Announcing Ron Diamond as General Manager

BALTIMORE, MD – May 11, 2026 – Electric Motor Repair Company (EMR), a proud 3rd-generation, locally owned family business, is thrilled  announce the appointment of Ron Diamond as its new General Manager. A seasoned leader with more than three decades of experience in the service industry, Ron's arrival signals an exciting and promising new era for EMR — one built on a shared commitment to exceptional service, strong relationships, and continued growth.

Ron's career is marked by a strong record of operational and marketing leadership. He spent over 20 years with Chipotle in senior operations and marketing roles, followed by a decade with Cintas spanning both operations and sales. This breadth of experience gives Ron a uniquely well-rounded perspective on running high-performing service organizations.

When asked what drew him to EMR, Ron pointed to the company's culture above all else. "The sense of family, the genuine care for employees, the commitment to customer service — and the fact that EMR is a 3rd generation, locally owned family business — that's what made this the right move," he said.

CEO Caroline Kauffman-Kirschnick echoed that sentiment, describing what Ron brings to the team: "Ron brings a collaborative, down-to-earth leadership style. He is approachable, supportive, and focused on helping people grow while still maintaining clear expectations and accountability. He is relationship-focused with team members and understands that different people need different types of support to succeed."

As he settles into his new role, Ron's immediate priorities are getting to know EMR's team, deepening his understanding of the industry, and providing the guidance and support needed to help the business continue to grow and thrive.

Outside of the office, Ron is a father of four teenagers, a passionate food enthusiast, and a self-described multitasking pro in the kitchen — with a particular appreciation for commercial kitchen environments. He looks forward to building relationships with customers and upholding EMR's longstanding tradition of exceptional service.

Electric Motor Repair Company (EMR)
EMR is a leading provider of service, parts, and installation to the commercial kitchen, refrigeration, industrial motor, elevator and marine industries. Founded in 1927 in Baltimore, Maryland, EMR is a third-generation family-owned business that operates five locations to serve the mid-Atlantic region. For more information about EMR, visit www.emrco.com.

Proven Infrastructure Services Leader to Accelerate Growth and Strengthen the Critical Trades Workforce

NEW YORK, April 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Vision Infrastructure Solutions (Vision) today announced the appointment of Jonielle Dedman as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Dedman will lead the company's strategy, operations, and growth as Vision continues to expand its national platform across fire suppression, vertical transportation, and material handling.

Dedman brings more than 15 years of leadership experience across field service, construction and industrial equipment sectors. Throughout her career, she has operated at the intersection of acquisitions, regulatory complexity, and operational transformation within both founder-led and private equity-backed organizations.

"Jonielle brings a rare combination of deep domain expertise in vertical transportation and proven leadership across national field service organizations," Joseph Scaretta, Co-Founder of Vision, said. "She began her career working in vertical transportation and advanced into executive leadership within private equity-backed businesses, giving her a clear understanding of how to drive performance, support enterprise clients, and scale operations. She is uniquely qualified to lead Vision, and we are excited about the operational discipline, focus on service excellence and momentum she will bring to the business, which will drive industry disruption."

Prior to joining Vision, Dedman served as CEO of Chronicle Heritage, a private equity-backed, international multi-site services firm, and previously as Chief Operating Officer of EMSAR, a national field service organization. In these roles, she led operational strategy across multiple business units, improved service delivery performance and drove measurable gains in efficiency and workforce retention.

Dedman's career began at Otis Elevator Company with her selection into the highly competitive Otis Elevator General Management Program, designed to build general management capability through cross-functional leadership and process improvement. She advanced through progressively senior roles including Territory Manager, Branch Sales Manager, Manager of New Equipment and Branch Manager, earning both Million Dollar Club recognition and the Otis Globe Award. She oversaw large-scale service, modernization, and new equipment operations across multi-site territories, including complex infrastructure projects at major transportation hubs including Los Angeles International Airport.

"I'm proud to join Vision at a time when the need for skilled, essential trades services has never been greater," Dedman said. "Vision has built a strong foundation with a clear focus on serving critical infrastructure trades and supporting customers with integrity and expertise. I look forward to working with the team to continue driving meaningful impact across the industry."

Dedman's appointment reflects Vision's continued investment in building a leadership team with both operational depth and industry expertise. As demand for infrastructure repair and maintenance services continues to grow, Vision remains focused on transparently delivering specialized, high-quality solutions that support safety, compliance, and uptime for its clients nationwide.

About Vision Infrastructure Solutions

Vision Infrastructure Solutions (Vision) is a national critical infrastructure services company that offers three highly specialized trades including fire suppression, vertical transportation and material handling. The company brings uncommon expertise to the critical demands of aging infrastructure, delivering specialized services that maximize uptime, ensure compliance and uphold safety. Vision is a MasonMade Ventures company. For more information, visit VisionIS.co.

From the First Electrified Signs to a Leading National Signage Partner

HURST, TX — March 25, 2026 — Federal Heath Sign Company proudly celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, marking more than a century of innovation, craftsmanship, and partnership in the signage industry. With roots tracing back to March 25, 1901, the company has grown from a bold entrepreneurial idea into a nationally recognized leader serving brands across the United States.

Federal Heath’s story began in 1900 when two executives from Chicago Edison Company sought creative ways to increase electricity usage. Their groundbreaking idea — inserting incandescent lamps into porcelain-enameled steel signs — led to the first electrified advertising signs. These illuminated signs not only revolutionized advertising but also helped light the dark streets of early Chicago. From that bright idea, the Federal Electric Company was born.

Over the decades, through growth, innovation, mergers, and acquisitions, the company evolved into what is now Federal Heath Sign Company. Today, almost 500 employees across the United States support national customers through three state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, delivering comprehensive signage solutions from concept to installation and maintenance.

For 125 years, Federal Heath has helped brands bring their identities to life — boldly, consistently, and reliably. Companies across industries, including petroleum, hospitality, retail, restaurants, healthcare, and corporate enterprises, entrust Federal Heath with their signage needs. From iconic national rollouts to custom brand expressions, the company has remained committed to quality, innovation, and partnership.

From its humble beginnings to becoming a respected industry leader, Federal Heath’s longevity is rooted in adaptability and forward-thinking innovation. The company has continuously evolved with changing technologies, materials, and customer needs — all while maintaining its dedication to craftsmanship and service excellence.

This milestone anniversary honors the generations of employees whose hard work, ingenuity, and dedication built the company’s legacy. Their contributions laid the foundation for today’s success and continue to inspire the organization’s future direction.

“As we celebrate 125 years, we reflect with gratitude on our history and look ahead with excitement,” said Steve Abrams, CEO. “It is with respect and pride that we recognize this momentous achievement and anticipate what the next 125 years will bring.”

Federal Heath remains committed to advancing the signage industry, embracing innovation, and supporting the brands that shape communities across the country.

For a timeline of key events in Federal Heath's history, and photographs of projects through the years, please visit https://federalheath.com/company

About Federal Heath Sign Company
Founded in 1901, Federal Heath Sign Company, part of Marsh Global Holdings, is a national leader in the signage industry, providing turnkey solutions including design, engineering, manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. With more than 465 employees and three manufacturing facilities across the United States, Federal Heath partners with leading brands in petroleum, retail, restaurant, hospitality, healthcare, and corporate sectors to deliver impactful, consistent brand experiences nationwide.

Business Owners in Fire Suppression, Material Handling and Vertical Transportation Are Invited to Apply

New York, NY (March 24, 2026) – Vision Infrastructure Solutions (Vision) today announced the launch of ELEVATE, an industry development initiative focused on supporting high-potential founders in critical infrastructure trades. The program is designed to help address the skilled trades shortage by equipping business owners with the resources, guidance, and strategic support needed to scale. Founders in fire suppression, material handling, and vertical transportation are invited to apply.

ELEVATE is structured as a hands-on partnership designed to help founders navigate the next stage of growth. Through mentoring, strategic guidance, and access to a vetted network of professional resources, the program supports business owners as they enter new markets, strengthen leadership teams, and sustainably scale their operations. Each year, Vision will select up to four founders to participate as ELEVATE Partners in a nine-month structured partnership focused on leadership development, business growth, and long-term sustainability.

“As a founder-led company, we understand the challenges and investment that come with building a business from the ground up,” Joseph Scaretta, Co-Founder of Vision Infrastructure Solutions, said. "Many skilled trades entrepreneurs reach a point where growth requires new systems, stronger leadership structures, and trusted strategic guidance. We launched ELEVATE because founders should not have to build alone. We prefer to build boldly, together.”

ELEVATE Partners will have direct access to Vision’s leadership team, including experienced leaders in executive leadership, operations, business development and strategic communications. Participants may also receive support from skilled trades founders and trusted professional service providers in legal structuring, accounting, public relations and branding.

Applications for ELEVATE open March 24, 2026 and finalists will be selected by June 30, 2026. The inaugural ELEVATE Partners will be announced in August 2026, and the program will run from September 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Eligible applicants must have been in business for at least three years, generate at least $1 million in annual revenue, employ at least three full-time employees and hold appropriate trade licensing in the United States.

Vision also encourages other skilled trades companies to replicate the ELEVATE model across the industry.

“We believe the future of the skilled trades depends on how well we support the founders building within it,” Scaretta said. “ELEVATE is our commitment to helping close the skilled trades gap. We encourage others across the industry to adopt ELEVATE or build similar programs that invest in founders. If more organizations step forward in this way, we can accelerate growth, strengthen the workforce, and create lasting impact across the infrastructure ecosystem.”

To learn more about ELEVATE or apply, visit https://www.visionis.co/elevate.

Vision Infrastructure Solutions

Vision Infrastructure Solutions (Vision) is a national critical infrastructure services company that offers three highly specialized trades including fire suppression, vertical transportation, and material handling. The company brings uncommon expertise to the critical demands of aging infrastructure, delivering specialized services that maximize uptime, ensure compliance and uphold safety. Vision is a MasonMade Ventures company. For more information about Vision Infrastructure Solutions, please visit VisionIS.co.

New Charlotte office expands localized services across the Carolinas and Eastern Tennessee

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Enviromatic Corporation of America Inc. today announced the grand opening of its 15th location in Charlotte, N.C., marking the company’s 55th anniversary. The new office will enable Enviromatic to deliver more localized environmental and industrial services across the Carolina region and Eastern Tennessee in response to growing client demand.

“Reaching our 55th year is a milestone made possible by decades of trusted client partnerships and the dedication of our teams nationwide,” said Don Pfleiderer, President & CEO of Enviromatic Corporation of America Inc. “Opening in Charlotte positions us to respond faster, provide deeper regional expertise, and better support the expanding needs of businesses and municipalities throughout the Carolinas and Eastern Tennessee.”

Strategic footprint

• Main and BBR offices: Bloomington, MN
• Regional offices: Atlanta, GA; Chicago–Lombard, IL; Houston, TX; Kansas City–Lees Summit, MO; Orlando–Apopka, FL
• Branch offices: Austin–San Antonio, TX; Charlotte, NC; Columbus, OH; Dallas, TX; Denver–Aurora, CO; Des Moines–Adel, IA; Fort Lauderdale–Sunrise, FL; Mall of America, MN; St. Louis–Bridgeton, MO; DC–Woodbridge, VA
  
  

About the Charlotte office
The Charlotte location will house project management, field operations coordination, and client support functions aimed at accelerating response times and delivering tailored cleaning services to local clients. The office opening reflects Enviromatic’s commitment to regional presence and rapid-service capability.

Enviromatic Corporation of America Inc. is a full-service kitchen exhaust cleaning and services solutions provider serving clients across multiple sectors for 55 years. Offering site assessment, remediation, commercial and industrial services, and compliance support, Enviromatic combines technical expertise with a nationwide network of offices to deliver timely, responsible solutions. For more information, visit www.enviromatic.com.

The acquisition enables Wonder to strengthen its mealtime platform and thoughtfully scale the Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken brand through full ownership of the iconic fast-casual concept

NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Wonder, a mealtime platform built to satisfy every craving without compromise, acquired Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken, an iconic New York City-based fast-casual concept known for its award-winning fried chicken, from Blue Ribbon Restaurants. The acquisition gives Wonder ownership of Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken and reflects the Company's broader strategy to own and steward beloved restaurant brands that align with its mission to make great food more accessible.

"Bringing Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken into Wonder is an exciting step forward," said Marc Lore, Founder and CEO of Wonder. "With an incredibly loyal following already in place, we can now scale this iconic brand across the Wonder platform to reach far more people."

Originally launched by chefs Eric and Bruce Bromberg as a dedicated concept inspired by one of their signature menu items at Blue Ribbon Brasserie, Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken is celebrated today as a New York City staple by locals and tourists alike. As a fast-casual restaurant with fine-dining roots, the brand aligns naturally with Wonder's existing portfolio and proven approach to bringing chef-driven, award-winning concepts to more customers.

"We started Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken with the aim to share one of our childhood favorites with the world, and we're incredibly proud of what we've built," said Chef Bruce Bromberg, Co-Founder of Blue Ribbon Restaurants. "We're excited about this next chapter in Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken's journey and are confident in Wonder's ability to bring what makes this brand so special to more customers than ever before."

As part of the agreement, Wonder will acquire the Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken brand, along with its physical restaurant in Manhattan and its current employees. Under Wonder, Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken's East Village restaurant will continue operating as usual, with no planned changes to day-to-day operations. The location will also remain available on third-party delivery platforms.

Leveraging the power of its platform to support future growth, Wonder will thoughtfully scale the Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken brand over time, with plans to introduce it as a concept at a Wonder location in New York City in 2026, followed by expansion to additional locations thereafter. Soon, Wonder customers will be able to experience what makes Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken so special, alongside other popular concepts such as Streetbird, Detroit Brick Pizza, Royal Greens, and more, with the ability to mix-and-match menu items from each in a single order.

To learn more about Wonder, visit wonder.com or download the Wonder app.

About WONDER:
Wonder is a mealtime platform built to satisfy every craving without compromise. The platform brings together delivery, pickup, dine-in, meal kits, and chef-driven food innovation in one seamless experience. Wonder features some of the world's most celebrated chefs, including Bobby Flay, José Andrés, and Marcus Samuelsson, alongside award-winning restaurants such as Tejas Barbecue and Di Fara Pizza. With Wonder's first-of-its-kind Multi-Restaurant Ordering, customers can mix and match dishes from multiple chefs and restaurants in a single order – something no other platform offers.

Recognized by Fast Company as one of the "Most Innovative Companies," Wonder Group's portfolio of brands includes meal kit pioneer Blue Apron, online food delivery marketplace Grubhub, delivery courier platform Relay, award-winning media company Tastemade, restaurant technology innovator Spyce, and restaurant growth and diner acquisition platform Claim – together working to make great food more accessible, wherever and however people want to eat.

For more information, visit www.wonder.com.

About Blue Ribbon Restaurants:
Blue Ribbon Restaurants was founded by chefs and brothers Bruce and Eric Bromberg, whose shared vision is rooted in a commitment to quality, craftsmanship and genuine hospitality. Since opening their first restaurant in New York City in 1992, the Brombergs have built a family of dining concepts inspired by a respect for ingredients and culinary traditions, earning widespread recognition for food that is both refined and approachable.

Today, Blue Ribbon Restaurants operates in cities across the country, including New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Boston and Miami. The group emphasizes seasonal sourcing, thoughtful preparation and a balance of tradition and creativity. While each location reflects its own distinct character, all remain grounded in the group's core values, offering dining experiences that are consistent, memorable and enduring.

For more information, visit www.BlueRibbonRestaurants.com.

BOSTON—Feb. 2, 2026—Powerhouse Dynamics, the leading Internet of Things (IoT) solution provider for multi-unit foodservice and retail brands, today announced new subscription-based versions of its “smart” Open Kitchen® platform for restaurants, convenience stores and grocers, and SiteSage® platform for retailers.

Major brands use these platforms to connect, control and optimize their HVAC and kitchen equipment across their facilities. They act on equipment data to drive down energy, maintenance and repair costs; reduce food and energy waste; increase operational efficiency; and help ensure a consistently topnotch guest experience. One Powerhouse Dynamics client has credited Open Kitchen with contributing to $20 million in energy savings across more than 800 locations.

The new subscription model eliminates the capital barrier to accessing these benefits. Clients pay only a simple monthly fee, rather than paying up-front for hardware, installation, and onboarding. The monthly fee delivers Open Kitchen or SiteSage as a service, so it covers the entire solution, including hardware, installation, onboarding, managed services, and software access. Installation is quick—usually a day or less per site—and the return is immediate, with the monthly fee less than the savings delivered.

“Rising energy prices have put more pressure on restaurants, C-stores and retailers to lower their costs without affecting the consumer experience. Connecting their equipment uncovers a wide range of performance improvement and cost-saving opportunities. Our subscription model will enable more clients to enjoy this competitive advantage,” said Jay Fiske, President, Powerhouse Dynamics.

Clients rely on Open Kitchen and SiteSage to improve:

• Energy management, typically reducing per-site energy expenses by 10-20%: The platforms help them catch and fix underperforming equipment, unify HVAC and lighting controls, implement tailored thermostat management systems, and avoid peak demand charges.
• Food safety and quality: Clients use Open Kitchen to maintain optimal storage and cooking temperatures, prevent spoilage issues, and automate HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) reports.
• Preventive and reactive maintenance: The platforms enable facility managers (FMs) to avoid high replacement costs by initiating preventive maintenance as equipment issues surface. They also empower FMs to remotely diagnose problems, and dispatch trucks with the exact parts they need.
  

In addition, companies use Open Kitchen to support revenue-generating activities, such as automating recipe distribution for popular limited-time-only specials, or optimizing menus based on consumption trends.

For more information, contact Jay Fiske at jay@powerhousedynamics.com or Nicholas (Nick) Bryant, Vice President of Sales, at nick.bryant@powerhousedynamics.com.

About Powerhouse Dynamics
Founded in 2010, Powerhouse Dynamics, a Middleby Company is the leading Internet of Things (IoT) solution provider for eliminating waste in the operations of multi-site foodservice and retail facilities. Their IoT platform, sold under two different brands—Open Kitchen® for foodservice operators and SiteSage® for retail and other commercial operators—provides control over key equipment for reduced waste and increased cost savings, actionable insights for more informed decisions on equipment and operations, and improved processes for consistent, positive experiences in their facilities. The platform is connected with over 50,000 pieces of equipment across 18,000+ locations.

Maintera Facility Services launches as a national platform for comprehensive facility management solutions across operating and vacant properties.

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Shore Capital Partners (“Shore” or “Shore Capital”) is pleased to announce the formation of Maintera Facility Services (“Maintera”), a leading platform providing outsourced commercial facility management and vacant property services. Additionally, Maintera has acquired Commercial Asset Preservation, LLC (“CAP”), a provider of property maintenance and inspection services – with a deep expertise in vacant property portfolios – to multi-site clients in the food & beverage, retail, industrial, institutional, office, hospitality, and convenience store end markets.

“The launch of Maintera reflects our conviction in the outsourced facility management sector and our belief that our customers benefit from platforms built around execution.” Matt Matosian, Principal, Shore Capital Partners

The launch of Maintera follows Shore’s December 2024 investment in TCG Services, LLC (“TCG”), a provider of on-demand break-fix facility management solutions for multi-site customers in the consumer, financial, healthcare, transportation, technology, and other end markets. Maintera combines the strengths of TCG’s maintenance and repair capabilities with CAP’s property maintenance and inspection expertise to deliver a seamless experience for customers managing both operating and vacant locations. Through the Maintera platform, customers benefit from a single point of accountability, shared best practices, and access to expanded technical resources while maintaining TCG and CAP’s operational expertise and leading responsiveness.

Under the Maintera platform, customers can rely on a single partner for both operating and vacant sites, enabling faster response times, greater consistency, and a higher standard of service across every interaction. Maintera will continue to invest in technology, process innovation, and scale to better serve its customers’ complex, multi-location portfolios.

“Bringing TCG and CAP together under the Maintera brand is a powerful step forward for our customers and our teams,” said David Jaffee, CEO of Maintera. “We’re combining two highly respected operators with complementary strengths to better support customers across the full lifecycle of their properties. With Shore’s support, we’re building a platform that delivers broader coverage, deeper expertise, and a more consistent customer experience at scale.”

“The launch of Maintera reflects Shore’s continued conviction in the outsourced facility management sector and our belief that our customers benefit from platforms built around execution,” said Matt Matosian, Principal at Shore Capital. “TCG and CAP are outstanding businesses with synergistic service offerings and strong cultures. We’re excited to support their continued growth as Maintera builds a leading national platform.”

Both TCG and CAP will continue to operate under their existing names as part of the Maintera platform. To learn more about Maintera, TCG, and CAP, please visit www.maintera.com.

About Maintera Facility Services

Maintera Facility Services is a leading national provider of comprehensive facility management services to multi-site customers, coordinating on-demand facility repairs, preventative maintenance & inspection, capital expenditure projects, and vacant property services across a variety of service lines. Maintera is headquartered in Chicago, IL, and is comprised of TCG Services, LLC, based in El Dorado, KS, and Commercial Asset Preservation, LLC, based in Salt Lake City, UT. To learn more about Maintera, please visit www.maintera.com.

About Commercial Asset Preservation

Commercial Asset Preservation provides property maintenance and inspection solutions to both operating and vacant site portfolios for multi-site customers. CAP is based in Salt Lake City, UT. To learn more about CAP, please visit www.commercialpreservation.com.

About TCG Services

TCG Services is a provider of on-demand break-fix facility management solutions for multi-site customers in the consumer, financial, healthcare, transportation, and technology end markets. TCG is based in El Dorado, KS. To learn more about TCG, please visit: www.tcgfm.com.

About Shore Capital Partners

Shore Capital, a Chicago-based private equity firm with an office in Nashville, is an investor in lower-middle market companies in the Healthcare, Food and Beverage, Business Services, Industrial, and Real Estate industries. Shore’s strategy is to support management partners to grow faster with less risk through access to capital, world-class board and operational resources, and unmatched networking, development, and shared learnings across the portfolio. From 2020-2025, Shore received recognition from Inc. Magazine as a 6x Top Founder Friendly Investor and by Pitchbook Research for leading U.S. Private Equity deal volume for the past 10 years, from 2015-2024. Shore targets investments in proven, successful private companies with superior management teams, stable cash flow, and significant potential to grow through industry consolidation and organic growth to generate value for shareholders. Shore has approximately $14 billion of assets under management and in additional investment platforms to which it provides business and operational consulting services. To learn more about Shore Capital Partners, please visit www.shorecp.com.

Hauppauge, NY — December 15, 2025 — BOSS Facility Services, a leading provider of comprehensive facility management solutions, proudly marks its 25th anniversary in 2026. Founded in 2001, BOSS has grown from a two-person startup into a trusted partner with 90+ employees, servicing clients across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

With a guiding mission of being “Built On Superior Service,” BOSS delivers a full suite of solutions, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, lighting, janitorial, construction, remodeling, and more. Over the past 25 years, the company has partnered with clients in diverse industries such as retail, financial, convenience, restaurants, and healthcare, helping facilities run smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

"This milestone is about more than years in business — it’s about the people who made it possible," said Keith Keingstein, CEO and Founder of BOSS Facility Services. "Twenty-five years ago, I set out with a dream. I would like to give a heartful thank you to my siblings, Kerri and Kevin for helping me make my dream into a reality. Together, we are deeply grateful to our employees, clients, and vendor partners who have fueled our growth, trusted us with their facilities, and helped us uphold our promise of superior service.”

The company attributes its success to a culture of teamwork, innovation, and responsiveness. From small-scale repairs to large construction projects, BOSS has built a reputation for being a reliable, go-to resource in the facility services industry.

As BOSS looks ahead to the future, the company remains committed to expanding its services, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to lead with the same passion and dedication that defined its beginnings.

About BOSS Facility Services
BOSS Facility Services, headquartered in Hauppauge, NY, is a premier facility management company founded in 2001. With a focus on HVAC, electrical, plumbing, lighting, janitorial, construction, and remodeling, BOSS provides 24/7/365 service throughout the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. As its name implies BOSS is “Built on Superior Service” and will continue to deliver trusted solutions that keep facilities operating efficiently and effectively.

ATLANTA , Oct. 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RaceTrac, Inc., (“RaceTrac”) a family-owned, high-growth leader in the convenience store industry, confirms it has completed the acquisition of Potbelly Corporation (“Potbelly”) previously announced in September.

As part of the transaction, RaceTrac acquires Potbelly’s iconic neighborhood sandwich shop brand, which includes more than 445 company and franchise-owned shops across the United States, and Potbelly’s proven franchise development platform with a long-term goal of reaching 2,000 shops.

“Potbelly has spent more than 40 years creating the neighborhood sandwich shop experience customers love, and we are excited to welcome this beloved brand to the RaceTrac family,” said RaceTrac CEO and Chairman Natalie Morhous. “This acquisition represents a natural evolution of our growth strategy, adding fast-casual expertise to our portfolio while maintaining the unique identity that makes Potbelly special. We’re pleased to welcome more than 5,200 Potbelly team members and franchise partners to our organization.”

The acquisition strengthens RaceTrac’s position in the evolving retail landscape, combining both brands’ capabilities in real estate, franchising, operations, food innovation and marketing to drive growth and customer loyalty.

As part of the acquisition, Adam Noyes, who previously served as Potbelly Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed President of Potbelly, effective immediately.  Bob Wright will remain with the company as CEO through the end of the year.

“Today marks an exciting new chapter for Potbelly as we join the RaceTrac family,” said Wright. “With RaceTrac’s resources and expertise, we’re positioned to accelerate growth toward 2,000 plus shops while staying true to our mission of delighting customers with great food and good vibes.”

Potbelly will continue to operate as usual, offering guests the same warm, toasty sandwiches, signature salads, and hand-dipped shakes they’ve come to love. The acquisition adds another consumer-facing brand to RaceTrac’s growing portfolio, which includes more than 800 RaceTrac® and RaceWay® convenience stores and approximately 1,200 Gulf® branded locations.

RaceTrac’s tender offer for all of the issued and outstanding shares of Potbelly’s common stock at a price of $17.12 per share, without interest, net to the seller in cash, less any applicable withholding taxes, expired as scheduled at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on October 22, 2025, and was not extended. Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, the depositary for the tender offer, has advised RaceTrac that, as of the expiration of the tender offer, 28,280,576 shares were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn, which represented approximately 90.7% of the then-issued and outstanding shares of Potbelly’s common stock. All of the conditions to the tender offer were satisfied, and Hero Sub Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of RaceTrac (“Merger Sub”), accepted for payment, and will promptly pay for, all shares validly tendered and not validly withdrawn in the tender offer.

The acquisition was completed on October 23, 2025 through a merger of Merger Sub with and into Potbelly under Section 251(h) of the Delaware General Corporation Law without a stockholder vote. In connection with the merger, each share not purchased in the tender offer (other than shares owned by stockholders who validly assert statutory appraisal rights, treasury shares and shares owned by RaceTrac or its subsidiaries) was cancelled and converted into the right to receive $17.12 in cash, without interest, less any applicable withholding taxes. Following the consummation of the merger, Potbelly became a wholly owned subsidiary of RaceTrac.

In connection with the completion of the merger, Potbelly’s common stock ceased trading on Nasdaq.

Advisors

BofA Securities acted as exclusive financial advisor and Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP acted as legal advisor to RaceTrac. Piper Sandler acted as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisor to Potbelly.

About RaceTrac, Inc.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, family-owned RaceTrac, Inc. is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States, serving guests since 1934. The company’s retail brands include more than 800 RaceTrac® and RaceWay® retail locations, approximately 1,200 Gulf® branded locations, and more than 445 Potbelly® neighborhood sandwich shops throughout the United States. RaceTrac employs more than 15,000 team members across RaceTrac, RaceWay, Potbelly and affiliated companies Energy Dispatch and Gulf, Inc. For more information, please visit RaceTrac’s website at RaceTrac.com.

About Potbelly Corporation
Potbelly Corporation is a neighborhood sandwich concept that has been feeding customers’ smiles with warm, toasty sandwiches, signature salads, hand-dipped shakes and other fresh menu items, customized just the way customers want them, for more than 40 years. Potbelly promises Fresh, Fast & Friendly service in an environment that reflects the local neighborhood. Since opening its first shop in Chicago in 1977, Potbelly has expanded to neighborhoods across the country - with more than 445 shops in the United States including more than 105 franchised shops in the United States. For more information, please visit Potbelly's website at Potbelly.com.

CHICAGO, Sept. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Potbelly Corporation (NASDAQ: PBPB) (“Potbelly” or the “Company”), the iconic neighborhood sandwich shop concept, announced today that Potbelly and RaceTrac, Inc. (“RaceTrac”), one of the largest privately held companies in the United States and a leading convenience retailer, have entered into a definitive merger agreement pursuant to which RaceTrac will commence a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Potbelly for $17.12 per share, in an all-cash transaction with an equity value of approximately $566 million.

The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Strategic Fit and Future Vision
Potbelly, founded more than 40 years ago in Chicago, has earned a loyal following for its warm, toasty sandwiches, signature salads, and hand-dipped shakes. The Company has built a strong foundation for growth with more than 445 company and franchise-owned shops currently open in neighborhoods across the United States and a long-term goal of reaching 2,000 shops.

“RaceTrac’s strategic vision including their commitment to quality align perfectly with our mission to delight customers with great food and good vibes,” said Bob Wright, President and CEO of Potbelly. “We have positioned Potbelly for accelerated franchise-led growth in recent years, and this transaction fortifies our path while delivering certain and immediate value to our shareholders. With RaceTrac’s resources, we will unlock new opportunity for this incredible brand while staying true to the neighborhood sandwich shop experience that makes Potbelly special.”
The acquisition represents a significant move by RaceTrac, adding another iconic brand to its portfolio. Headquartered in Atlanta, RaceTrac operates more than 800 convenience stores across 14 states under the RaceTrac® and RaceWay® brands, offering guests competitively-priced fuel, freshly-brewed coffee, and an extensive selection of food and beverages, and fuels consumers through approximately 1,200 Gulf® branded locations across the United States and Puerto Rico. The family-owned company has been serving guests since 1934 and employs more than 10,000 team members.

