Food Service Equipment Market Size & Outlook, 2025-2033

Food Service Equipment Market Size

The global food service equipment market size was valued at USD 38.34 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 40.97 billion in 2025 to reach USD 69.60 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.85% during the forecast period (2025–2033). The growth of the market is attributed to the globalization of food chains.

The global food service equipment market is witnessing strong growth due to rising demand from the HoReCa (hotel, restaurant, and catering) sector, driven by increased urbanization, disposable income, and changing dining habits. The surge in quick-service restaurants and food delivery platforms has amplified the need for efficient, high-performance kitchen equipment.

Additionally, growing consumer awareness and strict government regulations surrounding food hygiene and safety are encouraging operators to adopt modern, easy-to-clean, and energy-efficient appliances. The push for sustainability has further prompted investment in ENERGY STAR-certified equipment to lower utility costs and carbon footprints.

Moreover, the expansion of cloud kitchens and the post-pandemic recovery of the hospitality industry are creating new revenue streams for equipment manufacturers. These combined factors are significantly fueling the demand for advanced, reliable, and compliant food service equipment worldwide.

Key Market Indicators

• Asia-Pacific dominated the food service equipment industry and accounted for a 36.9% share in 2024.
• Based on product, the kitchen purpose equipment segment holds the largest share of approximately 44.54% of the food service equipment market in 2024, owing to its essential role in food preparation across all types of commercial kitchens.
• Based on end-user, the full-service restaurants and hotels segment dominates the market owing to its continuous investment in high-quality, durable, and innovative kitchen infrastructure.
• Based on distribution channel, the offline segment leads the distribution landscape of the market, primarily due to the preference for hands-on product evaluation and consultation before purchase.

Food Service Equipment Market Trends

Customization & Modular Equipment

The global market is increasingly witnessing a shift toward modular and customizable solutions. These systems offer flexibility in layout, improve space utilization, and support dynamic menu changes across various food service formats. Restaurants, hotels, and institutional kitchens prefer modular units that can be easily reconfigured or expanded to meet evolving operational needs.

• For instance, unveiled at the NAFEM Show in February 2025, Vollrath’s new unit allows operators to switch between hot, cold, and frozen serving modes in a single modular drop-in well. It offers independent temperature control, a digital touch screen interface, USB connectivity, and reduced environmental impact through R290 refrigerant. Ideal for buffets and dynamic serving lines, this flexible solution reduces equipment footprint and streamlines operations.

Such innovations highlight how modularity can enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and offer significant long-term cost benefits.

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Food Service Equipment Market Growth Factor

Globalization of Food Chains

The globalization of food service brands continues to drive significant demand for commercial kitchen equipment. As fast food, casual dining, and café chains expand into international markets, there is a surging need for standardized, scalable, and efficient equipment to maintain operational consistency. Global brands are localizing menus while ensuring kitchen processes remain streamlined and technologically advanced.

• For instance, in a major milestone, Chipotle Mexican Grill announced it will open its first locations in Mexico in early 2026 in partnership with Alsea, which also operates Starbucks and Domino’s in Latin America. This move marks Chipotle's first expansion into its country of origin and follows its recent Middle East openings in Kuwait and the UAE. Such global growth pushes demand for localized yet globally compatible kitchen equipment.

As chains like Wendy’s, Shake Shack, and Tim Hortons expand in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, the global market is expected to witness robust growth.

Market Restraint

High Initial Investment and Maintenance Costs

One of the major restraints in the global market is the high initial capital required for purchasing advanced commercial kitchen appliances. Equipment such as commercial ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, and food processors involves a significant upfront investment, particularly when opting for energy-efficient or smart models.

Additionally, ongoing maintenance and servicing costs add to the financial burden, especially for small and medium-sized food service businesses. These costs can hinder the adoption of modern equipment in emerging markets or among independent restaurants operating on tight margins. As a result, many businesses opt for second-hand or basic equipment, slowing market growth and innovation penetration.

Market Opportunity

Automation & Robotics

Automation and robotics are revolutionizing the global market by addressing key industry challenges like labor shortages, rising operational costs, and the need for faster service. Automated cooking, cleaning, and food prep systems not only enhance productivity but also ensure consistent food quality and hygiene.

