Equipex

Equipex has functioned as a premier specialist in high-performance countertop cooking, holding, and display technology since its founding in 1996 by Gary Licht. Headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, the company operates as a key member of the Cornerstone Foodservice Group (joining sister brands like Spring USA and LloydPans following its 2024 acquisition). The brand is recognized for its unique operational model, which combines French engineering from partners Roller Grill International and Adventys Induction with domestic assembly and UL/NSF certification.

The brand's technical identity is defined by its mastery of space-efficient, high-torque thermal solutions. A primary engineering hallmark is the use of infrared quartz heating elements, which allow for "instant-on" performance and rapid recovery times without the pre-heating requirements of traditional calrod elements. This is frequently paired with high-quality, fine-grain cast iron or vitroceramic cooking surfaces, providing operators with the thermal mass necessary for high-volume sandwich and protein production in a minimal footprint.

Innovation at Equipex is concentrated on "ventless" flexibility and electromagnetic precision. Key technical pillars across the current portfolio include:

• SA Vent (Small Appliance Ventless) System: A patented, self-contained hood system (including the Mistral, Pali, and Kona models) specifically designed to capture smoke, grease, and odors from countertop appliances. This allows for professional cooking in areas without traditional extraction infrastructure.
• TurboQuartz Technology: A specialized heating method used in their convection ovens and salamanders that integrates infrared quartz elements with traditional convection air. This provides the ability to bake, brown, and finish products simultaneously.
• Adventys Induction Integration: Through its partnership with Adventys, Equipex provides high-efficiency induction hobs featuring 20+ power levels and capacitive touch controls, engineered for both front-of-house "theatre" cooking and heavy-duty back-of-house service.
• Sodir-Roller Grill Modular Design: A manufacturing philosophy that allows for hundreds of possible configurations in panini grills and waffle bakers, utilizing interchangeable plates and modular heating zones to adapt to specific menu requirements.

The product portfolio is categorized by its focus on "niche" high-yield equipment:

• Panini and Griddles: Including the flagship Savoy and Diablo series, available with cast iron or vitroceramic plates for rapid sandwich and protein prep.
• Ovens and Salamanders: Ranging from compact quarter-size convection ovens to heavy-duty infrared finishing ovens and fire-brick pizza ovens.
• Specialty Bakery: Featuring authentic French crepe makers and waffle bakers with specialized plate patterns (Liege, Brussels, etc.) and high-temperature thermostat controls.
• Warming and Display: A comprehensive range of ventilated and ambient display cases, rotisseries, and hot dog machines designed for high-visibility merchandising.

The strategic value of Equipex lies in its role as a "solution provider" for space-constrained environments. By focusing on equipment that avoids the need for expensive renovations—such as ventless hoods and 120V high-performance ovens—the brand provides a high-yield foundation for kiosks, convenience stores, and urban cafes. Now supported by the broader logistical resources of Cornerstone Foodservice Group, Equipex maintains a reputation for delivering European-style culinary results with North American service reliability.