“Our companies, combined, have spent over 130 years delighting guests by providing them with welcoming smiles and a place to enjoy life’s everyday moments. We are proud of Potbelly’s legacy as a beloved neighborhood sandwich shop and are excited to expand our family of convenience-driven brands,” added Natalie Morhous, CEO and Chairman of the Board at RaceTrac. “I’m pleased to welcome Potbelly’s more than 5,200 team members and franchise partners to the RaceTrac family. Together, we’ll serve guests in even more meaningful ways.” 

With complementary strengths as multi-unit, multi-market consumer facing businesses including core capabilities in real estate, franchising, operations, food innovation and marketing, a combined RaceTrac and Potbelly are positioned to amplify their growth.

Transaction Details
Under the terms of the merger agreement, Hero Sub Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of RaceTrac (“Merger Sub”), will commence a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of Potbelly for $17.12 per share in cash. This represents a premium of approximately 47% to Potbelly’s 90-trading-day volume-weighted average price as of September 9, 2025. Potbelly’s board of directors unanimously recommends that Potbelly’s stockholders tender their shares in the tender offer. Additionally, all of Potbelly’s directors and executive officers have entered into support agreements (subject to certain terms and conditions) and agreed to tender their shares, representing approximately 11% of Potbelly’s outstanding common stock, in the tender offer.

The closing of the tender offer will be subject to certain conditions set forth in the merger agreement, including the tender of shares representing at least a majority of the total number of Potbelly’s outstanding shares, the expiration or termination of the applicable waiting period under the HSR Act and other customary conditions. Upon the successful completion of the tender offer, RaceTrac will acquire all remaining shares not tendered in the tender offer through a second-step merger at the same price per share.

Until the transaction closes, both companies will continue to operate independently.

Advisors
BofA Securities acted as exclusive financial advisor and Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP acted as legal advisor to RaceTrac. Piper Sandler acted as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisor to Potbelly.

About Potbelly
Potbelly Corporation is a neighborhood sandwich concept that has been feeding customers’ smiles with warm, toasty sandwiches, signature salads, hand-dipped shakes and other fresh menu items, customized just the way customers want them, for more than 40 years. Potbelly promises Fresh, Fast & Friendly service in an environment that reflects the local neighborhood. Since opening its first shop in Chicago in 1977, Potbelly has expanded to neighborhoods across the country - with more than 445 shops in the United States including more than 105 franchised shops in the United States. For more information, please visit Potbelly’s website at www.Potbelly.com.

About RaceTrac, Inc.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, family-owned RaceTrac, Inc. is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States, serving guests since 1934. The company’s retail brands include more than 800 RaceTrac® and RaceWay® retail locations in 14 states and approximately 1,200 Gulf® branded locations across the United States and Puerto Rico. RaceTrac employs more than 10,000 team members across RaceTrac, RaceWay and affiliated companies Energy Dispatch and Gulf, Inc. For more information, please visit RaceTrac’s website at www.RaceTrac.com.

March 18, 2025, Bethany, Conn. – LATICRETE, a manufacturer of globally proven construction solutions for the building industry, has achieved UL certification for fire resistance (R38963) for several of its trusted, cement-based self-leveling underlayments. NXT^® Level, NXT Level Flow, SUPERCAP^® SC500, and SUPERCAP SC500-PLUS are now certified in accordance with ANSI/UL 263 and ASTM E84 standards for up to two hours in 15 of the most common fire-rated floor-to-ceiling assemblies. This certifies that the products meet rigorous safety standards that help architects, specifiers, contractors, and installers comply with fire codes and enhance building safety. It also adds an essential layer of fire protection in multi-story buildings and high-occupancy spaces where safety and code compliance are critical.

“This achievement underscores the kind of continuous improvement that makes LATICRETE a leader,” said Joseph Rizzo, director of sales for concrete and substrate preparation at LATICRETE. “Pushing the envelope on product safety and versatility is how we’ve set the standard for decades. This UL designation joins other accomplishments for these products, including UL GREENGUARD^® certifications and environmental product declarations for select materials. Certifying the fire resistance of these underlayments reaffirms that going with LATICRETE continues to be a prudent choice for projects large and small.”

NXT Level, NXT Level Flow, SUPERCAP SC500, and SUPERCAP SC500-PLUS are high-strength, cement-based self-leveling underlayments that are ideal for projects where superior floor flatness is essential. Such underlayments outperform traditional gypsum underlayments with faster cure times, enhanced durability, superior water resistance, and direct compatibility with flooring adhesives.

As with other LATICRETE products, these offerings are formulated with the needs of contractors and installers in mind. Speed and efficiency are held paramount, which is why these LATICRETE underlayments are walkable within one to four hours and allow for flooring installation in as little as 16 to 24 hours. The pumpable and pourable formulations ensure smooth, level surfaces over a range of substrates with no sealer required.

For more information, visit https://www.laticrete.com.

# # #

About LATICRETE
LATICRETE is a leading manufacturer of globally proven construction solutions for the building industry. LATICRETE offers a broad range of products and systems covering tile & stone installation and care, masonry installation and care, resinous and decorative floor finishes, concrete construction chemicals, and concrete restoration and care including the SUPERCAP^® System. For over 65 years, LATICRETE has been committed to research and development of innovative installation products, building a reputation for superior quality, performance and customer service. LATICRETE methods, materials, and technology have been field and laboratory proven by Architects, Engineers, Contractors and Owners. Offering an array of low VOC and sustainable products, LATICRETE^® products contribute to LEED certification, exceed commercial/residential VOC building requirements, and are backed by the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. For more information, visit laticrete.com.

ADDISON, Ill., Feb. 26, 2025 -- Parts Town Unlimited, the parent company of Parts Town, the global leader in high-tech distribution of OEM foodservice equipment parts, residential appliance parts, HVAC parts, consumer electronic parts, and related products, today announced annual revenue of $2.5 billion for 2024. The group now includes 46 brands across 147 global locations serving 171 countries and has grown to more than 5,500 team members worldwide.

In 2024, all four divisions of Parts Town Unlimited achieved record revenue levels. Parts Town, the company's largest division, and Parts Town's Home division, focused on residential appliance parts distribution, saw the highest revenue growth performance. Within Parts Town, the most significant growth came from parts sales to independent service companies across North America, and from its fast-growing HVAC segment, which delivered 55% year-over-year growth. This expansion was driven by new and expanded partnerships with 89 manufacturers and increased product availability across critical HVAC lines. Parts Town expects to continue to deliver high growth in this product category for years to come.

Parts Town Unlimited was named to the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing companies for the 16th consecutive year. It also advanced to the 43rd position on Crain's Chicago Business Largest Privately Held Companies list, reflecting its consistent growth and expanding market influence. Additionally, Parts Town Unlimited earned a spot on Crain's Chicago Business Fast 50 list for the 11th time, celebrating its sustained innovation and operational excellence.

"We had another strong year in 2024, delivering growth across the organization despite some industry and economic headwinds that we didn't fully anticipate. We are proud to have delivered a record year, while making substantial investments in our future. The talent, infrastructure, and digital investments we made in 2024 will help us accelerate towards our vision in the coming years," said Steve Snower, Sixth Man (aka CEO), Parts Town Unlimited. "Our culture, core values, and amazing team members across the globe continue to be the true strength of our organization. We will continue to focus on customer happiness and helping our manufacturer partners achieve their goals. We are truly excited about what 2025 has in store."

Innovation Breakthroughs

Parts Town launched industry-first digital parts identification tool, PartPredictor. The artificial intelligence (AI)-backed solution utilizes the power of real-world data from millions of successful repairs to help technicians find the right parts faster than ever by identifying the most frequently used parts for specific equipment issues.

Supporting the growth of the HVAC division, the company launched HVAC Data Plate Scanner, a visual search capability that allows HVAC technicians to effortlessly identify and purchase the exact parts they need by simply scanning the data plate on HVAC equipment.

Further strengthening its commitment to fast and reliable service, Parts Town expanded its Same Day Delivery reach, now covering a 50-mile radius across 130 locations. This initiative ensures customers receive critical parts the same day, minimizing equipment downtime and maximizing operational efficiency. As a result, Parts Town's Same Day Delivery orders increased by 355% from January 2024 to January 2025, including a 163% increase in May 2024 after the radius was expanded from 20 to 50 miles.

Expansion of Distribution Capabilities

In 2024, Parts Town Unlimited continued to enhance its distribution capabilities to meet growing demand and better serve customers. The company opened a fully automated, state-of-the-art 427,000-square-foot global fulfillment center in the Phoenix area, significantly increasing shipping speed and inventory availability.

Additionally, Parts Town launched master distribution partnerships with an additional 21 manufacturer brands in 2024. The company now has over 240 master distribution programs and supports over 1,200 manufacturers in total. Parts Town Europe and Parts Town's Home division also added several master distribution partnerships and related programs.

Accelerating Digital Growth & Customer Engagement

With a strong commitment to improving our customer experience, Parts Town Unlimited continues to develop digital-first solutions that streamline the parts ordering process, ensuring customers can quickly and efficiently find the exact parts they need. The company achieved significant digital results in 2024, including over 200,000 daily web visits and 400,000 total mobile app downloads.

Investing in Expertise

The company is committed to continued growth with the hiring of several new leaders who bring decades of combined experience in their roles.

In November 2024, Parts Town Unlimited welcomed Chris Dacey to the group as Keeper of the Compass (aka Chief Strategy and Operations Officer). Chris has been deeply involved in the business in his prior role as Operating Partner at Berkshire Partners, where he served as the company's lead private equity sponsor since 2016. In his new role, Chris leads strategic planning, operations, IT, and the project management office for the group.

Lisa Backlin was brought onto the team in September 2024 as Network Navigator (aka Group Vice President of Supply Chain). Lisa brings deep experience in distribution network design and optimization and her ability to build a global distribution strategy has helped Parts Town Unlimited to continue to drive the highest levels of customer satisfaction in the industry

To accelerate growth in Parts Town's Home division, Mark Bickenbach was appointed Group President, while Chris Dennison was hired as Chief Operations Officer. Their skills in areas such as supply chain optimization, e-commerce, and high-tech product development will be instrumental in realizing the company's vision for supporting residential appliance and equipment needs and continuing to deliver exceptional value to its customers and stakeholders.

To further advance its digital transformation and enhance customer experience, Parts Town Unlimited appointed Jamie Head as Chief Tech Whisperer (aka Chief Information Officer) in July 2024. Jamie brings a wealth of experience leading and partnering across various digital transformations and capability building for growth and efficiency.

About Parts Town Unlimited

Parts Town Unlimited is the parent company of over 45 unique brands worldwide which collectively serve as a global leader in the high-tech distribution of genuine original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for foodservice equipment, residential appliances, HVAC equipment and consumer electronics, as well as related products and services. Parts Town Unlimited is constantly working to create user-friendly parts identification tools, expand its high-tech distribution capabilities and foster forward-thinking innovations.

Guided by its core values of Safety, Integrity, Community, Passion, Courage, and Innovation, Parts Town Unlimited delivers infinite possibilities, unlimited potential, and boundless innovation with a focus on people and long-term partnerships. The company was recently recognized by The Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S. for the 16th consecutive year.

ADDISON, Ill. – Dec. 6, 2024 – Parts Town Unlimited, the parent company of Parts Town, a global leader in the high-tech distribution of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice equipment parts, residential appliance parts, HVAC parts, consumer electronic parts and related products, has celebrated the grand opening of its new 427,000-square-foot, cutting-edge fulfillment center in Litchfield Park, Ariz. The new fulfillment center is designed to support accelerated growth and product expansion and will initially create jobs for hundreds of new team members.

The new facility is Parts Town Unlimited’s largest fulfillment center yet, featuring even more high-tech automation and robotics solutions than at its global fulfillment center in Addison, Ill. The facility’s inventory includes commercial appliance parts, residential appliance parts and HVAC parts to support Parts Town and Encompass Supply Chain Solutions, which operates within Parts Town Unlimited’s Home division.

“With the addition of this new, Global Fulfillment Center, we now have significant additional capacity to serve our growing customer base and to grow OEM parts share in support of our manufacturer partners around the world,” said Steve Snower, Sixth Man (aka CEO), Parts Town Unlimited. “This facility will ultimately support several categories of mission critical parts where in-stock availability and speed of delivery is highly consequential.”

Parts Town Unlimited offers the most in-stock parts on the planet, with hundreds of thousands of unique parts stocked across several facilities. The company’s unique inventory management algorithm, combined with cutting-edge innovations in its picking, packing and receiving areas, have helped to optimize efficiency and delivery speed while supporting accelerated growth.

Parts Town Unlimited is continuously recognized for its unique culture and investment in its team members, including upskilling and reskilling employees to enable them to work with innovative, next-generation automated technologies. The company’s strategy emphasizes digital leadership, operational excellence, and long-term, high-integrity partnerships, supported by its relentless focus on its core values.

About Parts Town Unlimited

Parts Town Unlimited is the parent company of over 50 unique brands worldwide which collectively serve as a global leader in the high-tech distribution of genuine original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for foodservice equipment, residential appliances, HVAC equipment and consumer electronics, as well as related products. Parts Town Unlimited is constantly working to create user-friendly parts identification tools, expand its high-tech distribution capabilities and foster forward-thinking innovations.

Guided by its core values of Safety, Integrity, Community, Passion, Courage, and Innovation, Parts Town Unlimited delivers infinite possibilities, unlimited potential, and boundless innovation with a focus on people and long-term partnerships. The company was recently recognized by The Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S. for the 16th consecutive year.

GREENVILLE, SC, November 15, 2024—Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has partnered with A-1 Services, A-1 Restaurant Equipment Services, Assured Power and Diversified Heating & Air (collectively, the “A-1 Service Group“).

A-1 Service Group is based in Oak Creek, Wisconsin and serves the maintenance, repair and installation needs of commercial and residential customers across Wisconsin and Illinois via 4 leading brands:

• A-1 Services has over 25 years of experience in the commercial heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration business.
• A-1 Restaurant Equipment Services provides parts and services needed to maintain commercial foodservice equipment across a variety of fast food, casual and fine dining restaurants.
• Assured Power is a full-service licensed electrical contractor.
• Diversified Heating and Air offers a complete line of residential HVAC services for single and multi-family homes.

“I am excited for the future” said Terry Martinez, President of A-1 Service Group. “The resources Tech24 can provide will help us grow our service capability and footprint in Wisconsin and beyond.”

“We are excited to add A-1 Service Group to the Tech24 family. They have a proven track record of providing superior service to their long-standing customers. A-1 Service Group strengthens our presence in parts of Illinois and allows us to extend our service to the Wisconsin market. We look forward to working with Terry’s team to better serve all our customers.” said Dan Rodstrom, CEO of Tech24.

About Tech24

Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 27 states from coast to coast with highly qualified service technicians equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.  

SAGINAW, Mich. — Duro-Last, a member of Holcim Building Envelope, is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Warner as its new Vice President of Operations. With more than 20 years of experience in operational leadership and a strong background in lean manufacturing and strategic process optimization, Warner will be instrumental in enhancing Duro-Last’s operational excellence and advancing its commitment to safety and superior customer service.

"I am honored to join Duro-Last and contribute to the legacy of excellence that has made the company a trusted leader in commercial roofing,” Warner said. “Duro-Last’s reputation for quality and its close, collaborative relationships with contractors set it apart in the industry. I am excited to bring my experience to help build on these strengths, driving operational enhancements that support both our partners and our ambitious growth goals.”

In this role, Warner will focus on expanding Duro-Last’s manufacturing footprint, lean manufacturing principles and operational efficiencies. His role will also encompass strategic planning, supply chain management and capital improvement initiatives, all aimed at driving Duro-Last’s growth and ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality roofing solutions.

Warner brings a wealth of industry experience, having previously served as vice president of operations for Omnimax International, where he managed a network of 11 sites and achieved substantial value creation through lean methodologies. Prior to that, he served as vice president of operations at Boral Building Products Inc., where he successfully implemented safety and enterprise resource planning systems across multiple locations, spearheading cross-functional initiatives that increased revenue and enhanced operational performance.

Darren Schulz, president of Duro-Last, shared his confidence in Warner’s leadership. “Chris brings a wealth of experience in operational leadership and a proven track record in driving efficiency and safety improvements across complex organizations. His expertise will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our operations and deliver outstanding service to our contractors and customers. We look forward to the positive impact he will make in helping Duro-Last reach new heights of operational excellence.”

In addition to Duro-Last, Warner will lead the manufacturing operations of sister brands EXCEPTIONAL^® Metals, Plastatech^® Engineering, Oscoda Plastics^®, TIP-TOP^® Screw Manufacturing and Anvil Paints & Coatings.

About Duro-Last

Duro-Last is a leading manufacturer of custom-fabricated thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems based in Saginaw, Michigan, with seven manufacturing locations across the U.S. Known as the “World’s Best Roof^®”, Duro-Last is the world’s largest manufacturer of custom-fabricated, thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems. Factory controlled custom-fabrication can eliminate up to 85% of field seams, resulting in lower on-site labor costs and easier installation. Duro-Last’s roofing systems are sustainable and durable. More than two billion square feet of Duro-Last membrane has been installed throughout North America. Duro-Last is a division of Holcim Solutions and Products US, LLC. For more information on Duro-Last, call 800.248.0280 or visit duro-last.com.

About Holcim Building Envelope

Holcim Building Envelope delivers high-performance solutions that make the entire building envelope more sustainable for customers around the world. We are committed to raising the standards of building solutions by delivering superior quality and innovation while addressing industry needs. Our offerings cover a comprehensive range of residential and commercial roofing, wall and lining systems, insulation and waterproofing solutions for a variety of industries from construction to marine and aerospace. Our powerful portfolio of brands includes Elevate Commercial Roofing Systems, Duro-Last Roofing Systems, Malarkey Roofing Products, GenFlex Roofing Systems, Gaco and Enverge Spray Foam. Holcim Building Envelope is a division of the Holcim Group. Visit HolcimBE.com to learn more.

BALTIMORE, MD – October 10, 2024 – Electric Motor Repair Company (EMR), a leading provider of service, parts, and installation to the commercial kitchen and industrial motor sectors, celebrated National Tradesperson Day on Friday, September 20, 2024. To honor their technicians and recognize the importance of the trades industry, all five EMR branches closed from 8 AM to 12 PM for a morning of appreciation. During the celebration, each branch enjoyed a hearty breakfast, team-building activities, and engaging trivia. The event was highlighted by exciting prizes and hourly cash drawings, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Each year, EMR extends their National Tradesperson Day celebration throughout the entire month of September, using their social media platforms — Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn — to share customer testimonials, industry facts, and statistics that showcase the essential work of skilled trades professionals.

Tradespeople are integral to the proper utilization of resources, ensuring that communities can function smoothly and comfortably. EMR’s annual campaign goes beyond their sector, aiming to raise awareness about the critical role all trades play in supporting society.

To see a recap from the celebrations, click here.

Electric Motor Repair Company (EMR)
EMR is a leading provider of service, parts, and installation to the commercial kitchen, refrigeration, industrial motor, elevator and marine industries. Founded in 1927 in Baltimore, Maryland, EMR is a third-generation family-owned business that operates five locations to serve the mid-Atlantic region. For more information about EMR, visit www.emrco.com.

IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Habit Burger, known for its award-winning Charburgers, with its iconic Double Char recently being ranked #1 in USA TODAY’s 10Best, today announces a significant brand evolution. The beloved fast-casual restaurant chain is officially changing its name from The Habit Burger Grill to Habit Burger & Grill, embracing the ampersand that has always been at the heart of its identity.

This change reflects the brand's commitment to offering more than just burgers. From hand-spun milkshakes and crispy tempura green beans to innovative salads and chef-inspired sandwiches, Habit Burger & Grill has always been about the "&" - the extras that make the dining experience special.

"We're not changing - we're just embracing what we've always been - an '&' brand," said Jack Hinchliffe, Chief Marketing Officer at Habit Burger & Grill. "This simple rebrand is a celebration of our diverse menu, our commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the connections we've built with our customers and communities over the years."

The new name highlights the brand's dedication to variety, innovation, and the warm, Southern California hospitality that has been its hallmark since 1969. It also underscores the company's focus on creating meaningful experiences that go beyond just serving great food.

The rebrand will be rolled out across the brand’s marketing materials, packaging and digital platforms starting August 28, 2024. Customers can expect the same fresh, made-to-order food and service they've always enjoyed, now with a name that better represents the full Habit Burger & Grill experience.

Connect with Habit Burger & Grill on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @habitburgerandgrill.

About The Habit Restaurants, Inc.

Born in sunny Southern California in 1969, The Habit Burger Grill is known for Charburgers cooked-to-order over an open flame. But the menu extends far beyond burgers – it's a celebration of Californian-inspired flavors. Alongside the brand's signature Charburgers is a meaningful array of handcrafted sandwiches, crisp salads, and creamy shakes, ensuring there's something for everyone. The Habit Burger Grill has earned notable recognition, it’s Double Char and Tempura Green Beans both being voted #1 in USA TODAY’s 10Best in 2024, as well as being featured in Newsweek’s “America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains 2023” and praised for its Tempura Green Beans, named as the top green bean dish in The Daily Meal’s “Ranking Green Bean Dishes From 11 Chain Restaurants” in 2023. Additionally, it was listed in Thrillist’s roundup of “Underrated Burger Chains that Need to be in Every State!” The Habit Burger Grill has since grown to over 380 restaurants across 14 states and internationally – and continues to grow, serving up delicious meals that capture the essence of California feel-good food. Learn more at www.habitburger.com. 

The Habit Burger Grill Press Contact: HBGMedia@yum.com

ADDISON, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Unlimited Service Group, a group of local foodservice equipment repair providers, today announced the launch of USG Connect, an innovative new repair and maintenance management platform designed to streamline and simplify the repair and maintenance of commercial kitchen equipment.

USG Connect provides commercial kitchens with a one-stop solution for hassle-free and scalable equipment service. The exclusive platform offers a user-friendly digital experience that allows restaurants, hospitals, hotels and more, to consolidate and manage their service requests into a single maintenance management system. No matter the size of the organization, USG Connect brings the power of 35+ trusted local service brands with more than 125 locations into a consistent service experience for our customers, ensuring seamless and effective management of all foodservice equipment service requests in one, easy-to-use online platform.

The platform empowers operators to effortlessly schedule and monitor foodservice equipment repairs and maintenance. Users can submit work orders for multiple locations at any time, free of charge, through USG Connect. The tool offers 24/7/365 access to detailed, real-time updates, allowing operators to stay informed about the status of their service requests. With robust, strategic insights, customers can understand exactly what is happening with their foodservice equipment, enabling smarter decisions that save time and money.

“Our team is excited to launch USG Connect, our latest innovation. We believe service is best done in your hometown and USG Connect allows restaurant owners and other commercial kitchen operators to manage their service needs across all our unique local brands,” said Kristen Nowak, President of Field Service of Unlimited Service Group. “Our goal with USG Connect is to transform the way commercial kitchens manage their equipment installations, repairs and maintenance. It’s more than just a service platform, it’s a commitment to operational excellence.”

USG Connect is powered by Unlimited Service Group, a community of over 35 local service companies with over 1,600 manufacturer-trained technicians across North America. For more information about USG Connect or to see if your company qualifies for the platform, visit www.unlimitedservice.com/usg-connect.

About Unlimited Service Group

Unlimited Service Group is a community of over 35 commercial foodservice equipment installation, repair and maintenance providers that believes service is done best in your hometown by local technicians and team members providing expert service with differentiated parts access and local stock. Unlimited Service Group looks to support its team members, customers and manufacturers by bringing the leading hometown brands into the group to facilitate best practice sharing, and to unite the group in areas that create real value for all. Wherever there is a problem with commercial foodservice or HVAC equipment, Unlimited Service Group is there to help.

For more information, visit https://www.unlimitedservice.com/.

Greenville, SC – August 15, 2024 – Tech24, a leading provider of foodservice equipment repair, maintenance, and installation, is proud to announce its inclusion in the prestigious 2024 Inc. 5000 list, ranking at No. 1544. This marks the second time Tech24 and its family of companies have earned a place on Inc. magazine’s annual list, a recognition that only 19% of companies achieve more than once.

Since its inception in 1982, Inc. 5000 has celebrated the fastest-growing privately held companies in America, highlighting their remarkable contributions to the national economy. The businesses featured on this year’s list have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and growth, with an average revenue increase of 534.75% since 2020—a challenging period marked by the global pandemic.

“Congratulations to you and your team. You should be extremely proud of how your vision, innovation, and superior execution at Tech24 have produced dramatic results and ROI,” said Mike Hofman, Inc. Editor-in-Chief.

Tech24’s continued growth is driven by its commitment to providing comprehensive, reliable service to its customers across various industries. The company specializes in a full range of services, from equipment repair and preventive maintenance to new installations, ensuring that clients can depend on their kitchen equipment to perform at peak efficiency.

The Inc. 5000 list is a hallmark of entrepreneurial success, and making the list twice places Tech24 among the most dynamic and resilient businesses in the country. The full Inc. 5000 list, including company profiles and an interactive database, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000.

About Tech24

Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 27 states from coast to coast with highly qualified service technicians equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.  

WHO: BIBIBOP  Asian Grill

WHAT: BIBIBOP Asian Grill, the leader in healthy, affordable Asian-inspired cuisine, is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest location at 398 West Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, IL 60108. Starting this Thursday, the Bloomingdale community can experience BIBIBOP’s commitment to Well B•ing seven days a week, with a menu designed to promote healthy eating through delicious, real, and unprocessed food. 

At BIBIBOP, guests are empowered to build their own bowls, choosing from a variety of fresh bases, proteins, vegetables, and sauces. This personalized approach allows everyone to create meals that cater to their individual dietary needs, whether they’re seeking gluten-free, vegan, or protein-packed options.

This new Bloomingdale location marks an exciting chapter in BIBIBOP’s expansion in Illinois, as they continue their mission to make healthy eating accessible and enjoyable for all. Every BIBIBOP restaurant offers a unique dining experience, blending Korean-inspired roots with a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that reflects dedication to the well-being of their guests.

Join BIBIBOP in Bloomingdale and discover how well-being can start with a good meal.

GRAND OPENING:

Win Free BIBIBOP for a Year: During the grand opening day, 50 random guests will win 52 FREE BIBIBOP bowls (one Free Bowl coupon per week, valid only at the Bloomingdale location)! Other prizes include free drinks, desserts, and more. Guests must be 13+ to claim their prize.

Wear Orange for $5 Off: Show your support by wearing Orange and receive $5 off your order in-store order on grand opening day. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Free Bowls for Civic Workers: During our grand opening, medical professionals, educators, and members of the police and fire departments can enjoy a complimentary bowl in-store only with a valid ID.

BIBIBOP Rewards Exclusive Offer: Guests who visit or order online throughout the opening weekend (August 22-25, 2024) and use their BIBIBOP Rewards app will receive a BOGO Bowl Reward added to their account on August 26, 2024.

WHEN:

Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting – Thursday, August 22nd at 10:30 AM, and then open to the public at 11:00 AM.

WHERE: 398 West Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, IL 60108

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: To learn more about BIBIBOP visit bibibop.com or visit BIBIBOP on social media @bibibopasiangrill.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Sarah Walters, walters@rmdadvertising.com or 614.794.2008

Jasmine Clark, clark@rmdadvertising.com or 614.794.2008

[IRVINE, CALIFORNIA, July 25, 2024] — Ecotrak is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Disruptive Technologies, a leading provider of innovative sensor solutions. The collaboration is set to revolutionize asset monitoring for convenience stores, quick service restaurants (QSRs), and food retailers by bringing cutting-edge temperature monitoring technology to the forefront of operational efficiency and food safety.

“We are thrilled to partner with Disruptive Technologies. Their advanced sensor solutions perfectly complement our facility management software, offering unparalleled benefits to our clients in the convenience and restaurant industries,” said Matt Singer, CEO at Ecotrak.

H&S Energy Products, will be the first to test and implement this advanced integration, leveraging Disruptive Technologies’ state-of-the-art sensors to enhance their facility management processes while ensuring the highest food safety standards are met.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Safety

The partnership between Ecotrak and Disruptive Technologies aims to provide C-Stores and QSRs with comprehensive, real-time data about their facilities. By integrating Disruptive Technologies’ tiny wireless sensors with Ecotrak’s robust facility management platform, users can expect a seamless experience in monitoring and managing their fridges, freezers, coolers and heating equipment.

Key Benefits of the Partnership:

● Maximize Store Revenue: Ecotrak’s platform leverages Disruptive Technologies sensor data to automate work order creation and ensure equipment downtime is minimized, increasing store sales.
● Cost Efficiency: By tracking equipment performance, optimizing maintenance schedules, and mitigating unexpected failures, retailers can significantly reduce operational costs over the 15 year life of the Disruptive Technologies temperature sensor.
● Enhanced Safety: Disruptive Technologies sensors help detect issues in temperature controlled food holding areas, keeping food safe for customers.
● Task Elimination: Real-time sensor data eliminates the need for store staff to manually check equipment temperatures, freeing up time for higher value tasks like customer experience.

Customer Success: H&S Energy

By integrating temperature sensors on refrigeration units and automating service requests based on real-time data, H&S Energy is enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring optimal equipment performance across its facilities.

“H&S Energy is committed to leveraging the latest technology to enhance our operations. The integration of Ecotrak’s software with Disruptive Technologies’ sensors is a game-changer, promising significant improvements in efficiency and safety,” said Fidaa Mohrez, Senior Director of Operational Systems at H&S Energy Products.

