Foodservice Industry Insights
Insights & Innovations
Learn how our tailored foodservice solutions have helped clients overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and exceed expectations. These success stories demonstrate our commitment to excellence and our ability to deliver results.
Portion Control and Its Impact on Kitchen Efficiency
Portion Control and Its Impact on Kitchen EfficiencyPortion control is often viewed as a back-of-house detail, but in reality, it plays a major role in kitchen efficiency, food cost control, and menu consistency. When portions are planned intentionally - based on the...
Designing Restaurant Aesthetics That Feel Intentional
Designing Restaurant Aesthetics That Feel IntentionalRestaurant aesthetics are about far more than visual appeal. They shape first impressions, influence how long guests stay, and quietly support how efficiently a space operates. From the moment someone walks through...
How to Choose the Best Location for Your Restaurant
How to Choose the Best Location for Your RestaurantChoosing the best location for your restaurant is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make - one that affects your visibility, operating costs, workflow, and long-term success. Whether you're launching a...
Research & Reports
In our restaurant research and reports, we explore advancements in kitchen equipment, automation, and smart technologies that streamline processes, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. Our expert insights help you integrate these tools seamlessly into your business.
CDC to Recommend Schools Serve Lunch in Classrooms
As schools begin to reopen, there are a lot of factors they will have to take into account to ensure the safety of their students, teachers, lunchroom personnel, and other staff. According to an article from The New York Times, one of the CDC recommendations will be that schools close their cafeterias and serve lunch in the classrooms.
Providing Resources & Support to Your Furloughed Workers
If you’ve been forced to furlough some of your staff, it’s important to make sure they know that they are still valued members of your team. This can be accomplished through regular communication and by connecting them with local and national resources that can offer them additional support.
The Top 5 Things You Need to Do to Reopen
When the time comes for your establishment to reopen, chances are you will not be able to just go back to business as usual. Not only does taking the proper precautions protect the health of your staff and customers, showing them you are taking action will help them feel safe dining and working at your establishment.
News & Announcements
Delve into Rapids’ collaborations with top publications, celebrate our industry honors, and share our involvement in community and industry events. Discover our joint ventures with leading magazines and websites, showcasing innovative ideas and cutting-edge knowledge. We proudly highlight our awards that recognize excellence in the foodservice sector.
Rapids’ 2024 Chili Cook-Off
Rapids' 2024 Chili Cook-OffThis year, Rapids Chili Cook-Off was held in not just one, but two locations—Marion’s main warehouse in Iowa and our retail location in St. Paul, Minnesota. Hosted by the Culture Club and in support of the United Way, the event turned into a...
MILITARY RECOGNITION DAY – Above and Beyond Award
RAPIDS & AFFILIATES Military Recognition Day - Above and Beyond AwardVideo of award ceremony and conversation with Randy SnyderWe are proud to announce that Rapids & Affiliates has been honored with the prestigious “Above and Beyond Award” by the Employer...
Rapids To Be FULL PLATE Sponsor of Cedar Rapids Restaurant Week
Rapids To Be FULL PLATE Sponsor of Cedar Rapids Restaurant Weekapids will be the Full Plate Sponsor for Cedar Rapids Restaurant Week including the Fork & Knife Feast on February 15 at 5:30 p.m. The event...
DEEM Winners
Our mission statement here at Rapids is to “Deliver Excellence in Every Moment.” In order to do that, we have four company values that every employee strives to emulate in every interaction with customers (both internal and external) that serve as “pillars” to our mission statement, holding it up and ensuring we can provide a superior experience. See all of our previous winners that were nominated by their coworkers!
Austin Kirchman – DEEM Winner August 2024
Despite not feeling his best, Austin Kirchman stepped up when Jason was away, working hard, fast, and accurately while staying positive. His proactive approach, like prepping orders ahead of time, shows his growth and accountability in the role. Austin’s dedication is truly appreciated.
Alina Makarenko – DEEM Winner July 2024
Delivering Excellence in Every Moment July 2024Alina Makarenko Website & Content Administrator Nominator: Margarita Vasquez For: Innovating Tenaciously"I want to give a big shoutout to Alina! Her fresh ideas and amazing creativity have truly made a positive impact...
Amy Beason – DEEM Winner June 2024
Delivering Excellence in Every Moment June 2024Amy Beason Claims & Return Specialist Nominator: Tanya Larson For: Putting the Customer First"Amy is an absolute rockstar when it comes to helping our customers! She is always ready and willing to assist with any general...
Scott Bonner – DEEM Winner May 2024
Delivering Excellence in Every Moment May 2024Scott Bonner Retail Store ManagerNominator: Theresa Gervenak For: Putting the Customer First "Scott was off on vacation today, a team member needed to leave to help a family member and he needed to come in on his day off...
Guy Argent – DEEM Winner April 2024
Delivering Excellence in Every Moment April 2024Guy Argent Project ManagerNominator: Eric Schmitt For: Minding Your Ping "He took time this week to send an email to a wide group involved in a sale. The thank you was directed at an account manager who had worked...
Joey Labosky – DEEM Winner March 2024
Delivering Excellence in Every Moment March 2024Joey Labosky Product & Pricing AnalystNominator: Jenna Carstens For: Putting the Customer First "Joey helped me with a last minute task at the beginning of the month. I had thought I'd printed flyers correctly for...
LET'S FIND YOUR SOLUTION
Rapids Contract & Design serves the United States with locations in Iowa, Minnesota, and Missouri. Our experts are ready to assist with your foodservice needs—contact us for support, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM CST.
or call (800) 899-6604