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Introduction
As the bustling world of chain restaurants continues to grow, it becomes increasingly essential to ensure consistent quality and efficiency in food preparation. FWE is a leading food service equipment manufacturer and has been revolutionizing the industry with its advanced solutions for maintaining food temperature and freshness. In this guide, we will explore how chain restaurants can harness the full potential of FWE equipment and make the most of these appliances in various situations.
Scaling from a single location to a full-fledged restaurant chain can seem like a daunting challenge. Every decision made along the way can significantly impact the future of your business. However, as the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This means that making the right equipment choices from the outset can set your restaurant chain up for success, regardless of whether it’s your first or hundredth establishment.
This is precisely what our comprehensive ‘Guide to Chain Applications’ aims to achieve. We are dedicated to providing clarity and guidance on the most suitable equipment to purchase and how it can turn your dream into a thriving reality.
The guide is thoughtfully divided into five sections, each focusing on a crucial aspect of the restaurant business that we, at FWE, believe is vital for building a successful chain. In each section, we’ll look at the kinds of equipment FWE offers and how it can help your restaurant chain do well in this tough industry. The five sections include:
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What Are Chain Applications?
“Chain Applications” in the context of FWE equipment refers to the utilization of FWE products and solutions in restaurant chains, where multiple locations operate under a unified brand and management. These applications encompass a wide range of scenarios within the chain restaurant ecosystem, such as buffet and self-service stations, delivery and takeout services, banquets and catering events, drive-thru operations, and kitchen efficiency optimization. FWE equipment plays a crucial role in ensuring consistent food quality, maintaining optimal serving temperatures, and preserving the freshness of dishes across various chain restaurant settings. By effectively employing FWE equipment in these diverse applications, restaurant chains can enhance customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and reinforce their brand’s reputation for reliability and excellence throughout their entire network of locations.
4 Key Factors for Chain Restaurant Equipment
- Product Type: What type of product are you holding? Is it a moisture-sensitive product? (i.e. fried chicken, dumplings, side items, etc.)
- Access Frequency: How often is the product pulled or reloaded? How does access frequency impact cabinet recovery and food quality?
- Capacity: What is the max capacity needed at once during peak volume? We offer various sizesand stackable units.
- Containers: What container do you use? (i.e. hotel pans, sheet pans, disposable, to-go containers, etc.)
Back-up Storage & Prep Lines
As we journey deeper into the realm of commercial kitchen equipment, our exploration leads us to the second section, titled “Prep Lines and Back-up Storage.” Within this segment, we shine the spotlight on two critical subcategories: Compact Feeder Holding and Make Line Holding. Both of these areas serve distinct operational requirements and offer a range of specialized solutions to meet the unique demands of the modern kitchen.
Compact Feeder Holding
Discover the perfect solution for a ‘Compact and Mobile Heated Holding Cabinet’ with FWE’s HLC Series. Designed to meet a variety of holding needs, this range excels in maintaining your food at the ideal serving temperature. The HLC series shines with its adaptability to different environments and requirements. For kitchens with limited space, the under-counter options are a perfect fit. These models seamlessly integrate into your existing setup, providing efficient food holding without overcrowding your workspace. Additionally, they offer the convenience of quick and easy access for seamless service.
If you manage high-demand operations, the stackable models are a game-changer. They allow you to expand your holding capacity without requiring extra floor space. This means you can keep up with peak service periods without any worries about running out of room. Efficiency is the hallmark of the HLC series, making it an excellent choice for busy settings. Its design is not only cost-effective but also low-maintenance due to the absence of moving parts. User-friendly electronic controls ensure reliable performance, standing up to the demands of your fast-paced kitchen.
At the core of the HLC series lies advanced radiant heat technology, ensuring a consistent and stable temperature to keep your food at its optimal serving condition. With the capacity to hold 12″x20″ or GN 1/1 pans of varying depths, as well as 18″x13″ trays, these units accommodate a wide array of food items.
Make Line Holding Solutions
As we further explore ‘Prep Lines and Back-up Storage,’ our focus now shifts to ‘Make Line Holding.’ This is a pivotal area where enhanced efficiency can notably boost service speed, thereby significantly improving customer satisfaction levels. At the core of our solutions for this segment are two standout models from the HLC series: the HLC-W-H-HWR and the HLC-W-H-DRN.