Ecotrak and Disruptive Technologies will host a webinar in Q3 to showcase the integration of their cutting-edge solution. Participants will gain insight into how these technologies enhance facility management, ensuring food safety and operational efficiency. Interested parties are encouraged to join the invite list to attend the live webinar.

About Ecotrak

Ecotrak is changing the way work is done by pioneering the first Intelligent Facilities Management SaaS platform for multi-site businesses. Ecotrak’s Enterprise Asset Management Solution combines AI-enabled software with a network of highly trained service providers to digitally automate repair and maintenance workflows. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Irvine, California, Ecotrak’s mission is to empower businesses with actionable information to make better business decisions. Customers such as Flynn Group, Dutch Bros Coffee and Dave & Buster’s are reducing time, expenses and risk associated with facilities management. Learn more at ecotrak.com.

About Disruptive Technologies

Disruptive Technologies is the developer of the world’s smallest wireless sensors and an award-winning innovator in the IoT market. Disruptive Technologies offers businesses an easy way to collect data from buildings, facilities and assets. The easy-to-use, affordable, plug-and-play sensors can be deployed anywhere in minutes and offer up to 15 years of battery life. Together with partners such as Ecotrak, they collect millions of data points and provide actionable insights for a proactive approach to facilities management.

Nashville, TN | July 16, 2024 Stones River Electric has completed its acquisition of Superior Lighting Inc., based in Omaha, Nebraska. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to expand our presence throughout the Midwest.

Stones River Electric and Superior Lighting Inc. share a rich history of collaboration in the industry. This acquisition not only adds staff in four Midwest states but also extends our National Account service team's coverage to four new states.

We are excited about the positive growth this acquisition will bring both in the Midwest and nationwide through our facility services teams.

About Stones River Electric
Stones River Electric is a national provider of electrical, lighting, and energy services, founded in 1990 in Nashville, Tennessee. An award-winning electrical contractor, Stones River Electric offers extensive experience in the design, installation, management, and maintenance of facility lighting, electrical, and sign systems.
www.stonesriverelectric.com

Paramus, NJ – Leo Facilities Maintenance (“Leo FM”), a facilities maintenance service provider network backed by Orion Group (“Orion”), announced today that it has partnered with RSM Facility Solutions (“RSM”), a leading commercial facilities maintenance provider based in Paramus, NJ. As Leo FM’s tenth investment in the facilities maintenance industry, this partnership deepens and expands Leo FM’s service capabilities for multi-site commercial customers across the United States and Canada. Leo FM is building a national facilities maintenance business by partnering with exceptional, founder-owned businesses and supplying the resources needed to fuel their next chapter of growth.

Founded in 1998 by three brothers, Stephen, Rob, and Mike Sargenti, RSM is a leading service provider that delivers enterprise-wide solutions for regional & national multi-site customers as their first call, best resource, and most trusted solutions partner. RSM employs a team of dedicated customer account specialists, complemented with subject matter experts across key trades – including handyman, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC – committed to understanding and exceeding customer needs. With decades of expertise in servicing commercial facilities for national brands and an expansive breadth of service capabilities, RSM’s team prides itself on delivering the RSM Advantage and on the long-standing relationships they have built with their clients.

“RSM’s history of delivering the highest quality service possible has earned it a reputation as a leading facility solutions company,” said Will Adams, Orion Co-CEO. “This partnership will enhance the service offering we can bring to existing and new customers. Orion and the Leo FM team are proud to partner with the great team at RSM.”

“RSM is extremely enthusiastic about our new partnership with Orion,” said Stephen Sargenti. “This will give us access to additional resources, advanced technology, and broader market reach. The partnership will also enable us to enhance our services and deliver even greater value to our clients, allowing us to push the boundaries of what RSM can achieve.”

Stout served as financial advisor to RSM, and Morrison & Foerster served as legal counsel to Orion.

About Leo FM

Leo FM is a network of expert facilities maintenance companies offering an expansive range of interior and exterior services, delivered through a team of high-performance self-perform technicians and a vetted network of service partners. Key services include, but are not limited to, handyman, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, locks, doors, landscaping, snow and paving. With a team of industry veterans committed to providing excellent quality for all customers, Leo FM is the trusted single-source provider for regional and national customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information, please visit www.leo-fm.com.

About RSM Facility Solutions

RSM Facility Solutions is a leading facilities maintenance company with expertise in servicing facilities across the U.S. Through a network of leading technicians and vetted service partners across the country with decades-long expertise in providing maintenance and repair solutions, RSM can resolve all facility needs.

About Orion Group

Orion Group is a commercial and industrial field services company that invests in and grows market-leading businesses. Orion is building national businesses in multiple field services sectors by investing in companies with great cultures, attracting the best technical and managerial talent, and creating unmatched growth opportunities for them. For more information, please visit www.orionservicesgroup.com. Orion is backed by Alpine Investors, a people-driven private equity firm committed to building enduring companies by working with, learning from, and developing exceptional people.

About Alpine

Alpine Investors is a people-driven private equity firm committed to building enduring companies by working with, learning from, and developing exceptional people. Alpine specializes in investments in the software and services industries. Alpine’s PeopleFirst strategy includes a talent program that allows Alpine to bring leadership to situations where additional or new management is needed post-transaction. Alpine has over $17B in assets under management and has three offices in San Francisco, New York, and Salt Lake City. For more information, visit www.alpineinvestors.com.

Contact

For business inquiries, please contact Dan Teti at dan@orionservicesgroup.com.

For media inquiries, please contact Audrey Harris at aharris@alpineinvestors.com.

Branson, MO – July 1st, 2024 – US Handyman Service is delighted to announce Lynn Harnishfeger as its new Executive Vice President. Lynn brings a wealth of experience and expertise in leadership and strategic acumen to this pivotal role.

As Executive Vice President, Lynn will play a crucial role in driving US Handyman's continued growth and success in the facilities industry. Her responsibilities include overseeing new partnerships, guiding corporate strategy, and fostering market growth.

Lynn has a distinguished career, demonstrating exceptional leadership in various industry organizations. She served as the RFMA 2018 Vendor Board Representative and was honored as Vendor of the Year for her contributions to the restaurant industry. Lynn also served on the PRSM Board of Directors, 2008 as a retailer for 3 years and 2013 as a vendor board member.

Lynn's journey in facilities management began in 2001 with Dollar Tree Stores, where she managed store facilities. In 2008, she transitioned to the vendor side. With over 24 years of industry experience, Lynn possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics and a strategic vision that aligns perfectly with the goals of the Moore Family and US Handyman Service.

"We are thrilled to welcome Lynn to the US group of companies as our new Executive Vice President," said Keith Moore, Co-founder of US Exterior Maintenance & Repair and US Handyman Service. "Her leadership and proven ability to drive results will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and expand our presence in the facilities industry."

Please join us in congratulating Lynn Harnishfeger on her new role. We eagerly anticipate the valuable contributions she will bring to the executive team at US Handyman Services.

RICHARDSON, TX, June 18, 2024 - ENTOUCH, a leading provider of energy management solutions for multisite operators, is proud to announce it has been named a winner of Inc. Magazine’s 2024 Best Workplaces Awards. This prestigious recognition underscores ENTOUCH’s commitment to fostering an engaging, supportive, and high-performing workplace.

ENTOUCH’s Commitment to Excellence

ENTOUCH has consistently demonstrated its dedication to team member satisfaction and engagement. The company participated in Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces program, which measures a wide range of research-validated workplace factors that impact team member engagement and satisfaction. This year, over 95% of ENTOUCH’s employees completed the survey, resulting in an impressive score that reflects the company’s outstanding work environment.

Jon Bolen, CEO of ENTOUCH, stated, “Too often organizations say, ‘Our team members are our most valuable asset” without really committing themselves to that mantra.   This award is a testament to our entire team’s hard work and dedication.  We have made a strategic commitment to build an outstanding culture and we have succeeded. More importantly, we are committed to continuing to provide an environment where our team feels valued, supported, and motivated to achieve their best.”

What Makes ENTOUCH an Inc. Best Workplace

ENTOUCH’s recognition as a top workplace is validated by the feedback and testimonials from its employees:

• "ENTOUCH is focused on improving the planet while also providing a safe, welcoming, and diverse environment for their employees.”

• "I like the culture here. The people are respectful and mindful of everyone’s situation. Management is flexible and understands everyone’s unique needs.”

• "This organization is an incredible place to work with a community that is extremely supportive. Our leadership team is invested in the development of our team, both personally and professionally."

Looking Ahead

ENTOUCH is committed to maintaining its status as a top workplace, driving innovation in energy management, and maintaining the lead in speed and deployment quality. The company’s focus on team member engagement and satisfaction, coupled with its cutting-edge technology, positions it for continued success in the future.

For more information about ENTOUCH and its energy management solutions, please visit ENTOUCH’s website.

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About ENTOUCH

Founded in Dallas, Texas, in 2008, ENTOUCH is the leader in energy management as a service and smart building technology. We create a path to a healthier planet by delivering sustainable solutions that reduce energy usage, drive profitably, and simplify facility management for multisite operators.  Our turnkey solution digitally transforms and optimizes operations for multisite businesses. We are the only provider that owns our entire technology stack and can take over heterogeneous systems and manage them from a single cloud solution. We lead the industry in speed, deployment quality, and ENTOUCH.360 service has earned a 100% renewal rate.

New Lisbon, Wisconsin – June 4, 2024 – Leer Inc., a leading brand in temperature-controlled storage solutions, proudly announces the release of its latest product line: Refrigerated Reach-In Storage Solutions. Engineered for diverse commercial applications, these units are perfect for restaurants, convenience stores, and more, offering superior reliability and flexibility for both Indoor and Outdoor cold storage needs.

Introducing the new line of Refrigerated Reach-In Storage units, available in both indoor and outdoor models, including the S40 Cooler, S40 Freezer, S85 Cooler, and the S85 Freezer.

“We understand the challenges businesses face in maximizing their cold storage capacities with reliable and efficient solutions. Our new, fully-weatherproof, Outdoor Refrigerated Reach-In Storage units address these needs by allowing businesses to leverage their unused outdoor real estate.” – Ben Albregts, President of Leer, Inc.

Weatherproof Construction: Create extra cold storage away from your paying customers. The patented offset seams are precision machine formed, resulting in water-tight lock-form seams. This creates a robust weatherproof product, that you can place outside for years to come.

Precise Temperature Control: Be confident your product will remain in optimal condition. Eco-friendly R290 refrigerant, electronic controls, and a automatic defrost system delivers precise temperature control (34 to 46°F for Coolers; -4°F to 0°F for Freezers).

User Convenience: Adjustable heavy-duty shelving each capable of 100lbs, large door openings, and LED lighting provide easy access and superior organization.

Leer’s Refrigerated Reach-In Storage offers a reliable and efficient solution for extra cold storage needs. To learn more, visit: https://leerinc.com/products/refrigerated-reach-in-storage/

About Leer Inc.

Through decades of commitment to product development, customer service and a relentless focus on American-made manufacturing excellence, Leer has continued to shape and drive innovation in the temperature-controlled storage industry. We’re dedicated to the success of all our customers – be those customers of our iconic white Ice Merchandisers, Refrigerated Reach-In Storage Units, Refrigerated Trailers, or our custom-built Walk-In Coolers & Freezers.

GREENVILLE, SC, May 29, 2024—Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, is excited to announce that ProCold will join forces with AmeriCold to expand service capabilities across the NYC market.

“New York is the largest market for our services, so it makes sense for Tech24 to continue investing in our ability to serve this market,” said Dan Rodstrom, CEO of Tech24. “ProCold’s addition to the family will strengthen AmeriCold’s ability to serve our customers’ refrigeration needs across the New York City metro.”

ProCold offers comprehensive commercial refrigeration and HVAC service to a broad mix of customers, including food retail, manufacturing, cold storage, medical centers, hospitals, schools, and other commercial institutions across New York City, Long Island and Central New Jersey.

ProCold’s extensive knowledge and refrigeration capabilities enable them to perform everything from routine repair and maintenance services to managing large scale refrigeration system design and installation projects for their customers.

“We are excited to join AmeriCold and look forward to working with them and Tech24’s other companies in New York to deliver the most comprehensive refrigeration and HVAC services to our customers,” said Alvin Fallick, President of ProCold.

“I know Al personally and have worked with him and his team on several refrigeration projects over the last 25 years,” said Rob Rivera, President of AmeriCold. “ProCold will greatly improve our ability to offer best-in-class refrigeration installation services in the New York City metro.”

ProCold is the fourth New York-based Company to join Tech24 in the last two years, following AmeriCold, TEK Express and Pronto Repairs.

About AmeriCold
AmeriCold (a subsidiary of Tech24) is a leading provider of commercial refrigeration repair and installation services to customers in the New York City metro, Washington, DC, and Southeast Florida areas. AmeriCold has a variety of customers across the restaurant, grocery and institutional end markets, from New York City’s premier restaurants and hotels to fast-casual dining facilities, hospitals and universities. To learn more about AmeriCold, visit https://www.americoldinc.com/.

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast with highly qualified service technicians equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.  

[Columbus, May 15, 2024] – iVueit, the leading provider of on-demand commercial & residential data collection, is pleased to announce the addition of Video Vue Surveys to its robust suite of survey options. This latest feature empowers clients to capture detailed insights through video recordings. This development deepens their clients’ capacity to inspect & evaluate diverse facets of multi-site operations across a spectrum of industries.

iVueit’s Video Vue Surveys offer a versatile solution for a wide range of inspections, This upgrade gives clients a chance to feel what it’s actually like to be on site, making insights more vivid and decisions more informed. Some key examples of how companies are leveraging Video Vue Surveys across different industries include:

• Floor Layouts: Get a virtual tour of  the layout of homes, retail spaces, offices, or facilities for optimization and planning purposes.
• Damage Documentation: Document damages for insurance claims, maintenance records, or property inspections.
• Retail Merchandising: Evaluate product displays, shelf layouts, and promotional setups to ensure compliance with brand standards and maximize sales impact.
• Compliance Verification: Conduct audits and compliance checks through video documentation to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and operational protocols.
• Property Condition Reports: Assess the condition of properties, facilities, or equipment for maintenance planning and asset management.
• Customer Experience: Gain insights into the visual experience for your customers at any location to better understand their perspective.
• Asset Management: Create detailed records of assets, equipment, and inventory for inventory management and asset tracking purposes.
• Marketing & Promotion: Capture video footage of promotional events, marketing campaigns, or branding initiatives to evaluate their effectiveness and ROI.

In addition to Video Vue Surveys, iVueit offers a range of survey options to cater to diverse data collection needs. These include measurements, signatures, photos, and dynamic survey questions with options such as single and multiple select, grouping, conditional logic, and sliders. This comprehensive suite of survey features enables clients to gather actionable insights.

Clients of iVueit can tap into their mobile workforce of over 375,000 nationwide Vuers to collect real-time and unbiased insights from the customer’s point of view. With 99% of Vues completed by Preferred Vuers, recognized for their outstanding performance and highest Vuer ratings, clients can trust in the reliability and quality of the data gathered. Furthermore, recent findings reveal that 50% of all Vues are conducted by Vuers who have successfully undergone comprehensive background checks and peer reviews by iVueit employees, ensuring an extra layer of trust and confidence in the collected data.

About iVueit: Nationwide site auditing platform powered by crowdsourcing to collect on-demand property insights. The platform connects businesses with a mobile workforce of on-demand (Vuers) who complete nearby jobs via the iVueit app. Offering quick and cost-effective solutions, iVueit enables its clients to remotely monitor properties, assets, or projects through real-time, geo-mapped photos and survey reports.

Learn more about Video Vues and how to implement the survey into your data collection process. To request Video Vues contact iVueit at sales@ivueit.com

ADDISON, Ill., May 14, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Parts Town Unlimited, the parent company of Parts Town, the technology innovator and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice equipment parts, today announced new investments in its Red Lightning division to advance field innovations that support service technicians. As part of Red Lightning's expansion, Sam Brewer has been hired as "Building the Field of Dreams" (aka Vice President of Field Innovation) to enhance and expand its innovation efforts in this area.

Brewer joins Red Lightning with a background in innovation across leadership roles at Chick-fil-A and Miso Robotics, including experience leveraging AI tools to support technician's specific needs – a mission that will be continued at Parts Town and accelerated through Red Lightning's resources. He will lead the team as they continue to build on Parts Town's investment in new field innovation tools for technicians, dispatchers, and parts procurement specialists.

"Sam's unwavering commitment to supporting service technicians will enable Red Lightning to continue enhancing its position as an industry-leading resource to service companies across their entire operation," said Emanuela Delgado, Red Lightning's SVP of The Revolution (aka Growth & Innovation). "By continuing to invest in our field service innovations, Red Lightning will play a critical role in increasing first-time fix rates and getting parts faster, enabling greater efficiencies and cost savings for service companies."

Parts Town's Red Lightning team is dedicated to releasing new tools for service professionals. Most recently, the division released PartPredictor, an industry-first digital tool that utilizes the power of real-world data from millions of successful technician repairs and AI to identify the OEM parts most frequently used to fix equipment. In November 2023, Red Lightning unveiled its Same Day Delivery offering, designed to provide customers with lightning-fast order fulfillment. The service aims for delivery within two hours or less from the time of order placement for eligible items within a 20-mile radius of local service companies and distributors that are part of its Parts in Town network.

"Service technicians are the unsung heroes who help keep critical equipment up and running and Red Lightning is proud to offer field solutions that make their jobs easier with improved efficiency and accuracy" said Brewer. "I am thrilled to be joining an organization that shares my core values and passion for innovation that will advance the work of our invaluable technicians in the field."

About Parts Town Unlimited
Parts Town Unlimited is the global leader in high-tech distribution of mission-critical equipment replacement parts and related products and services for the foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC industries. Guided by its core values of Safety, Integrity, Community, Passion, Courage, and Innovation, Parts Town Unlimited delivers infinite possibilities, unlimited potential, and boundless innovation with a focus on people, innovation, and long-term partnerships. Parts Town Unlimited is an organization without limits, led by dreamers who continuously grow and bring value to our partners and amazing opportunities to our team members around the globe.

About Parts Town
Parts Town is the leading, technology innovation-driven distributor of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC equipment repair parts. When there's a hiccup with any piece of equipment, Parts Town is ready to jump in and help with the most in-stock parts on the planet, innovative technology, and an unmatched customer experience. Customized solutions benefit equipment service technicians of all kinds, as well as chain and independent restaurants, schools, health care facilities and hospitality providers.

By partnering with the top manufacturers of foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC replacement parts, Parts Town improves the supply chain, increases sales of genuine OEM parts and keeps every customer's business running like clockwork. Parts Town also partners with equipment and supplies dealers of all sizes to offer a one-stop-shop through its Parts In Town marketplace.

For more information, visit https://www.partstown.com/.

[IRVINE, CALIFORNIA, April 15, 2024] — Ecotrak, the leading intelligent facility management platform, today announced the completion of a $30 million funding round. Funding led by Respida Capital, with participation from Carver Road Capital, and existing investor Gala Capital Partners.

The capital infusion follows another record-breaking year for Ecotrak and will further accelerate the company’s product development and go-to-market efforts. Ecotrak has experienced rapid growth, driven by its unrivaled ability to provide insight into enterprise facilities and assets, which generates significant ROI for customers like Inspire Brands, Flynn Group, Dutch Bros Coffee and Dave & Buster's.

Ecotrak simplifies facilities management through modern web and mobile applications for multi-site owners and operators of restaurants, convenience stores, grocery stores, and countless other businesses. The Ecotrak platform combines asset-specific data at a granular level, automation and predictive analytics with a large network of service providers. The result is a modern and easy to execute workflow that reduces equipment downtime and maximizes warranty claims.

"We are excited to partner with experienced operators and technology investors who can help accelerate our growth strategy," said Matt Singer, CEO. "As pioneers of enterprise asset management, Ecotrak drives operational scale for our customers and delivers tangible bottom-line impact through analytics and work automation. This investment allows us to further capitalize on these opportunities and solidify our market position.”

"We’re thrilled to be part of this exciting journey with Ecotrak,” said James Zubok, Founder and Managing Member of Respida Capital. “Their innovative approach in the rapidly growing facilities management market, integrating enterprise asset management with AI-powered analytics, creates a compelling formula for success.”

“With our experience operating premier hospitality destinations, we understand the critical importance of having detailed asset information readily accessible,” said Sean Christie, co-founder and CEO of Carver Road Capital. “Combining this information with connections to service providers is critical to efficient facilities management, and ensuring unparalleled guest experiences.”

To learn more about Ecotrak Facility Management Software, visit www.ecotrak.com.

About Ecotrak
Ecotrak is changing the way work is done by pioneering the first Intelligent Facilities Management SaaS platform for multi-site businesses. Ecotrak’s Enterprise Asset Management Solution combines AI-enabled software with a network of highly trained service providers to digitally automate repair and maintenance workflows. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Irvine, California, Ecotrak’s mission is to empower businesses with actionable information to make better business decisions. Customers such as Inspire Brands, Flynn Group, Dutch Bros Coffee and Dave & Buster’s are reducing time, expenses and risk associated with facilities management. Learn more at ecotrak.com.

April 18, 2024 - To our valued customers, Today, we are pleased to announce that LSI has entered into an agreement to acquire EMI — a leading metal and millwork manufacturer of standard and custom fixtures, displays and food equipment in the grocery, convenience store, and restaurant markets across the United States.

LSI has provided lighting, graphics, and digital solutions in these markets for decades, so the acquisition is a terrific milestone for our company and a perfect fit. By joining our two companies, we can create more value for our customers.
Like LSI, EMI is a financially strong company with an experienced leadership team and a talented workforce. For more than forty years, EMI has earned a reputation in the industry for quality and reliability. They are an American company with manufacturing plants in Florida, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Georgia. They have a customer base that overlaps with ours and also has new opportunities for us to grow.

As we integrate EMI into our company, you will be hearing more about our new capabilities and the benefits they may create for your business. You can learn about our acquisition of EMI by visiting our website at www.lsicorp.com.

Once again, thank you for your continued support. We value our relationship with your company and look forward to serving you for many years.

Warrenton VA, March 15, 2024 — Pave America, a leading provider of asphalt and concrete maintenance services, is proud to announce the establishment of its new National Sales division: Pave America National Services. This strategic expansion aims to provide coast-to-coast coverage for clients seeking high-quality self-perform asphalt and concrete maintenance solutions across the United States.

Led by new CEO Chuck Jeffries, formerly CEO of Kansas Asphalt, Pave America National Services aims to set new industry standards and provide unmatched service excellence. Chuck Jeffries brings decades of executive leadership experience and a proven track record of success in the asphalt industry. His vision and strategic insights will drive the National Sales division forward, ensuring sustained growth and operational excellence.

"We are excited to launch our National Sales division and expand our footprint across the nation," said Tom York, CEO of Pave America. "With Chuck at the helm, we are confident in our ability to deliver exceptional service and become the preferred choice for asphalt and concrete maintenance solutions nationwide."

As they continue to grow, Pave America National Services is building a great team with many talented individuals from the industry, ensuring a strong foundation for future growth and success.

"I am thrilled to join Pave America and lead the National Sales division," said Chuck Jeffries, CEO of Pave America. "Our goal is to become the premier choice for clients seeking reliable and comprehensive asphalt and concrete maintenance solutions on a national scale. With our talented team and commitment to excellence, we are poised to make a significant impact in the industry."

Pave America's National Sales division will offer a comprehensive range of services, including asphalt and concrete repair, maintenance, and installation. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, innovative solutions, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship, the division aims to deliver superior results and lasting value to clients in diverse industries.

For more information about Pave America and its National Sales division, please visit paveamerica.com.

About Pave America:
Pave America is a leading provider of asphalt and concrete maintenance solutions, serving clients across the United States. With a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, Pave America is committed to delivering superior results and exceeding expectations. For more information, visit paveamerica.com.

Oceanside, CA (March 25, 2024) – KBS, a leading privately held facility services provider in North America, announced today a recapitalization by investment funds and accounts managed by its long-time investors KKR (“KKR”), Ares Management (“Ares”) and Blackrock Capital Investment Advisors, LLC or affiliates thereof (“BlackRock”), which will become majority equity holders in the Company.

The new investment will support the Company’s ability to invest further in go-to market capabilities and the delivery of high-quality service to its customers.

Headquartered in Oceanside, California, KBS is a leading provider of technology-enabled, integrated facility management services to clients across North America. With its differentiated technology and comprehensive suite of facility services, the Company delivers high-quality and cost-effective solutions to clients in the industrial, commercial, logistics, retail, and grocery sectors.

“Having the support of KKR, Ares, and BlackRock positions KBS with unmatched strategic capacity and further enables the acceleration of value creation at scale,” said Mark Minasian, CEO of KBS. “We look forward to working closely with these investors, leveraging their deep experience in this next phase of development, while always ensuring we continue to deliver outstanding service that raises standards and lowers costs for our clients.”

“We are pleased to support Mark and the KBS team in this recapitalization, which will position the business for its next chapter of growth,” said Lauren Krueger, a Managing Director in KKR’s credit business.

“We are excited to help provide KBS with the additional capital needed to help accelerate its growth while ensuring it continues to provide market leading service to all of its customers,” said Adam Ferrarini, a Partner in Ares’ Credit Group.

About KBS
KBS is a trusted partner to leading operations and facility managers across more than 100,000 client locations throughout North America. We provide essential facility services that deliver healthy operations to businesses through scalable solutions customized to meet client-specific requirements. Our expertise and technology enable our teams to anticipate issues, ensure quality, and maximize efficiency. With decades of experience, KBS is committed to helping clients raise standards and lower costs with the latest advances for maintaining healthy and safe operations. Visit www.kbs-services.com for more information.

About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life, and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.KKR.com For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

About Ares Management Corporation
Ares Management Corporation (NYSE: ARES) is a leading global alternative investment manager offering clients complementary primary and secondary investment solutions across the credit, private equity, real estate and infrastructure asset classes. We seek to provide flexible capital to support businesses and create value for our stakeholders and within our communities. By collaborating across our investment groups, we aim to generate consistent and attractive investment returns throughout market cycles. As of December 31, 2023, Ares Management Corporation's global platform had approximately $419 billion of assets under management, with approximately 2,850 employees operating across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. For more information, please visit www.aresmgmt.com.

Oceanside, CA (March 5, 2024) – KBS, the largest privately held facility services provider in North America, today announced the appointment of Chris Studney as its new Chief Commercial Officer. Studney will be responsible for Sales, Strategic Account Management and Marketing at KBS.

Studney is a highly successful global real estate and facilities services executive with a 25-year track record of driving industry leading growth at scale with clients, including in the same industries and services as KBS. Studney was previously with JLL, one of the largest commercial real estate services companies in the world and a key KBS partner, where he held numerous senior-level positions over a 12-year career. Most recently, he served as Global VP of Client & Growth, responsible for bringing the full scale and capabilities of JLL to its clients while leading the Solutions, Proposals, Enablement, Sales Operations and Sales Compensation teams. Additionally, Chris led JLL’s Client Advisory Board, and previously held multiple sales, operations, and global strategic account leadership roles.

“Chris is an exceptional leader who understands our industry and has forged strong relationships with some of the most respected brands in the world. Adding a commercial executive of Chris’ caliber and experience strengthens and accelerates our ability to deliver more services at scale, as we enter our next phase of breakout growth and value creation,” said Mark Minasian, CEO at KBS.

Prior to JLL, Chris held various sales, business development and operational roles, and served as a board member for multiple organizations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Clemson University.

“I am extremely excited to join the KBS team, which has built an incredible brand and market reputation as an industry innovator,” Studney said. “I look forward to expanding upon our commercial success while delivering solutions for our clients that create exceptional facility experiences for their employees and customers.”

For more information about KBS, visit https://www.kbs-services.com.

About KBS
KBS is a trusted partner to leading operations and facility managers across more than 100,000 client locations throughout North America. We provide essential facility services that deliver healthy operations to businesses through scalable solutions customized to meet client-specific requirements. Our expertise and technology enable our teams to anticipate issues, ensure quality, and maximize efficiency. With decades of experience, KBS is committed to helping clients raise standards and lower costs with the latest advances for maintaining healthy and safe operations. Visit www.kbs-services.com for more information.

GREENVILLE, SC, January 31, 2024—Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has partnered with Central GA Refrigeration, a Georgia-based commercial refrigeration, HVAC, and cooking equipment repair company.

Central GA Refrigeration provides installation and repair service for commercial refrigeration, HVAC, and cooking equipment. The company serves a broad mix of national, regional, and local restaurants located across Georgia and surrounding states.

“We are happy to welcome Chris Nixon, President of Central GA Refrigeration, and his team to the Tech24 Family. We are excited about expanding our service base into the state of Georgia, which has been a priority for Tech24,” said Dan Rodstrom, CEO of Tech24. “We are impressed with the Central GA Refrigeration team and the long-lasting relationships they develop with their customers.”

“We have grown a lot and partnering with Tech24 will allow us to provide an even better experience for our employees and customers,” said Nixon. “We have tremendous opportunities to expand our reach and I am excited for the years ahead.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage, and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services more than 50 markets in 26 states with highly qualified service technicians. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

PEACHTREE CITY, Ga. (January 22, 2024) – Today, Rinnai America Corporation — manufacturer of the number-one-selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in North America — announced its full line-up of new and noteworthy product innovations slated for launch in 2024, as the company celebrates its 50th anniversary in the North American market. The new product offerings were designed to meet unmet market needs, deliver industry-leading efficiency, help PROs simplify installation, decrease setup time, improve serviceability, streamline maintenance, and provide more flexible install options.

“It is at the forefront of Rinnai’s belief to listen and learn from our customers’ wants and needs to propel technology innovations,” said Frank Windsor, President, Rinnai America Corporation. “By doing this, we lead the charge in delivering game-changing products that drive our customers' businesses and continue to deliver on our brand promise of ‘Creating a healthier way of living™’.”

