, is proud to announce the grand opening of its new purpose-built manufacturing facility in Huizhou, China. Spanning an impressive 250,000 square feet, the facility is outfitted with cutting-edge automation technology, reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and positioning it for robust growth in the Chinese and Southeast Asian markets.

“This new facility represents a significant milestone for Precision Refrigeration in China,” said Nick Williams, Owner and Managing Director of Precision Refrigeration. “The integration of state-of-the-art automation not only increases our production capacity but also solidifies our ability to meet the growing demand for our high-quality refrigeration solutions in the region.”

Since establishing its presence in China back in 2012, Precision Refrigeration has steadily expanded its footprint, now employing over 100 dedicated professionals in the country. The new Huizhou factory is designed to support the company’s long-term growth strategy, enhancing operational efficiency whilst continuing to offer customers a highly customisable array of products.

Key highlights of the new facility include:

Extensive Manufacturing Space: A sprawling 250,000 sq ft of purpose-built manufacturing space designed for maximum efficiency.

Advanced Automation: The latest in sheet metal and insulation automation technology to streamline production and maintain rigorous quality standards.

Maximum Flexibility: A separate dedicated bespoke product production line giving the flexibility to offer both mass-produced standard products and customised items to the ever evolving needs of its customers.

The opening of the Huizhou factory marks a new chapter for Precision Refrigeration in China. From its humble beginnings with its first Chinese factory in Shenzhen back in 2012, the company has solidified its position as a market leader in high-quality foodservice refrigeration within the region.

Precision continues to serve the UK, European and Middle East markets from its UK production facility in Norfolk. Established in 2008, the company now employs 65 people in Thetford.

For more information about Precision Refrigeration and its new facility, please visit www.precision-refrigeration.com or contact sales@precision-refrigeration.com.

Mechline Developments has expanded its pest control provision through the addition of two new flying insect products: CaterTTract+ and CaterZap+.

Designed to take the key characteristics of the original CaterZap range to the next level, CaterZap+ models manage flying insects in an effective and environmentally friendly way. This is thanks to a combination of Mechline’s powerful electric grid and advanced, LED lamps which mimic UVA light (315-400nm) for optimal insect attraction and instant extermination. What’s more, these lamps use 50% less energy and last twice as long as a typical UV lamp.

This same LED lamp is also used in Mechline’s brand-new CaterTTract+ model. However, rather than using an electric grid for fly elimination, CaterTTract+ uses an infused glue board. This glue board removes flying insects discreetly and hygienically with no scattering body parts, making it HACCP compliant and an ideal solution for food prep areas as John Newell, Director at Mechline Developments, details:

“Fly killers are a necessity in working kitchens, especially come Spring/Summer when temperatures rise, and flies thrive! Having serviced this market for many years, we at Mechline are extremely close to the needs of our customers, and understand firsthand the difficulties around managing flying insects – in all areas of the commercial kitchen! Take food prep areas, for example, here you need effective pest control but cannot have electric grids due to the risk of scattering body parts and contamination. This is why we’ve introduced two new models of insect killers – CaterTTract+ with glue board for food areas, and CaterZap+ for everywhere else.

“What’s more, as both models are now LED, they are compliant and ready for the future legislation* change, which won’t allow fluorescent lamps.

 “With these two new products, kitchens can take control of the pesky issue of flies in an environmental and effective way.”

Designed to be shatterproof, both CaterTTract+ and CaterZap+ use glass-free lamps with sheath for extra protection against breakages, and conform to International Standards (UKCA, CE and IEC certified. EMC & LVD accredited)

For more information on Mechline or the CaterZap+/CaterTTract+ range, please visit www.mechline.com

*Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (2012) (the RoHS regulations).

Fagor Professional is thrilled to showcase its cutting-edge innovations at ScotHot!

We’re unveiling our all-new warewashing range, designed to deliver efficiency and sustainability for the most demanding kitchens.

Experience the iKORE KOMPACT Combination Oven – the perfect fusion of versatility, precision, and energy efficiency, ensuring top-tier results WHEN SIZE MATTERS.

