The Future of Stainless Steel (& Its Role in the Foodservice Industry)
It may come as a surprise to know that stainless steel has only been around for just over 100 years. With such a storied (& mysterious) history, stainless steel has certainly come a long way & its development is only just beginning. What lies ahead for stainless steel & will its role in the foodservice industry change?
In this article, we explain the bright future for stainless steel then go into how this will affect the foodservice industry as a whole. Let’s start.
The Future is Bright
Stainless steel is one of the most popular metals in the world right now. It’s safe to say that stainless steel will only continue to be used in the years to come. How come?
The stainless steel market is valued at an extraordinary $195 billion. Furthermore, the demand for stainless steel continues to surge, thanks to its versatility & durability. It’s expected that the stainless steel market will develop at a annual growth of 5.5% from 2023 to 2030.
As far as the metal itself, researchers are developing new alloys & production methods to further improve the properties of stainless steel & lessen its environmental impact. The goal is to create high-performance alloys capable of withstanding extreme conditions, such as high temperatures & corrosive environments.
The aesthetic appeal of stainless steel will continue to drive its implementation in design. From architectural masterpieces to consumer products, stainless steel’s sleek & premium appearance will remain in high demand.
What About the Foodservice Industry?
Stainless steel has undoubtedly become important in the foodservice industry, ensuring the highest quality & safety standards. Its durability, resistance to corrosion, & hygienic properties make it the ideal choice for foodservice environments.
As technology advances, so does the use of stainless steel in the foodservice industry. One emerging trend is the development of antimicrobial stainless steel coatings that provide additional protection against bacteria & other pathogens. This innovation is particularly relevant in environments requiring strict hygiene standards, such as food processing facilities.
PVD coatings are also being researched to add increased durability.
The hot topic in the world right now is “going green.” As a result, new recycling methods & focus on sustainability will lead to more recycled stainless steel & less carbon emissions as a result.
IMC/Teddy has been in the stainless steel foodservice industry business for over 60 years. Over time, the applications for stainless steel have only increased. With no end in sight, IMC is excited about the future of stainless steel & the impact it has in the foodservice industry. For a closer look at our mission, click here.