As 2024 draws to a close, the foodservice industry reflects on a year of transformation, innovation, and adaptation. From cutting-edge technology integrations to a renewed focus on sustainability, this year’s trends set the stage for an exciting 2025. For restaurant owners, foodservice operators, and kitchen managers, staying ahead of these trends is essential for growth, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
In this review, we’ll explore the major equipment trends that defined 2024 and offer insight into what’s next for 2025.
2024 Foodservice Equipment Trends
1. Smart Kitchens and IoT-Enabled Equipment
2024 saw a surge in “smart” kitchens, with more operators embracing Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled equipment. From fryers that track cooking times to grills with built in touch screens, smart technology has become indispensable for improving kitchen efficiency and reducing downtime.
Notable Developments:
- Real-time data tracking for usage, performance, and maintenance needs.
- Automated cooking adjustments for fryers, ovens, and grills, ensuring consistent results.
- Cloud-based monitoring systems, allowing operators to manage multiple locations remotely.
What’s Next for 2025: Expect even greater integration of AI-powered equipment that adapts to kitchen workflows, learns operator preferences, and self-optimizes for energy efficiency.
2. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s become a competitive differentiator in the foodservice industry. Equipment manufacturers responded to operator demands for energy-saving appliances and waste-reducing designs.
Notable Developments:
- Introduction of energy-efficient equipment, like fryers, that are designed to maximize the output of the product in use through features like built-in filtration.
- Equipment with longer life cycles to reduce waste and withstand the test of time.
- Certifications like ENERGY STAR® becoming essential selling points.
What’s Next for 2025: Look for increased incentives for energy-efficient upgrades, as well as a rise in modular equipment that’s easier to repair and repurpose. Manufacturers may also prioritize “circular economy” practices, designing equipment that’s easier to disassemble and recycle at end-of-life.
3. Compact, Space-Saving Designs
With the rise of ghost kitchens and small-footprint dining concepts, compact equipment has never been more essential. Operators sought out space-saving solutions that pack power into smaller footprints, maximizing kitchen capacity.
Notable Developments:
- Stackable fryers, ovens, and refrigeration units.
- Multi-functional equipment, like combi ovens, that combine steaming, roasting, and baking in one unit.
- Flexible equipment on wheels, making it easier to reconfigure kitchens for changing menus and concepts.
What’s Next for 2025: Manufacturers will continue to innovate with multi-use equipment that supports fast-paced kitchen environments. Look for more “plug-and-play” solutions that require minimal installation and support agile kitchen layouts.
4. Speed and Automation
Speed is everything in a fast-casual and quick-service environment. Automated equipment played a significant role in helping operators meet higher demand and tighter deadlines in 2024.
Notable Developments:
- Automated beverage machines, like Taylor’s frozen drink dispensers, streamlining self-service.
- Conveyor-style fryers and ovens designed for faster throughput.
- Robotics in food prep, from automated burger-flipping machines to salad-making robots.
What’s Next for 2025: Automation will likely expand to food packaging and portioning equipment. We may also see greater adoption of “robot-as-a-service” models, allowing operators to lease robotics solutions instead of purchasing them outright.
5. Health and Safety Innovations
Post-pandemic priorities for food safety and hygiene remained at the forefront of 2024’s trends. Operators invested in equipment that prioritizes cleanliness, food safety, and compliance with health standards.
Notable Developments:
- Self-cleaning fryers and ovens with automatic sanitation cycles.
- Touchless beverage dispensers and hands-free kitchen appliances.
- UV-C sanitizing lights incorporated into refrigeration units to reduce contamination risk.
What’s Next for 2025: Look for smarter cleaning solutions, like self-sanitizing equipment, and more “contactless” technology that limits human interaction with food. Health-conscious customers will continue to drive demand for equipment that promotes safety and cleanliness.
What’s on the Horizon for 2025
As 2025 approaches, foodservice operators and manufacturers alike are bracing for even more industry-defining changes. Here’s what’s on the radar:
1. AI-Driven Predictive Maintenance
Equipment downtime is costly. With the integration of AI and machine learning, expect more predictive maintenance systems that alert operators before a breakdown occurs. This “fix it before it breaks” approach reduces downtime and keeps kitchens running smoothly.
2. Modular Equipment Solutions
Instead of replacing entire units, 2025’s trend will be modular upgrades. Operators will be able to swap out key components (like heating elements or control panels) without having to buy a new appliance. This approach supports sustainability, reduces costs, and extends equipment lifespans.
3. Customization and Personalization
Kitchens will continue to become more personalized, with equipment that can be tailored to the specific needs of the operator. Manufacturers may offer more customizable equipment packages, allowing operators to select only the features they need.
4. Robotics as a Service (RaaS)
With high upfront costs for robotics, RaaS is set to become a game-changer. Operators can “rent” robotics technology, giving them access to the latest innovations without the financial burden of ownership. This “as-a-service” model makes automation more accessible to small and mid-sized operators.
How TFG Can Help You Stay Ahead
At TFG, we stay on top of the latest foodservice equipment trends to help our customers run efficient, modern kitchens. Whether it’s guiding you toward energy-efficient fryers or helping you adopt automation in your beverage service, our team is here to support your success.
With a commitment to providing high-quality equipment, preventative maintenance, and a team of service experts, TFG ensures that your kitchen is ready for 2025 and beyond.
Looking for guidance on the best equipment for your kitchen? Contact TFG’s team of foodservice professionals to future-proof your kitchen and prepare for the year ahead.
