REICH Thermoprozesstechnik GmbH is Germany's oldest name in the field of thermal processing technology for food, with a legacy of innovation and precision engineering that dates back over 125 years. Headquartered in Schechingen, Baden-Württemberg, the company is renowned for developing high-performance, modular, and automated systems for smoking, cooking, baking, thawing, and drying across food processing industries worldwide.
Core Business and Offerings
REICH specializes in the design and manufacturing of advanced thermal processing equipment tailored to meat, poultry, fish, cheese, and plant-based food sectors. Their offerings include:
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Universal Smokehouses
Systems such as the AIRMASTER® UKQ AIRJET and AIRMASTER® BKQ AIRJET provide multifunctional thermal processing—smoking, cooking, and baking—using horizontal air circulation and intelligent climate control for maximum energy efficiency and product uniformity.
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Smoke Generators
Including the FrictionSmoker FR 2008, SteamSmoker S 900 H, and MaxxSmoker G 700 H, offering diverse smoke generation technologies (friction, steam, woodchip) adaptable to different flavor profiles and regulatory standards.
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Climatic Maturing and Drying Units
AIRMASTER® KKRI CLIMASTAR and KRAI units support dry-aging, fermentation, and ripening processes, with precise climate regulation and hygiene-focused construction.
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Defrosting/Thawing Systems
The AIRMASTER® ATA ClimaStar offers high-speed, hygienic thawing solutions for frozen meat and seafood using temperature and humidity-controlled airflows.
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Control Systems
Proprietary control units like UNICONTROL 2000 TS and CLIMACONTROL 2000 TS provide programmable automation, remote diagnostics, and integration into digital factory ecosystems.
Specialization and Unique Strengths
REICH stands apart for its focus on modularity and customization. Their systems are engineered to adapt to production environments ranging from artisanal processors to large industrial manufacturers. Key differentiators include:
- AIRMASTER® Technology: Modular, energy-efficient, and robust systems with optional vertical or horizontal air circulation depending on product type.
- German Engineering Excellence: All machinery is designed, developed, and manufactured in Germany, adhering to strict DIN and ISO quality standards.
- Digital Integration: Systems are compatible with Industry 4.0 standards, enabling cloud monitoring, predictive maintenance, and batch traceability.
Market Presence and Client Base
REICH serves customers in over 50 countries, with a particularly strong presence in:
- European Union
- North and South America
- Middle East and Asia-Pacific
Their client base includes food industry leaders, contract manufacturers, and processors of meat, fish, cheese, and plant-based proteins. The company collaborates closely with OEM partners and system integrators to deliver turn-key thermal processing lines.
Capabilities and Manufacturing Infrastructure
- Manufacturing Site: Located in Schechingen, Germany, REICH operates an advanced production facility equipped with precision machining, CNC systems, and stainless steel fabrication.
- Product Development: In-house R&D team works on continuous innovation in process optimization, energy savings, and hygiene engineering.
- Testing Center: Customers can trial their products using REICH systems at their technical center under real-world production conditions.
Certifications and Compliance
REICH equipment complies with international food safety, hygiene, and safety standards including:
- CE Certification (EU)
- EHEDG Hygiene Design Guidelines
- ISO 9001 Quality Management
- UL Certification for North American markets
- GOST-R and EAC for Eurasian customs compliance
Their commitment to hygienic design, cleanability, and automation aligns with modern regulatory frameworks such as the FDA and EU food directives.
Financials and Shipment Data
While financial figures are not publicly disclosed, REICH maintains a robust position in the global thermal processing market through:
- Exports to 50+ countries
- Hundreds of installed units annually worldwide
- Long-term distributor and service partnerships in key regions
The company has completed major projects with multinational food processors, including installations exceeding dozens of units per site in integrated smokehouse and maturing room configurations.
Achievements and Industry Reputation
- REICH is widely regarded as a benchmark brand in smokehouse and food thermal systems, often setting performance and innovation standards for the industry.
- Featured in global trade shows such as IFFA, Anuga FoodTec, and Gulfood Manufacturing.
- Customer recognition for after-sales support, system uptime, and high hygiene ratings.
Their AIRMASTER® brand has become synonymous with reliability, performance, and technological advancement in thermal food processing. With a commitment to German engineering and global service, REICH continues to set industry standards in the 21st century.
