Tuesday 25 April 2017

National Convenience Show 2017

New Covent Garden Soup Server
National Convenience Show 2017


We are at the National Convenience Show, at the NEC Birmingham 24th to the 26th of April 2017. Visit us on Stand U119 to see the soup server. Come and try some FREE Soup! 🍲




Contact our Sales Team for more information about the Soup Server on 
01296 663 400 or email sales@rhhall.com

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Tuesday 11 April 2017

The Caterer April 2017: Equipment Guide Microwaves

THE CATERER APRIL 2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE
MICROWAVES

Please attribute any quotes from this information to Ray Hall, Managing Director, R H Hall
Microwave Masters

R H Hall have been dominating the microwave market for almost 40 years, building an extensive knowledge of this trusted kitchen essential. R H Hall are the UK’s largest, most knowledgeable and innovative microwave supplier and stock only models from leading commercial brands – such as Sharp, the UK’s no. 1 and Maestrowave – having been sole UK distributors for both since 1992!
Microwaves are an essential part of any commercial kitchen and the latest technology means today’s machines are sophisticated and easy to use – producing excellent results in a fraction of the time it takes conventional cooking methods. The versatility of microwaves is often hugely underestimated. From simple, efficient microwave only, to fully automated meal solutions, R H Hall offer the latest and most versatile products.

Recently added to the range is the Maestrowave MW10, a 1000W machine aimed at smaller operators looking for microwave speed with a reliable reputation. The unique microwave distribution and cavity ensure perfect cooking every time, backed up by an unprecedented 3 Year Warranty on the Magnetron – the heart of the machine. For larger operators, or those requiring more than just speed, the Maestrowave range also includes high speed combination microwaves such as the award winning Combi Chef 7. Packed with features including Menu Creator 2.0™ software, this oven can produce outstanding results at the touch of a button. A video showing the features & benefits of this innovative product is available at www.rhhall.com



In addition, the range of market leading Sharp microwaves is available exclusively from R H Hall and their nationwide dealer network – offering machines from 1000 Watts up to extra heavy duty and high power 1900 Watts, catering for all foodservice applications. Designed with total flexibility and versatility in mind, all machines have in-built features to help save time and energy.
Innovation is at the forefront of R H Hall and today’s demanding market – the Maestrowave iWave® system is a prime example of this innovation. Using the latest microwave technology, the system provides a unique, fully encrypted, bar coded meal solution which is suitable for a number of applications including hospital ward service, retail vending outlets and more. The product is a world first, and available exclusively through R H Hall.

R H Hall can also provide much more than just the microwave solution – working with many of the UK’s leading foodservice operators to produce bespoke solutions, offering optimum results. Our Food Solutions team work with food suppliers at our state of the art development kitchen and access our 15,000 sq. ft. fabrications division to produce bespoke branded microwave housing units, increasing customer visibility and ease of use.

R H Hall offer the Total Foodservice Solution!
R H Hall operate through a national network of approved dealers, along with our dedicated National Account and Food Solutions divisions, ensuring we always have the right person on hand to deal with any enquiry! So for all your Microwave oven and foodservice equipment needs you only need one number – 01296 663400! You can also email us sales@rhhall.com or visit our websites www.rhhall.com & www.maestrowave.com

FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smith - emma.smith@rhhall.com01296 663400


R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Outdoor BBQ's - FEJ April 2017

OUTDOOR BBQs
FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT JOURNAL – APRIL 2017

Please attributes any quotes to Ray Hall, Managing Director, R H Hall

Outside of the typical restaurant customers my business gets, we cater for one-off events and parties. Therefore some weekends I may only need to serve a handful of covers and on others I might need to feed a party of 200 people. What size BBQ do I need to accommodate such fluctuations?
Always look for equipment that will match your maximum required covers. This should ensure that your equipment purchase proves to be a long term investment, able to cope with demand at any event. When catering for smaller events, look for a machine that operates with individual burner controls, allowing operation of smaller areas of the entire cooking surface. Your supplier should be able to advise on the recommended machine, based on the number of covers, or output of food required.

Natural gas or propane. What’s better?
Propane provides greater versatility for mobile, outdoor use. Natural gas requires a fixed supply, therefore not always suitable for equipment that is likely to need moving on a regular basis.

How quickly will I be able to get an outdoor BBQ grill up to full cooking temperature? Is the length of time this takes down to the gas supply or the burners?
The more powerful the burners, the quicker the grill will heat – each burner should have an expected btu/hr rating, to indicate the gas supply required. Models that come with a roll dome will also speed up initial heat up times, and also recovery periods which should not be overlooked. It is not unreasonable to expect a good quality commercial BBQ to heat up to full temperature in under 10 minutes.
The Crown Verity MCB range of BBQs operate using powerful 15,000 BTU/h burners, allowing the grill to heat up to full cooking temperature in less than six minutes, with amazing recover times!