The PRO is at the center of every Rinnai product design, delivering water heating solutions Built for the PRO, by the PRO™. The following details the latest products and capabilities to make the PRO’s job even easier.

SENSEI® RX featuring Smart-Circ™ Intelligent Recirculation™is easier than ever to sell, install, and service with new, advanced capabilities. SENSEI RX series offers natural gas, propane gas, and indoor and outdoor capability all in one model, resulting in a 4:1 SKU reduction.

1. Smart Connect™: An industry first where the PRO can connect their smartphone or tablet to the SENSEI RX Series via Bluetooth®, decreasing set-up time and improving serviceability.
2. Smart Sense™: Rinnai’s proprietary adaptive gas valve technology adjusts to either natural gas or liquid propane gas for optimal combustion and flexible installation — no conversion kit is required.
3. Versa Vent™: An outdoor vent cap easily adapts to any SENSEI RX Series model for outdoor installations providing the ultimate in installation flexibility (sold separately).
4. Quick Flush™: Provides a more efficient flushing procedure to make periodic preventive maintenance a simple task to perform.
5. Industry-Leading Efficiency: With up to 0.98 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), SENSEI RX is the industry leader.

REHP Series™ Electric Heat Pump Water Heater is one of the most sustainable water heating solutions available. Meeting the highest efficiency standards with up to 4.0 UEF. The REHP Series qualifies for many rebates.

1. Zero Emissions: Delivers consistent hot water by extracting heat from the surrounding air and converting it to hot water while producing zero emissions.
2. First to Market in the US: The micro channel heat exchanger condenser with the integrated heat pump water heater is designed to optimize heat transfer and enhance overall energy savings for the end user.
3. Simple, Flexible Install: Designed to install as easily as an electric water heater, the REHP is duct-ready to allow for indoor installation and requires zero clearance.
4. Superior whisper-quiet operation.

RCB SERIES™ Commercial Wall-Hung Boiler is a compact building heat source that delivers reliable, energy-saving performance with ground-breaking features that outperform other boilers.

1. Commercial Product Portfolio: Rinnai has expanded into the commercial market boiler segment with both wall-mount and floor-mount condensing boilers, providing commercial heating products up to 1 million Btu/h.
2. Integrated Cascade Connection: Combine up to 8 boilers on one system with integrated cascade logic that distributes runtimes equally for optimal application diversity.
3. Energy-Saving Efficiency: At 97% thermal efficiency.

I-SERIES Plus™ Wall-Hung Condensing Gas Boiler is a NEW I-SERIES Plus line of solo and combi condensing gas boilers that offers unmatched value and performance with an expanded product line that features Smart Sense adaptive gas valve technology. Now with the touch of a button on a unit controller or smartphone, fuel type can be selected — conversion kits are no longer required.

1. Smart connect™: Bluetooth-enabled setup on the Rinnai Central® App for parameter settings and speedy unit configuration.
2. Simultaneous Delivery: Rinnai’s proportional valve allows simultaneous delivery of heat and domestic hot water for maximum comfort.
3. Excellent Efficiency: With up to 96% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).
4. Flexible Install: I-SERIES Plus has the capability for cascading, common venting and longer vent lengths, giving PROs more options during the installation.

Rinnai Central™ App provides PROs the ultimate water heating management experience with quick access to key tools and controls for Rinnai units, including the new I-SERIES Plus and SENSEI RX.

1. Faster Install Times: The app delivers quick, simplified tankless water heater set-up and registration through the Quick Set-Up screen for speedy configuration. This significantly reduces installation time.
2. Pro-Files™: Gain instant access to product information, training resources, and set-up procedures through PRO-files. With this new feature, PROs can pre-load and save all parameter settings in the app for future installs.

About Rinnai:
Rinnai America Corporation, a subsidiary of Rinnai Corporation in Nagoya, Japan, was established in 1974 and is headquartered in Peachtree City, Georgia. Rinnai Corporation manufactures gas appliances, including tankless water heaters, a wide range of kitchen appliances, and heating and air conditioning units. As the technology leader in its industry, Rinnai is the largest gas appliance manufacturer in Japan and is the No. 1 selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in the United States and Canada. Annual corporate revenues, including those of its subsidiaries, are in excess of $3.3 billion. With a global perspective to create 21st-century products for the home and business, Rinnai Corporation commits itself to safety and Creating a healthier way of living®. For more information about Rinnai’s entire product line, visit www.rinnai.us.

GREENVILLE, SC, January 15, 2024—Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has partnered with Total Tech Corporation, a regional leader in commercial kitchen equipment, refrigeration, and HVAC repair.

Based in Silverdale, Pennsylvania, Total Tech Corporation primarily serves restaurants across the Lehigh Valley, Eastern Pennsylvania, and the entire Tri-State area, including New Jersey, New York, Maryland, and Delaware. Total Tech Corporation offers installation and repairs to all makes of commercial foodservice, refrigeration, HVAC, and plumbing equipment.

“We continue to invest in the Northeast region and believe Total Tech Corporation brings a wide range of capabilities to better serve our shared customers across several important Northeast markets,” said Tech24’s CEO, Dan Rodstrom. “We are excited to welcome Total Tech Corporation into the Tech24 family.”

“I am excited as we embark on this new chapter, said Larry Gray, President of Total Tech Corporation. “We are filled with enthusiasm about the prospects that lie ahead. Combining our resources, expertise, and support to further our commitment to our employees, innovation, and customer satisfaction. By joining forces with Tech24, we are confident that we will be able to expand our capabilities, reach new markets, and deliver even greater value to our customers.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast with highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

GREENVILLE, SC, January 9, 2024—Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has partnered with 1-2-3 Equipment Solutions, a provider of commercial HVAC, refrigeration and kitchen equipment maintenance, service and installation. Based in Chester, Virginia, 1-2-3 Equipment Solutions primarily serves restaurant and hospitality customers across Virginia and North Carolina by offering maintenance/repair and installation/replacement of HVAC, refrigeration, and hot-side kitchen equipment. The company also provides temporary cold storage solutions for planned maintenance and unplanned emergencies.

“1-2-3 Equipment Solutions takes care of its employees and customers, values we share at Tech24,” said Tech24 CEO, Dan Rodstrom. “We are excited to welcome 1-2-3 Equipment Solutions to our growing family of companies and look forward to working with Michael Hess and his team by investing in our employees and servicing our customers.”

“I am excited to join the Tech24 family and look forward to growing the 1-2-3 Equipment Solutions brand throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast region,” Michael Hess, President of 1-2-3 Equipment Solutions, added. “We have grown significantly in recent years, and I know Tech24 will provide access to the resources we need to supercharge that growth in the years to come while maintaining high-quality service for our partners. This is an exciting next step for the 1-2-3 Team, its Partners, and the history of our company. It's going to be a fun ride!”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast with highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

[Chicago, Jan. 9, 2024] - Intellihot, a leading innovator in smart water heating systems, was recently named a winner of the 2023 Chicago Innovation Awards for its Electron series of commercial-grade tankless heat pump water heaters. The 2023 winners were announced at an event held on November 16th at the University of Illinois at Chicago Forum.

In accepting the award, Intellihot Founder and CEO Sridhar (Sri) Deivasigamani said, “Intellihot seeks to eradicate long-standing problems in the water heating industry such as staggering CO₂ emissions and Legionnaire’s disease with an innovation-first approach so our consumers can take advantage of next-gen features like 24/7 factory monitoring and predictive diagnostics while knowing that these do not come at the cost of environmental degradation.”

“Nearly 350 organizations [were] nominated for this year’s awards,” said Luke Tanen, President and CEO of Chicago Innovation. “As a group, these nominees are responsible for generating over $3.8 billion in new revenues and creating over 10,000 jobs. The winners represent the best from this very impressive group.”

Intellihot’s award-winning product, the Electron Series, is the world’s first tankless heat pump water heater built for commercial and industrial applications. It absorbs heat from ambient air, stores that heat energy in a thermal battery, which in turn heats domestic water – all without a water storage tank. The compact units make the adoption of heat pumps straightforward for large properties like hotels, schools and restaurants, by offering guaranteed performance in any climate, saving 30% of space, and providing up to 1/3rd reduction in operating expense. The Electron’s lack of stored water drastically cuts idle energy usage, reduces installation complexity and time, simplifies maintenance, and mitigates health risks like Legionella. By doing so, the Electron presents the most straightforward option for commercial properties to adopt heat pump water heating and comply with legislative regulations related to the country’s electrification efforts.

Led by Sri Deivasigamani, Intellihot products have previously received an Edison Award for Best New Product in 2022, and a Sustainability Award from Business Intelligence Group in 2023. Beyond the innovative products manufactured by Intellihot, the company utilizes technology to simplify processes, such as their on-line sizing tool which utilizes a database of nearly 2000 tankless water heater installations to provide a guaranteed sizing recommendation for commercial and industrial applications.

About the Chicago Innovation Awards:

Chicago Innovation Awards LLC operates a year-round series of activities aimed at celebrating innovators in the Chicago region. The Chicago Innovation Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit that provides educational events and programs to people interested in learning about innovation and entrepreneurship. Learn more at https://chicagoinnovation.com/

About Intellihot:

Intellihot is an innovative designer/manufacturer of built-environment systems that challenge traditional approaches for sustainability. Under the leadership of founder and CEO Sridhar (Sri) Deivasigamani, today Intellihot offers a range of tankless water heaters designed and built for commercial applications with a focus on sustainability, cost savings, and water quality safety. Winner of an Edison Award for Best New Product in 2022, Business Intelligence Group’s Sustainability Award in 2023, and Chicago Innovation Climate Champion Award 2023. Intellihot has operations in suburban Chicago, Galesburg, Ill. and distributors across North America. Learn more at www.intellihot.comor by following the company on X and LinkedIn.

[Chicago, Jan. 9, 2024] - Intellihot, a leading innovator in smart water heating systems, was recently named a winner of the 2023 Chicago Innovation Awards for its Electron series of commercial-grade tankless heat pump water heaters. The 2023 winners were announced at an event held on November 16th at the University of Illinois at Chicago Forum.

In accepting the award, Intellihot Founder and CEO Sridhar (Sri) Deivasigamani said, “Intellihot seeks to eradicate long-standing problems in the water heating industry such as staggering CO₂ emissions and Legionnaire’s disease with an innovation-first approach so our consumers can take advantage of next-gen features like 24/7 factory monitoring and predictive diagnostics while knowing that these do not come at the cost of environmental degradation.”

“Nearly 350 organizations [were] nominated for this year’s awards,” said Luke Tanen, President and CEO of Chicago Innovation. “As a group, these nominees are responsible for generating over $3.8 billion in new revenues and creating over 10,000 jobs. The winners represent the best from this very impressive group.”

Intellihot’s award-winning product, the Electron Series, is the world’s first tankless heat pump water heater built for commercial and industrial applications. It absorbs heat from ambient air, stores that heat energy in a thermal battery, which in turn heats domestic water – all without a water storage tank. The compact units make the adoption of heat pumps straightforward for large properties like hotels, schools and restaurants, by offering guaranteed performance in any climate, saving 30% of space, and providing up to 1/3rd reduction in operating expense. The Electron’s lack of stored water drastically cuts idle energy usage, reduces installation complexity and time, simplifies maintenance, and mitigates health risks like Legionella. By doing so, the Electron presents the most straightforward option for commercial properties to adopt heat pump water heating and comply with legislative regulations related to the country’s electrification efforts.

Led by Sri Deivasigamani, Intellihot products have previously received an Edison Award for Best New Product in 2022, and a Sustainability Award from Business Intelligence Group in 2023. Beyond the innovative products manufactured by Intellihot, the company utilizes technology to simplify processes, such as their on-line sizing tool which utilizes a database of nearly 2000 tankless water heater installations to provide a guaranteed sizing recommendation for commercial and industrial applications.

About the Chicago Innovation Awards:

Chicago Innovation Awards LLC operates a year-round series of activities aimed at celebrating innovators in the Chicago region. The Chicago Innovation Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit that provides educational events and programs to people interested in learning about innovation and entrepreneurship. Learn more at https://chicagoinnovation.com/

About Intellihot:

Intellihot is an innovative designer/manufacturer of built-environment systems that challenge traditional approaches for sustainability. Under the leadership of founder and CEO Sridhar (Sri) Deivasigamani, today Intellihot offers a range of tankless water heaters designed and built for commercial applications with a focus on sustainability, cost savings, and water quality safety. Winner of an Edison Award for Best New Product in 2022, Business Intelligence Group’s Sustainability Award in 2023, and Chicago Innovation Climate Champion Award 2023. Intellihot has operations in suburban Chicago, Galesburg, Ill. and distributors across North America. Learn more at www.intellihot.comor by following the company on X and LinkedIn.

ADDISON, Ill.--Parts Town, the technology innovator and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice, residential appliance, and HVAC equipment repair parts, announced the recipients of the Technician Scholarship Awards at this year’s CFESA Annual Conference. As CFESA celebrates 60 years of dedication to the industry, Parts Town is proud to earmark $22,500 in Scholarships and Cash Prizes to support individuals in our technician community.

In 2023, Parts Town has already awarded scholarships to technicians from A+ Commercial Gaskets of Minneapolis, JK Services, A+ Commercial Kitchen Repair, and Windy City Equipment Service during their respective region conferences.

“We are excited to have selected two additional winners from each region, who will each receive $1,000 for CFESA training along with a $500 cash prize,” said Chuck Combs, PARTnership Builder (a.k.a Senior Vice President, Service & Distribution Partnerships) at Parts Town, who was awarded a plaque at the event in recognition of his unwavering support and dedication to the CFESA Training Program. “Contributing to the advancement of the commercial kitchen service community through these scholarships and supporting their professional development journey is truly an honor.”

Entries were collected online and at the company’s booth throughout the conference.

The set of winners included:
• Region 1: Scott Brown, Superior Service, and Misael Flores-Ramirez, Rox Services
• Region 2: Gerardo Hernandez, Eichenauer Services Inc., and Nicholas Ackerland, Cones Solutions
• Region 3: Cesar Acosta, Texas Restaurant Improvement, and Troy Hogoboom, Hawkins Commercial
• Region 4: Chip Norwood, Norwood’s Commercial Appliances, Inc., and Chris McLeod, Jones-McLeod
• Region 5: Shaun Dowd, Valley Service Inc., and Roger Kauffman, EMR

“For 60 years, CFESA has remained determined in its commitment to empowering entry-level technicians on their journey into the skilled trades. Our mission is to provide them with the essential fundamentals in troubleshooting and repair for the commercial cooking and refrigeration equipment industry,” said Daniel Reese, Director of Training at CFESA. “The generous scholarships offered by Parts Town continue to champion education and provide invaluable access to industry-specific training.”

Parts Town prioritizes the needs of service technicians through streamlined part delivery methods, leading to improved initial repair success rates and reduced operational disruptions for end-users. The company is dedicated to fostering service partner collaborations, offering the essential resources, cutting-edge technology, and ready access to genuine OEM parts needed for every type of call.

There will be one more chance next month for Parts Town’s CESA Region 1 members to win this year, and the company will be making the same commitment to support this community in 2024.

About Parts Town
Parts Town is the leading, technology innovation-driven distributor of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC equipment repair parts. When there’s a hiccup with any piece of equipment, Parts Town is ready to jump in and help service technicians with the most in-stock parts on the planet, innovative technology, and an unmatched customer experience.
By partnering with the top manufacturers of foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC replacement parts, Parts Town improves the supply chain, increases sales of genuine OEM parts and keeps businesses running like clockwork. Parts Town also partners with equipment suppliers and dealers of all sizes to offer a one-stop-shop through its Parts In Town marketplace.
For more information, visit http://www.partstown.com/.

About the Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA)
The Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA) is the trade association for professional service and parts distributors. Our members stock Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts – the best for any equipment – with access to an online inventory of millions of parts. Our CFESA Certified Technicians have a higher first time fix rate and ensure our service mark for excellence.
CFESA is the official trade association for professional food service agents. Founded in 1963, CFESA sets ‘The Standards for Service Excellence.'
For more information, visit https://cfesa.com/.

GREENVILLE, SC, October 5, 2023—Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has partnered with Big Fish, a provider of  commercial HVAC, refrigeration and kitchen equipment installation and repair service throughout Texas.

Based in Buda, Texas, Big Fish specializes in the installation, repair, maintenance and replacement of HVAC, refrigeration, and hot-side kitchen equipment for restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and other commercial facilities located across Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and the surrounding areas of Texas.

“Texas is among the largest markets for our services and is a strategic priority for Tech24. Big Fish has grown significantly in recent years and their culture and values are strongly aligned with those of Tech24. We are excited to welcome Daryl Mika and his team to the Tech24 family,” said Tech24’s CEO, Dan Rodstrom.

Daryl Mika, President of Big Fish added, “Partnering with Tech24 will provide Big Fish even greater access to the resources we need to continue delivering high-quality service to all our customers. We look forward to working with Tech24’s other Texas-based companies to offer the best technical training in the industry.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast and employs over 850 highly qualified service technicians who are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

Chicago, October 2, 2023 — ProxyPics, a crowdsource technology platform for on-demand property data, is excited to announce the newest addition to their team, Daniel Guajardo, who joins as National Sales Executive. With a career spanning over a decade in marketing and sales, Daniel brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the data collection pioneer.

As Daniel joins ProxyPics, he shares his enthusiasm for the company's vision and culture, stating, "Beyond the initial excitement of joining a team that is passionate about the multi-site facilities management industry. What I found most enticing was the culture and team Proxy Pics has carefully developed to bring their vision to life. Their work to create solutions by adding quantifiable value through technology for FMs and vendors alike will make a notable impact and change how we think about facilities auditing and data collection in the future."

Daniel Guajardo is no stranger to the Facility Management industry, having actively contributed to its growth and development. His commitment extends to his involvement in the RFMA, Restaurant Facility Management Association, Conference Curriculum Committee and Emerging Professionals Task Force. In these roles, he remains at the forefront of industry trends, continually assessing market challenges and opportunities, and devising national-level educational initiatives that benefit Facility Management professionals across the country.

Furthermore, He is an integral part of various industry committees, including serving as a co-chair for the ConnexFM, The Multi-Site Facilities Management Network, Young Professionals Committee. Additionally, Daniel was a dedicated mentor in the 2022-23 ConnexFM Mentorship program, where he guides and inspires young professionals in the field.

"We are thrilled to welcome Daniel Guajardo to the ProxyPics team," said Luke Tomaszewski, CEO at ProxyPics. "His impressive track record, industry involvement, and dedication to professional development make him a valuable asset to our company. With Daniel on board, we are confident in our ability to offer even greater value to our clients and partners on the facility management sector of our business."

With Daniel’s extensive experience and active involvement in industry committees, Daniel is uniquely positioned to help ProxyPics expand its reach and impact within the Facility Management community. His role will be instrumental in developing and nurturing key relationships, identifying emerging trends, and crafting innovative solutions that align with the evolving needs of our clients.

Join ProxyPics as they welcome Daniel and stay tuned for the exciting initiatives and contributions that he will bring to the data collection platform in the coming months.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Sandoval
jessica@proxypics.com

About ProxyPics:
ProxyPics redefines property data collection by using patented technology and a mobile workforce to provide on-demand visual verification of any location, eliminating the need to be physically present. Our marketplace connects users with Proxies who deliver property insights within 24 hours through our mobile app, offering a convenient and efficient solution for professionals across various industries.

Green Lane, Pennsylvania – Monday, October 2, 2023 – SLM Facility Solutions Nationwide, a leading provider of facility services management, announces the appointment of Rich Hipp as its new CEO. Rich Hipp will succeed Susan V. Daywitt, founder and CEO of SLM Facility Solutions Nationwide, who is moving to SLM Facility’s Board of Directors after 25+ years of dedicated service.

In 1998, Susan created SLM based on her extensive knowledge and professional experience in sales, operations, administration, and management in the waste service industry throughout the United States. During Susan’s tenure, SLM has made great strides towards its ambition to become one of the best performing, most trusted and respected facilities management companies in the nation.

Rich Hipp joined SLM Facility Solutions Nationwide in December 2022 as Chief Operations Officer. Over the last several months, Rich has benefited greatly from working closely with SLM Facility’s Operations, Procurement, Account Managers, and various other Departments in preparation for this important transition. Rich Hipp has a proven track record of success in leading and growing privately held family businesses, through the application of operational excellence, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

“I am extremely honored to be given this opportunity to lead the SLM team. During my nine months as COO, I have witnessed a passion for customer service that has delivered tremendous value to our customers while providing a strong foundation for future growth” says Rich Hipp.

Rich brings over 20+ years of Business-to-Business Leadership experience working hands-on to develop and implement business and people strategies across multiple industries and countries. Most recently he served as CEO at Coating and Converting Technologies. Rich Hipp will start his new role on Monday, October 2, 2023.


About SLM Facility Solutions Nationwide

SLM – Facility Solutions Nationwide is a premiere facility maintenance company with over 25-years of experience creating sustainable and cost-saving facility management solutions for companies just like yours. We manage recurring and on-demand services ranging from Backflow, HVAC/Refrigeration, Grease Trap/Interceptors, Handyman, and more. Our mission is to support our clients at every turn including customized reporting, strategic negotiations, ticket tracking in our proprietary database, and paying suppliers on-time. We are the best at what we do because we follow up and follow through. From start to finish we are there for you.

Visit SLMFacilities.com for more information on SLM Facility Solutions Nationwide.

RED BANK, NEW JERSEY – SEPTEMBER 11, 2023 – SMG, a leading name in the integrated facilities management (IFM) space, is proud to announce the appointment of Jordan Rochwick as its new Vice President of Operations. With over a decade of extensive experience in the facilities management and built environment space, Ms. Rochwick will play a pivotal role in supporting client success, sales, and overall operational excellence at SMG.

Jordan Rochwick brings to SMG a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having spent over a decade in the facilities management industry. Her career has been marked by a strong commitment to delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions to clients. Her dedication to client success has earned her a stellar reputation in the field.

In her new role, Jordan will lead SMG’s operations team, driving the company’s mission to provide top-notch facilities management solutions. Her strategic vision and extensive industry insights will contribute to the continued growth and success of SMG.

Commenting on her appointment, Jordan Rochwick said, “I am thrilled to join the talented team at SMG and be part of an organization known for its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. I look forward to leveraging my experience to contribute to SMG’s continued success and growth.”

Shannon Prato, CEO of SMG, expressed her enthusiasm about Jordan joining the team, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Jordan Rochwick to the SMG family and look forward to achieving new heights together. Her wealth of experience and dedication to delivering top-tier service align perfectly with our company’s values and goals. Her leadership will expand our ‘people first’ mentality and culture which we have been building since our inception 27 years ago.

Jordan Rochwick’s appointment marks an exciting milestone for SMG, reaffirming the company’s commitment to client success and excellence in facilities management.

About SMG

Established in 1996, SMG Holdings. LLC operates as a holding company. The company, through its subsidiaries, manage energy efficiency and environmental programs, provides integrated facilities management, fire & life-safety and janitorial services for multi-site owners. SMG serves clients worldwide. The company specializes in supporting all aspects of the built environment and all the business is running under four distinct brands – SMG Clean, SMG Energy, SMG Facilities and SMG Fire.

RED BANK, NEW JERSEY – SMG Fire, a leader in the fire & life safety space, today announced that Brice Bledsoe has been appointed Director, Business Development. In this position, Bledsoe will be responsible for business development and sales growth, with a focus on providing fire and life safety services, inspections, testing and maintenance nationwide to national account clients.

The services are available for a wide range of business sectors such as retail, restaurant, grocery, convenience stores, commercial real estate, healthcare, and hospitality, among others.

Bledsoe brings years of fire and life safety industry experience to his new role. Known for his keen ability in providing superior quality client service, he is a proven leader and innovative problem solver who excels at identifying the needs of his clients and resolving their issues. Bledsoe also has a proven track record of building trusting relationships with both valued clients as well as internal team members and can facilitate discussions all levels of business.

Previously working for Climatec, Seimens, and Johnson Controls, Bledsoe earned his bachelor’s degree from DePauw University.

Chief Revenue Officer Tom Kay commented: “Brice is a player. He has proven track record of success and his strategic and results-driven approach to business, combined with a keen focus on client success make him an incredibly valuable asset to SMG Fire as we continue to grow.”

AUSTIN,TX - AUGUST 21, 2023 - Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar, one of Austin’s hottest new restaurants offering elevated Greek dishes in a kitchen and bar setting, is expanding their hours beginning today, August 21st. Yamas is now open on Mondays, with Monday hours from 4-11 pm, expanding their hours to be open daily. Additionally, Yamas has expanded their kitchen and hours for late night service. Sunday-Thursday, Yamas is open until 11 pm. Friday-Saturday, the kitchen is open until 11pm with the restaurant closing at midnight.

Yamas’ hours are as follows:
Sunday-Thursday: 4 pm to 11 pm
Friday-Saturday: 4 pm to midnight

For more information, follow Yamas on social media at @yamas_atx or visit their website at http://yamasatx.com/.

Photos, credit Dani Parsons: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/edxl5egr4ea37jdi00a19/h?rlkey=i47ti30b5kpznw2ww2o93mig3&dl=0

About Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar:

Located in west central Austin at 5308 Balcones Dr, Austin, TX 78731, Yamas delights guests with an elevated menu of chef-crafted, signature Greek dishes and family-owned hospitality, complemented by a stunning, airy interior and captivating murals throughout the space. From traditional favorites to contemporary culinary creations, the offerings at Yamas promise to transport diners to the vibrant Mediterranean coast. Yamas is led by husband and wife co-owners Roxie and Hristos Nikolakos, who are both from Greece. The menu at Yamas features the finest ingredients sourced locally and imported from Greece. Their menu is a culinary journey across Greece’s diverse regions, highlighting the unique ingredients and techniques that make Greek cuisine so extraordinary. In 2000, Hristos and Roxie Nikolakos moved their family from Rhodes, Greece and relocated to Austin, TX with a vision. Both Roxie & Hristos’ families come from the island of Rhodes, Greece and they have always been drawn to entertaining and hosting in the hopes of having something of their own one day. From the time Hristos relocated to Austin, he wanted to create a restaurant that would be a slice of home for him to share and experience. Yamas transports you to the Aegean blue, with its warm hospitality and delicious fresh food. At Yamas their vision is that guests fall in love with the food, hospitality and the Greek experience. Nikolakos moved here with one dream in mind, one day owning the only authentic Greek restaurant that was up to par with the food from back home.

GREENVILLE, SC, August 9, 2023 – Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has recently acquired Pronto Repairs, a provider of foodservice and commercial HVAC equipment repair and maintenance services for hospitals and medical centers in the New York City area.

Based in Tappan, New York, Pronto Repairs specializes in responding to disasters such as flooding caused by hurricanes and helping hospitals and other facilities in their recovery, as well as traditional commercial hot-side, cold-side and HVAC services. Tech24's 18th acquisition to date expands technician coverage in the New York City metropolitan area, the nation’s largest market by population, and expands Tech24’s service to the healthcare segment. This milestone aligns with Tech24’s strategic growth initiatives and allows the company to grow its technician base and diversify its customer mix in new markets.

“Tech24 has been on an exciting trajectory of geographic and technician growth, and we’re thrilled to continue making strides to strengthen our presence both in the New York City area and the healthcare segment,” said Dan Rodstrom, CEO of Tech24. “We welcome Pronto Repairs and look forward to working with Pronto’s President, Brendan Mirque, and his entire team as part of the Tech24 family.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast and employs over 850 highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

RICHARDSON, TX – July 20, 2023 – ENTOUCH, a leading provider of energy management solutions for multisite operators, and Fexa, a leading provider of SaaS-based facility management software, have announced a partnership aimed to revolutionize the way organizations manage and optimize their facilities. In today’s dynamic business environment, efficient facility management is crucial for organizations across various industries. Integrating ENTOUCH’s energy management solutions with Fexa’s CMMS delivers a comprehensive solution that simplifies and enhances facility operations, increasing efficiency, cost savings, and improving occupant experiences.

"Our integration with Fexa’s CMMS is a game-changer for our joint customer base,” said Jon Bolen, CEO of ENTOUCH. “By combining our energy management technology with Fexa's powerful FM platform, we can offer a comprehensive solution that shares data to make facilities more efficient and effective while reducing energy usage, driving our customer’s profitability, and simplifying maintenance and repair activities for multisite operators.”

The partnership between ENTOUCH Controls and Fexa will combine the strengths of both companies to deliver an integrated facility management solution that touches all aspects of a facility’s operations. By integrating ENTOUCH’s smart building technology with Fexa's robust facility management software, customers will benefit from reduced downtime, increased equipment lifespan, and improve overall facility performance.

[Baltimore MD, July 10, 2023] - Persona-Triangle, one of the largest, full-service sign providers in North America, is delighted to announce the recent hiring of Lynn Harnishfeger, a highly accomplished professional in the field. Lynn brings extensive experience as both a facility manager and facility services solution partner, making her a valuable asset to the company.

With a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of facilities management and operations, Lynn is well-versed in managing in-house facilities departments, contracting service providers, and developing and overseeing multi-trade repair and maintenance programs. Additionally, Lynn has a proven track record in project management and has successfully managed, sold, and leased multi-tenant properties during her tenure in commercial property management.

Lynn's unparalleled expertise in the industry has been recognized through numerous accolades and awards. In particular, she was honored with the prestigious RFMA 2023 Vendor of the Year Award, showcasing her commitment to excellence in facility management. Lynn has also demonstrated her dedication to the field by actively participating in industry associations and organizations. She has served on task forces, co-chaired committees, and held a position on the Board of Directors for the Restaurant Facilities Management Association (RFMA) as the sole Vendor Representative, and the formerly known as PRSM Association (ConnexFM) Board of Directors as both a Retail Representative and Vendor Representative, where she was voted Volunteer of the Year in 2018 and Retailer of the Year in 2008. Furthermore, Lynn holds the esteemed Certified Restaurant Facility Manager Professional (CRFP) and RFMP designations.