The HWR and DRN labels correspond to ‘dry well’ and ‘wet well’ configurations, respectively. These specialized ‘wells’ are devised to supercharge the efficiency of your make line operations. They facilitate quick and convenient access to restock your make line from the heated storage situated below, hence simplifying the replenishment process and reducing downtime.
One noteworthy feature of these models is the independent temperature control for each well and each storage compartment. This gives you the flexibility to customize temperature settings to align with your specific menu needs, guaranteeing optimal food quality and safety.
These models accommodate the same type of containers as the other units in the HLC series, with the only exception being their capability to hold GN 1/1 pans of up to 6″ depths. This feature further amplifies their versatility and adaptability to diverse food storage needs.
Sensitive Food Storage – Safeguarding Quality
As we delve deeper into our discussion, we transition into an extremely critical and nuanced category: ‘Sensitive Food Storage.’ This category, encompassing an array of delicate and moisture-sensitive food items, requires the utmost care in handling and storage. Our aim under this category is clear and targeted:
- Maintaining Optimal Quality.
- Extending the Lifespan.
PHTT & PHTT-DR
To effectively cater to this category, FWE presents two specialized product lines: the PHTT and the PHTT-DR Series. Each line brings distinctive features and strengths to the forefront, offering a comprehensive solution to address all your sensitive food storage requirements.
The PHTT Series serves as our flagship line, featuring traditional heated holding units. Equipped with advanced technology, these units create the ideal environment for your food items, ensuring they remain warm, fresh, and ready to be served at a moment’s notice. Another fantastic option, the PHTT-DR Series, introduces heated holding drawers, providing a more compact and flexible solution suitable for establishments with limited space or those in need of segmented storage options.
Both of these series exemplify FWE’s unwavering dedication to technological innovation. They are masterfully engineered using the cutting-edge Clymate IQ System. This system, designed to offer precise control over temperature and relative humidity, forms the foundation of our sensitive food storage solutions. Whether it’s succulent meats requiring meticulous temperature control to preserve their juiciness or fresh vegetables necessitating specific humidity levels to retain their crispness, the Clymate IQ System delivers without compromise. To read more about how Clymate IQ System works read our “Guide to Heated Moisture Holding”
To-Go and Staging
Continuing our exploration of FWE’s Chain Applications, let’s turn our attention to the ‘To-Go Staging’ category. In an age where takeout and delivery services are thriving, this category takes on a pivotal role. It is tailor-made for establishments seeking to deliver steaming, freshly-prepared meals to their on-the-go customers.
Heated Holding Shelves
Our focal point here is the ‘Heated Grab-n-Go Order Flow.’ Within this arena, two exceptional series stand at the forefront of to-go staging: the HHS Series (Heated Holding Shelves) and the HHS-C Series (Heated Holding Cubbies). The linchpin of both series is radiant heat technology, the secret ingredient behind maintaining the warmth and freshness of your to-go orders, ultimately enhancing their quality and lifespan.
The HHS and HHS-C series share a range of features designed to optimize functionality. An integrated, adjustable thermostat guarantees precise temperature control, preserving the delectability of your fare. Engineered for rapid heat-up, these units can achieve up to 175°F in a mere 15 minutes, ensuring that your orders are consistently at the perfect serving temperature. With options catering to both freestanding and countertop placements, these units can seamlessly assimilate into your existing workspace and workflow.
Versatility is the hallmark of these two series. You can easily tailor the size and spacing of the shelves or cubbies to accommodate your specific to-go containers. Individual power switches for each shelf or cubbie enhance energy efficiency. The choice of powder coating allows for aesthetic harmony and increased durability. Enclosed on three sides, these units excel in both stability and heat retention, while the Lexan doors on the cubbies provide secure storage and a clear view of contents.
Heated Display Cabinets
Venturing deeper into the ‘To-Go Staging’ category, we bring into focus the ‘Heated Display Cabinets’ segment, introducing two distinct units – the HLC-1717-11 and the HLC-SL-1826-4. These units harness radiant heat technology to preserve the temperature of packaged meals, ensuring that orders remain piping hot and ready for your customers.