• For instance, Miso Robotics unveiled its next-generation Flippy Fry Station in January 2025. It offers a 50% smaller footprint, double the frying speed, and 75% faster installation, fitting into existing kitchens overnight. Pilots began at White Castle in late 2024, with rollouts to Jack in the Box and QSR chains planned for early 2025.

Such innovations highlight the growing shift toward intelligent kitchen automation, enabling food service operators to optimize workflows, reduce dependency on manual labor, and deliver superior customer experiences in high-demand environments.

Regional Analysis

Asia-Pacific is experiencing rapid expansion in the market, fueled by increasing urbanization, growing disposable incomes, and the proliferation of organized food service chains. Rising consumer interest in quick-service and international cuisines drives demand for commercial ovens, fryers, and dishwashers. Modernization of hospitality infrastructure and increased investment in retail food service formats such as food courts and casual dining outlets are boosting regional sales. Local manufacturers are expanding production capacity, while international players are entering the market to cater to the surging demand for affordable yet high-performance kitchen solutions.

• China’s food service equipment industry is expanding rapidly due to urbanization, the surging disposable incomes, and a growing fast-food culture. The surge in quick-service restaurants like KFC China and digital food platforms such as Meituan has driven demand for advanced kitchen appliances. Additionally, government policies promoting energy-efficient equipment are boosting smart kitchen adoption across major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
• India’s market is growing due to increased restaurant chains, cloud kitchens, and a booming food delivery sector led by Swiggy and Zomato. The rise of QSRs like Domino’s and McDonald’s India has fueled demand for commercial ovens, fryers, and refrigeration units. Urban centers such as Bengaluru and Mumbai are witnessing high investment in modern kitchen setups, aligning with food safety standards and energy-efficient cooking practices.

North America Food Service Equipment Market Trends

The North American market is driven by a mature hospitality industry, increasing automation, and demand for energy-efficient appliances. The rise of cloud kitchens and quick-service restaurants has accelerated investment in compact, high-output cooking systems. Technological innovations, including IoT-enabled appliances and smart refrigeration, are gaining popularity. Additionally, stringent food safety and sanitation standards are pushing commercial kitchens to adopt modern, easy-to-clean equipment. The replacement of aging infrastructure in restaurants and cafeterias further supports consistent equipment upgrades across institutional, commercial, and healthcare food service sectors.

• The U.S. market is driven by strong growth in fast-food chains, digital ordering, and automation. Major players like McDonald’s and Wendy’s are investing in smart kitchen technologies, including AI-driven grills and automated fryers, to improve efficiency. The surge in food delivery apps and cloud kitchens—especially in urban hubs like New York and Los Angeles—is also increasing demand for high-output and modular food service appliances.
• The Canadian food service equipment sector is growing due to the expansion of fast-casual dining and increased demand for energy-efficient appliances. Government regulations promoting ENERGY STAR-certified kitchen equipment have accelerated adoption. For instance, Tim Hortons has upgraded to eco-friendly coffee brewers and ovens in several outlets. Additionally, the rise in ghost kitchens in cities like Toronto and Vancouver is fueling demand for compact, high-performance cooking equipment.

Europe Food Service Equipment Market Trends

Europe's market benefits from strict environmental and energy-efficiency regulations, promoting the adoption of eco-friendly and ENERGY STAR-certified appliances. There is growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints, pushing vendors to innovate in sustainable kitchen technologies. Modular and ergonomic equipment is in high demand due to the rise of compact urban food outlets. The fine dining and bakery segments are also witnessing modernization trends. Moreover, digitization in the food service sector is leading to increased demand for smart, automated cooking and refrigeration solutions, especially in hotels and institutional catering services.

• Germany’s market is driven by a strong hospitality sector and increasing demand for energy-efficient appliances. The country’s strict environmental regulations encourage the adoption of eco-friendly and smart kitchen equipment. For instance, German-based Rational AG has seen rising demand for its combi ovens in commercial kitchens. The growing trend of healthy eating and fine dining in cities like Berlin and Munich is further fueling market expansion.
• The UK food service equipment industry is influenced by the booming takeaway and delivery segments, especially in urban centers like London. The rise of dark kitchens and chain restaurants has boosted demand for compact, high-output appliances. Companies like Jestic Food Service Solutions have expanded their offerings to meet these needs. Moreover, post-Brexit food safety and hygiene standards are pushing commercial kitchens to upgrade to compliant, automated, and easy-to-clean equipment.