As Lynn assumes her role at Persona-Triangle, she will leverage her unique perspective from both the client and service partner sides to deliver tailored solutions that meet the needs of all stakeholders. Her vast knowledge and proven abilities will contribute significantly to the continued success and growth of Persona-Triangle in the facilities management industry.

"We are thrilled to welcome Lynn Harnishfeger to the Persona-Triangle team," said Stephen Altshuler, President at Triangle Sign Services. "Lynn's extensive experience, industry recognition, and dedication to excellence make her an ideal fit for our organization. We are confident that her contributions will enhance our capabilities and further strengthen our commitment to delivering exceptional facilities management services."

About Persona-Triangle
With more than 130 years of combined industry experience, Persona-Triangle is one of the largest, full-service sign providers in the U.S., serving over 150 name-brand companies at more than 7,000 locations across North America. Persona-Triangle has Corporate Headquarters located in Baltimore, MD, and Watertown, SD, and boasts over 350,000 square feet of manufacturing space to maximize your budget and present your image in the best light.

Persona-Triangle serves large name brands, corporations, national rollouts, branding, and re-branding projects, as well as small, local projects, and architectural and artistic elements. Our work can be found in hospitality accommodations, retail settings, restaurants, corporate complexes, healthcare facilities, sporting and event venues, educational institutions, grocery stores, and convenience/petroleum stations.

SAGINAW, Mich. – Duro-Last is proud to announce the expansion of its EV membrane solutions with the addition of Duro-Last EV 80 mil and Duro-Last EV Fleece. Duro-Last EV is a Ketone Ethylene Ester (KEE) containing membrane utilizing Elvaloy™ from Dow. Offering superior flexibility and weldability in low temperatures, Duro-Last EV is available in 50, 60 and now 80 mil thickness options.

Further expanding EV membrane options, Duro-Last EV Fleece combines high-quality fleece material on the underside of the membrane with the proven performance of the Duro-Last EV roofing membrane. Compatible with a wide variety of substrates, Duro-Last EV Fleece is an ideal solution for adhered and mechanically fastened low-slope roofing projects requiring a long lasting, energy efficient membrane. Duro-Last EV Fleece is available in 60 and 80 mil thicknesses.

“Duro-Last continually strives to provide industry-leading solutions for the complex needs of the roofing industry,” Duro-Last Senior Vice President of Sales Operations Steve Ruth said. “The expansion of our EV membrane products is a direct response to the growing demand for roofing systems specifically designed to withstand harsh climate extremes. As industry needs continue to evolve, Duro-Last will be prepared with a solution and that is something we take great pride in.”

Visit www.duro-last.com to learn more about Duro-Last EV membrane products, as well as Duro-Last’s full line of PVC roofing systems, custom-fabricated solutions and accessories.

BOSTON — July 18, 2023 — Powerhouse Dynamics, the leading enterprise-level Internet of Things (IoT) partner to the restaurant, foodservice, grocery, C-store, and retail industries, has received a 2023 IoT Evolution Product of the Year Award for its Open Kitchen IoT platform from IoT Evolution World, a major website covering advances in IoT technologies from TMC and Crossfire Media.

Powerhouse Dynamics’s Open Kitchen platform for foodservice and restaurant brands enables clients to connect, analyze and control their equipment to improve operational and energy efficiency, reduce costs, automate tasks, increase food quality and safety, speed new recipes/limited-time promotions into the market, and help meet environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) goals.

“The solutions selected for this award reflect the diverse range of innovation driving the multibillion-dollar IoT market today. It is my honor to congratulate Powerhouse Dynamics for their superior contribution to the rapidly evolving IoT industry,” said Rich Tehrani, CEO of TMC.

“We are thrilled to receive this recognition,” said Jay Fiske, President of Powerhouse Dynamics, a Middleby (NASDAQ: MIDD) company. “Though the pandemic was hard on the restaurant and retail industries, Powerhouse Dynamics’s Open Kitchen IoT platform helped our foodservice customers maintain their strength and has been critical to their comeback. It is gratifying to be a part of our clients’ success stories.”

Open Kitchen’s equipment-brand-agnostic technology easily integrates with clients’ refrigerators, freezers, ovens, fryers, dish machines, HVAC, and more to deliver improvements across the enterprise. Monitoring equipment data and automating processes from the cloud makes everything easier—from ensuring compliance with HACCP food safety guidelines, to minimizing peak demand utility charges during the hot summer months.

The recognition from IoT Evolution World is the latest in a number of awards that Powerhouse Dynamics has received. For example, in 2022, Inspire Brands® honored the company with a Maverick Award as the company’s most innovative equipment supplier.

About Powerhouse Dynamics
Founded in 2009 and acquired by The Middleby Corporation in 2019, Powerhouse Dynamics of Newton, MA is the leading provider of “Internet of Things” (IoT)-based solutions to connect, analyze and control equipment to deliver enterprise-wide operational efficiencies. To learn more, visit powerhousedynamics.com.

About Crossfire Media
Crossfire Media is an integrated marketing company with a core focus on future trends in technology. Crossfire Media has a partnership with Technology Marketing Corporation (TMC) to produce events and websites related to disruptive technologies. Crossfire Media is a division of Crossfire Consulting, a full-service Information Technology company based in New York.

About TMC
Through education, industry news, live events and social influence, global buyers rely on TMC’s content-driven marketplaces to make purchase decisions and navigate markets. As a result, leading technology vendors turn to TMC for unparalleled branding, thought leadership and lead generation opportunities. For more information about TMC, please visit www.tmcnet.com.

Profi Expands Self-Performing Coverage Areas 

GREENVILLE, SC, June 29, 2023 – Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has recently acquired Harris Warren Commercial Kitchen Service, a provider of repair services, preventative maintenance and installation for commercial kitchens in the Northeast. Based in West Yarmouth, Massachusetts, Harris Warren specializes in servicing hot and cold side equipment primarily to restaurants and hospitality customers in the Cape Cod area.

“We are thrilled to welcome Harris Warren to the Tech24 family,” said Dan Rodstrom, CEO of Tech24. “The addition of Harris Warren allows us to extend our well-known services to a broader set of customers in the Northeast. We look forward to working alongside Michael Harris Warren and the entire team as part of the larger Tech24 organization.”

Tech24's 17th acquisition to date expands coverage in northeastern U.S. markets and aligns with the organization's robust strategic growth initiatives. This milestone will benefit both new and existing customers through expanded services and efficiencies and will allow Tech24 to grow its technician base and diversify its customer mix in this key market.

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast and employs over 850 highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

RED BANK, N.J., June 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --Today SMG Holdings, LLC marks the official launch of SMG Fire, a pioneering life safety company dedicated to providing comprehensive safety solutions to multi-site retailers nationwide. With its cutting-edge technologies, industry expertise, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, SMG Fire is set to transform the landscape of retail safety.

The retail industry faces unique challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of guests and team members. Recognizing this critical need, SMG Fire has emerged as the trusted partner for large retailers, offering a wide range of tailored solutions that address all aspects of life safety.

From fire protection and emergency response planning to surveillance systems and employee training, SMG Fire offers an integrated approach to safeguarding retail establishments. By leveraging advanced technologies, including state-of-the-art fire detection and prevention systems, cutting-edge surveillance and access control systems, and innovative emergency response protocols, SMG Fire provides comprehensive and proactive protection against potential threats.

What sets SMG Fire apart is its nationwide support network. With a vast network of highly skilled technicians strategically located across the country, the company ensures rapid response times and consistent service excellence for its retail partners, regardless of their geographical location. This extensive support system guarantees that retailers can rely on SMG Fire for prompt installations, system maintenance, and emergency repairs, minimizing downtime and maximizing safety.

"At SMG Fire, our mission is to revolutionize the life safety industry and empower retailers to create safe and secure environments for their guests and team members," said Jason Menser, Executive Vice President at SMG Fire. "We understand the unique safety challenges faced by large retailers and have designed our solutions to meet their specific needs. With our nationwide support network, cutting-edge technologies, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, we are confident that SMG Fire will become the go-to partner for life safety in the retail industry."

In addition to its comprehensive safety solutions, SMG Fire also offers specialized training programs for retail employees, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to emergencies. These training sessions, conducted by expert trainers, ensure that retail staff are prepared and confident in handling various safety scenarios, further enhancing the overall safety culture within retail establishments.

As SMG Fire launches its services nationwide, it aims to forge strong partnerships with retailers across the country, providing them with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their life safety needs are in capable hands.

For more information about SMG Fire and its innovative life safety solutions, please visit www.SMGFire.com

Chicago, June 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Quick service restaurants (QSRs) have historically represented the majority share of U.S. restaurant industry traffic, which means as quick service goes, so goes the industry. A 1% increase in quick service restaurant visits in May, representing 82% of all industry traffic, offset full service restaurant traffic declines, keeping the entire restaurant industry stable in the month compared to a year ago, reports Circana, formerly IRI and The NPD Group. Broadline foodservice case unit and dollar shipments to QSRs were up 1%, and total restaurant cases and dollars were up 1% in May compared to a year ago.  

The morning meal daypart, which includes the breakfast and A.M. snack periods, continues to be a traffic driver for QSRs; visits were up 5% in May over a year ago. P.M. snack was also a growth area for the segment, with a visit gain of 5%. Lunch and dinner realized single-digit traffic declines in the month versus a year ago. 

Both traditional QSRs, like specialty, sandwich, and snack quick service restaurants, and fast casual restaurants contributed to May’s traffic growth. Visits to traditional QSRs grew by 1% and fast casual restaurant traffic by 4% compared to a year ago. Some of the month’s visit growth can be attributed to the addition of QSR traditional and fast casual locations. Locations for traditional QSRs increased by 2.5%, and fast casual chains rose by 2.3%, according to Circana’s Fall 2022 restaurant census that counts locations opened as of September 30, 2022.    

Still recovering from steep pandemic-related losses, full service restaurant (FSRs) visits declined by 3% in May compared to a year ago. Major FSR chains fared better than independents, with traffic down 1%, versus independent FSRs’ 3% decline.   

“The QSR segment extended an impressive winning streak in May with the ninth consecutive month of year-over-year traffic gains. Morning meal continues to drive QSR growth,” says David Portalatin, Circana food industry advisor and author of Eating Patterns in America. “Full service restaurants continue to face headwinds, but despite the headwinds, several FSR chains are winning by improving on-premises demand and delighting customers with good value and great experiences.”   

CO2Meter officially received their ISO 9001:2015 certification on June 6th, 2023. This internationally recognized standard will redefine the company's commitment to product quality, customer service, and reliability across its global customer base.

ORMOND BEACH, FLORIDA, June 15, 2023 – CO2Meter.com, a leading source in gas detection technology - recently obtained the ISO 9001:2015 certification of its quality management system to help ensure continued commitment to improving their products, services, and internal processes.

"CO2Meter is proud to have achieved our ISO 9001 Certification. CO2Meter is committed to continually improving our products, services, and internal processes. This certification will help ensure we continue to design and provide best in class gas detection, monitoring, and analytical solutions, in order to exceed our customer's expectations.", states CEO of CO2Meter, Travis Lenander."

ISO 9001:2015 is the international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). It is used by leading companies focused on providing consistent products and services that enhance customer satisfaction and meet applicable regulatory and statutory requirements. ISO standards are regularly reviewed to ensure its requirements reflect best practices for organizations, as well as the needs of customers, in the evolving industry.

"We are honored to attain this important QMS milestone of ISO 9001:2015 certification," states Benjamin Santiago, Vice President of Operations at CO2Meter, Inc. "CO2Meter is continually expanding its manufacturing capabilities, solutions, and services and achieving this certification under ISO's globally recognized standard supports the trust and confidence our partners and customers have in our proficiencies."

Organizations that implement and adhere to the ISO 9001:2015 can demonstrate their commitment to quality and enhance their overall performance in the field.

Additionally, this certification is carried out by accredited certification bodies and once implemented indicates that a company holds a robust quality management system and has undergone independent assessment to verify compliance with the standard's requirements and overall procedures.

Some of the key principles of ISO 9001:2015 include:

• Customer Focus

• Team Leadership

• Quality Management

• Process Approach

• Improvement Models

• Risk Management

• Evidence-Based Decision Making

• Relationship Management

• Quality Assurance

• and more

The ISO 9001:2015 certification further demonstrates and acknowledges CO2Meter's highest standards for quality, with a focus on performance excellence and innovation through its broad scope of gas detection devices and technologies for customers in applications across the globe. The company's services include the design, development, and manufacturing of gas detection devices; technical and applicational support; data analysis; research and development; gas detection safety support training; and market analysis through the integration of people, technology, and processes. 

For more information contact CO2Meter at Sales@CO2Meter.com.

For the full CO2Meter product portfolio, it can be viewed directly from CO2Meter.com

About CO2Meter

Often identified as the “leading source” for gas detection, monitoring, and analytical solutions, CO2Meter continues to focus on the development of solutions for customers. Since its incorporation in 2006, CO2Meter works diligently to utilize the latest, proven gas sensing technologies to solve the urgent needs of our partners. ­­By providing unique, high quality, sensors, and devices CO2Meter strives each day and in each customer interaction to provide education about gas detection and monitoring, and to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of the public.

Oceanside, CA (June 6, 2023) – Kellermeyer Bergensons Services (KBS), a trusted partner to leading operations and facility managers across North America, today announced that it has hired seasoned operational executive Ray Aschenbach as its new Chief Operating Officer.

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome Ray Aschenbach to the KBS team as our newly appointed Chief Operating Officer,” said Mark Minasian, CEO at KBS. “Ray is an exceptional leader who brings a wealth of experience creating an environment that drives both operational efficiency and quality service delivery. He will be instrumental in generating continued growth by executing our strategy and delivering facility services at the high-standards clients expect from KBS.”
Aschenbach has 25 years of experience leading domestic and global enterprise services organizations and is known for his expertise in managing strategy development, change management initiatives, and building numerous high-performing teams. Aschenbach was most recently President and COO of Advanced Technology Services (ATS), a global industrial services provider. Prior to that, he spent 23 years in multiple senior executive roles at Iron Mountain, a global enterprise information management services company, including the last six years as Senior Vice President and General Manager for Global Digital Solutions.

“I’m excited to join KBS, which has set itself apart as a leader and innovator in the facility services industry for more than 50 years,” Aschenbach said. “This role will enable me to leverage my experience in driving growth through outstanding operational execution. I look forward to working closely with the executive team, our talented field operators, and our many partners and clients.”

For more information about KBS, please visit https://www.kbs-services.com.

About KBS
Kellermeyer Bergensons Services (KBS) is a trusted partner to leading operations and facility managers across more than 100,000 client locations throughout North America. We provide essential facility services that deliver healthy operations to businesses through scalable solutions customized to meet client-specific requirements. Our expertise and technology enable our teams to anticipate issues, ensure quality, and maximize efficiency. With decades of experience, KBS is committed to helping clients Raise Standards and Lower Costs with the latest advances for maintaining healthy and safe operations. KBS is proud to deliver an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) program that positively impacts our team members, our clients, and the communities we serve. Visit www.kbs-services.com for more information.

GREENVILLE, SC, May 31, 2023 – Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has recently acquired Total Mechanical Repair Services, repair services, preventative maintenance and installation for commercial kitchens.

Based in Brookhaven, Mississippi, Total Mechanical Repair Services (TMR) specializes in servicing hot and cold side equipment and HVAC repair, primarily in restaurants and convenience stores in southern Mississippi and Louisiana. TMR is a complementary acquisition to TEMCO, a previous add-on acquisition completed by Tech24 based in Jackson, MS. The acquisition allows Tech24 to expand its market reach in Mississippi and provide access to the adjacent and unpenetrated market of Louisiana.

Tech24's 16th acquisition to date expands coverage in southeastern U.S. markets and aligns with the organization's robust strategic growth initiatives. This milestone will benefit both new and existing customers through expanded services and efficiencies.

“The Tech24 family is growing rapidly, and we are excited to continue this momentum with the addition of TMR. This company brings blue-chip customers and broad capabilities to the underserved market of Louisiana. We look forward to working alongside Brian Johnson, TMR’s owner, and the entire team as part of the larger Tech24 organization.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast and employs over 750 highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

Imagine tapping into a reservoir of knowledge, a treasury of proven experience, and a web of well-established relationships — that’s what you do when you engage with companies boasting a rich history of employee tenure. Tenure, the golden emblem of loyalty and long-standing employment, is not just a feather in an employee’s cap but also a testament to a company’s stability, efficiency, and strength. An array of advantages accompanies such companies, such as keen expertise, operational effectiveness, deep-seated networks, and valuable institutional memory — all of which come together to forge robust business alliances. As we dive deeper into the concept of tenure, we will explore how aligning with companies that value and retain their long-term employees can create mutual advantages and drive collective business success.

Expertise and Industry Knowledge

Companies with long-term employees often have a wealth of expertise and industry knowledge. These employees have accumulated years of experience, honed their skills, and have a deep understanding of the company and its goals. This expertise can be leveraged when collaborating with other businesses to provide valuable insights, solve complex problems, and contribute to innovative solutions.

Stability and Reliability

Long-term employees contribute to the stability and reliability of a company. Their extended tenure demonstrates loyalty, commitment, and a proven track record of consistently delivering results. For business partners, this stability translates into reduced risks and increased confidence in the company’s ability to fulfill its commitments. Long-term employees often possess solid institutional knowledge, enabling them to navigate challenges, maintain business continuity, and provide a dependable foundation for collaborative endeavors.

Established Networks and Relationships

Employees who have spent significant time in a company develop extensive networks and relationships within the industry. These connections can be invaluable when forging partnerships or seeking opportunities for business growth. Companies with long-term employees can leverage these networks to facilitate introductions, establish strategic alliances, and access a broader range of resources. These existing relationships can significantly enhance the partner’s market reach, influence, and potential for success.

Efficient and Streamlined Operations

Long-term employees are often highly efficient and familiar with the company’s processes and workflows. Their extensive experience allows them to easily navigate internal systems, procedures, and hierarchies. This efficiency translates into smoother interactions, streamlined communication, and effective project management when collaborating with external partners. The expertise of long-term employees enables the company to optimize its operations, leading to improved productivity and timely deliverables.

Institutional Memory and Learning

Companies benefit from the institutional memory held by long-term employees. They possess in-depth knowledge of the company’s history, culture, values, and lessons learned from past experiences. This institutional memory helps businesses avoid repeating past mistakes, capitalize on successful strategies, and foster continuous learning and improvement. By partnering with companies that value and retain long-term employees, business partners access this accumulated wisdom, contributing to better decision-making and long-term success.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that In January 2022, median employee tenure (the point at which half of all workers had more tenure and half had less tenure) for men held at 4.3 years. For women, the median tenure was 3.8 years. Among men, 28 percent of wage and salary workers had 10 years or more of tenure with their current employer in January 2022, higher than the women at 26 percent. Median employee tenure was generally higher among older workers than younger ones. For example, the median tenure of workers ages 55 to 64 (9.8 years) was more than three times that of workers ages 25 to 34 (2.8 years)—also, a larger proportion of older workers than younger workers had 10 years or more of tenure. For example, among workers ages 60 to 64, 53 percent had been employed for at least 10 years with their current employer in January 2022.

Younger workers were more likely than older workers to be short-tenured employees. For example, in January 2022, about 79 percent of 16- to 19-year-olds had 12 months or less tenure with their current employer, compared with about 12 percent of workers ages 55 to 64. The table below shows the median years of tenure from 2012 – 2022.

Having long-time employees can be highly beneficial for businesses for several reasons. Hiring and training new employees can be expensive and time-consuming. Long-time employees with specialized knowledge and skills are more efficient in their roles, requiring less supervision and training. Retaining experienced employees reduces recruitment costs, onboarding expenses, and the potential productivity dip associated with new hires. In addition, employees who have been with the organization for a long time are more likely to have a strong sense of dedication and loyalty toward the company. They are invested in its success and are more inclined to go the extra mile to achieve positive outcomes. This loyalty can translate into increased employee engagement, higher morale, and reduced turnover.

The Final Word

While having long-time employees offers numerous advantages, businesses should also strike a balance between experienced employees and fresh perspectives. Embracing a diverse workforce with a mix of long-term and new talent can help drive innovation, creativity, and adaptability within the organization.

IRVINE, Calif., May 24, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Habit Burger Grill, the California-based restaurant company renowned for its award-winning Charburgers grilled over an open flame, signature sandwiches, fresh salads and more, announced today, the launch of the Rainbow Shake in celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and allies during Pride Month. Making its first appearance as a limited-time offer (LTO), the Rainbow Shake will be sold in the vast majority of its restaurants beginning May 31 and running throughout the month of June, while supplies last.

The creamy, flavorful Rainbow Shake features vanilla ice cream blended with rainbow cereal, topped with strawberry puree, passion fruit puree, blue raspberry syrup and finished with whipped cream sprinkled with crunchy rainbow cereal.

In honor of Pride Month, $1 for every Rainbow Shake sold (up to $50,000 total) will be donated to the It Gets Better Project, whose mission is to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth around the globe.

In 2021, The Habit Burger Grill Facilities Manager Jorge Guevara had the idea to create a signature shake for Pride Month in an effort to raise awareness for those, like himself, who are members of the LGBTQ+ community. Although he’s a facilities manager and not on the food and beverage team, he drew the shake on a piece of paper and not long after, found himself in the test kitchen creating the shake alongside chefs. He named the shake, The Rainbow Shake and this June, the shake will debut with Jorge serving as the official spokesperson.

“What has struck me most about the Rainbow Shake is that when I spoke up, my company listened. I told them that we need to show our support to the LGBTQ+ community, colleagues and allies by creating a menu item that speaks to the celebration of our community. And they did. They allowed me into the test kitchen to create something that meant something to me,” said Jorge Guevara. “In my opinion, we have launched a shake that’s reflective of the vibrant flavor of the LBGTQ+ community. And I can’t wait for people across the nation to try it.”

The It Gets Better Project was selected by Jorge, as he wanted to do more than just create the shake—he wanted to empower and support LGBTQ+ youth. And the It Gets Better Project was a natural fit, reaching millions of young people each year through inspiring media programming, educational resources, and international affiliates in 19 countries.

“We’re here to bring everyone a taste of California feel-good, and we are honored to support the It Gets Better Project as it’s an organization that aligns with what we stand for,” said Jack Hinchliffe, Chief Marketing Officer at The Habit Burger Grill. “It’s our mission to create a warm environment free of prejudice and bias where everyone is equally welcomed, respected, and celebrated for their authentic self—because at Habit Burger Grill, everyone has a seat at our table.”

The It Gets Better Project is also thrilled to partner with Habit Burger Grill. As a proud family of storytellers and community builders currently spanning four continents, they align with like-minded companies who share in the message of inclusivity and empowerment of the LGBTQ+ community, especially in young people.

“The It Gets Better Project continues to positively impact the LGBTQ+ youth experience by connecting LGBTQ+ youth with resources and community,” said Jimmy Ancheta-Tilley, Jr., Director of Development at the It Gets Better Project. “We are thrilled to join forces with companies like The Habit Burger Grill to elevate the power of storytelling through the Rainbow Shake.”

The Habit Burger Grill is California's best-kept secret, named in Thrillist's list of "Underrated Burger Chains that Need to be in Every State!" Guests at The Habit Burger Grill can always count on freshly-made, handcrafted quality, served up with genuine hospitality. By continually pushing innovation across their new menu items, these latest additions are what make The Habit, a habit.

Connect with The Habit Burger Grill on social media at facebook.com/habitburgergrill, instagram.com/habitburgergrill, twitter.com/habitburger, tiktok.com/@habitburgergrill, and youtube.com/habittube.

About The Habit Restaurants, Inc.
Born in Santa Barbara, California in 1969, The Habit Burger Grill is a burger-centric, fast-casual restaurant concept that specializes in preparing fresh, cooked-to-order chargrilled burgers and handcrafted sandwiches featuring grilled tenderloin steak, grilled chicken and sushi-grade ahi tuna cooked over an open flame. In addition, it features fresh handcrafted salads and an appealing selection of sides and shakes. The Habit Burger Grill was featured in Newsweek’s “America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains 2023”; its Tempura Green Beans was named as the top green bean dish in The Daily Meal’s “Ranking Green Bean Dishes From 11 Chain Restaurants” in 2023; and it was named in Thrillist’s list of “Underrated Burger Chains that Need to be in Every State!” The Habit Burger Grill has since grown to over 350 restaurants in 14 states throughout Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia and Washington as well as 12 international locations, five in China and seven in Cambodia. More information is available at www.habitburger.com.

About the It Gets Better Project

The It Gets Better Project is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that strives to uplift, empower and connect LGBTQ+ youth around the globe. Created in 2010 as the result of one of the most successful viral video campaigns in YouTube’s history, the It Gets Better Project provides critical support and hope to LGBTQ+ youth around the world by leveraging the power of media to reach millions of people each year. The project has expanded its origins in storytelling and media to include educational resources through It Gets Better EDU and reaches 19 countries outside of the U.S. through It Gets Better Global.

The project has garnered support from President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, along with numerous celebrities, including Kelly Clarkson, Gabrielle Union, Chris and Scott Evans, Jojo Siwa, Zachary Quinto, Mj Rodriguez, Hayley Kiyoko, and Gigi Gorgeous. More than 750,000 people have taken the It Gets Better pledge to share messages of hope and speak up against intolerance. Please visit www.itgetsbetter.org for more information, and join the conversation on TikTok, Instagram and Twitter at @ItGetsBetter; Facebook.com/ItGetsBetterProject; and YouTube.com/ItGetsBetterProject.

The Habit Burger Grill Press Contact: HBGMedia@yum.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d687024-6e3e-4de6-9de7-fc2309c3173f

Lakewood, Colorado - March 1, 2023 – InstaKey® Security Systems is proud to announce the promotion of Matthew Drumm to Systems Development Project Manager.

Since joining InstaKey® Security Systems’ Client Services as a Senior Account Manager in 2017, Mr. Drumm has been crucial to our client satisfaction and company growth. His personability, drive for simplifying standards, and strong problem-solving skills are first-rate. In his new project management role, he will use this knowledge to develop new client programs and implement best-in-class key control practices from architecture to maintenance.

We fully expect and believe that Mr. Drumm will be an asset in the years to come that will allow us to provide our customers with the high-quality services they deserve while enabling us to achieve our goals.

“We are excited to make this announcement. Matthew is a valued colleague and his commitment to excellence will only continue to help our organization grow”, stated Ryan Carter, Chief Executive Officer.

We hope you will join us in extending “Congratulations” to our new Systems Development Project Manager!

About InstaKey® Security Systems
For professionals charged with managing physical security and loss prevention, who need to keep track of mechanical keys and reduce operating costs, InstaKey® is the only provider that offers a consultative partnership behind hardware and software, making key tracking and cost control significantly impactful to your bottom line, unlike other mechanical lock and key manufacturers who provide hardware only. For additional information please visit www.instakey.com or call us at +1 (800) 316-5397.

Have you ever found yourself drawn to a restaurant not just because of the food, but because of its unique history and story? Maybe it’s a local diner that’s been around for decades, or a chain that’s been passed down from generation to generation. Whatever it may be, brand heritage is a powerful tool in the food and beverage industry. In this post, we’ll dive into why brand heritage matters, and how it can help restaurants stand out in today’s crowded marketplace.

A&W

Brand heritage is all about telling a story. One of the ways that A&W has leveraged its brand heritage is by embracing its history. The chain’s roots go back over 100 years, and A&W has capitalized on this by emphasizing its status as a classic American brand. For example, A&W has created limited-time offers that harken back to its early days, such as featuring classic menu items like the Papa Burger or promoting its root beer float. This nostalgia factor is a big part of A&W’s brand heritage, and it resonates with customers who appreciate the chain’s history and tradition. The chain’s root beer is a key part of its identity, and A&W has made it a priority to maintain the quality and consistency of this iconic beverage.

Carl’s Jr.

Carl’s Jr. is a prime example of a restaurant chain that has effectively leveraged its heritage to stand out in the crowded fast-food industry. With roots dating back to the 1950s, Carl’s Jr. has a rich history that includes pioneering the use of charbroiled burgers and creating memorable advertising campaigns. The brand has embraced its heritage in a variety of ways, from featuring historical Carl’s Jr. photos in its restaurants and on its website to offering menu items that harken back to its early days. By tapping into customers’ nostalgia and offering a sense of authenticity, Carl’s Jr. has created a loyal following that spans generations. It’s a testament to the power of brand heritage and the importance of preserving a brand’s unique story.

Whataburger

Furthermore, brand heritage can help restaurants differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. Take Whataburger, for instance. This iconic Texas fast-food chain has been serving up burgers and fries since 1950. By leveraging its history and unique story, Whataburger has cultivated a fiercely loyal fanbase that spans generations. In a world where new restaurants seem to pop up every day, brand heritage is a valuable tool for standing out and attracting customers. One of the ways that Whataburger has leveraged its brand heritage is by staying true to its roots. Despite growing into a large chain with hundreds of locations across the southern United States, Whataburger has remained committed to the quality and freshness of its food. It still uses 100% pure beef and fresh produce in all of its burgers and sandwiches, and it has maintained its tradition of cooking everything to order. This commitment to quality and freshness is a key part of Whataburger’s brand heritage, and it is something that customers have come to expect from the chain.

In Media

The power of brand heritage goes beyond just the food and beverage industry. Remember the iconic intro to the show Cheers? It utilized vintage photography and illustrations to evoke a sense of belonging and community. “You wanna be where everybody knows your name” is a reminder of the importance of human connection and the power of community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, brand heritage is a crucial element of success in the food and beverage industry, but can be utilized by any company with a rich history. By telling their stories, restaurants can create a sense of nostalgia, differentiation, authenticity, and attract new customers. Whether you’re a customer or a restaurant owner, taking the time to appreciate and cultivate brand heritage is a worthwhile investment that can pay dividends for years to come.

