Founded in 1984 by design engineers Ian Wood and George Young, Adande Refrigeration originated as a specialist HVAC consultancy for the offshore oil and gas industry. The company’s trajectory changed when chefs on North Sea oil rigs requested refrigeration that could maintain stable temperatures despite the frequent openings required during 24/7 operations. This challenge led to the development of Adande’s globally patented "Hold the Cold" technology, which transitioned the company from a consultancy into a world-leading manufacturer of modular refrigerated drawers.
The defining characteristic of Adande equipment is its horizontal, insulated drawer system, which prevents cold air—which is denser than warm air—from "falling out" when the unit is opened. This design facilitates a unique low-velocity cooling environment that ensures exceptional temperature stability and humidity control. Because the drawers retain their climate so effectively, they can be placed anywhere in a kitchen, including directly beneath high-heat equipment like grills and fryers, without compromising mechanical performance or energy efficiency.
Adande units are engineered for maximum operational flexibility, allowing each individual drawer to be switched between fridge and freezer modes in minutes. With a temperature range spanning from -22°C to +15°C, the equipment can be fine-tuned to within 0.1°C to suit specific ingredients, such as fresh seafood or artisanal ice cream. This precision helps operators significantly reduce food waste, eliminate dehydration, and prevent the formation of ice crystals on frozen products, which in turn extends the life of cooking oil and improves the quality of the final dish.
Beyond its technical performance, Adande prioritizes durability and ergonomic efficiency in high-volume environments. Their drawers feature robust runners tested to over 500,000 openings and hidden seals that are protected from the daily wear and tear typical of commercial kitchens. By providing large-capacity storage within a compact footprint, Adande allows chefs to maintain bulk inventory exactly where it is needed, streamlining workflow and increasing speed of service. This commitment to engineering excellence has made Adande the preferred refrigeration choice for everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to major global quick-service chains.