A prominent feature of these units is the transparent Lexan door, affording a clear view of the orders within, enhancing efficiency while adding a touch of sophistication. The transparent design facilitates order tracking, streamlining operations. The HLC-1717 and the HLC-SL-1826 strike a balance between capacity and compactness. With a shallow 22″ depth, these units fit snugly onto countertops, maximizing available space without compromising on holding capacity.
The units are enriched with notable features. A gasket guarantees a secure double-seal, effectively retaining heat and moisture. A magnetic workflow door handle ensures secure, effortless access. The electronic controls allow precise temperature settings ranging from 90°F to 190°F, accommodating an extensive array of food items. Additionally, a low-temperature alarm alerts you if the temperature dips below the designated range, guaranteeing that your food always maintains a safe and optimal temperature range.
Fried Foods – Maximizing Freshness and Quality
Embarking on our journey through FWE’s diverse lineup of restaurant equipment, we now step into the dynamic realm of fried foods. If your menu boasts an array of crispy delights, ensuring their freshness and quality is paramount. To aid you in achieving this, we recommend employing our Clymate IQ system with controlled venting initially, followed by transitioning to a unit equipped with infrared holding technology.
Holding Fried Foods
Starting with the ‘Holding Fried Foods’ segment, the PHTT-CV series emerges as the prime choice for establishments serving fried delicacies. This series stands out for its controlled venting capability, meticulously crafted to sustain the crispiness of your food over extended periods. Clymate IQ technology provides precise control over temperature and humidity, empowering the PHTT-CV series to effectively manage excess moisture. The outcome? Your fried items maintain their enticing exterior crunch, while staying succulent on the inside, resulting in a delectable overall experience.
The inclusion of total humidity control in the PHTT-CV series guarantees that your crispy fried fare remains enticingly marketable for an extended duration. The ingeniously designed venting system automatically releases surplus moisture stemming from food steam, effectively averting sogginess.
Preserving Crispy Fried Food
Progressing to the ‘Preserving Crispy Fried Food with Infrared Heat’ category, we cast a spotlight on two pivotal models – the HHS-IR and the HMC-FD. Directing our attention to the HHS-IR series, this line of equipment has been intricately designed to prolong the duration for which fried, crispy, and wrapped food items can be held at their prime state. Its long-wave infrared elements maintain the food within the optimal range, ensuring the outer layer retains its crunch, while simultaneously safeguarding the internal temperature and moisture of favorites like fried chicken and French fries.
Crafted from high-quality stainless steel and devoid of moving parts such as fans, the HHS-IR units are a breeze to clean and maintain – an essential trait particularly evident when working with fried foods. Their compact size makes them a perfect fit for kitchens with limited space. Furthermore, their unique design and versatile adjustable legs ensure seamless integration into your operational setup.
Our spotlight then turns to the next featured model, the HMC-FD (Fry Dump), designed to uphold crispy fried foods at the ideal serving temperature, whether in bulk or ready-to-serve individual portions. The open layout suits fast-paced operations, enabling users to scoop, portion, store, and serve directly from their station. The long-wave infrared heating element translates to exceptional holding times, preserving the food’s warmth from within and sustaining its crispy exterior. The holding compartment accommodates standard 12″x20″x4″ hotel pans, augmenting both versatility and capacity.
Dough, Bread, & Pizza – Proofing and Holding
We now navigate the critical terrain of dough retarding, proofing, and pizza holding. The fusion of artistry and scientific precision within these processes finds adept solutions in three specialized FWE units: the RD Series, the PHU Series, and the TS-1633.
The Pinnacle of Dough Retarding – The RD Series
For attaining the epitome of perfect dough balls, look no further than FWE’s RD Series. These advanced dough retarding units possess the ability to swiftly achieve retardation temperatures within 10 minutes. This swift and efficient cooling not only contributes to flavor maturation but also guarantees a consistent rise in dough balls.
Fashioned with robust stainless steel and comprehensive insulation, the RD Series exemplifies endurance while curbing operational expenses. Intuitive electronic controls, complemented by a highly efficient 1/8 HP compressor and an integrated dynamic condenser, ensure impeccable temperature regulation, even in warmer culinary environments.
The RD Series also places a premium on effortless maintenance through a removable, one-piece stainless steel fixed rack. Additionally, its sturdy 5″ EZ-roll casters ensure effortless mobility, rendering the RD Series a versatile asset in your baking arsenal.