MANASQUAN, N.J., March 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its strategic growth, SMG Holdings LLC has announced the launch of a new division, SMG Clean™. SMG Clean™ will improve cleanliness with less cost and time by focusing on a wide range of janitorial services including both reactive and reoccurring support that includes preventative maintenance, specialty, and window cleaning for multi-site clients.

"Our ongoing vision is to integrate our core service capabilities to meet the growing needs of our valued clients," said Jason Menser, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives. "SMG Clean™ will complement the services being offered through SMG Facilities™ as well as align with SMG Energy's commitment to the environment".

Shannon Prato, Chief Executive Officer commented: "SMG has been extremely fortunate in successfully supporting large multi-site clients for nearly 30 years; we understand the space and have established a history of service excellence. We are in an excellent position to establish a new division that we feel addresses a current deficiency of providing quality, efficiency, and productivity of custodial cleaning and maintenance programs in the multi-site space."

SMG Clean™ is the janitorial division of SMG Holdings LLC, a privately held facility services, real estate and investment firm focused on integrated facilities management, energy and sustainability solutions and services, strategic sourcing, and procurement.

The move follows SMG's recent announcement of a new corporate headquarters in Red Bank, New Jersey.

SMG Clean™ will be exhibiting at the upcoming ConnexFM National Conference in Grapevine, Texas on April 2-5, 2023. ConnexFM is the authority on Retail and Multi-site Facilities Management and leading membership organization for facility managers and supplier professionals. Learn more at www.national.connexfm.com

About SMG Clean™

SMG Clean™ delivers multi-site companies customized janitorial services provided by an established network of local, expert teams, all centrally managed through one point of contact. We partner with clients to establish and achieve savings and sustainability strategies while focusing on driving down costs, mitigating risk and improving overall operational performance. Learn more at www.SMGClean.com

About SMG Facilities™

SMG Facilities™ is an industry-leading, woman-owned, integrated facilities management (IFM) company committed to client success by providing comprehensive professional services and extensive expertise in facilities maintenance, construction, project management, disaster, and emergency response to multi-site businesses throughout North America and Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). Learn more at www.SMGFacilities.com

About SMG Energy™

SMG Energy™ delivers multi-site companies customized energy and sustainability solutions that lower costs, manage risk, and improve brand position. We partner with clients to establish and achieve proven energy-saving and sustainability strategies (ex. decarbonization targets) while maintaining a unique focus on driving down energy spending, increasing visibility, and improving overall operational cost savings. Understanding our client's sustainability goals, cost drivers, and consumption profiles, we help to identify, analyze, and achieve sustainability and ESG metrics that meet their financial targets. Learn more at www.SMGEnergy.com

Media Contact:
Erica Davis, Director of Marketing +1.603.547.7051 Email: edavis@smgfacilities.com

SOURCE SMG Holdings LLC

Today, Fexa expands its capabilities to address mounting regulatory and compliance risks with the acquisition of Trakref, a leading refrigerant tracking and management software provider. The future of retail and facilities management is facing unprecedented uncertainty. With looming regulation from the EPA and the SEC’s new carbon reporting requirements that are expected to be announced this year, companies must navigate once-in-a-lifetime cost and compliance pressures in the face of economic headwinds, increasing sustainability goals, and rapidly changing customer needs that are pushing facilities and assets to their limits.

“Fexa was founded on the principle that innovative technology can play an essential role in helping companies maximize the potential of their facilities,” said Kurt Smith, CEO of Fexa. “We felt uniquely positioned to help the industry solve the immediate challenge of tracking and managing refrigerants. We did an exhaustive search for the best solution to solve this problem, and it became clear that there is no equal to Trakref’s rules engine in terms of providing a fully compliant, audit-ready solution. Ensuring a seamless transition for all customers and partners is our top priority.”

Typically, cost management and compliance are addressed separately, but these growing challenges demand a holistic approach. With these added capabilities, Fexa will deliver a comprehensive solution that empowers facility owners, operators, and service providers to manage facilities efficiently, maximize the longevity and performance of assets, meet compliance regulations, and deliver against sustainability goals.

“We have seen how the Fexa CMMS platform has helped multi-site businesses manage their facilities more cost-effectively. The Fexa platform is extremely efficient and created more than a 35% reduction in clicks to process a work order within my organization. The addition of Trakref is a natural evolution of their platform, as refrigerant compliance will require tight coordination between facilities managers, service providers, and HVAC/R assets,” said Chris Jernigan (CJ), executive managing director of Cushman & Wakefield Facilities Solutions. “I have first-hand experience with both platforms, and the possibilities of this partnership are very exciting for our clients. It’s the true definition of synergy being created between two great solutions. Fexa should be commended for listening to the market in terms of the real needs of facility managers and taking action to bring this solution together all within one platform.

”The combined company will continue to make its unique products and services available independently to customers and partners across the retail, grocery, healthcare, financial services, data center, real estate, and food services industries as they rapidly innovate to deliver new, integrated capabilities. Fexa and Trakref will continue to value and pursue extensibility with other systems, platforms, and service providers, so that customers have choice when it comes to finding the best solutions for their needs.

“We are ecstatic to join forces with Fexa, who believes in our mission of slowing climate change through better refrigerant tracking and management and helping clients gain control over their HVAC/R activity,” said Ted Atwood, founder of Trakref and now chief compliance and sustainability officer of Fexa. ”We remain committed to creating innovative solutions to stop costly refrigerant leaks for the planet's health and the safety of people everywhere. We will continue to work with a broad group of constituents, clients, and partners as we pursue this vision.”

Last year Fexa announced it had raised $40 million to support the acceleration of product development and enhance customer support. Since then the team has roughly doubled in size, so it is prepared to accelerate the roadmap, integrate acquisitions, and invest in a next generation, integrated solution. Fexa now serves more than 1.8 million facility locations across the U.S. and Canada, having grown more than 90% over the past year.

For more information on Fexa’s plans to solve the increasingly complex cost and compliance challenges that facility operators and service providers face with the unique capabilities of Trakref, visit https://fexa.io/fexa-ceo-announces-trakref-acquisition

About Fexa
Fexa is a facilities management enterprise SaaS solution dedicated to making it simpler for facilities and operations teams to achieve greater efficiency and ROI. The company’s highly configurable platform utilizes a flexible workflow engine to serve customers in a wide range of markets, including retail, healthcare, automotive, quick serve restaurant, e-commerce logistics, convenience, and broker or self-performing service providers. From work order, location and asset management to complex project management, the Fexa platform enhances and automates business and operational priorities through purpose-built, highly flexible software, tools and support. Fexa is easy to use, flexible and wicked smart. For more information about Fexa, visit https://fexa.io/

About Trakref
Trakref is a leading provider of refrigerant tracking and management software that simplifies compliance and ESG reporting. The company's platform offers a comprehensive solution for managing refrigerants, reducing compliance risk, and achieving sustainability goals. Learn more about Trakref at https://trakref.com/

Chicago, Mar. 29, 2023 — Intellihot, an innovative designer/ manufacturer of built-environment systems that challenge legacy approaches for sustainability, introduces the Legionator, the world’s first point-of-use disinfection tankless water heater.

Plumbers and HVAC contractors are generally familiar with the most common breeding pools for legionella: stagnant, lukewarm water found in cooling towers, spas/hot tubs, fountains and traditional tank-type water heaters. But, depending on a building’s water system usage, Legionella can also grow in faucets, valve seats, and showerheads. Hard water scale in such locations exacerbates the problem. Once colonization occurs it is extremely difficult to eliminate Legionella.

The Legionator significantly reduces the potential for Legionella at the point-of-use using water heating technology developed by Intellihot, which includes a built-in ozone generator and quartz scale-free heating.

Here is how it works: A set of high-quality quartz tubes heats water to a comfortable temperature when there is water demand. As the water is exiting the unit, ozone gas is injected into the water. This has two effects: 1) it kills the bacteria in water; and 2) the ozone is also carried in the water to the faucets and kills the bacteria present within the faucet valve seats and aerators. The result is good, clean, safe, and efficiently heated water ensuring a building and its occupants are protected from water-borne bacteria illnesses.

"Safe water is a priority for us, and Intellihot tankless water heaters have earned a reputation for their effectiveness in fighting Legionella," said Intellihot CEO Sri Deivasigamani. "With the invention of the Legionator, we're taking the fight to the point of use."

Intellihot will be rolling out the Legionator through preferred plumbing distributors. For more information go to Intellihot.com/Legionator.

About Intellihot
Intellihot is an innovative designer/manufacturer of built-environment systems that challenge legacy approaches for sustainability. Under the leadership of founder and CEO Sridhar (Sri) Deivasigamani, today Intellihot offers a range of tankless water heaters designed and built for commercial applications with a focus on sustainability, cost savings, and water quality safety. Winner of an Edison Award for Best New Product in 2022, Intellihot serves the hospitality, restaurant, multi-family housing, senior living, commercial facility and plumbing industries. Intellihot has operations in suburban Chicago, Galesburg, Ill. and distributors across North America. Learn more at www.intellihot.com or by following the company on Twitter and LinkedIn. 

Link to video demonstration: https://youtu.be/tasSgRIDZpo

Did you know a customer’s experience with an establishment begins and ends in the parking lot? It’s true – and that’s why good parking lot lighting is so important. Not only does it ensure the safety of people and vehicles, but it can also help reduce the risk of criminal activity. In this article, we’ll explore why parking lot lighting is crucial for businesses such as retailers, restaurants, c-stores, and more and how upgrading to LED lighting can make a significant difference.

DETERRING CRIME

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, around 4-6% of all crimes occur in parking lots, making them a common target for potential crime. They are the third most common place where crimes occur. Parking facilities are among the most likely settings for violent crimes, with 7.3% occurring there. The threat of such crimes spells disaster for business. Having a well-lit parking lot can act as a deterrent to theft and vandalism. It can also improve visibility and access in the parking lot, reducing risks of trip and fall accidents and potential liability. By providing better visibility, people are better aware of their surroundings, and the lighting creates a more inviting and welcoming atmosphere.

Research from the U.S. Department of Justice indicates that well-lit parking lots experience an average of 27% lower incidence of car break-ins and a 38% reduction in theft and other crime. Brightly lit and well-placed parking lot lighting is helpful for –

- A sense of safety and security

- Complimenting other security measures such as cameras

- Improving the quality of CCTV and surveillance equipment

- Deterring criminals

PRIORITIZING SAFETY

Prioritizing customer and employee safety should always be top of mind. People may avoid parking lots where they feel unsafe, cannot identify potential security threats, or if they need better visibility to back out of their parking spot. You could lose potential business if your lot lighting is not up to par.

- Women comprise more than half of the U.S. population and control or influence 85% of consumer spending.

- A woman is 86% more likely than a man to bypass a dark parking area for a better-illuminated one.

Additionally, well-lit parking lots can also help prevent accidents, especially when it comes to pedestrians. Drivers are better able to see pedestrians and other obstacles in well-lit areas, which can reduce the likelihood of accidents occurring.

LIGHTING CHOICES

Lighting choices are an essential component of parking lot safety best practices. So where do you begin? First, you will want to evaluate your current lighting. Is it providing adequate light at night? Do you have enough pole lights in your lot, and are they in the right areas? Many businesses choose to upgrade their lighting from HID to LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). LED lighting is directional, unlike HID lighting, which only focuses on one spot, with limited visibility and uneven lighting. They can be aimed to direct a higher concentration of light to targeted areas. They are also “dark sky” friendly, meaning that the lighting is designed to have minimal impact on the night sky. This includes reducing glare and light pollution and protecting our night sky and the life that depends on it. The primary benefits of LED lighting include the following –

- LEDs consume far less energy than traditional lighting

- LEDs have a longer life span than other lighting – up to 50,000 hours

- LEDs offer benefits such as dimming capabilities, improved visibility, consistency in color and light quality, and better control of the light spread - LEDs are versatile and come in different shapes and sizes, making them well-suited for a wide variety of applications

- LEDs are an environmentally friendly option, with no mercury or hazardous materials in their construction

- LEDs cost less to maintain, saving you money in the long run

In conclusion, good quality parking lot lighting is essential for businesses. It creates a safer, more welcoming atmosphere and customer experience and can reduce the risk of criminal activity. Upgrading to LED lighting offers many benefits, including improved visibility, energy efficiency, and cost savings. So don’t neglect your parking lot – invest in good lighting, and you’ll reap the benefits.

The integration bridges the communication gap between real estate, construction, and facilities teams during new location openings and turnover. Customers can easily manage properties and assets across platforms, accessing business-critical agreements such as contracts, permits, licenses, warranties, and insurance documents.

“As businesses grow, it becomes increasingly challenging to manage thousands of locations and assets. We are excited to bring Leasecake’s revolutionary location management platform to our customers, enabling facilities, real estate and construction teams to be organized, compliant and on the same page,” said Matt Singer, Ecotrak CEO.

The collaboration enables Ecotrak and Leasecake customers to connect real-estate lifecycle data to asset lifecycle data. This integration is available to Ecotrak and Leasecake customers.

“By leveraging Ecotrak’s facility management solution, we’re privileged to accelerate the power of asset management for our respective customers. As leaders in our respective industries, whether retail, restaurants, and franchises, the opportunity to create new efficiencies that drive revenue is unparalleled,” said Taj Adhav, Leasecake CEO.

To learn more about Ecotrak Facility Management Software, visit www.ecotrak.com.

About Ecotrak
Ecotrak is the premier Facilities Management SaaS platform - revolutionizing facilities using an asset first methodology, mobile-first technology, and a data first approach. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Irvine, California, Ecotrak’s mission is to empower businesses with actionable information to make better business decisions. Customers such as Inspire Brands, Flynn Restaurant Group, Texas Roadhouse and Dutch Bros save thousands per month on repairs & maintenance and increase efficiency using the platform. For more information, visit ecotrak.com.

About Therma
Leasecake is the lease and location management operating system for private-equity firms, franchises, corporate tenants, and brokers. The intuitive SaaS platform provides fast answers, proactive awareness, and actionable intelligence for easy collaboration across all mission-critical, time-sensitive events, simplifying productivity across distributed teams. As a future-of-work platform, Leasecake’s shareability also supports service providers, adds value for their clients, and helps businesses that lease or own locations grow revenue, save time, and better manage growth.

Des Plaines, IL… Chicago Faucets will exhibit WaterSense listed products including its new touchless E-Tronic® 80 faucet at the Restaurant Facility Management Association (RFMA) Show March 21-23, 2023 and will be located at Booth #101 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. Chicago Faucets is celebrating its 15 Year partnership with the EPA WaterSense program in 2023. Chicago Faucets is also proud partner of c WaterSense®, the Alliance for Water Efficiency, and the U.S. Green Building Council. Chicago Faucets is also a member of RFMA and offers a complete line of restaurant faucets including standard and Mini Pre-Rinse faucets plus the widest number of commercial manual and touchless faucets.

E-Tronic 80 WaterSense Touchless Faucets for the Front of the House

Chicago Faucets introduces the E-Tronic 80 faucet, an advanced, touchless commercial restroom solution available with safety features (ASSE 1070 scald protection), user adjustable temperature control, remote monitoring capability and long-term power supply for minimal maintenance. Restaurant owners and facility managers can replace old, inefficient faucets and aerators in the front of the house with WaterSense labeled hygienic models to save on their water bills. WaterSense touchless bathroom faucets that use 1.5 gallons per minute (GPM) of water reduce that fixture's water use by 30% throughout its lifecycle. This helps reduce water and energy expenses and makes for more profitable restaurant operations. To see the company’s WaterSense touchless faucets visit chicagofaucets.com, select the ‘list view’ on left and in ‘features’ on right click on ‘WaterSense’.

Chicago Faucets Pre-Rinse Faucets are Sustainable without Sacrificing Performance

Chicago Faucets will highlight its standard Pre-Rinse and the compact Mini Pre-Rinse, a line of food service fittings that are also available with a Pre-Rinse valve at a 1.0 GPM economical low flow without compromising performance. They are built to stand up to the rigors of a fast-paced, high-demand commercial kitchen and designed with adjustable cycle times to save water and user temperature control for convenience. The water-conserving pre-rinse valve rinses dishes, utensils, and glasses quickly and thoroughly while saving water and energy.

Restaurant Facility Managers Have Choices: Standard or Mini Pre-Rinse Faucets

• With the Chicago Faucets component interchangeability, one can design and specify the standard or mini pre-rinse model that fits the unique requirements of each space.

• Kitchen staff can service these easily by swapping out the nozzle and bumper in a matter of minutes or replacing the entire pre-rinse valve.

• Chicago Faucets fittings are built to take the punishment of busy kitchens. Pre-rinse fittings feature superior strength and durability, with a chrome-plated, solid cast brass faucet body.

• Pre-Rinse Faucets fittings include a nickel-plated brass valve stem and stainless-steel nozzle for smooth activation. They are available in deck or wall mounted variations, with a choice of handles.

With Chicago Faucets, restauranteurs can count on smooth operation even during the busiest of times. The company manufactures food industry faucets from pot fillers at the stove, pre-rinse or washdown fittings for dish prep, dipper well and glass fillers in the bar area, to touch free handwashing faucets. For over 50 years Chicago Faucets has been making plumbing fittings in the United States to keep restaurants, commercial kitchens and every sink in the facility operating at peak efficiency. To inquire about multi-unit operations, contact Nathan Klein, Business Development Manager, at Nathan.Klein@chicagofaucets.com.

ABOUT

Since 1901, The Chicago Faucet Company, located in Des Plaines, Illinois, has offered commercial and residential plumbing products built to stand the test of time. A combination of the best engineering, finest materials and quality workmanship has made Chicago Faucets the specified choice in many of the finest building projects throughout the United States and Canada. Chicago Faucets has been a trusted manufacturer of industry-leading fittings with unsurpassed quality and durability.

The Chicago Faucet Company is part of the Geberit Group, a European market leader and global provider of sanitary technology with products available in the United States at geberit.us. As a European market leader, the Geberit Group is a global plumbing technology provider with sales of CHF 3 billion and over 12,000 employees in 50 countries worldwide. For additional information, contact The Chicago Faucet Company at 2100 South Clearwater Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, telephone 800-566-2100 or visit chicagofaucets.com.

GAITHERSBURG, Md., Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sodexo, a global food services and facilities management leader, is proud to announce its recognition as a 2023 America’s Top Corporation for Women’s Business Enterprises by the Women's Business Enterprise National Council. The 2023 America's Top Corporations for WBEs award honors those corporations that have demonstrated a continuous and growing commitment to creating business opportunities for women-owned businesses within their supply chains. This is the third year Sodexo has won this prestigious award.

Sodexo is honored to be recognized as one of WBENC 2023 America’s Top Corporation for Women’s Business Enterprises, SVP and CPO Supply Management, Sodexo North America Dave Kourie said. We recognize the importance and commitment to the inclusion of women-owned businesses toward our diversity goals. We appreciate WBENC’s partnership and collaboration with us, as well as their support to certify these women entrepreneurs and business owners. We look forward to continuing to work together to fuel the growth of women-owned businesses in the coming years.

Currently, Sodexo partners with nearly 3,400 diverse and small businesses, including vendors that are Black, Hispanic, Asian, Indigenous, women, service-disabled veterans, LGBTQ+ or people with disabilities-owned across the U.S. As part of Sodexo's Better Tomorrow Plan the organization has a global commitment to support both diverse and local businesses; the goal is for 25 percent of Sodexo's global spend to be with small businesses in local communities, with a focus on women and other under-represented groups as defined by country, by 2025. Companies interested in partnering with Sodexo must be 51 percent diverse-owned, controlled and managed and certified by National Minority Supplier Development Council , Women's Business Enterprises National Council, National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Business Leadership Network, city or county certification, or state certification or Small Business Administration. 

Kim Gorton, president and CEO of Slade Gorton & Co, Inc., a partner of Sodexo in sustainable seafood, expressed her company's support for Sodexo's commitment to diversity. Slade Gorton is proud to be Sodexo’s partner in sustainable seafood and applauds its longstanding commitment to supporting diversity across the supply chain. Long before DEI came to the forefront, Sodexo was working diligently behind the scenes as a pioneer in uplifting and highlighting its women-owned partners. We continue to work together with Sodexo to seek out the many incredible women-led businesses across our global network and remain grateful to be part of such a force for good.

The 2023 America's Top Corporations for WBEs award celebrates the companies that have successfully implemented diversity and inclusion programs, into their supplier diversity portfolios, that enable growth and innovation for women's business enterprises.

Sodexo is consistently recognized for the organization's commitment and work in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space, which is inclusive of supplier diversity. In January 2022, Sodexo received a score of 100 percent on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2022 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ workplace equality, for the fifteenth consecutive year. In the summer of 2022, Sodexo was recognized as one of the 2022 Best Companies for Multicultural Women by Seramount and scored a 100 on the Disability Equality Index (DEI), earning the title of one of the “2022 Best Places to Work for People with Disabilities” for the eighth consecutive year. Additional accolades include being recognized as one of Forbes Best Employer for Diversity, LATINA Style Magazine’s Top 50 Best Companies for Latinas to Work, and the NGLCC’s Best of the Best Corporation for Inclusion.

About Sodexo North America
Sodexo North America is part of a global, Fortune 500 company with a presence in 55 countries. Sodexo provides quality, multichannel and flexible food experiences, but also designs attractive and inclusive workplaces and shared spaces, manages and maintains infrastructure in a safe and environmentally friendly way, offers personalized support for patients or students and even creates programs fostering employee engagement. The company employs 90,066 people at thousands of sites in all 50 U.S. states, Canada, Puerto Rico and Guam, and indirectly supports tens of thousands of additional jobs through its annual purchases of $20B in goods and services from small to large businesses. Sodexo North America is committed to focusing on tangible everyday gestures and actions through its integrated services to create a better every day for everyone and build a better life for all.

About WBENC
The Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest third-party certifier of businesses owned, controlled, and operated by women in the United States. WBENC partners with 14 Regional Partner Organizations to provide its world-class standard of certification to women-owned businesses throughout the country. For more information, visit www.wbenc.org.

On-demand data collection has never been more simplified and accessible than it is today. iVueit’s platform & mobile app makes it easy to gather the photo & survey information property & facility managers need to make informed decisions, and now they can leverage the Vuer network to collect measurements too.

iVueit is proud to introduce Measurement Vues to the arsenal of inspection capabilities performed by their Vuers. Measurement Vues make it possible to get instant measurements on residential and commercial properties with premier accuracy and precision. Read on to find out more about this revolutionary technology and how it can help those who manage multi-site portfolios streamline their facilities management processes.

HOW CAN THIS TECHNOLOGY HELP FACILITY/PROPERTY MANAGERS?
This feature opens the door of opportunities for additional data points to be collected while Vuers are on site. For example, while a Vuer is capturing photos of pavement conditions, they will also seek to find damage and potential hazards like a pothole. The Vuer can collect proof of the pothole with geo-mapped, and time-stamped data points, and also provide the exact width and length of the hole. So now, the facility manager can have all the information needed to create a work order without having to send an internal member on site to verify.

Here are a few other examples of how this technology may be used:

• The distance from an obstruction to a potential ATM site
• The length of a menu-board that needs replaced
• The height of a window for store-front signage

iVueit’s technology makes risk mitigation a priority while saving facility managers time, resources and expenses.

TYPES OF MEASUREMENTS PERFORMED
iVueit’s measurement technology doesn’t stop at potholes. The smart feature is capable of measuring an array of assets most crucial to commercial & residential portfolios including but not limited to:

• Letter-sets
• Windows
• Curb-stops
• Interior Shelves
• Interior/exterior Doors
• Walls
• Parking Spaces
• Potholes
• Residential interiors

LEVERAGE IVUEIT’S MEASUREMENT TECHNOLOGY
To try out iVueit’s new feature on your properties & assets, contact iVueit at vuerequest@ivueit.com or request a free pilot on your sites today.

CHICAGO (February 23, 2023)—The National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show®, the foodservice industry’s premier event, today announced the 20 recipients of the 2023 Kitchen Innovations (KI) Awards. Each year, the KI Awards program recognizes the year’s most forward-thinking and cutting-edge kitchen equipment and product innovations that meaningfully improve foodservice operations. The National Restaurant Association Show brings together more restaurant and hospitality buyers and equipment manufacturers than any other industry event and will be held May 20-23, 2023, at McCormick Place in Chicago.

“We are thrilled to recognize this year’s recipients of the 2023 Kitchen Innovations Award,” said Tom Cindric, President of Winsight Exhibitions. “Each year we see innovative products that revolutionize kitchen and foodservice operations, and this year is no different. These equipment advancements address many of the challenges impacting operations today—including workforce shortages and labor costs—and create a new generation of kitchens that improve operations and safety through increased efficiency, versatility and productivity to help boost the bottom line.”

The KI Awards program has earned a reputation for defining the gold standard of foodservice equipment innovations. This year’s recipients reflect the trends and topics most important to foodservice operators today, while generating industry growth through a focus on automation, efficiency, safety improvements, sustainability, and more. The KI Award recipients were selected by an independent panel of judges comprised of industry leaders and internationally recognized food facility consultants, multi-unit executives and design experts.

The 2023 Kitchen Innovations Award recipients are:

Aniai aGrill (Alpha Grill)
Aniai
Aniai provides robotic kitchen solutions for restaurants. The cooking robot ‘Alpha Grill’ follows your burger recipe and cleans itself so that you can focus on high-level priorities. Dual cooking surface on the top and bottom grills cook 8 patties in less than one minute. The clamshell Alpha Grill raises burger patties into top platens, times cooking, picks up the cooked patties (no flipping required), delivers to a front-mount warming tray. Al and optical and other sensors check the quality and help you make your burger even better. Alpha Grill is designed to make your day in the kitchen hassle-free.

Intelligent French Fry Robotic Solution
Atosa USA, Inc.
Robotics are here big time, and Atosa’s new system introduces the same type of six-axis robotic arm that probably built your car. The collaborative “co-bot” solution works in auto or manual mode, with or without staffers, and includes a French fry (or other) refrigerated or frozen hopper/dispenser, robotic arm, fryer battery with filtration, ventless hood with ansul fire suppression, and dump station. This solution can be integrated with existing fry batteries. Atosa's next generation solution will focus on multi product dispensing along with auto packing.

Costa Smart Café Marlow 1.2
The Coca-Cola Company
Costa Smart Café is a revolutionary piece of autonomous equipment that provides barista-quality coffee at the touch of a button. Essentially an unmanned coffee shop in a box, it is designed to craft and dispense over 100 hot and iced drinks before any human assistance is needed.

ConvoSense
Convotherm
ConvoSense is the world’s first AI-powered, fully automated combi oven cooking and baking system. ConvoSense sees what the operator is loading and instantly launches the perfect cooking program to produce it. Adept at mixed loads, food can be loaded all at once or one tray at a time. ConvoSense recognizes the food as it is loaded and launches the correct cooking program for each tray while simultaneously managing the entire cooking cavity for consistent, exceptional results.

LXnR
Hobart – ITW Food Equipment Group
Offering an industry exclusive two-level undercounter rack design, preliminarily debuted on the LXeR model, the LXnR is the only two-level undercounter that’s NSF certified. This innovation increases throughput while reducing water, energy, and labor. Rated at 48 racks/hour, the fastest undercounter throughput in the industry, the design consists of a molded rack guide and removable wire rack equipped to fit bowls, plates, and utensils.

Taylor Hydra Rinse with Configurable Pro Controller
Hydra Rinse
Taylor’s latest Hydra Rinse now features a configurable pro-controller that allows users to clean different soft-serve/shake machine models with one system. As before, without disassembling the machine, just attach the Hydra Rinse system and auto clean--in half the typical cycle time, regardless of staff skill level, for a cleaner machine and better tasting mix.

ImmersaFlex
Immersion Systems Inc.
Designed for flexible rapid food thawing, washing of fruits & vegetables, seafood de-glazing and general washing, ImmersaFlex uses a process of "immersion" to create water convection for thawing and de-glazing and powerful wash action for washing processes. No difficult to clean and inspect pumps or manifolds. The load capacity is 150 pounds. The system is completely process controlled and the system clean-out and sanitation are fully automatic.

Hybrid Kold Pak Dual Temp Saute Station
Kwick Cool
The challenge for sauté stations is holding open-pan temps at/below 40⁰F without freezing the bottom of the pan even while sautéing inches away. FSTC test data show Kwick Cool’s solution solves the issue by a big margin. The key: Chilled, sealed glycerin pouches insulate and chill the rails against heat migration. One thermostat controls each pan rail offering choice of two temperatures depending on the product being held.

FryBot
Lab2Fab
With fully automated technology, including a seven-axis robotic arm, FryBot can fry two separate frozen foods, up to 30 lbs. of each. Collaborative technology allows humans and robots to operate in the same workspace using safety sensors to ensure the safety of all employees. Depending on food item and programmed cook time, FryBot can fry 50+ baskets per hour with a two-vat (4 basket) system.

Merrychef conneX® with Automated Panini Press
Merrychef®
The new Merrychef conneX® range with panini press is the first high speed cooking platform able to deliver a full 16”+ square cooking cavity allowing both batch and on-demand cooking in an 18” UL certified ventless countertop platform. The tri-pleX technology allows for the fastest, quietest and most energy efficient speed oven in its class. The patented press accessory, unattached to the oven, slides in and out with one handed ease. A newly engineered auto-lift of the press enables smooth loading/unloading.

SafetySuite
PathSpot Technologies, Inc.
Of the many back-of-house tools and software, PathSpot SafetySuite is the first comprehensive health and safety operating system. SafetySuite offers complete flexibility, configurability, integrated remote temperature monitoring, food labeling, expiry management, compliance forms for key task validation and audit forms to digitize safety inspection notes. Here's the best part: It’s all networked with the company’s HandScanner, a fluorescence spectroscopy unit that detects microbial contamination on hands, logs data, etc.