I have looked at stainless steel BBQs and cast iron cooking grills in the past. As a professional catering business, should I always go for the stainless steel option?
Look for a Barbecue that uses commercial grade stainless steel (be wary that many domestic models use stainless steel but are of light duty construction) and also check out the grid racks - stainless steel work much better than coated ones that invariably chip and flake off in time. Look for good portability as many barbecues have poorly constructed wheels. Importantly, ensure the product comes with a full commercial warranty. Some have a lifetime guarantee! Remember that you would not buy a domestic cooker for your commercial kitchen so apply the same thought process for your outdoor Barbecue.

I have heard that outdoor BBQs now come with a range of accessories that assist/enhance the cooking process. What accessories would you say I absolutely need to get the best from my BBQ?
A BBQ that can be easily adapted with accessories will always allow for a varied menu offering and encourage menu creativity outside of standard burgers and sausages. Grills, steam pans, additional side burners and shelves for extra prep/serving space will all enhance a standard BBQ.
The Crown Verity range of Professional Barbecue systems includes a wide range of accessories such as griddles, steam pans and additional side burners to allow a vast and varied menu. All can be fitted quickly and easily, either at the time of purchase or retrospectively to adapt to a changing menu.

What sort of cleaning regime is required for outdoor BBQs? Do I follow the same approach to cleaning and maintenance that I take for indoor kitchen equipment?
Regular maintenance and cleaning will help to prolong the life of your equipment, so it is very important that all staff are aware and capable of performing essential daily tasks. Look for products that are easy to clean and maintain – removable parts such as grease traps, particularly on barbecues, are invaluable. As with any commercial equipment, BBQs should be cleaner after each service to ensure carbon and grease do not build up.
Also consider that extra measures should be taken for equipment that will be stored outside. Look for equipment that can be easily manoeuvred for storage and purchase a purpose built cover for extra protection when not in use.

For more information:
www.rhhall.com, www.crownverity.com or our You Tube channel for videos showing the versatility of the Crown Verity range.
R H Hall are the Exclusive UK Distributor for the Crown Verity range of Professional Barbecue Systems

FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smith
emma.smith@rhhall.com
01296 663400


R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

OOH Magazine - April 2017

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New 2009 design Chrome Futura TM USE.jpg
OOH MAGAZINE – APRIL 2017
OVENS FEATURE

Please attribute any quotes on this information to Kris Brearley, Sales Director, R H Hall

What types of ovens are available? 
There are a lot of options on the equipment market for ovens - the choice is wide and varied and comes down to personal preference as well as space and budget restrictions. Whatever the preference though, it has to be a versatile and flexible workhorse able to make light work of the most demanding and varied dishes and be able to respond to the on-going changing demands that come with any professional commercial kitchen. Most operations want to offer a varied and attractive food offering and so without a doubt an oven that can ‘multi task’ in response to that will be a good investment. Microwave ovens are definitely an essential part of every commercial kitchen – essential for speed of service yet still allowing a chef to prepare and offer a wide choice of menu. Microwaves are also very energy efficient. If simple reheat and defrosting of foods is required then a microwave will suffice, but if a chef wants to reheat and cook food products then a combination microwave convection oven is well advised. The latest and most flexible combination microwave oven from Maestrowave is the Combi Chef 7. It is able to operate in a combination of modes and can bake, roast, grill, steam, defrost, regenerate, microwave, boil or simply keep food warm all in one flexible, efficient unit. Packed full of new features and the latest version of Menu Creator (Menu Creator 2.0™) the oven will produce the best results ever in super quick time, allowing for 99 menu’s to be pre-programmed using any method of oven, microwave, grill or combination. There is a video showing all the features and benefits of this ‘Intelligent Chef’ online – www.rhhall.com For more traditional oven cooking, the Smeg ALFA Range of bake-off ovens provides an equally flexible solution. Ideal for breakfast service, savouries, breads and morning goods including the most delicate of products, like croissants, can be cooked to perfection. Plus use of these ovens can expand way beyond that – in fact, there is relatively little that can’t be cooked! 

What should operators consider before buying new equipment? 
Operators should consider their equipment needs in line with current and future menu requirements, numbers and times/peaks in service – for example, it maybe that two smaller, versatile ovens that can adapt to changing service needs are better than investing in one large unit or that for example, one larger bake-off oven could cover a breakfast offering by itself and then bake-off products, such as baguettes, ready to be filled for the lunch service. Space and installation aspects are also key considerations. Consider the footprint of some ovens in comparison to their potential output and whether products can be stacked, one on top of the other. Chefs can easily switch between one or two ovens depending on demand, which will give them great flexibility and potentially added profits when operating to full capacity, off-setting initial outlays.. An oven to look out for: The Smeg ALFA144XE1 has a proven track record of success and is already being used by some of the UK’s leading operators. Recently selected as the winner of the Ranges & Ovens category at the 2015 Product Excellence Awards, this is one of the most technically advanced ovens on the market today, offering an innovative and versatile cooking solution.