That’s not all! Fagor is taking kitchen technology to the next level with our connected Kitchen IoT, enabling seamless operation, real-time data, and smarter decision-making on all equipment from one single brand.

Don’t miss the chance to see how we’re transforming the future of professional kitchens at ScotHot, 26th to 27th February, on Stand 510.

Parts Town UK and Lincat are proud to announce their Exclusive Master Distribution Partnership, taking effect this March. Extending their pre-existing partnership, the deal will enhance stock holding and delivery solutions of all Lincat spare parts, accessories and consumables at Parts Town UK’s Midlands based Distribution Centre.

The new partnership is designed to bring significant advantages to Lincat customers and partners. As part of this collaboration, Lincat customers will now benefit from Parts Town UK’s dedicated customer experience teams, as well as innovative digital tools, including WhatsApp and Live Chat services, providing real-time assistance, and streamlining the ordering process. With numerous despatch methods, 7pm order cut-off time, and seamless order management through Parts Town UK’s fully transactional website and app, this partnership ensures that Lincat customers receive unparalleled convenience, and reliable delivery solutions—keeping their operations running smoothly and efficiently.

On the news of the partnership, Lincat’s Managing Director, Ginnie Basra comments, “We are delighted to be able to extend our partnership with the UK’s leading spare parts distributor Parts Town UK. The partnership extension signifies our strong working relationship and will provide our existing Lincat customers with an enhanced after-sales service, and numerous logistical capabilities to receive our parts even quicker.”

Parts Town UK’s Managing Director, Mike Barrett adds, “This is a significant step in our continuous commitment to providing the foodservice industry with an unrivalled portfolio of exclusive OEM spare parts. We are pleased to be able to add the Lincat brand as well as CiBO, FriFri, Britannia and IMC to our exclusive brands and thank Lincat for trusting us to be their exclusive manufacturer distribution partner.”

For more information, you can contact the Lincat Team 01522 875500 and the Parts Town UK Team enquiries@partstown.co.uk 01543 577778.

Tricon Foodservice Consultants are delighted to announce the opening of its Singapore office.

The UK headquartered international foodservice consultancy already has London and Dubai offices, and operates throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The addition of a third regional office will allow the business to make strides in the fast-growing Asia Pacific region.

The area is a significant, and active, marketplace for the Foodservice and Hospitality industries, and it has long been the intention of the Tricon ownership to operate directly from an Asia office. Whilst the company has successfully delivered management & design consultancy projects in Hong Kong, Beijing and South Korea via its London office, the establishment of a dedicated Asia-based office is the natural next step and will triangulate Tricon’s international footprint to cover the Asia Pacific market.

Singapore was chosen as Tricon’s office location based on its central position within the area and it is hoped that the office will act as a hub to win new business throughout the wider Asia Pacific region.

Tricon CEO, Mike Coldicott, explains the move, “We’ve been wanting to open an office in the Asia Pacific region for many years, but it has always been about finding the right individual to lead the endeavour. We now believe in Adam we have found the right individual to lead Tricon Asia forward to the next level of its growth and development.”

Adam O’Connor comes from a hospitality background and has spent over 30 years in the industry, holding leadership roles at Compass Group, Starbucks (Alshaya), and Rational, before founding his own business, Cashel Global. Having lived and worked in Asia for more than a decade, he has developed a deep understanding of the region’s diverse hospitality landscape.

“I had been working with Mike and the team on several projects,” says Adam. “During a conversation over dinner, we recognised a shared vision and set of values. Taking on the role of leading Tricon’s expansion into Asia Pacific felt like a natural next step for all of us.”

Adam’s business partner will now take sole charge of Cashel Global leaving Adam to focus on developing and growing Tricon’s Asian marketplace.

“Adam is bringing a wealth of experience to his new role as Director at Tricon Foodservice Consultants (Asia Pacific) pte Ltd, and we couldn’t be more pleased with his appointment”, adds Mike.