Product Insights

Kitchen purpose equipment holds the largest share in the global market owing to its essential role in food preparation across all types of commercial kitchens. This category includes cooking ranges, ovens, fryers, grills, and other core appliances required for efficient culinary operations. The increasing demand for versatile, energy-efficient, and technologically advanced equipment among restaurants, hotels, and catering services significantly contributes to this segment’s dominance. Moreover, the growing preference for modular and compact equipment to optimize kitchen space further supports its widespread adoption across both developed and emerging regions.

End-User Insights

The full-service restaurants and hotels segment dominates the market owing to its continuous investment in high-quality, durable, and innovative kitchen infrastructure. These establishments require a wide range of equipment to support elaborate menus, large-scale operations, and high service standards. The rising global hospitality industry, coupled with increasing demand for dine-in experiences, fuels consistent upgrades and expansions in kitchen facilities. Additionally, full-service restaurants prioritize customized equipment solutions for enhanced operational efficiency, hygiene, and aesthetics, making them the primary consumers of premium food service equipment across key markets.

Distribution Channel Insights

Offline channels lead the distribution landscape of the market, primarily due to the preference for hands-on product evaluation and consultation before purchase. Buyers, particularly commercial enterprises, value physical demonstrations, customized installation support, and after-sales service offered by offline retailers and distributors. This channel also facilitates strong B2B relationships, bulk procurement deals, and easier negotiation of technical specifications and warranties. The complexity and high cost of equipment encourage end users to opt for personalized service and trusted retail networks, reinforcing the dominance of offline sales in this market.

Company Market Share

Companies in the global market are focusing on innovation, sustainability, and smart technology integration to expand their market share. They are investing in energy-efficient and IoT-enabled appliances, expanding product portfolios, and offering customizable, modular solutions. Additionally, companies are strengthening after-sales services, forming strategic partnerships with food chains, and expanding their presence in emerging markets to tap into rising demand from the hospitality and quick service restaurant sectors.

The Middleby Corporation

The Middleby Corporation, headquartered in Illinois, USA, is a leading global manufacturer of commercial food service, residential kitchen, and food processing equipment. Renowned for its innovation and acquisitions strategy, Middleby offers advanced solutions through brands like TurboChef, Blodgett, and Viking. The company caters to restaurants, institutions, and industrial food processors worldwide. With a strong focus on energy efficiency, automation, and smart kitchen technology, Middleby continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the global food service equipment market.

• In June 2025, Middleby expanded its digital ecosystem with a mobile app offering real-time product data and dealer access. Its advanced Open Kitchen IoT platform now integrates equipment, energy monitoring, HACCP reporting, and fryer analytics, enabling operators to track oil usage and boost profitability through actionable insights, enhancing kitchen efficiency and operational control.

List of key players in Food Service Equipment Market

1. Welbilt Inc.
2. Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW)
3. The Middleby Corporation
4. Ali Group S.r.l.
5. Dover Corporation
6. Hoshizaki Corporation
7. Rational AG
8. Electrolux Professional AB
9. Duke Manufacturing Co.
10. AB Electrolux

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Recent Developments

• April 2025- Unox launched its next-gen CHEFTOP‑X™ combi oven, a fully voice-enabled, AI-integrated cooking solution. It includes features like "HEY.Unox" voice controls and AI-powered ingredient recognition via optional OPTIC. Cooking, and AIR.Tornado air-fry capabilities. The oven also leverages a “Data Driven Cooking 2.0” system for multi-dish cooking and SMART.Energy™ management for energy and CO₂ efficiency.
• January 2025- Motion Technology, Inc. officially launched the AutoFry MTI‑40E PRO. The announcement highlighted the new model's availability for orders starting that day and emphasized its enhanced features, such as an upgraded built-in oil filtration system, automated oil handling valves, and improved user safety and efficiency.