Exhibiting at HOTELEX Shanghai 2025

RATIONAL Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. is the China-based subsidiary of RATIONAL AG, a global leader in professional cooking systems headquartered in Germany. Operating out of Shanghai, the company plays a pivotal role in bringing RATIONAL’s state-of-the-art combi-steamers and intelligent kitchen equipment to commercial kitchens across mainland China. With decades of expertise and innovation, RATIONAL empowers foodservice operations through its technology-driven, energy-efficient cooking solutions.

Core Business and Product Offerings

RATIONAL Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. focuses on sales, support, and service of RATIONAL cooking systems in the Chinese market. Its core product offerings include:

• Cooking Systems:

  • iCombi Pro: An intelligent combi-steamer with advanced sensors and automatic cooking functions.
  • iCombi Classic: A versatile and reliable cooking system with manual controls.
  • iVario Pro: A multifunctional cooking center replacing pots, pans, and fryers.

• Accessories:

  • Cooking trays, pans, grilling racks
  • Detergents and care products for automated cleaning

• Software Solutions:

  • ConnectedCooking: A digital platform for remote management, recipe sharing, and HACCP documentation.

These products serve a range of kitchens including restaurants, hotels, hospitals, schools, and large-scale catering facilities.

Specialization and Unique Selling Points

RATIONAL's unique market position is based on:

• Intelligent Cooking Technology: Systems that automatically adapt cooking parameters for consistent results.
• Energy Efficiency: Designed to reduce resource consumption by up to 70% compared to traditional appliances.
• Durability and ROI: German-engineered quality ensures long equipment life, reducing total cost of ownership.
• Global Culinary Network: Support from professional chefs and technical consultants to train users and optimize kitchen workflows.

Local Operations and Infrastructure

In Shanghai, RATIONAL operates with:

• Sales and Service Headquarters: Managing logistics, dealer networks, and customer engagement across China.
• Live Cooking Centers: Hosting workshops, demos, and chef training sessions.
• After-Sales Network: Comprehensive service support through authorized partners and in-house technicians.

The Shanghai subsidiary is critical in adapting global innovations for Chinese culinary practices and commercial kitchen standards.

Market Reach and Industry Penetration

RATIONAL serves thousands of clients across China in industries such as:

• Hospitality and Tourism
• Corporate Catering
• Education and Healthcare
• Retail Food Chains

Globally, RATIONAL equipment is installed in over 140 countries and used in more than 750,000 professional kitchens. China is considered a high-growth market, with RATIONAL investing in local expansion and education initiatives to increase penetration.

Client Segments and User Base

Key customer segments include:

• International and local hotel chains (e.g., Marriott, Hilton)
• Foodservice contractors for school and hospital cafeterias
• High-volume catering businesses
• Restaurant chains and ghost kitchens

The company focuses on clients seeking automation, precision, and sustainable kitchen solutions.

Certifications and Compliance

RATIONAL products are certified to meet global and Chinese safety and hygiene standards, including:

• CE and CB certifications for international safety compliance
• NSF and ETL certifications for North American markets
• China CCC Compliance for electrical equipment
• HACCP support via ConnectedCooking platform

These certifications ensure reliability and legal compliance for professional kitchen installations.

Financial Performance and Global Footprint

RATIONAL AG reported revenues exceeding €1 billion globally, with a consistent growth rate in the Asia-Pacific region. The Shanghai entity contributes to this by expanding market access, offering Chinese-language support, and streamlining logistics within China.

Investments in local infrastructure and culinary education underline RATIONAL’s long-term commitment to China’s foodservice industry.

Industry Recognition and Events

RATIONAL is a fixture at leading trade shows and industry events such as:

• FHC China
• Hotelex Shanghai
• China Bakery Exhibition

The company also conducts regular culinary competitions and innovation showcases in partnership with culinary schools and trade associations.

Strategic Strengths

• Technological Leadership: Pioneer in intelligent cooking systems
• Localized Services: In-market sales, training, and support in native language
• Sustainability Focus: Energy-efficient appliances with automated cleaning systems
• Chef Engagement Model: Hands-on demos and training to maximize user ROI

RATIONAL Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. stands as a benchmark of German precision and culinary innovation in China’s fast-evolving professional kitchen landscape. With an emphasis on intelligent automation and culinary excellence, RATIONAL continues to lead the transformation of commercial kitchens toward smarter, greener, and more productive operations.