The pair will now meet to formally kick-off operations. Tricon Singapore officially opened for business on 1^st February 2025.

Following a successful meeting in October 2024, as promised ceda returned to Scotland in January to update its Members on actions from the last meeting.

In October ceda held its first meeting in Scotland in 15 years. The trade organisation recognised the need for dedicated support for its Scottish Members and set about working up a clear agenda for its Members north of the border.

ceda representatives listened to the concerns of its Members and pledged to deliver on a number of initiatives including engineer training and recruitment solutions, and better connecting its Members and Partners.

ceda returned to Scotland on 30th January 2025 for a meeting held at Falkirk Stadium. The meeting saw 19 individuals from 13 Member companies receive updates on future engineer training opportunities that would be delivered in Scotland, including manufacturers training, electrical training and a trainee gas programme, in conjunction with Fife College.

After a networking lunch, members took part in a Connected event with nine ceda Platinum Partners. The event gave Members and Partners the opportunity to network and share knowledge, with positive feedback from both sides.

Kevin Thomson from Prois-UK, a ceda Member in Scotland, said, “It was great to see ceda delivering on their promise to return to Scotland to provide updates on important industry issues and provide opportunities for ceda Members to meet and network with suppliers.”

ceda now has 15 Members in Scotland, up three from its first visit in October, and only a handful just a few years ago. Steve Hemsil, ceda’s Community Development Manager commented, “We’ve really made Scotland, and our presence there, a priority. To see the Scottish Membership growing and creating opportunities befitting to both ceda Members and Partners, is a huge achievement for us. Some great conversations took place, strengthening existing ties along with many new connections being made.

“Moving forward we’re excited to develop engineer training and continue to deliver on our promises to Scottish Members.”

Next on the agenda is an Engineer Training Day which is planned for April in Scotland, details of which will be released soon.

Rational, the global leader in hot food preparation, is excited to invite guests to an exclusive culinary experience at the Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering Show, held from March 17-19, 2025, at ExCeL London.

At Stand H1310, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Rational’s innovative cooking systems, including the state-of-the-art iVario advanced bratt pan and the iCombi Pro combi-steamer. There are exclusive arena shows, where professional chefs, including Simon Rogan MBE Rational Ambassador and Chef/Owner of L’Enclume will be showcasing their culinary expertise. Also for the first time at the HRC stand there will be cooking demonstration for the new innovative iHexagon that combines steam, hot air, and microwave technologies, ideal for operators prioritising both quality and speed.

Exclusive Arena Shows: A Culinary Spectacle:

This year, Rational presents an exciting schedule of Arena Shows, designed to take visitors on an unforgettable culinary journey. With seating for just 16 per session, these exclusive demonstrations offer an up-close look at the precision and power of Rational’s advanced cooking systems, complete with freshly prepared dishes for sampling.

The line-up of talent showcasing their culinary expertise includes:

• Simon Rogan MBE – Rational Ambassador and Chef/Owner of L’Enclume. See and sample dishes from Simon, the award-winning chef and restauranter.
• Rehan Uddin – Rational Ambassador and Chef/Owner of Indi Yang. Asian dishes demonstration.
• Holly Charnock – Rational Ambassador and Head Chef at Woodlands Primary School. Food for the education sector demonstration.
• Rational Corporate Chefs

Visitors are encouraged to reserve their spot for these sought-after shows by registering at: www.rational-online.com/en_gb/lp/hrc-registration/

Interactive Cooking Experience:
Beyond the Arena Shows, the Rational stand features the iVario Experience Island, where the Rational professional chefs provide personalised cooking sessions. Visitors can engage hands-on with the iVario Pro‘s cutting-edge technology, gaining insights into its unmatched versatility and efficiency.

Visitors can also learn about ConnectedCooking, Rational’s digital network solution, that ensures seamless and convenient kitchen management

Join RATIONAL at Stand H1310 to explore a new dimension of cooking and discover how their intelligent systems can transform your kitchen.

Metcalfe Catering Equipment is delighted to be the new home of Pacojet products in the UK. Pacojet turned to Metcalfe because of our expertise in the food preparation sector and proven track record of providing exceptional after-sales service and support.

