Ignite opens a new test kitchen, while Limelight merges with another Chicago rep firm. Plus, Ojeda and RSG update their rep networks.

Images courtesy of Ignite FoodserviceIndependent manufacturers’ rep firm Ignite Foodservice opened a 15,000-square-foot test kitchen in Denver, Colo. In addition to a fully equipped commercial kitchen, the facility also features a demonstration counter, a full bar and an event center. The space is suitable for live cooking demonstrations and hands-on workshops. 

In a move involving two Chicago-based manufacturers’ rep firms, Limelight Foodservice & Hospitality and Clemens Profit Group have merged. The unified company will operate under the Limelight Foodservice & Hospitality name. Clemens Profit Group was founded in 1965 by Bud Bruemmer and Jim Clemens, Sr. Jim Clemens, Jr. has led the company since 1990 and will remain with the business. “Together, we will bring a broader product portfolio and an increased presence to the Chicago market, allowing us to better serve our customer,” said Michelle Perrone, owner of Limelight Foodservice & Hospitality.

Commercial refrigeration manufacturer Ojeda USA added three new rep groups to its network: Access Partners, Curate, and DJ Marketing. Access Partners will serve the Western U.S., including Southern and Northern California, Nevada, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and Hawaii. Curate will represent Ojeda USA in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, covering Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. Finally, DJ Marketing now represents Ojeda in Texas and Oklahoma.

Refrigerated Solutions Group added the appointment of Culinary Equipment Group to its rep network. CEG now represents Norlake and Master-Bilt in Northern Illinois.