Recognising the challenges faced by ceda members and their customers, Hupfer has taken steps to help caterers achieve their efficiency goals and build a more sustainable supply chain. 

From energy-saving features and 85% recycled stainless steel products, to on-site renewables and lower carbon production methods, Hupfer is committed to supporting caterers on their sustainability journey. The company also offers a Buy Back scheme on all Hupfer stainless steel products. 

Here’s more detail about Hupfer’s efforts: 

Closed loop recycling

Hupfer uses 85% recycled stainless steel across its product range, which is sourced from within 30 miles of its production facility in Coesfeld, Germany. 

More than that, it guarantees that it will buy back all stainless steel products (including shelving) at the end of its useful life, to be recycled. This gives operators confidence that they are contributing to a circular economy as part of a fully sustainable, closed loop system.

Product innovations 

Energy efficient products helping to cut carbon emissions for operators include the ThermaDry drop-in servery units, which don’t require a water connection and offer up to 63% lower energy consumption than a Bain-Marie with tubular element and 700kW connected load. This is based on comprehensive trials that show ThermaDry can save around £150 per year due to the energy consumption.

In addition, the Easy Rider racking system raises the game for dry and cold room storage solutions. It offers enhanced flexibility and up to 100% more shelf space with the same room size – enhanced capacity means fewer deliveries, helping to reduce carbon footprint for operators.

Reducing manufacturing emissions

Hupfer has also taken steps to improve its own environmental performance across global operations, and in particular the Coesfeld facilty.  

Investment in Ventis laser cutting technology has saved over 90 tonnes of CO2 each year and on-site renewables technologies including a block-type thermal power station and solar PV save 85 tonnes of CO2 per year. This helps customers to boost their own performance by investing in a more sustainable supply chain.

Continuous improvement

The hard work doesn’t stop there. Hupfer is also working with an independent sustainability specialist to identify areas for further improvement and improve independent reporting opportunities. This journey will ensure every Hupfer product will have its own embodied carbon calculation under CIBSE TM65, an internationally-applicable methodology for the calculation of embodied carbon in building services engineering. 

Hupfer is also proud to have been shortlisted in the Sustainability category in the Catering Insight Awards 2023. If you receive an invitation to vote, please consider voting for Hupfer.