It is time once again to begin the process of identifying the winners of FE&S’ annual Best in Class awards. 

This process begins with you, the reader, sharing your opinions about foodservice equipment and supplies manufacturers across 46 different product categories.

Over the years, this study has become an important piece of research for the foodservice equipment and supplies industry. Want proof? Look no further than the many companies that display their Best in Class shields in their advertising and at their show booths.

For the manufacturing community this study serves as an important barometer as it gives them direct feedback on their brand across a spectrum of variables. What makes this most impactful, though, is the fact that feedback comes directly from you: the FE&S readers who make up the core decision makers for this industry. It also provides valuable insight for you, the reader, regarding what your peers think about the brands that you buy, recommend and specify in your business.

We divide this study into three parts that we will distribute via email to FE&S subscribers on March 8, April 4 and May 3. I hope that you will take the time to make your voice heard in this year’s study. Thank you to those of you who have done so faithfully year in and year out. In fact, our response rate has grown steadily year after year since 2010. If, by chance, you don’t see an email invitation on the expected date, please reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., so that you can be included.

Our plans are coming together for an event that we are calling The Foodservice Equipment & Design (FED) Global Thought Leadership Summit. It’s a mouthful, I know. But, we think it’s different enough in its reach and in its format to warrant your attention. The event will take place September 19-21 at The Chicago Athletic Association.

This event will feature some of the best minds in foodservice equipment and restaurant design sharing their insights about the future of the industry in what we refer to as FED Talks. We are obviously enamored with TED talks, which served as somewhat of an inspiration for this event. In 18 minutes or less, industry thought leaders will highlight their best ideas about what is to come in the space where foodservice equipment and restaurant design converge.

You should be there! And if you are interested in attending, shoot me an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. I will happily share the details with you.