PreciTaste
PreciTaste
With 2,000+ food AI systems, PreciTaste is a first-to-market AI kitchen management system to optimize operations through real-time guidance in foodservice entities nationwide. The solution incorporates data augmentation from a proprietary database and machine learning to manage kitchen operations, resulting in increased productivity and profit. Highly scalable, PreciTaste provides crew assistance based on demand predictions with the option to add vision sensing for key kitchen tasks including bulk prep, inventory planning, and work-station management.

SmartVide XL and 30-gallon Precision Rethermalizer Tank
SAMMIC
Sous vide is widely known for precise time/temp-controlled cooking, but it has always been restricted to a small amount of servings. Operators can now serve hundreds of portions with the same precision as a typical countertop sous vide tank thanks to Sammic’s SmartVide XL combined with the groundbreaking technology and connectivity of the new 30-gallon Precision Rethermalizer Tank.

Elevate Autonomous Retail Merchandiser
Structural Concepts
Structural Concepts is the only refrigerated OEM to design and manufacture a complete smart solution for autonomous shopping. Offsetting labor challenges, an appealing merchandising format with increased capacity, a cashier-less transactional system, and the ability to streamline inventory management, this single solution provides a quick ROI turning into increased profitability.

UltraRinse
T&S Brass and Bronze Works
Finally, a spray nozzle specifically for rinsing produce and thawing proteins. UltraRinse is a patented, retrofittable swing nozzle attachment equipped with unique angled fan-spray tips to create a broad, soft water spray across maximum surface area. Two versions: a 10" arm to fit under 12" nozzles and a 16" arm for 18" nozzles. The 10" has three spray tips totaling 1.5 gpm flow rate; the 16" version has five tips totaling 1.5 gpm.

PLEXOR M2
TurboChef Technologies, LLC
TurboChef’s PLEXOR M2 is the first oven to feature separate impingement and rapid-cook cavities - or two rapid-cook cavities. Like its A3 predecessor, the M2 is modular and can be pre-specified or field swappable to any desired configuration. With just a 26.8” footprint and two full-sized cooking cavities, the M2 offers the ultimate ventless space efficiency, product range and throughput.

SPEED-X
UNOX INC.
In the ongoing trend to optimize versatility and food quality in ever-shrinking footprints, now there's a combi oven that can do what speed ovens do, and a speed oven with auto-wash capability all in the same unit. As a combi, SPEED-X™ is 20% faster than a traditional combi oven. As a speed oven combining steam, air and microwaves, it can cook food in seconds, including from raw.

SerVue - Touchless Refrigerated Slide-In
Vollrath Company
Picture a traditional salad/food bar. Then replace the pans, breath guard and utensils with a row of enclosed, high-capacity canisters in a refrigerated chamber keeping the product covered and food-safe. Now picture sensors automating dispensing and portion control. THAT is the new SerVue™ touchless refrigerated slide-in food bar, the next generation of serving line fabricator components.

The Ellipse Blending System
Waring Commercial Products
The future of blending has arrived! Experience the power of top-down blending that propels you beyond the limits of physics. The brand-new Waring® Ellipse™ Blending Solution has been designed to change the way you think of blending with shorter cycles, greater output, and more consistent results.

Robojo - Powered by MyAppCafe'
Zink
Robojo is more than an untended robotic coffee kiosk - It’s theater. This self-contained coffee business is built around two WMF-5000S+ Super Automatic Espresso machines, a Scotsman nugget ice machine, two latte art printers, a refrigerator, and a Kawasaki robotic arm. The equipment is connected to the monitoring system via ethernet cables. Devices are plug and play, easily replaced. Customers pay via credit card terminal or a propriety app.

All KI Award recipients receive additional industry-wide exposure throughout the Show channels and their media partners. This prestigious endorsement opens doors to new business opportunities and recognition from operators, media and dealers. This year, KI Awardees will again be featured in a dedicated showroom in the South Hall at McCormick Place and highlighted in special programming at the Show.

As the global restaurant and hospitality industry’s premier trade show, the National Restaurant Association Show is the place to explore everything that’s happening in the hospitality industry, from the latest food and beverage trends to emerging technology.

For more information and to register, visit nationalrestaurantshow.com and connect with the Show online on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

The National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show is owned and operated by Winsight LLC in partnership with the National Restaurant Association.

About Winsight LLC
Winsight LLC is a business-to-business information, event and market intelligence company serving the restaurant and noncommercial foodservice, convenience and petroleum retailing and grocery industries. Winsight provides research and analytics, branding solutions, face-to-face opportunities, lead generation initiatives, and content marketing services through products including subscription data products, reports, research tools, research programs, fully custom studies, conferences, custom marketing services, meetings, print, digital trade media and tradeshows, including the National Restaurant Association Show.

GREENVILLE, SC – Tech24, a national industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has recently acquired Commercial Kitchen Repairs, a provider of repair services, preventative maintenance and installation for commercial cooking equipment.

Based in Quakertown, Pennsylvania, Commercial Kitchen Repairs (CKR) services restaurants, schools, hospitals and grocery stores in the greater Philadelphia and Lehigh Valley area as well as southwest New Jersey.

The acquisition provides Tech24 with increased coverage in northeastern U.S. markets and aligns with the organization’s robust strategic growth initiatives. The announcement marks Tech24’s 15th acquisition to date and will benefit both new and existing customers through expanded services and efficiencies.

“We are very pleased to welcome Commercial Kitchen Repairs to our growing Tech24 family,” said Tech24’s CEO, Dan Rodstrom. “CKR is a stellar company that brings valuable scale and hot-side service exposure to a vital Philadelphia market. We look forward to working alongside Dwight Boris and his entire team as part of Tech24.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast and employs over 575 highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

Available to Retail, Restaurant, Office, Lodging and Other Commercial Customers

LEWISVILLE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MCS (or the “Company”), the national property services Company founded in 1986, announced today it has acquired industry-leading commercial facilities services firm Chain Store Maintenance (“CSM”). MCS’s interior commercial facility services platform will be marketed as Chain Store Maintenance - an MCS Company, offering the core interior maintenance services that CSM is known for. Exterior facility services will continue to be marketed under MCS. In addition to expanding the Company’s overall commercial services offerings, the acquisition enhances MCS’s ability to serve its residential clients in the mortgage servicing and single-family rental industries with an expanded network of service providers and its growing network of self-performing service centers.

“We strive to be a true ‘go-to’ facilities services provider and fostered this partnership with Chain Store Maintenance to enhance our ability to provide customers with best-in-class interior and exterior services at all levels across the commercial and residential property services industries by leveraging MCS’s self-performing service centers and our combined, extensive vendor network,” said Craig Torrance, Chief Executive Officer of MCS. “Our expertise in exterior maintenance combined with CSM’s impeccable reputation for interior maintenance services adds value to the existing customer base across both firms. John Catanese and Steve Hopkins have spent over 30 years building the CSM brand and take great pride in their hands-on, client-focused approach to doing business. MCS is thrilled to merge our commercial services platform as we further our mission to be the nation’s premier property care company.”

Founded in 1991, CSM began developing a service provider network and customer base across its native New England and quickly grew to include coverage down the East Coast and later into the Midwest and Western U.S. Today, CSM has agreements to provide facilities services to more than 130,000 client locations across the country and in Canada, Puerto Rico and Guam with an expansive network of qualified contractors that now totals over 30,000.

The core CSM H.E.L.P. interior offerings – Handyman, Electrical, Locksmith and Plumbing – represent the bulk of company’s service requests, augmented with pest control, backflow services and fire extinguisher programs. From order entry to invoice generation, CSM systems accommodate a wide variety of emergency and standard facilities needs and will integrate seamlessly with MCS’s established systems, provider network and regional service centers. Catanese and Hopkins will remain with the company with Catanese serving as Senior Vice President of Business Development and Hopkins as Senior Vice President of Operations.

“We started this business over 30 years ago and have always been committed to providing our customers with responsive service, consistent communication, competitive pricing and the highest quality work,” said Catanese. “This next chapter in our evolution promises to deliver an expanded commercial service offering bolstered by the latest technology and the ability to self-perform in key markets, setting a new standard throughout the lifecycle of every job.”

MCS’s hybrid service model combines an expansive network of local service partners with the company’s own network of self-performing service centers and the use of innovative technologies to ensure transparency, enhance quality control and code compliance, and maximize efficiencies. The vendor network in place at CSM will complement the already vast MCS network to provide an even more robust suite of offerings for commercial and residential properties including handyman, electrical, locksmith and plumbing, as well as landscaping, snow removal and parking lot maintenance. The established processes, existing technology platforms, and accessibility to local trade professionals and MCS’s own team of service technicians give commercial owners/operators a one-stop-shop for an efficient, tech-forward services program.

“With Chain Store Maintenance becoming our platform for interior commercial property services, we will elevate our position in the market while adding value for our customers,” said Andrew Nolan, President, Commercial and Residential Rental Services for MCS. “From pricing, sourcing and contracting through project management, work order completion and quality control, this partnership will result in enhanced capabilities across the commercial property services spectrum that we believe will exceed client and vendor expectations.”

About MCS

MCS is a leading property services provider working across Commercial Properties, Single-Family Rentals, and the Property Preservation industry. For over 35 years, MCS has been committed to responsive care, industry-leading service standards, leveraging technology, and end-to-end transparency to protect, preserve and serve communities across the country. Some of the largest and most respected mortgage servicers, real estate owners and operators, and corporations trust MCS to perform property inspections, preservation, maintenance, renovations, and other property-related services. Learn how MCS is Making Communities Shine at mcs360.com.

About Chain Store Maintenance - an MCS Company

Since 1991, Chain Store Maintenance (CSM) has been a proven and trusted leader in facilities services to the retail, restaurant, financial, health care and hospitality industries throughout the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Guam, working with them directly and through middleware providers. In February 2023, CSM was acquired by MCS to serve as the primary commercial property services platform for interior trades. Learn more at ChainStore.com.

BUFFALO GROVE, ILL., (January 31, 2023) – As rodent populations expand nationwide, Xcluder® continues to enhance its industry-leading catalog of rodent-proofing solutions to protect facilities against pests and contaminants. The newest addition - the Xcluder Pest Control Dock Leveler Rear Hinge Seal - seals the open hinge gap found on most dock levelers using Xcluder Fill Fabric and durable PVC-coated vinyl. The seal, designed for use in combination with Xcluder’s full suite of loading dock rodent-proofing solutions, eliminates a potential rodent entry point in an area notorious for rodent activity. Left unprotected, loading docks create a popular thoroughfare for rodents and other pests.

Xcluder Dock Leveler Rear Hinge Seals feature Xcluder Fill Fabric - a blend of stainless steel and poly-fiber that is impenetrable to rats and mice, proven effective by the USDA APHIS Lab. The seal also features durable PVC-coated vinyl to minimize air exchange and reduce the infiltration of outside contaminants, creating an energy-saving weather seal. By effectively sealing the dock leveler’s rear hinge against pests, outdoor contaminants and light, the Xcluder Dock Leveler Rear Hinge Seal supports SQF, BRC, GFSI and AIB compliance.

“Thoroughly sealing a loading dock area against rodents is critical not only to protecting the health of those within, but also to complying with safety regulations and certification programs,” said Troy Bergum, Sales Manager, Xcluder. “Loading docks are a prime target for rodents and we’re proud to offer our customers another solution to effectively safeguard this area and maintain compliance with auditing standards.”

The Xcluder Dock Leveler Rear Hinge Seal fits levelers up to 96” wide and features an easy-to-install design without the use of welding or drilling. The seal is recommended for use alongside Xcluder's Dock Leveler Seal Kit, Pull Chain Seals, X2 Door Bottom Seals and Vertical Side and Top seal kits to seal the multitude of entry points around a loading dock against unwanted pests and the elements.

About Xcluder
Xcluder has 17 years of experience working closely with industry leaders - including rodentologists, quality assurance specialists, facilities management teams and pest control professionals - to design the exact types of products necessary to protect retail, medical, food service and food production facilities. Xcluder is committed to comprehensive rodent exclusion with products that are made in America and safe to use around people, animals, plants and food, containing no harsh chemicals. More information about Xcluder’s innovative line of rodent-proofing solutions is available at www.buyxcluder.com.

[IRVINE, CALIFORNIA, February 9, 2022] — Ecotrak, the leading intelligent facility and asset management platform, today announced its latest bridge round of funding, which will be used to accelerate Ecotrak’s aggressive growth plans in product development and innovation. The round was led by Gala Capital Partners and included investments from Rellevant Partners.

Ecotrak's SaaS offering enables multi-location businesses to automate repairs and maintenance, manage work orders, assets, and service providers. Ecotrak's differentiated data-driven software aggregates data to intelligently prevent equipment failures, keeping businesses efficiently running. The technology is revolutionizing the restaurant industry by reducing equipment downtime, increasing productivity, and saving restaurants money on repairs and maintenance so they can focus on the guest experience.

“This round of funding propels us into the next phase of Ecotrak and we are proud to partner with these notable investors,” said Matt Singer, CEO. “We are in fantastic company with a team that has deep experience fueling high-growth restaurant concepts and technology.”

Rellevant Partners is a private equity firm focusing on the lower middle-market, providing growth equity to the restaurant, restaurant technology, and food & beverage industries. Rellevant was founded in 2019 by Janice Meyer and Jessica Kates and is based in New York.

Gala Capital Partners is a private investment firm based in Southern California founded by long-term restaurant operator, entrepreneur, and investor, Anand Gala. The firm invests in or acquires real estate, software, and emerging restaurant franchise brands. Current investments include Altametrics, Lunchbox, Plate IQ, Perfect Software, Cut & Dry, Simple 123, Rusty Taco, Dunn Brothers Coffee, Cicis Pizza, and MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes.

The investment comes on the heels of significant growth for Ecotrak in 2022, adding more than 10,000 locations and over 13,000 service providers to its platform. With Ecotrak's asset first philosophy combined with predictive analytics and automation, Ecotrak is reducing the downtime of critical equipment and creating a solution so smart that nothing ever breaks.

“Between labor shortages, supply chain issues, construction lead times and increasing operating costs, Ecotrak’s intelligent facility management solution is helping restaurants reduce uncertainty and plan for the unknown with rich business intelligence data,” said Janice Meyer, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Rellevant Partners.

We are thrilled to partner with Matt and the Ecotrak team to support their mission of simplifying facilities management and empowering businesses with actionable data to make better business decisions,” said Jessica Kates, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Rellevant Partners.

To learn more about Ecotrak Facility Management Software, visit www.ecotrak.com.

About Ecotrak
Ecotrak is the premier Facilities Management SaaS platform - revolutionizing facilities using an asset first methodology, mobile-first technology, and a data first approach. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Irvine, California, Ecotrak’s mission is to empower businesses with actionable information to make better business decisions. Customers such as Inspire Brands, Flynn Restaurant Group, Texas Roadhouse and Dutch Bros save thousands per month on repairs & maintenance and increase efficiency using the platform. For more information, visit ecotrak.com.

Source: Ecotrak, LLC.

The North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers (NAFEM) has awarded 31 allied industry leaders with its Doctorate of Foodservice Award for their contributions to their associations and the industry at-large.

Honorees were recognized during a reception at The NAFEM Show, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando.

Recipients include:

Association of Correctional Food Service Affiliates (ACFSA)
Conell Chapman, CDM, CFPP, president
Wayne Fish, CDM, CFPP, CFSM, immediate past president

Association for Healthcare Foodservice (AHF)
Eric Eisenberg, CEC, CCA, CDM, CFPP, president

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
Ellen Shanley, MBA, RDN, CDN, FAND, president

Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA)
Nick Cribb, president

Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers (CHART)
Rachel Richal, CHT, president
Monique Donahue, CHT, immediate past president

Foodservice Consultants Society International (FCSI)
Mario Sequeira, FCSI, president

Foodservice Consultants Society International- The Americas (FCSI – TA)
Christine Guyott, FCSI, president

Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA)
Paul Anderson, chair

Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association (FEDA)
David M. Stafford, chairman

Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA)
Olivia Romal Hoblit, chairwoman of the board

International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP)
Nancy Wall Hopkins, chair

International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education (ICHRIE)
Dr. Ralf Burbach, president

International Flight Services Association (IFSA)
Steve Murtoff, president

International Food Service Executives Association (IFSEA)
Richard F. Weil, MCFE, MCFP, immediate past chairman

International Foodservice Manufacturers Association (IFMA)
Herb Ring, chair of the board

Manufacturers’ Agents Association for the Foodservice Industry (MAFSI)
Tom Mitchell, president

National Association for Catering and Events (NACE)
James Filtz, CPCE, CMP, CHE, president

National Association of Concessionaires (NAC)
Denise de Zutter, president

National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS)
Kerry Paterson, CEC, president
Kristina Patridge, immediate past president

North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers (NAFEM)
Robert Connelly, CFSP, immediate past president

National Restaurant Association (NRA)
Lance Trenary, chair

National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF)
Kent Walrack, chair

Research & Development Associates for Military Food & Packaging Systems (R&DA)
John Kowalchik, chairman of the board

Retail Bakers of America (RBA)
Scott Calvert, president

Restaurant Facility Management Association (RFMA)
Jay Roach, CRFP, chair

Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management (SHFM)
Rob Gebhardt, president

School Nutrition Association (SNA)
Lori Adkins, MS, SNS, CHE, president
Beth Wallace, MBA, SNS, immediate past president

For more information, visit www.nafem.org 

ADDISON, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Parts Town, the technology innovator and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice, residential appliance, and HVAC equipment repair parts, today announced its Technician Scholarship Award program to recognize and reward the skilled and hard-working technicians that help keep the food service industry up and running.

Throughout 2023, Parts Town will provide 15 opportunities for technicians and service companies to enter for a chance to win a $1,500 prize, which is comprised of a $1,000 technician scholarship for Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA) training courses and a $500 cash purse.

“We are excited to offer financial support to the commercial kitchen service community in the form of CFESA Scholarships, which cover training programs in the basic elements of gas, electric, steam, water, and refrigeration,” said Chuck Combs, PARTnership Builder (a.k.a. Vice President, Service & Distribution Partnerships) at Parts Town. Technicians are the lifeblood of our industry, and they remain pivotal to ensuring that equipment is properly installed, maintained, and repaired, be it in a restaurant, hospital, hotel, stadium, or school. Technicians make it happen and keep kitchens working!”

Each chance to win will coincide with the following CFESA conferences or events:

• The 2023 CFESA Regional Meetings (one $1,500 prize per region):
• Region 1 – Redmond, Ore., Nov. 17, 2023
• Region 2 – Chicago, Ill., date TBD
• Region 3 – Cypress, Texas, Feb. 17, 2023
• Region 4 – Atlanta, Ga., Jan. 27, 2023
• Region 5 – Pennsylvania, date TBD
• The CFESA Annual Conference, San Antonio, Texas, Oct. 8-11, 2023 (10 $1,500 prizes awarded on-site)

“CFESA focuses on entry-level technicians looking to launch into the skilled trades. Our mission is to provide them with the foundation of the basics in troubleshooting and repair for the commercial cooking and refrigeration equipment industry,” said Daniel Reese, Director of Training at CFESA. “The scholarships that Parts Town is providing promote education and access to skilled industry-focused training. Thus, giving them the confidence to pursue this rewarding career!”

Parts Town supports service technicians by delivering parts in the most efficient way possible, resulting in better first-time fix rates and less down time for end users. The company works to structure its service partner relationships around a "what can we do for you" mentality, providing the tools, technology and availability of parts needed to get the job done, which results in a genuinely positive experience from day one.

Interested applicants can follow Parts Town on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for more information, which will become available the week of Feb. 6, 2023.

About Parts Town

Parts Town is the leading, technology innovation-driven distributor of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC equipment repair parts. When there’s a hiccup with any piece of equipment, Parts Town is ready to jump in and help with the most in-stock parts on the planet, innovative technology, and an unmatched customer experience. Customized solutions benefit equipment service technicians of all kinds, as well as chain and independent restaurants, schools, health care facilities and hospitality providers.

By partnering with the top manufacturers of foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC replacement parts, Parts Town improves the supply chain, increases sales of genuine OEM parts and keeps every customer’s business running like clockwork. Parts Town also partners with equipment and supplies dealers of all sizes to offer a one-stop-shop through its Parts In Town marketplace.

For more information, visit http://www.partstown.com/.

About the Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA)

The Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA) is the trade association for professional service and parts distributors. Our members stock Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts – the best for any equipment – with access to an online inventory of millions of parts. Our CFESA Certified Technicians have a higher first time fix rate and ensure our service mark for excellence.

CFESA is the official trade association for professional food service agents. Founded in 1963, CFESA sets ‘The Standards for Service Excellence.’

For more information, visit https://cfesa.com/.

ADDISON, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PT Holdings, the parent company of Parts Town, a global leader in high-tech distribution of foodservice equipment parts, residential appliance parts, HVAC parts, and related products, today unveiled its new brand, Parts Town Unlimited. In addition, the company has announced a number of organizational changes to further accelerate growth and innovation. Parts Town Unlimited includes 45 unique brands across multiple divisions with nearly $2 billion in annual revenue and over 4,500 team members worldwide. The group is primarily focused on high-tech distribution of mission-critical replacement parts and related products.

The reorganization will support Parts Town Unlimited’s growth strategy, which includes a rapidly expanding product offering and global reach. The company will continue to emphasize digital leadership, operational excellence, and long-term high integrity partnerships, supported by its relentless focus on core values, people, and culture.

“Many companies include the acronym ‘LLC’ after their name, where the first ‘L’ stands for limited. We are going a different direction and focusing on the unlimited growth potential of our business: we are a town without limits,” said Steve Snower, Town Troublemaker (aka CEO), Parts Town Unlimited. “Over the past 19 years of our growth journey, we have updated our organization structure many times. Updating our brand and implementing these leadership changes will position the business for rapid growth in the coming years. We look forward to an exciting future.”

Overview of Parts Town Unlimited

Parts Town Unlimited includes the following divisions:

• Parts Town, the technology innovator and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice, residential appliance, and HVAC equipment replacement parts. Also known as “Parts Town Americas,” this division primarily serves the U.S., Canada, and Latin America, along with select customers in other international markets.
• Red Lightning Group, a division that focuses solely on technology innovation to support the foodservice industry and beyond, serves as an incubator to help innovative “Townspeople” bring their ideas to life. Red Lightning Group developed the technology that underpins Parts In Town, an ecommerce solution designed to help local service companies and distributors grow their businesses, improve equipment up-time by providing quick pickup and delivery of parts in the foodservice industry, and promote growth of genuine OEM part sales locally. Red Lightning Group also developed the Parts Town Marketplace, which provides customers an online, one-stop shopping experience for OEM parts beyond the foodservice category, as well as items and products across a variety of new categories, eliminating the need for customers to visit multiple websites to find the parts and related products they need.
• Parts Town Home, the company’s fastest growing capability, includes residential appliance parts, HVAC parts, and consumer electronics parts primarily through its Encompass brand. Parts Town Home has rapidly grown to represent 15% of Parts Town Unlimited’s 2022 revenue, compared to just 3% in 2021.
• Parts Town Europe, which serves Europe and other international markets through its REPA Group brands, GEV Group, LF Group, EPGC, Atel, and Big Warehouse. Parts Town Europe includes locations across Europe in addition to a presence in both Australia and China.
• Parts Town UK, which serves the UK through First Choice and Commercial Catering Spares brands.
• Unlimited Service Group, which supports several local parts and service companies that partner with leading manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada. Individual, local brands will continue to be emphasized, reflecting the unique histories, cultures, expertise, and local focus of each of these businesses.

Leadership Moves
As part of the reorganization, Steve Snower will be focusing his role on group CEO responsibilities, with Clint Holder appointed to the role of Group President, Parts Town Americas. This will allow Snower to lead Parts Town Unlimited strategy, drive the company’s vision for growth and innovation, accelerate its acquisition efforts, and build on its unique culture.

“Clint has done an incredible job building unique, high integrity partnerships across the industry. Under his commercial leadership, we have dramatically expanded our master distribution capability and deepened our partnerships with service companies across the industry,” said Snower. “For the past 19 years, I have played the dual role of group CEO and President of Parts Town, and I am excited to turn the president role over to Clint to lead the business forward, allowing me to focus on building out the group vision.”

John McDonough has been named Chairman of Parts Town Europe. McDonough joined Parts Town Unlimited’s board of directors following Parts Town’s acquisition of Heritage Parts in 2019 and has remained an active advisor to the business. McDonough will now re-engage full-time and relocate to Munich, Germany, to partner with Alex Wiegand, CEO of REPA Group, in accelerating Parts Town Unlimited’s global reach.

“I am so excited that John will be a full-time partner in the business. His integrity and experience are unmatched,” said Snower. “As CEO of Heritage Parts, he led the digital transformation of the business and the full transition to genuine OEM parts. His presence with our team in Europe will make a huge impact.”

Miron Washington has been named Chief Digital Officer. He joins Parts Town Unlimited from Home Depot, where he held the role of Vice President of Customer Experience and General Manager of the company’s $3 billion Quote Center business unit. His previous experience includes digital leadership roles at Amazon, Staples, and Hewlett Packard. Washington will be charged with advancing the digital vision of
Parts Town Unlimited.

Several other organization changes were announced, all with the intent to accelerate Parts Town Unlimited’s growth and innovation across its target markets.

About Parts Town Unlimited
Parts Town Unlimited is the global leader in high-tech distribution of mission-critical equipment replacement parts and related products and services for the foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC industries. Guided by its core values of Safety, Integrity, Community, Passion, Courage, and Innovation, Parts Town Unlimited delivers infinite possibilities, unlimited potential, and boundless innovation with a focus on people, innovation, and long-term partnerships. Parts Town Unlimited is an organization without limits, led by dreamers who continuously grow and bring value to our partners and amazing opportunities to our team members around the globe.

About Parts Town
Parts Town is the leading, technology innovation-driven distributor of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC equipment repair parts. When there’s a hiccup with any piece of equipment, Parts Town is ready to jump in and help with the most in-stock parts on the planet, innovative technology, and an unmatched customer experience. Customized solutions benefit equipment service technicians of all kinds, as well as chain and independent restaurants, schools, health care facilities and hospitality providers.

By partnering with the top manufacturers of foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC replacement parts, Parts Town improves the supply chain, increases sales of genuine OEM parts and keeps every customer’s business running like clockwork. Parts Town also partners with equipment and supplies dealers of all sizes to offer a one-stop-shop through its Parts Town marketplace

For more information, visit https://www.partstown.com/.

Anyone responsible for facilitating exterior sign repairs at multiple locations knows that you will have numerous signs that need service at any given time. So, what’s the key to staying on top of maintaining these critical branding assets? A consistent and regularly scheduled reporting process.

It’s often common practice to have this responsibility fall on the local store manager. While that can be a good thing, those managers often leave the premises before dark, unaware of any sign outage. That leaves your store personnel to report any outages – if they even get reported at all. This lack of cohesive inspecting and reporting results in signs that can be out for weeks – or months, hurting your brand image.

Another negative result of neglecting to report outages is the need to repair many signs in one month, putting your budget off kilter instead of spreading these repairs out over time as they occur.

You might consider outsourcing this task to a vendor, whereby night inspections are performed monthly. That company is then responsible for visually inspecting each site and reporting all outages. Repair orders are submitted from the report results, streamlining this task and removing the responsibility from your staff. They can also provide detailed tracking, reporting, and a breakdown of each location’s repair costs.

Ultimately, the bottom line is this: To manage sign repair at multiple locations best, create an inspection and reporting schedule and stick to it. Whether you outsource it or assign one, or multiple people at each location within your organization, is up to you. The key is consistency. 

The company now offers genuine OEM parts from more than 1,100 manufacturers, including 215 master distribution programs 

ADDISON, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Parts Town, the technology innovator and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC, today announced it has added 17 new master distribution programs in 2022. The addition of these unique partnerships with global manufacturing leaders elevates Parts Town’s master distribution portfolio to 215 programs. Parts Town’s industry-leading inventory of in-stock OEM parts now includes products from over 1,100 manufacturers, ensuring the widest selection and highest inventory availability for its customers.

“Our master distribution partnerships are the backbone of our ability to provide same-day shipping and local pickup of mission critical replacement parts to our growing customer base,” said Clint Holder, Chief Commercial Officer of Parts Town. “The growth of our master distribution portfolio is a reflection of the impact of our innovations across our ecommerce platforms, including our mobile app and Parts In Town platform, and high-tech distribution centers handling more than 15,000 orders per day.”

“Parts Town has helped Structural Concepts Corporation grow its service parts sales because our customers are able to get parts faster,” said Danielle McMiller, VP of Marketing, Structural Concepts Corporation. “Our technical service team is able to concentrate on properly diagnosing and addressing systemic challenges as a result of not having to process single parts orders. This is improving customer satisfaction with SCC’s products as we’re able to get equipment in the field repaired much quicker. Overall, Parts Town is a fantastic partner whose efforts align with SCC’s focus on 100% customer satisfaction. We are delighted with Parts Town’s master distribution program.”

Expanded Global Manufacturer Partnership Leadership
In May, Parts Town announced that Kevin Fink had joined the team as Senior Vice President, Global Manufacturer Partnerships. In this newly created role, Fink focuses on building deep global partnerships with the industry’s leading manufacturers, with an emphasis on improving the customer experience, growing OEM parts sales, and simplifying the supply chain.

Fink joined Parts Town after holding several senior leadership roles with leading food equipment manufacturers, including President of Standex Refrigeration, Executive Vice President of Ali Group, President of Enodis (Welbilt) U.S.A., and several leadership roles at Hobart Corporation.

Manufacturers Choosing Parts Town
Since the beginning of 2022, the 17 newly added manufacturers have deepened their partnership with Parts Town through master distribution to improve the customer experience, simplify operations, and grow OEM parts market share.