What ovens are good for smaller operators? 
Brand new for 2017, the Smeg ALFA43XUK provides an excellent compact solution for any Bake Off or Catering requirement. Perfect for baking and reheating – from Pastries and Morning goods, to Sausage Rolls and Pasties – this oven can quickly and affordably enhance any menu offering. The ALFA43XUK replaces the best selling ALFA43UK – as used by some of the UK’s leading operators, including Chicago Town and Co-Op. This new and improved model now includes a fully Stainless Steel outer cabinet, making it even more hard wearing and durable.


Are there any environmental considerations? 
Energy efficiency is extremely important. As the leading independent catering equipment distributor in the UK we work on behalf of a number of the leading brands in the industry and the majority if not all of these companies now manufacture products that have sustainable and environmentally friendly technology in their designs. Equipment is evolving all the time and there are plenty of very good pieces of kit on the market which can help an operation build their green credentials and become more energy efficient. Many ovens will need hard wiring to a certain kW rating, but unique to Smeg is a switchable power supply that can be run from different kW ratings depending on the power on site – anything from 3kW plug-in to 8.3kW 3 phase hardwired - making them ideal for any site with no limitations. The Smeg range also features Double Glazed doors across the range – helping to reduce heat loss.

What features are most useful? 
The most important features of an oven will always vary depending on the menu being offered, but as a bare minimum caterers should be looking for an oven that includes at least one fan, with a wide adjustable temperature range and an audible timer. Some operators may prefer manual cooking controls, but in some cases - where the same items are regularly being prepared – preset controls can be a time-saving advantage and also help with uniformity of results. Also look for ovens that are easy to clean and maintain, with stainless steel interiors. 

What one tip would you offer on getting the best from your oven? 
To help make the right choice, operators must be clear on the intended use of their oven. Look at the volume of throughput, the types of dishes/menu available, variations in service time, staffing skills and find out about the latest features and operational functions before they invest. 

Please include a definitive website address where readers can go for more info on your company. For more information, please visit www.rhhall.com

R H Hall are the Exclusive UK Distributor for the Smeg Foodservice range of Catering & Bake Off Ovens

FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smith
01296 663400

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

National Convenience Show 2017

SEE THE INNOVATIVE NEW COVENT GARDEN SOUP SERVER IN ACTION…
STAND U119 - NATIONAL CONVENIENCE SHOW 2017, NEC – 24-26TH APRIL

Please attribute any quotes to Kris Brearley, Sales Director, R H Hall

See the innovative New Covent Garden Soup Server in action at the National Convenience Show. Find us on Stand U119 at the NEC, from 24th-26th April 2017.

A world first from the UK’s No. 1 Chilled Soup Brand - Offering fresh tasting soup anywhere, anytime! Fully automatic and easy to use, earn profit from day one with this complete, innovative, soup serving solution!

  • The UK’s first plug and play captive high-tech soup dispenser that will change the way The UK consumes soup anywhere, any time at the touch of a button.
  • A great opportunity to increase profit and reduce waste with the leading brand that UK consumers trust and recognise for quality, this fantastic machine is...
  • Fully IT driven – touch screen technology with automatic soup portion control, monitoring and reporting services.
  • Hygienic and safe using patented designed QR coded soup pouches and the ability to self clean.
  • An aid to reduce waste – Soup can hold in the server for up to 12 hours. No other soup vending system offers this totally closed system technology.
  • Quality guaranteed – from the first cup to the last from a range of exclusive New Covent Garden soups, not from powder or concentrate.
  • Purchase, rental or lease options available.

As always, our Food Solutions team will be on hand to discuss the various ways we can help streamline and innovate with the latest products, to save you time and money!

For more details please visit www.rhhall.com
or contact the R H Hall Sales Team – 01296 663400 or sales@rhhall.com
  
FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smith
01296 663400

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

BBQ & Outdoor Feature SLTN - April 2017

BBQ & OUTDOOR FEATURE
SLTN APRIL 27TH 2017

Please attributes any quotes to Kris Brearley, Sales Director, R H Hall

In your view, what are the advantages to offering a barbecue in the Scottish on-trade? How does grilling outside set a venue apart from competitors?

