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Ensuring the safe transport of ice is vital for any food and beverage business. Fresh, clean ice not only keeps drinks cold but also plays a crucial role in food safety. Poor handling can lead to contaminated ice, posing health risks to customers. That's why having a reliable ice transport system is essential for modern food service operations.

Follett Ice Transport Systems offer a range of features that make ice management easier, quicker, and safer. These systems help minimize the time spent moving ice, allowing staff to focus more on serving customers. Designed to handle various types of ice including cube, flake, and Chewblet® ice, they ensure your ice remains sanitary and ready for use.

Importance of Safe Ice Transport for Your Business

Safe ice transport is crucial for ensuring the quality and cleanliness of ice in your business. Ice is often overlooked, but poor handling can lead to contamination, affecting both taste and safety. This can pose serious health risks to customers, such as bacterial infections.

Using a reliable ice transport system reduces the risk of contamination. The elevated bin design with gravity dispense technology can move ice up to 15 times faster than manual scooping, ensuring that ice remains at the right temperature and is protected from external pollutants. Safe transport practices also prevent ice from melting and refreezing, which can degrade its quality and make it less effective.

Efficient ice transport systems also improve workflow. Staff spend less time moving ice and more time attending to customers, enhancing service quality. This increases overall efficiency, allowing employees to focus on their primary tasks rather than handling ice. Moreover, the systems reduce physical strain on staff, making their work environment safer and more pleasant.

Comprehensive Model Range to Meet Every Need

Follett offers several models of Ice Transport Systems, each designed to meet specific operational requirements. Here's a detailed look at each model and its capabilities:

1. Follett ITS500NS-31

• Storage capacity: 174kg
• Maximum capacity with cart: 283kg
• Dimensions: 78.7cm width x 101.6cm depth x 152.4cm height
• Ideal for smaller establishments
• Compact design allows for easy maneuvering
• Perfect for cafes and small restaurants
• Features sliding windows for easy access

2. Follett ITS700SG-31

• Storage capacity: 315kg
• Maximum capacity with cart: 405kg
• Includes SmartGATE technology
• Single cart configuration
• Full stainless steel construction
• Corrosion-resistant poly bin liner
• Custom-cut stainless steel top

3. Follett ITS1350SG-60

• Storage capacity: 612kg
• Maximum capacity with cart: 712kg
• Two-cart system for improved efficiency
• Wider 152.4cm design for higher volume
• Great for larger restaurants and bars
• Robust construction for high demand
• Includes PowerHinge door system

4. Follett ITS2250SG-60

• Storage capacity: 1020kg
• Maximum capacity with cart: 1077kg
• Two-cart configuration
• Ideal for large venues
• Enhanced height of 246.4cm for maximum storage
• Perfect for hotels and event centers

5. Follett ITS3250SG-90

• Storage capacity: 1477kg
• Maximum capacity with cart: 1586kg
• Three-cart system
• 228.6cm width for maximum capacity
• Ideal for stadiums and large operations
• Highest capacity model available
• Perfect for extraordinarily high ice demand

Key Design Features and Innovations

Elevated Bin and Cart System

The elevated bin design represents a significant advancement in ice handling technology:

• Gravity dispense system works 15 times faster than manual scooping
• One pull of the gate bar fills the SmartCART 240 with 91kg of ice
• Zero hand contact required during dispensing
• Reduces risk of contamination and physical strain
• Optional Totes™ ice carriers available for smaller portions

SmartGATE® Technology

The industry-exclusive SmartGATE ice shield provides unprecedented control:

• Controls ice flow to reduce spills
• Limits contact with ice
• Durable stainless steel construction
• Built-in paddle holes for breaking ice bridges
• Easy-to-clean design

PowerHinge™ Door Design

• Heavy-duty "stay-open" mechanism
• Easy one-hand operation
• No door catches required
• Enhanced durability for high-volume use
• Improved accessibility

Construction and Durability

• Full stainless bin exterior and base
• Corrosion-resistant poly bin liner
• Custom-cut stainless steel top
• Cart drains to bin system when parked
• NSF listed components

Benefits of Using Ice Transport Systems in Food Service

Implementing an ice transport system in your food service business offers numerous advantages that directly impact your bottom line:

Time Efficiency

• Dispense rates up to 2.3kg per second
• Dramatically reduced ice handling time
• Improved staff productivity
• More focus on customer service

Enhanced Hygiene

• Minimized direct contact with ice
• First-in-first-out ice rotation
• Easy-to-clean surfaces
• Reduced contamination risk

Labor Savings

• Less physical effort required
• Reduced risk of work-related injuries
• Lower labor costs
• Improved staff satisfaction

Improved Service Speed

• Quick access to ice
• Faster drink service
• Enhanced customer satisfaction
• Reduced wait times

Warranty and Support

Follett stands behind their ice transport systems with comprehensive warranty coverage:

• 5-year coverage on cabinet exterior and trim
• 5-year warranty on interior liner against corrosion
• Parts and labor included for corrosion repair
• Expert technical support
• Professional installation guidance

Conclusion

Follett Ice Transport Systems offer a practical and comprehensive solution for businesses in the food and beverage industry. Their robust design features, such as the elevated bin and cart system, PowerHinge door, and SmartGATE technology, make ice transport efficient and safe. With storage capacities ranging from 174kg to 1477kg, these systems cater to different business sizes, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your specific needs.

Using Follett Ice Transport Systems helps improve hygiene, save time, and reduce labor costs, contributing to smoother and more efficient operations. The combination of innovative features, durable construction, and comprehensive warranty coverage makes these systems a sound investment for any food service operation focused on quality and efficiency.

Ready to enhance your ice transport process? Explore our range of Follett Ice Transport Systems and find the perfect model for your business today. Remember, proper ice handling isn't just about convenience – it's about maintaining food safety standards and ensuring the highest quality service for your customers.

Contact our team at Coast Distributors today at (02) 9524 1234 or reach out to one of our expert team members here to get a catered solution for your needs.