Hoshizaki UK, a subsidiary of Hoshizaki Europe B.V., is a globally recognized manufacturer and supplier of commercial kitchen equipment, specializing in ice makers, refrigeration solutions, sushi display cases, and automated beverage dispensing systems. Based in Swanley, Kent, Hoshizaki UK operates under the umbrella of Japan’s Hoshizaki Corporation, a market leader in food service and commercial kitchen technology with a legacy dating back to 1947.
Core Business and Product Portfolio
Hoshizaki UK provides a comprehensive range of high-performance, energy-efficient equipment for foodservice and hospitality operations, including:
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Ice Makers:
- IM Series: Cube ice makers, featuring antibacterial stainless steel, self-contained design, and smart cleaning systems.
- KM Series: Crescent ice makers known for durability and consistent ice production.
- FM Series: Flake ice makers ideal for medical, seafood, and buffet applications.
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Commercial Refrigeration (under the Gram brand):
- Energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers for commercial kitchens.
- Eco-friendly models using natural refrigerants (R290) to reduce environmental impact.
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Sushi Display Cases:
- HNC Series: Refrigerated cases engineered for optimal freshness and presentation in sushi bars and Japanese cuisine restaurants.
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Automated Beverage Dispensers:
- Precision beer dispensers designed for perfect head and temperature control, supporting bars and high-throughput venues.
These products are tailored for restaurants, hotels, hospitals, quick service restaurants (QSRs), and food production facilities.
Specialisation and Unique Selling Propositions
Hoshizaki UK’s differentiation lies in its engineering excellence, energy efficiency, and hygiene-driven design. Notable USPs include:
- High Hygiene Standards: Machines feature unique closed water circuits and in-built antimicrobial protection to minimize contamination risks.
- Energy Efficiency: Several refrigeration units are certified under the Ecodesign Directive and use natural refrigerants, supporting clients’ sustainability goals.
- Durability & Longevity: Designed for 24/7 performance in high-demand environments.
- Quiet Operation & Compact Design: Ideal for open kitchens, front-of-house operations, and confined spaces.
Hoshizaki's dedication to R&D and in-house component manufacturing guarantees unmatched product reliability.
Financial and Market Presence
Hoshizaki Corporation is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and operates over 100 global subsidiaries, including Hoshizaki Europe and Hoshizaki UK. The group’s annual global revenue surpassed ¥315 billion (approx. £1.7 billion) in FY2023.
As part of this network, Hoshizaki UK plays a critical role in supplying and servicing equipment across the UK and Ireland, with a customer base that includes:
- International hotel chains
- Michelin-starred restaurants
- QSR groups
- NHS and private healthcare facilities
- Food production and logistics providers
Global Shipments and Export Activity
Hoshizaki’s European manufacturing and distribution hub enables efficient exports across the EMEA region. From its UK base, the company handles product distribution, installation, training, and maintenance services.
- Over 50,000+ Hoshizaki ice machines are in use across the UK.
- Gram refrigeration systems are shipped to more than 70 countries.
- The company maintains a national dealer and service partner network supporting logistics and compliance.
Target Markets
Hoshizaki UK serves a diverse set of sectors, including:
- Hospitality and Foodservice: Hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
- Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, and laboratories.
- Retail and Convenience Stores
- Industrial Catering & Institutional Foodservice
- Beverage Service Venues: Bars, pubs, and stadiums.
Their solutions cater to both premium culinary environments and high-throughput operations requiring consistent performance and hygiene.
Technical Capabilities and Innovation
Hoshizaki invests heavily in product development with in-house innovation teams focused on:
- Automated cleaning systems
- Digital diagnostics and smart sensors
- Low-GWP refrigerant integration
- Quiet compressor technology
- Minimal water and energy consumption designs
Products are rigorously tested in extreme operating conditions to ensure resilience and performance in real-world settings.
Certifications and Compliance
All products comply with international safety and environmental standards, including:
- ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management
- ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management
- CE and UKCA Compliance
- Ecodesign Directive (EU 2015/1095)
- NSF and WRAS Certification for water contact parts
Additionally, the company is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices across its European and Japanese facilities.
Customer Testimonials and Reputation
Hoshizaki UK is praised for its aftersales support, technical reliability, and training capabilities:
- “Consistently reliable equipment backed by top-class technical support.” – Head of Operations, National Restaurant Group
- “Hoshizaki ice machines deliver quality, efficiency, and peace of mind.” – Foodservice Director, UK Hotel Chain
The company also offers regular training programs for kitchen planners and service engineers, further enhancing product lifecycle value.
Key Achievements and Recognition
- Introduction of Hoshizaki beer dispensers in 2024, expanding their product line in the UK beverage sector.
- Release of the Hoshizaki Europe Brand Book, promoting design consistency and brand clarity.
- Active participation in commercial kitchen exhibitions and culinary events across the UK and EU.
- Featured in Sustainable Foodservice Equipment Innovation reports.
With a focus on engineering excellence, sustainability, and operational reliability, Hoshizaki UK remains a trusted partner in delivering next-generation kitchen and refrigeration technologies to the commercial food industry.