Essential Ice Cream Shop Stainless Steel Equipment
Ice cream is one of the most popular treats in the United States. According to the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), 1.3 billion gallons of ice cream were produced in 2021 alone. This complements a staggering $13.1 billion ice cream industry. Ice cream is certainly here to stay. With such a large industry, ice cream shops must keep up with the demand & that means having the right equipment ready for the job.
In this article, we’ll detail 4 products/product categories that should be added to any ice cream shop lineup & offer up some IMC models as well. Let’s begin.
1. Ice Cream Storage/Cold Food Counters
Ice cream needs a quick & chilly place to be stored. On top of that, merchandising comes into play when customers can have quick access to the treat of their choice. Specially designed ice cream/cold food storage units exist for this purpose.
These storage units must keep the ice cream stored at 10°F or below. If you utilize any counter with no or malfunctioning refrigeration, you will have melted ice cream, unhappy customers & a potential waste of product. These units can also be used by employees to directly service ice cream.
IMC Model #SICC is specifically designed to perform all the above functions. The entire unit is designed to keep your ice cream at the optimal temperature. Therefore, the unit is designed to maintain a 10° F via refrigeration. Furthermore, the entire cabinet is fully insulated & includes removable insulated covers with lift type handles. Here’s a visual look below:
2. Worktables
Being organized in an ice cream shop is key. Having a smooth, flat surface to work is essential & should not be ignored. This is especially important if your ice cream shop has baking capabilities. You’ll need a reliable area where you can see & use all of your ingredients while you make your tasty confections.
Worktables can also be customized to better cater toward an ice cream shop environment. Equipping a sink bowl in your worktable saves space, while an over/under shelf provides ample storage.
IMC offers several worktable models, but we recommend Models #WT & #WTB for ice cream applications. Model #WT is a standard worktable flat top. It’s a simple design that can be integrated into any lineup. Model #WTB is the same as above except it adds a 6″ backsplash to keep your walls clean while you perform your tasks. Have a look below:
3. Compartment Sinks
In any ice cream shop, utensils such as scoops, cups, spades & dippers are used constantly. They will have to be cleaned & sanitized daily to maintain food safety. Compartment sinks are the go-to item to perform this task.
Most compartment sinks come with 1-4 sink bowls. Depending on your local regulations, you may need a 3 compartment sink to get the job done. 1 or 2 compartment sinks can also get the job done, but check local codes before considering a compartment sink for your lineup.
IMC Model #SCS is IMC’s compartment sink offering. 1-4 compartment may be selected in 14 or 16 gauge type 300 series stainless steel. Every compartment sink has a 10″ backsplash with stainless steel legs & gussets with adjustable bullet feet. Left & right drainboards may also accompany your compartment sink. Here’s a look below:
4. Hand Sinks
Ice cream shops can see non-stop action, especially during those hot summer months. With the amount of ice cream & other frozen treats in play, people are bound to wash their hands. This is why you need to have stainless steel hand sinks up & running.
In fact, hand sinks are mandatory for food service establishments in the United States. They play the important role of promoting good hygiene & increasing safety in your facility. Check your local codes for hand sink requirements.
IMC offers some of the most customizable stainless steel hand sinks in the industry. Hand sinks can be equipped with side splashes, hands-free pedals, knee valves, auto faucets/soap dispensers & so on. Here’s a look at a few select IMC hand sinks:
IMC understands the magnitude of the ice cream industry & popularity is only rising. If you’re ready to take your ice cream shop to the next level, make sure your equipment lineup is willing to rise to the occasion. To learn more about how IMC can cater to your stainless steel needs, click here.