Founded in 1912, Howe Corporation is a family-owned American manufacturing company based in Chicago, Illinois, that specializes in the production of industrial flake ice machines, ice storage systems, and condensing units. With more than a century of engineering innovation and a strong reputation for quality, Howe has become a trusted name in commercial refrigeration, particularly in applications requiring large-scale, high-efficiency ice production.
Core Business
Howe Corporation’s primary business lies in designing and manufacturing flake ice machines and ice storage systems for industrial and commercial use. Their equipment is widely utilized across industries such as:
- Food Processing & Distribution
- Supermarkets & Grocery Chains
- Seafood & Meat Packing
- Bakeries
- Healthcare
- Industrial Cooling Applications
Their flagship line of Rapid Freeze® flake ice machines has set industry standards in terms of energy efficiency, reliability, and durability.
Product Portfolio
1. Ice Flakers – Rapid Freeze® Series
- Capacity: Ranges from 1,000 to 20,000 pounds per day
- Applications: Food preservation, industrial process cooling, retail displays
- Features: Stainless steel construction, natural refrigerant compatibility (R717 Ammonia and R-744 CO₂), energy-efficient motors
2. Ice Storage Bins – Mobile Express Systems
- Mobile storage carts that allow for ergonomic, low-labor ice handling
- Modular designs to integrate with flakers and streamline ice distribution
3. Condensing Units
- Specifically engineered to pair with Howe flake ice machines
- Available in configurations using natural refrigerants such as Ammonia (R717) and CO₂ (R-744) to support sustainability and regulatory compliance
Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
- Over 110 years of engineering expertise
- Specialization in natural refrigerants for environmentally friendly solutions
- Superior energy efficiency, helping clients reduce operational costs by up to 40%
- ASME-coded pressure vessels and compliance with stringent international standards
- North American-built machinery ensuring robust quality control and shorter lead times
Export & Shipment Records
Howe Corporation maintains an active international footprint:
- Exports to over 25 countries, including Canada, Mexico, Chile, UAE, and Australia
- According to ImportYeti and Volza, Howe has fulfilled hundreds of commercial shipments in the past 5 years, especially in sectors like supermarket refrigeration and seafood processing
- Key export items: Rapid Freeze® flake ice machines and ice storage bins
Financial Insights
While privately held and not required to disclose detailed financials, industry estimates and market data suggest:
- Annual revenues in the range of $10 million – $20 million
- Strong reinvestment in R&D, automation, and eco-friendly technologies
- Sustained year-over-year growth due to expanding demand in cold chain logistics and environmental refrigeration compliance
Target Market
- Supermarkets (e.g., Kroger, H-E-B, Albertsons)
- Food processors and distributors
- Industrial HVAC contractors
- Cold storage and logistics providers
- Government and institutional buyers for healthcare and military use
Capabilities & Infrastructure
- 100% US-based manufacturing facility with modern CNC machinery and testing equipment
- Dedicated engineering teams for custom design, OEM partnerships, and installation support
- Large warehousing for quick order fulfillment and parts servicing
Certifications & Compliance
- ISO 9001 Quality Management System
- ASME Certification for pressure vessels
- UL and ETL listing for equipment
- Compliant with EPA regulations on refrigerants
- Active development in compliance with U.S. Department of Energy efficiency standards
Customer Testimonials
Though specific testimonials are limited in the public domain, Howe is consistently rated high on B2B platforms and HVAC forums for:
- Equipment longevity (machines lasting over 15 years)
- Responsive technical support
- Custom engineering services for unique project needs
Repeat business with major supermarket chains and food processors stands as a testament to their performance and trustworthiness.
Industry Recognition & Achievements
- Pioneer in adopting natural refrigerants ahead of industry mandates
- Recognized by U.S. EPA for sustainable refrigerant practices
- Active exhibitor at International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition (AHR Expo)
- Highlighted in multiple industry trade publications for innovation in commercial refrigeration
Summary
Howe Corporation stands out as an industry leader in large-capacity flake ice production and environmentally conscious refrigeration. With more than a century of excellence, robust U.S.-based manufacturing, and a forward-thinking approach to sustainability, Howe is the go-to partner for businesses that depend on reliable, efficient, and scalable ice solutions across the globe.