We know that in the past it has frequently been necessary to return Pacojet units to get them repaired or serviced, often at considerable expense to the customer. There has also been an issue with the availability of spare parts and the length of time taken to repair machines, something that we know can severely impact the operation of a kitchen.

As part of our partnership with Pacojet we have committed to significantly raising the level of service and support available to dealers and end-users by investing heavily in both spare parts and our service department.

Fully trained Pacojet engineers at our factory, and on the road, will ensure that repairs and servicing are carried out as quickly as possible and with minimal disruption. For added convenience, and wherever possible, we will provide an on-site service and warranty capability, supported by field service engineers in vans fully stocked with Pacojet spares.

We feel very privileged to be the new custodians of the Pacojet brand in the UK and look forward to providing levels of service and support that are in keeping with the brand’s market leading status.

Built for Demanding Kitchens. Guaranteed for 5 Years.

Liebherr’s new Heavy-Duty upright refrigerators and freezers are built to perform in the most demanding commercial kitchens. Designed for durability, efficiency, and hygiene, these appliances ensure reliable performance, day in and day out.

For complete confidence in quality, every Heavy-Duty upright and select counter now comes with a FREE 5-year guarantee.

Engineered for high-performance environments, the heavy-duty range combines advanced features, exceptional durability, and energy efficiency to keep kitchens running smoothly:

• Full 304 Stainless Steel: Inside and out for maximum durability and hygiene.
• Extended Temperature Range: Raw meat and fish safe as standard.
• NoFrost Technology: Prevents ice build-up for maintenance-free operation.
• Energy Efficient: Low energy consumption, including A-rated models to reduce costs.
• Mobility Built-In: Castors as standard for easy movement and cleaning.
• Climate Class 5: Performs reliably in ambient temperatures up to 40°C, ideal for high-performance environments.

See these models in action at The HRC 2025 exhibition on 17-19 March at Excel London, Stand H940.

For more details, contact Will Crighton today.

Will Crighton C.F.S.P.
National Account Manager – Food Service
Liebherr-Great Britain Ltd
+44 (0) 7720 497 075
will.crighton@liebherr.com

Hoshizaki UK is delighted to announce that they’ve appointed Nick Robinson as their 2025 ice ambassador.

This milestone brand ambassador appointment comes as a ‘tremendous honour’ for bartending entrepreneur Nick, who enthuses:

“It’s a dream come true to be standing as Hoshizaki UK’s brand ambassador for ice having used their machines for 6 years. My passion for the brand and what their machines are capable of doing is born from real, hands-on experience and a genuine passion for the products. I often joke that Hoshizaki is my worst kept secret because I’m always talking about them – But I simply believe that bartenders deserve to know how to elevate the serve of their drinks to a level of customer experience that is normally very difficult to produce in house.

It really is a tremendous honour to be stepping into this role and I am looking forward to working more closely with Hoshizaki in 2025.”

Known across the industry as ‘the mind behind Incognito Cocktail Bars’, Nick Robinson is somewhat of a wizard in the cocktail making world. In 2018, Nick opened his first Incognito Cocktail Bar in Winchester. It was during this time that Nick first discovered Hoshizaki – and like many – Hoshizaki became his ice machine supplier of choice. Since then, Nick has opened a further 3 locations – each of which are home to a series of Hoshizaki ice machines.

Hoshizaki UK’s MD, Simon Frost, shares in Nick’s enthusiasm over his appointment:

“For us, Nick stood out to us as a perfect brand ambassador for Hoshizaki, hence why we are so excited to have him on board. Nick’s skill, experience, and business acumen has allowed him to make great success in the bartending world, and we are grateful to have formed a part of this journey. His knowledge of Hoshizaki ice and equipment is second-to-none which is exactly what you want from a brand ambassador!”

For more information on Hoshizaki, please visit www.hoshizaki.com

For more information on Incognito Cocktail Bars, please visit www.incognitobars.co.uk