Mastering Proofing and Heating – The PHU Series
When the need arises for effective dough proofing and warming, FWE’s PHU Series takes center stage. With a temperature set range spanning 90° to 190°F and adaptable moisture control settings, it unlocks enhanced proofing and extended holding capabilities.
The PHU Series’ versatility emerges through its accommodation of a diverse array of trays and pans. Its integrated Proofer Heat System circulates warm, moist air throughout its interior, guaranteeing uniform heat distribution and optimal moisture preservation. This heat system seamlessly melds into the cabinet’s design, streamlining maintenance and cleaning efforts.
Operation of the PHU Series is intuitive, thanks to its user-accessible controls and a fully adjustable dial for moisture settings. These attributes position the PHU Series as an indispensable tool for kitchens demanding meticulous control over their proofing and warming procedures.
Revolutionizing Pizza Holding – The TS-1633
The TS-1633 introduces a revolutionary paradigm to pizza holding. This high-capacity, double-deep holding unit boasts adaptable shelves capable of accommodating pans, open pizzas, and other takeout items. It also offers the option of incorporating water for passive humidity, further safeguarding the quality of stored edibles.
With the capacity to house 18″ pizza boxes, the TS-1633 is engineered to extend the oven-fresh essence and texture of your pizzas. Its distinctive tray slide design and magnetic workflow door handle (eliminating the need for latch hardware) contribute to its practical allure.
The TS-1633 integrates user-friendly controls up front and a patented Humi-Temp heat and humidity system, ensuring consistent pizza quality, even in challenging culinary environments.
By investing in FWE’s RD Series, PHU Series, and TS-1633, you’re not merely acquiring equipment; you’re investing in quality, adaptability, and efficiency. These units facilitate seamless operations for your dough preparation and pizza holding requisites, consistently delivering stellar results for your commercial kitchen. Choose FWE and elevate your culinary craft to unparalleled heights.
A Journey Tailored for Each Customer
Centered on our unwavering commitment to our valued customers, we have meticulously crafted a comprehensive four-step voyage, meticulously designed to deliver not only impeccable service but also an unparalleled degree of personalization, culminating in resounding customer satisfaction.
Step 1: Understanding Your Needs
Our collaborative journey commences with an earnest conversation. We plunge into the depths of your distinct requirements, meticulously explore the sought-after features, and intricately evaluate how our equipment stands out amidst the competition. Depending on the magnitude of your order, we might even extend the option of sending you equipment for rigorous product testing. Our primary objective is to garner a profound comprehension of your vision, laying the groundwork for effectively tending to your distinctive needs.
Step 2: Designing a Custom Solution
Our forte lies in our extraordinary flexibility and our aptitude for seamlessly integrating customization – a distinguishing facet that unequivocally differentiates us from our counterparts. Our adept inside sales and design teams wholeheartedly immerse themselves in grasping the intricacies of your requisites. By posing pertinent questions, generating preliminary line drawings, and avidly heeding your insights, we embark on the art of sculpting a solution that resonates intimately with your aspirations.
Step 3: Fine-Tuning the Design
We stride hand in hand on this journey, firmly believing in the transformative power of refinement. We continuously fine-tune the design until it resonates harmoniously with your discerning standards. Depending on the scale and scope of your endeavor, we might even embark on the construction of test units, assuring an impeccable alignment between our solution and your visionary aspirations.
Step 4: Bringing Your Vision to Life
The crescendo of our expedition manifests in the realization of your gastronomic vision. Upon the finalization of the sale, our exemplary customer service and production teams surge into action, meticulously crafting your bespoke solution. Each facet of your order undergoes a meticulous battery of tests before embarking on its journey to you. Upon receipt, our engagement doesn’t cease; rather, we follow up diligently, ensuring that the product not only meets but ideally surpasses your exacting standards.
Talk To Our Professionals
Are you ready to get your project started or looking to learn more about FWE equipment? We are here to help! Our commitment to excellent customer service and creating customized equipment for all operations, no matter the footprint, is what we are known for. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 1 (800) 222-4393 or Request A Quote and a member of our team will be happy to assist. As always, don’t forget to fill out the form below to stay up to date on all of the latest FWE news, product launches, and announcements.