About Parts Town
Parts Town is the leading distributor of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) foodservice equipment parts. When there’s a hiccup in any commercial kitchen, Parts Town is ready to jump in and help with the most in-stock parts on the planet, innovative technology, and an unmatched customer experience. Customized solutions benefit food equipment service companies, chain restaurants, institutions and independent restaurants.

Partnering with the top manufacturers of commercial cooking, refrigeration, ice and beverage equipment, and now offering HVAC and residential appliance replacement parts, Parts Town improves the supply chain, increases sales of genuine OEM parts and keeps every customer’s business running like clockwork. For more information, http://www.partstown.com/.

GREENVILLE, SC – Tech24, the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has recently acquired Allied Service Group, provider of repair and maintenance services for foodservice and commercial HVAC equipment, servicing restaurants, grocery stores and institutions in Southwest Tennessee and Northern Mississippi.

Allied Service Group has a wide range of customers and is headquartered in Jackson, Tennessee, near growing metropolitan areas, including Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga.

The announcement marks Tech24’s 12th acquisition and advances the company’s strategic growth plan to expand its nation-wide presence. The aggressive pace of Tech24 acquisitions highlights the strength of the company’s leadership and infrastructure and will benefit both new and existing customers with expanded services and greater efficiencies.

“We are excited to welcome Allied Service Group to the Tech24 family,” said Dan Rodstrom, CEO of Tech24. “Joe Lasley, President of Allied, has built an outstanding team in Mississippi and Tennessee, and we look forward to working alongside them as Tech24 expands its operations further in the Southeast.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services over 50 major markets in 26 states from coast to coast and employs over 575 highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

GREENVILLE, SC – Tech24, the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, has recently acquired AmeriCold and Arrowhead Commercial Equipment Services, marking Tech24’s 10th and 11th acquisitions.

AmeriCold is a leading provider of cold-side repair and installation services to customers in the New York City metro, Washington, DC, and Southeast Florida areas. Americold has a wide range of customers across the restaurant, grocery and institutional end markets, from New York City’s premier restaurants and hotels to fast-casual dining facilities, hospitals and universities. This acquisition expands the Tech24 platform’s cold side refrigeration services and increases its market share in key metropolitan areas.

Arrowhead Commercial Equipment Services is a Phoenix, Arizona-based provider of repair and preventative maintenance services. Arrowhead provides both hot and cold-side service for customer segments including restaurants, grocery stores, country clubs and senior care facilities. The acquisition increases Tech24’s market share in the fast-growing Phoenix market and brings a talented team and technicians experienced in all types of equipment.

These recent acquisitions are part of the company’s strategic growth plan to increase its nation-wide presence. The aggressive pace of Tech24 acquisitions is a testament to the strength of the company’s infrastructure and leadership capabilities.

“We are excited to welcome both Americold and Arrowhead to the Tech24 organization,” said Dan Rodstrom, CEO of Tech24. “AmeriCold brings valuable scale and cold-side service exposure to the large New York market, while Arrowhead facilitates improvements to density and diversification in the fast-growing Phoenix market. Both companies come with a long history of strong performance, with accomplished leaders who are excited to develop future growth opportunities for their respective businesses.”

About Tech24
Tech24 is the industry leader in commercial foodservice equipment repair and maintenance, providing quick and comprehensive repair and preventive maintenance solutions for commercial refrigeration, cooking, beverage and HVAC equipment. Founded in 1982 in Greenville, SC, Tech24 currently services 50 markets in 25 states from coast to coast and employs over 500 highly qualified service technicians that are equipped with the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done right. To learn more about Tech24, visit https://www.mytech24.com/.

Richardson, TX – ENTOUCH, the leader in energy management and smart building technology, recently deployed its energy management system to more than 2,600 leading wireless voice and data service provider retail locations. This deployment exemplifies leadership in identifying best practices to drive sustainability and operational goals that position the organization well in a very competitive marketplace.

ENTOUCH deployed at an exceptionally high velocity. In fact, during a single 20-week period, ENTOUCH initially deployed more than 1,700 retail locations. This joint initiative has reduced energy use by an average of 17% enterprise-wide. These exceptional results were accomplished by implementing ENTOUCH's cutting-edge technology that provides pinpoint control of their retail building infrastructure and detailed reporting for future critical maintenance decision-making.

The project aims to reduce the energy used by the more than 4,000 retail facilities and help meet the organization's sustainability goals. Additionally, deploying the ENTOUCH solution will also reduce facility operating expenses.
"Organizations are under increasing pressure to drive sustainability goals and remain competitive in the marketplace," said Todd Brinegar, ENTOUCH EVP of Sales and Marketing, "ENTOUCH's partnership with this global provider proves market leaders do not have to sacrifice organizational success to reduce greenhouse gases and mitigate the impacts of climate change."

ENTOUCH's platform makes building optimization simple. Leveraging near real-time data and powerful analytics, customers can automate assets at their sites so they are in full control while being powered by a state-of-the-art platform.
"We are thrilled with the addition of our US wireless voice and data service provider to our portfolio of customers," says Jon Bolen, CEO of ENTOUCH. "Energy-conscious businesses are key to establishing energy security today and a more sustainable future."

About ENTOUCH
Founded in Dallas, Texas, in 2008, ENTOUCH is the leader in energy management as a service and smart building technology. Our turnkey solution digitally transforms and optimizes operations while reducing energy usage to drive profitability for multisite businesses. We are the only provider that owns our entire technology stack and has the capability to take over heterogeneous systems and manage them from a single cloud solution. We lead the industry in speed, deployment quality, and the ENTOUCH.360 service has earned a 100% renewal rate.

PEACHTREE CITY, Ga.  – Rinnai America Corporation, a manufacturer of the number-one selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in North America, launches the RE Series™ Tankless Water Heater, the first and only non-condensing unit with a built-in pump, featuring Smart-Circ™ Intelligent Recirculation™. Rinnai raises the bar with a new line of advanced non-condensing tankless water heaters unlike anything else on the market, delivering a level of installation ease, as well as enhanced serviceability, reliability and usability.

Proudly assembled at Rinnai’s recently opened manufacturing facility in Griffin, Ga., the RE Series is the first Rinnai product manufactured in the U.S., creating jobs, boosting the local economy and breaking new ground in tankless water heating.

“To combat shipping delays and supply chain challenges, it’s important to Rinnai that the new U.S. manufacturing plant provides PROs with the latest in water heating technology promptly,” said Frank Windsor, President, Rinnai America Corporation. “As we all know, time is money, and we want to provide a product that makes our PROs’ jobs faster and easier.”

The newly designed RE Series makes tankless water heaters even smarter to install with the addition of:

• A new clean internal layout with a wiring harness and fewer fasteners to make it easy to see and access different components.
• A new safety handle and seating bracket for the heat exchanger and combustion system to protect different components.
• A new LED screen to set maintenance and service reminders, as well as provide error codes and alerts for when a lime scale flush is required.
• A new sliding wall bracket allows a single installer to handle and slide the unit horizontally to align with venting before securing the unit to the drywall.
• The new Smart-Circ technology makes installation even easier, as external controllers are no longer needed to ensure customers have hot water when they need it.

The RE Series features Rinnai’s latest innovative Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation. This technology learns a user’s hot water usage patterns over seven days, then schedules the built-in pump and times recirculation patterns accordingly. Users enjoy hot water during regular demand periods while saving energy and money. The RE Series is also available with the control•r™ Wi-Fi module, to achieve scheduled recirculation or on-demand operations if that is desired.

It’s never been easier for PROs to sell, install, service and maintain Rinnai non-condensing tankless water heaters. And for the first time, Rinnai now offers PROs both condensing and non-condensing tankless water heaters with a built in pump to deliver faster hot water at the faucet.

Rinnai’s brand promise of “Creating a healthier way of living®” is at the forefront of all the company’s efforts. By continuing to offer new and innovative technologies, Rinnai is aiding in providing homes with energy-efficient hot water options for cleaner and healthier living. 

ABOUT RINNAI
Rinnai America Corporation, a subsidiary of Rinnai Corporation in Nagoya, Japan, was established in 1974 and is headquartered in Peachtree City, Ga. Rinnai Corporation manufactures gas appliances including tankless water heaters, a wide range of kitchen appliances and heating and air conditioning units. As the technology leader in its industry, Rinnai is the largest gas appliance manufacturer in Japan and is the number-one selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in the United States and Canada. Annual corporate revenues, including those of its subsidiaries, are in excess of $3.2 billion. With a global perspective to create 21st-century products for the home and business, Rinnai Corporation commits itself to safety and Creating a healthier way of living©. For more information about Rinnai’s entire product line, visit  www.rinnai.us.

Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Rinnai® and Creating a healthier way of living® are the registered trademarks of Rinnai Corporation used under license by Rinnai America Corporation.

ADDISON, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Parts Town, the technology innovator and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice equipment parts, announced a pilot program with Uber Technologies to provide two-hour, last-mile delivery service to Chicago-area foodservice operators and service technicians. The partnership, which begins with delivery from Parts Town’s Addison distribution center, represents the industry’s first collaboration between a parts distributor and a ride-sharing provider to offer replacement parts delivery.

This innovation is the latest addition to Parts In Town, a Marketplace to help local service companies grow their businesses, further improve equipment up-time in the foodservice industry and promote growth of genuine OEM part sales locally. There are now more than 90 Parts In Town locations across North America that sell their local OEM parts inventory on partstown.com. The Marketplace overall has scaled to nearly 10,000 orders per month. This online portal for OEM foodservice equipment parts, accessories, and consumables is experiencing double digit growth month over month and has had over 57,000 transactions to date.

“We are very excited that our marketplace is scaling rapidly,” states Emanuela Delgado, Senior Vice President of the Revolution, Red Lightning Group. “This partnership with Uber is just one of the ways we will support local service companies and our manufacturer partners by getting OEM parts into the local market faster than ever. In addition, more than 87% of the orders coming in through Parts In Town are new customers for that participating service business, giving the local service company a great opportunity to grow their service business."

The Uber partnership is the latest brainchild of Parts Town’s Red Lightning Group, a division of Parts Town focused solely on innovation to support the foodservice industry, with a mission to boldly strike at lightning speed to deliver game-changing innovation and technology.
“Uber is committed to Chicago’s food service industry, including the thousands of Uber Eats restaurant partners who call the city home, which makes working with the ecommerce innovators at Parts Town so exciting,” said Meghan Musbach, General Manager for Uber Eats in the Midwest. “This partnership won’t just benefit the food service industry and its customers, but brings new earning opportunities to the tens of thousands of Chicago-area drivers who help people, meals, groceries—and now mission-critical replacement parts—arrive at their destinations.”

Parts Town ships all in-stock orders the same day until 9 p.m. EST, and their Parts In Town service allows customers to order online and pick up the parts they need within one hour from local service companies, dealers, and distributors. Service companies who participate in Parts In Town benefit from new customer acquisitions and increased sales. The program improves first-time fix and brings OEM parts inventory closer to the local market. Future plans call for the ability to have parts delivered from all “Parts In Town” locations to reach even more customers in other geographies.

About Parts Town
Parts Town is the leading distributor of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) foodservice equipment parts. When there’s a hiccup in any commercial kitchen, Parts Town is ready to jump in and help with the most in-stock parts on the planet, innovative technology, and an unmatched customer experience. Customized solutions benefit food equipment service companies, chain restaurants, institutions and independent restaurants.
Partnering with the top manufacturers of commercial cooking, refrigeration, ice and beverage equipment, and now offering HVAC and residential appliance replacement parts, Parts Town improves the supply chain, increases sales of genuine OEM parts and keeps every customer’s business running like clockwork. For more information, https://www.partstown.com/.

The Show donated more than 71,000 pounds of food to Chicago-area anti-hunger organizations; Raises $12,500 for World Central Kitchen’s #ChefsForUkraine

CHICAGO (July 13, 2022)—The National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show—the premier event to learn about foodservice technology innovations, unique ingredients, and emerging trends in the restaurant industry—is pleased to announce that following the conclusion of the Show, more than 71,000 pounds of food has been donated to two Chicago-area organizations dedicated to fighting food insecurity. Additionally, the Show and its attendees extended these charitable contributions beyond Chicago, raising $12,500 in support of World Central Kitchen’s humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

The National Restaurant Association Show took place May 21-24, 2022, at McCormick Place in Chicago, gathering more than 51,000 foodservice professionals from around the world to explore and celebrate the advancements driving the industry forward. 

“This year’s National Restaurant Association Show was a success on so many levels, but one of our proudest achievements is the opportunity to give back both locally and abroad,” said Tom Cindric, President of Winsight Exhibitions. “This year, we were overwhelmed by the generosity of our exhibitors and attendees who donated more than 71,000 pounds of food—an increase of 20% over 2019—to help feed those in need through the Greater Chicago Food Depository and Fight2Feed.”

34,000 Pounds of Food Donated to Greater Chicago Food Depository

As a result of the generosity of the National Restaurant Association Show’s exhibitors, over 34,000 pounds of food was donated to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Serving as Chicago’s food bank, the Greater Chicago Food Depository is part of a united community effort working to bring food, dignity and hope to Cook County. Acting as the hub for a network of more than 700 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other programs. The Food Depository’s programs address the specific needs of different groups, including children, older adults and veterans.

“The food donated from this event will provide the equivalent of 28,000 meals for our neighbors facing hunger,” said Jill Rahman, the Food Depository’s chief operating officer. “We are so grateful for dedicated supporters like the National Restaurant Association that make it possible to address food insecurity and its root causes across our community, especially in times of increased need.”

37,000 Pounds of Food Donated to Fight2Feed

Approximately 37,000 pounds of food from the Show was donated to Fight2Feed, a 100% essential volunteer-driven, 501(c)(3) charitable organization that turns excess food from rescue and donations into healthy meals to feed people in local shelters and the homeless. Fight2Feed’s donated space in the East Kitchen of McCormick Place’s Lakeside Building gives the organization a single location where they can bring in the chefs, hospitality professionals and essential volunteers who plan and cook their meals with fresh ingredients rescued each week.

“This year’s National Restaurant Association Show at McCormick Place donations helped Fight2Feed serve and share 29,600 portions of food with community members in need and smaller pantries in Cook and Lake Counties of Illinois,” said Jiwon McCartney, Founder and CEO of Fight2Feed. “With the support of socially conscious partners like the National Restaurant Association, McCormick Place and Savor, Fight2Feed has rescued over 3 million pounds of food and served over a million meals, since February 2021. We are grateful for the opportunity to make an impact on hunger and food insecurity in our communities.” 

$12,500 Raised to Support World Central Kitchen’s #ChefsForUkraine

This year, the National Restaurant Association Show announced an onsite initiative to support the ongoing humanitarian efforts in Ukraine through World Central Kitchen, founded by Chef José Andrés. The Show was pleased to raise $12,500 for the #ChefsForUkraine campaign thanks to the generosity of Winsight Media and Show exhibitors and attendees. These donations will support the Chef Relief Team, who have been working tirelessly to provide nourishing plates of food for Ukrainian families in need.

“The foodservice industry is filled with individuals and companies that make meaningful contributions during the Show and year-round. The positive impact from the Show not only exemplifies the industry’s commitment to the community but also highlights the giving nature of the industry which themselves have experienced significant challenges over the past few years. On behalf of the National Restaurant Association Show, I would like to thank everyone who supported these charitable efforts,” added Cindric.

For more information about the National Restaurant Association Show, visit nationalrestaurantshow.com. Connect with the Show online on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

PEACHTREE CITY, Ga. (July 12, 2022) – Rinnai America Corporation, a manufacturer of the number-one selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in North America, launches the new and improved SENSEI™ RSC Condensing Tankless Water Heater, introduced to the North American market in June 2022. Eventually replacing further production of the RUR models, Rinnai’s RSC will deliver the same superior quality, advanced Smart-Circ™ Intelligent Recirculation™ technology and easier installation for PROs.

“With the updated RSC model, we can provide our PROs and customers with a top-of-the-line product that includes the latest technology to improve overall performance,” Frank Windsor, President, Rinnai America Corporation. “We’re not only improving the users' experience but also making our PROs installation process more efficient and cost-effective.”

Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation
The RSC model offers a variety of new benefits to homeowners and PROs, including Rinnai’s latest addition of Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation technology. With Smart-Circ, external controllers are no longer required to provide recirculation for customers, making installation a smoother process. Smart-Circ “learns” users’ hot water patterns over seven days, then schedules pump and tankless recirculation patterns accordingly. Hot water usage must be greater than 20 seconds to be added to Smart-Circ’s memory, minimizing any unwanted recirculation.

In addition, the RSC model will have a more efficient multi-speed DC pump, providing improved performance with a higher flow rate, better head pressure and more flexible operation. Upgrades will also be seen in high-temperature climes with the revised low-flow activation logic.

Easy Installation and Serviceability
The RSC model provides the latest in improved performance technology and efficiency, but it also reduces install time and costs for PROs via the following:

• Simplified recirculation option eliminates the need for the internal bypass and recirculation plug filters.
• Flexible venting can be installed in an existing condensing vent system for replacement, and new installs use smaller, lighter less expensive concentric venting, including 2” venting options.
• Mounting bracket for a versatile design, enabling side-to-side movement for easy vent alignment.
• Quick gas conversion with an inexpensive conversion kit that requires just three simple steps
• Convenient isolation valves and PRV assembly, which can rotate 360 degrees to accommodate the installation of isolation valves in any application.
• Effortless parameter adjustments with an easily accessible control panel

Rinnai’s brand promise of Creating a healthier way of living® is at the forefront of all the company’s efforts. By continuing to provide PROs and their customers with the latest tankless technologies, Rinnai is aiding in providing homes and commercial buildings with energy-efficient hot water options for cleaner and healthier living.

ABOUT RINNAI
Rinnai America Corporation, a subsidiary of Rinnai Corporation in Nagoya, Japan, was established in 1974 and is headquartered in Peachtree City, Ga. Rinnai Corporation manufactures gas appliances including tankless water heaters, a wide range of kitchen appliances and heating and air conditioning units. As the technology leader in its industry, Rinnai is the largest gas appliance manufacturer in Japan and is the number-one selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in the United States and Canada. Annual corporate revenues, including those of its subsidiaries, are in excess of $3.2 billion. With a global perspective to create 21st-century products for the home and business, Rinnai Corporation commits itself to safety and Creating a healthier way of living^©. For more information about Rinnai’s entire product line, visit www.rinnai.us.

Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Rinnai® and Creating a healthier way of living® are the registered trademarks of Rinnai Corporation used under license by Rinnai America Corporation. Smart-Circ™ Intelligent Recirculation™ is a trademark of Rinnai Corporation.

 
Alsip, Ill., June 28, 2022 – Smart Care, a portfolio company of Wind Point Partners (“Wind Point”), is pleased to announce the acquisition of Dutton Food Equipment Repair, Inc. (“Dutton” or the “Company”). Dutton represents Smart Care’s 19th acquisition since 2017 and the fourth under Wind Point’s ownership. The addition of Dutton strengthens Smart Care’s presence in the Mid-Atlantic region, complementing existing operations in the region and unlocks capacity for growth.
Based in Richmond, Va., Dutton is a family-owned and operated commercial kitchen equipment repair company, offering emergency repair and preventative maintenance services for cooking, refrigeration and beverage equipment, as well as HVAC mechanical services. Founded in 1984, Dutton has earned the reputation as a premier service provider for commercial kitchen customers in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Headquartered in Alsip, Ill,, Smart Care is a leading U.S. service provider focused on hot-side commercial cooking equipment, stand-alone refrigeration, specialty coffee and beverage, commercial and industrial rack refrigeration and HVAC services. Following the combination, Dutton will join Smart Care’s Equipment Solutions segment, which specializes in commercial kitchen equipment services and has developed a strong reputation for service quality and breadth of equipment capabilities supported by a high-quality technician base. The Equipment Solutions segment serves thousands of customers spanning restaurant, convenience store, healthcare and corporate customers across the U.S.

“Dutton is a great acquisition and we’re elated to welcome the Dutton team to the growing family of Smart Care companies,” said Gyner Ozgul, President and COO of Smart Care Equipment Solutions. “For nearly 40 years the Dutton team has been dedicated to exceeding expectations and serving customers across the greater Richmond market. We look forward to further enabling the Company’s growth plans while continuing to build upon Dutton’s strong foundation anchored in excellent customer service.”

Konrad Salaber, Managing Director at Wind Point, commented, “Increasing operational density and expanding customer end markets via strategic acquisitions is a key pillar of the Smart Care value creation plan. Dutton provides a strong regional presence in commercial kitchen service for us in the Mid-Atlantic region and is a highly valuable addition for the combined platform. We look forward to continuing to deliver world-class service levels for our customers, investing in our best-in-class technician base and supporting the next phase of growth for the combined organization.”

“We are thrilled to join the Smart Care team,” stated Jack Dutton, Founder of Dutton. “We are eager to partner with an organization that shares both our values and our dual commitment to customers and employees. Smart Care is an industry leader in the commercial kitchen equipment services space, and I’m optimistic about the momentum that will result from combining our strengths and resources to continue to deliver exceptional service to customers.”

Wind Point is an active investor in logistics and route-based services, with select current and former investments including Valicor, Quantix, Dicom, STG Logistics and American Trailer Rental Group. Smart Care will continue to seek strategic acquisition opportunities, with a focus on leading commercial refrigeration, kitchen equipment and HVAC repair and maintenance service providers throughout the U.S. and Canada.

About Smart Care
With operations in all 50 states, Smart Care is the largest provider of comprehensive commercial mechanical services, including hot-side cooking equipment, stand-alone refrigeration, complex rack refrigeration and HVAC. Smart Care’s strong reputation and leading customer service have been built on the foundation of a high-quality technician base, an unmatched breadth of services, and quick response times. Smart Care is OEM-agnostic with the ability to service more than 10,000 types of equipment for food retail, restaurants, convenience stores, warehouse operators, and other institutions.

Additional information about Smart Care is available at www.smartcaresolutions.com.

About Dutton
Dutton Food Equipment Repair, Inc. is a commercial kitchen equipment repair company serving the Mid-Atlantic market for over 38 years. Dutton provides critical repair and planned maintenance services, to hundreds of customers across restaurant, convenience store, healthcare and other institutional end markets. Since its founding in 1984 by Jack Dutton, the Company has developed a reputation for high quality service by prioritizing both its customers and technicians.

Additional information about Dutton is available at www.duttonequipment.com.

About Wind Point Partners
Wind Point Partners is a Chicago-based private equity investment firm with approximately $4 billion in assets under management. Wind Point focuses on partnering with top caliber management teams to acquire well-positioned middle market businesses where it can establish a clear path to value creation. The firm targets investments in the consumer products, industrial products and business services sectors.

Additional information about Wind Point is available at www.windpointpartners.com.

Anaheim, Calif. (June 2022) – Branded Group Founder and CEO Michael Kurland recently announced that the company has become certified as a Newsweek Most Loved Workplace®, backed by Best Practice Institute (BPI) research and analysis. Most Loved Workplace® validation provides the most comprehensive look at workplace sentiment for organizations today.

“Branded Group is honored to have achieved this certification,” Kurland said. “To be viewed as a place where people love to come to work reflects our commitment to our company culture and everyone on our team.”

Branded Group has been certified as a certified Most Loved Workplace® (MLW) because of its collaboration, positive vision for the future and leadership living our core values. The company’s programs, including professional development, wellness, and social impact initiatives contribute to the individual success of our team as well as make Branded Group a place where everyone feels valued and appreciated for their contributions.

Most Loved Workplaces® certify companies where employees are the happiest and most satisfied at work. Branded Group became certified as a Most Loved Workplace based on its scores on the Love of Workplace Index™, which surveyed employees on various elements around employee satisfaction and sentiment, including the level of respect, collaboration, support, and sense of belonging they feel inside the Company.

"I started Most Loved Workplaces out of inspiration from my community of people who consciously place love for their employees at the center of their business model," said Louis Carter, the founder and CEO of BPI and a social/organizational psychologist, thought leader, entrepreneur and author. Carter's book, "In Great Company: How to Spark Peak Performance by Creating an Emotionally Connected Workplace," identifies the specific areas needed to become a highly respected, reputable organization where people love to work with each other – a Most Loved Workplace.

In its original research that created MLW criteria, backed by BPI, Most Loved Workplaces surveyed more than 175 companies and more than 3,000 executives across the United States, the Middle East/Northern Africa and Southeast Asia. They found that productivity rises as employee sentiment increases, with 94 percent of responders saying they did three to four times more work for a company they loved and 95 percent saying they stayed at companies they loved three to four times longer. Most Loved Workplaces certification is the most valid method to determine employee experience and recognize a great workplace.

To view America's Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces in Newsweek, visit
https://www.newsweek.com/americas-most-loved-workplaces-2021

Go here to view the company certification page for Branded Group.

For more information about Branded Group, contact Michael Kurland at mkurland@branded-group.com.

About Branded Group
Branded Group is an award-winning facility maintenance and construction management company servicing multi-site commercial properties. Through its BeBetter Experience, Branded Group provides clients with peace of mind and preserves their brand standards. Services include on-demand facility maintenance, construction management and special project implementation for retail locations, restaurants, healthcare facilities and educational institutions, among other industry verticals. The company has been repeatedly certified as a Great Place to Work® and has been ranked multiple times on the Inc. 5000.

RICHARDSON, TX, June 13, 2022 - ENTOUCH, the leader in multisite energy management solutions, announces that Jordan Statt and Simone Samms joined the company as Vice President of Channel Development and Director of Product Management, respectively. In his role, Statt will build upon the already explosive growth of ENTOUCH's channel partners and expand on the company's vision to develop a robust channel and partner ecosystem. Samms will shape the product management team, focusing on delivering solutions directly impacting our customer goals and strategic growth.

Statt brings a decade of business and channel development leadership expertise to the role. Before joining ENTOUCH, Statt led the Point of Sale Dealer Channel Network for Heartland Payment Systems. In that role, Statt played an integral part in building strategic relationships and ensuring solid partnerships that resulted in over 25% growth and revenues over $100M annually. Prior to his role at Heartland, Statt was the Vice President of Business Development at MobileBytes. His unmatched combination of channel expansion, technical expertise, and entrepreneurial success will help drive ENTOUCH's continued growth of the partner ecosystem for energy management and sustainability solutions.

An environmental enthusiast and seasoned product leader, Samms brings 20 years of product and customer relationship management experience to the ENTOUCH leadership team. Samms will drive business transformation and strategic product growth across the ENTOUCH ecosystem. Samms brings strategic foresight, and an eye for innovation as the company rapidly scales due to increasing customer engagements. Previously, Samms served as Product Manager of SweatWorks and managed Product for Active Network's largest sector. Her involvement is instrumental to ENTOUCH's continued growth and 100% customer retention rate.

"We are aggressively investing across the entire business, and with Jordan, we are strengthening our partner and channel leadership and making a statement to our current and future partners about the important role they play in ENTOUCH's growth," stated Jon Bolen, ENTOUCH CEO. "Simone will strengthen and focus our technical and business expertise in the energy sector. She brings a passion for our business and for delivering innovation that creates a best-in-class customer experience. We will rely on these passions as we continue to scale our business and respond to the increasing demand for our sustainability solutions."

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About ENTOUCH
Founded in Dallas, Texas, in 2008, ENTOUCH is the leader in energy management as a service and smart building technology. We create a path to a healthier planet by delivering sustainable solutions that reduce energy usage, drive profitably and simplify facility management for multisite operators. Our turnkey solution digitally transforms and optimizes operations for multisite businesses. We are the only provider that owns our entire technology stack and can take over heterogeneous systems and manage them from a single cloud solution. We lead the industry in speed and deployment quality, and the ENTOUCH.360 service has earned a 100% renewal rate.

Company’s Open Kitchen Platform Delivers Unprecedented Operational Improvements for Inspire locations

2022 Inspire Brands Supplier Awards - Powerhouse Dynamics President Jay Fiske Accepting Award
Photo Credit - Frank Gibson Photography and Inspire Brands

Newton, MA — June 7, 2022 — Powerhouse Dynamics, the leading provider of Internet of Things (IoT)-based solutions to improve restaurant and retail performance, has received a Maverick Award from Inspire® Brands, Inc. as the company’s most innovative equipment supplier.

Powerhouse Dynamics President Jay Fiske and his colleague Robb Stanek accepted the award during a recent Inspire Brands Supplier Awards Ceremony and Reception in Atlanta.

The recognition is based on Powerhouse Dynamics’ achievements with various Inspire Brands companies, including Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Dunkin’. Powerhouse Dynamics’ Open Kitchen® platform is installed in more than 3,000 Inspire locations. The solution connects HVAC, refrigeration, cooking, and other equipment to cloud-based analytics and controls to drive operational efficiencies and utility savings, along with enhanced food safety, reduced labor content, and consistent product quality.

Peter Cryan, Vice President of Equipment and Automation, Inspire Brands, praised Powerhouse Dynamics for their “innovation and support,” noting that “they set themselves apart by … doing what’s never been done before.”

“We are thrilled to be recognized for helping Inspire find new ways to delight their customers while increasing efficiencies and savings,” said Mr. Fiske. “It is an honor to be recognized by their accomplished team.”

About Powerhouse Dynamics
Founded in 2009 and acquired by The Middleby Corporation in 2019, Powerhouse Dynamics of Newton, MA is the leading provider of “Internet of things” (IoT)-based solutions to connect, analyze and control equipment to deliver enterprise-wide operational efficiencies. To learn more, visit powerhousedynamics.com.

About Inspire Brands
Inspire Brands is a multi-brand restaurant company whose current portfolio nearly 32,000 Arby's, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Dunkin', Jimmy John's, Rusty Taco, and SONIC Drive-In locations worldwide, including more than 9,200 restaurants outside the United States. The company was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information, visit InspireBrands.com.