Cooking outdoors can become a regular feature during the Spring and Summer months, and perhaps even further with the right equipment! Barbecue menus can provide a great focus for special events such as bank holidays, but can also provide a great source of extra income every weekend. Few can resist the smell of a barbecue on a summer afternoon and caterers can offer a simple barbecue menu without a great deal of expense or planning, providing they have the right equipment in place. Outdoor events also often bring in new customers, particularly on sunny days.

What are some key considerations for operators looking to introduce a barbecue offer? How should publicans approach purchasing equipment and are there any pitfalls to avoid for first time buyers?

For any outdoor cooking set up, the most important piece of equipment to get right is the Barbecue itself! First and foremost, caterers should ensure that they are purchasing truly commercial equipment. Many domestic barbecues look the part, but will not last or be able to recover quickly during a busy service. Look for a Barbecue that uses commercial grade stainless steel (be wary that many domestic models use stainless steel but are of light duty construction) and also check out the grid racks - stainless steel work much better than coated ones that invariably chip and flake off in time. Look for good portability as many barbecues have poorly constructed wheels. Importantly, ensure the product comes with a full commercial warranty. Some have a lifetime guarantee! Remember that you would not buy a domestic cooker for your commercial kitchen so apply the same thought process for your outdoor Barbecue.

Provided some sort of outdoor area is available, any establishment can quickly and easily set up a barbecue for use almost immediately. Charcoal and Gas options are available, with gas options using portable gas cylinders. Operators should also consider some kind of portable hand wash station and also prep/serving areas to avoid constant back & forth to the main kitchen. The Crown Verity range includes both simple charcoal barbecues and versatile, portable gas options. Also available in the CVEHS hand wash station and the range can easily be paired with Simply Stainless Modular Fabrication to create a complete outdoor kitchen!

With the Crown Verity Professional Barbecue range, operators can either create their own BBQ Station by combining a barbecue with prep areas, refrigeration and even branding – or look at ready made options, such as the MBI80 which includes a 36” barbecue with side burner and storage.

‘Gourmet’ burgers have exploded in popularity in recent years and will surely have their place at barbecues across the country this year, but are there any other food items which you would predict as a hot ticket this summer?

Street food is a food trend that is likely to continue growing and is usually presented in a handheld, informal way – fitting nicely with traditional barbecue foods such as burgers and hot dogs. Street food is all about flavour and quality of cooking, so operators should ensure they have the right kit to turn out a variety of dishes. Look for products that can be fitted with removable accessories for an ever changing menu, as well as fast heat up times and individual burner controls.

While they may say different in Australia, barbecues are not a year round proposition for most operators in the Scottish trade. What steps should operators take to ensure they get more than one season from their equipment? How important is maintenance and cleaning to extending the life of barbecue equipment?

Look for equipment that is designed to last more than just a season. The warranty offering, construction and cost will all be a good indication of this. Always ensure that your barbecue is correctly stored when not in use, look for products that can be easily manoeuvred for storage and offer optional all weather covers. As with any commercial equipment, a barbecue should be cleaned down after each service, particularly to avoid any heavy build ups of grease or carbon. With the right daily maintenance in place, cleaning should be a simple task. Look for products that are easy to clean and maintain – removable parts such as grease traps, particularly on barbecues, are invaluable.

The smell may speak for itself, but what other steps can operators take to drive footfall and interest in their barbecue offer?

Events can be kept as simple as firing up the BBQ on a Summers day, but can also be enhanced with live music or family entertainment to increase the draw. The bigger the event, the more planning will be required. Advertising locally with posters and banners is likely to draw attention – and also ensuring regular customers are aware of the event in advance, so they can spread the word! If the weather forecast is looking good and large numbers are expected, operators should ensure staff levels are considered and also ensure the bar is well stocked – when the sun comes out, record sales can be achieved! It almost goes without saying, but make sure the BBQ has been fired up in advance and if recently purchased, ensure that the chef has tested his menu prior to the event.

However, operators should always ensure they are prepared for more traditional weather! By creating covered seating areas with gazebos and marquees, customers will still be able to enjoy outdoor events – just make sure that if any entertainment is available, these seated areas provide an easy view – and also that the BBQ itself is positioned elsewhere to prevent any smoke or excessive food odours.

For more information:
www.rhhall.com, www.crownverity.com or our You Tube channel for videos showing the versatility of the Crown Verity range.

R H Hall are the Exclusive UK Distributor for the Crown Verity range of Professional Barbecue Systems

FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smith - emma.smith@rhhall.com -01296 663400

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Monday 10 April 2017

UK Coffee Week

It's , Get some and take a look at our wide range of coffee machines at ! ☕☕


R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Wednesday 5 April 2017

2017 Spring Newsletter

Spring 2017 Newsletter!

Don't miss out on reading the latest newsletter http://bit.ly/2nJlBNI

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY
T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

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