Alto-Shaam, Inc., headquartered in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, is a globally renowned manufacturer of commercial kitchen equipment and foodservice technology solutions. With over six decades of engineering innovation, Alto-Shaam has set the standard in precision cooking and holding systems used by top-tier foodservice operators, restaurants, hospitality venues, institutions, and retail chains worldwide.
Brief History
Founded in 1955 by Jerry Maahs, Alto-Shaam revolutionized the foodservice industry with the invention of the original Cook & Hold oven utilizing Halo Heat® technology. This innovation not only enhanced food quality but also significantly reduced energy and labor costs. Today, under the leadership of Steve Maahs, the second generation of family ownership, the company operates in more than 90 countries and continues to push the boundaries of foodservice excellence.
Core Business
Alto-Shaam designs and manufactures a comprehensive suite of commercial kitchen equipment focused on cooking, holding, chilling, merchandising, and remote operation. Their equipment is used in a wide range of sectors including restaurants, hotels, corporate dining, healthcare, education, convenience stores, and entertainment venues.
Product and Service Offerings
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Combi Ovens
- Prodigi Pro, Prodigi Classic, Converge Multi-Cook Combi Ovens
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Cook & Hold Ovens
- 750-TH, 1200-TH, 1000-TH-II
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Multi-Cook Ovens
- Vector H Series, Vector F Series
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Heated Holding Cabinets
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Smoker Ovens
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Warming Drawers
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Rotisserie Ovens
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Heated Merchandisers & Display Cases
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Food Wells
- Drop-In Hot Food Wells, Hot/Cold Food Wells
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Carving Stations
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Blast Chillers & Refrigeration
- QuickChiller QC3-20, QC3-40
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Remote Oven Management
- ChefLinc™ Cloud-Based Control System
All products are engineered for performance, food quality preservation, energy efficiency, and operational cost reduction.
Specialization and Core USP
- Halo Heat® Technology – Precise, gentle radiant heat ensures moisture retention, uniform cooking, and energy efficiency
- Vector Multi-Cook Ovens – Independent oven chambers for simultaneous multi-item cooking
- Prodigi Combi Ovens – High-volume, programmable steam and convection cooking
- ChefLinc™ – IoT-based cloud control enabling centralized recipe and fleet management
Their integrated approach to cooking, holding, and serving minimizes labor, reduces food waste, and optimizes kitchen throughput.
Financials
As a privately held company, Alto-Shaam does not publicly disclose financials, but industry estimates and export data suggest:
- Estimated annual revenue exceeds $150 million
- Global distribution network in over 90 countries
- U.S. domestic sales comprise approximately 60% of total revenue
- International expansion in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia has grown 30%+ over the past 5 years
Shipment Data
According to logistics and trade platforms including ImportYeti and Trademo:
- Alto-Shaam exports consistently to markets such as Germany, UAE, Australia, South Korea, and Mexico
- Documented shipments across six continents, supporting partners and franchise systems
- Over 300 container shipments annually, each with high-value kitchen equipment
- Distribution and service network includes more than 200 certified dealer partners worldwide
Target Market
- Restaurant Chains (QSRs and Fine Dining)
- Hospitality Groups and Hotels
- Corporate & Institutional Foodservice
- Healthcare and Senior Living Centers
- K–12 and Higher Education Campuses
- Supermarkets and C-Stores
Alto-Shaam supports both small operators and multinational corporations with scalable, modular solutions.
Capabilities
- Full R&D and prototyping facility in Wisconsin
- End-to-end in-house manufacturing and quality assurance
- Global training centers and test kitchens
- Full-service customer support, technical service, and repair network
- Remote diagnostics and software updates via ChefLinc™
Certifications and Compliance Records
- NSF, UL, CE, and Energy Star certifications on all major product lines
- Compliant with HACCP food safety and traceability standards
- ISO 9001:2015 Certified Manufacturing Facility
- Member of the North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers (NAFEM)
Customer Testimonials
"Alto-Shaam’s Vector ovens have completely transformed our kitchen workflow. We now cook multiple items at different temps without cross-contamination or delays." — Executive Chef, Global Hotel Chain
"We use ChefLinc™ to remotely update menu profiles across 200 locations. It’s a game-changer for centralized control and consistency." — Director of Culinary Innovation, National QSR Brand
Major Achievements
- Winner of the 2023 Kitchen Innovations Award for the Converge Multi-Cook Combi Oven
- Selected by Foodservice Equipment Reports as a Top Foodservice Innovation Company
- Named to Forbes Small Giants List of Best Privately Held Companies
- Expanded a 400,000 sq. ft. headquarters and manufacturing campus in 2022
- Hosts annual Culinary Institute Events for chefs and operators to test cutting-edge kitchen solutions
