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.
What Owners Wish They’d Known Before Finalizing Their Design
What Owners Wish They’d Known Before Finalizing Their Design Opening a restaurant demands decisions on every front - concept, menu, staffing, branding. Yet when it comes to the physical space, some of the most consequential choices are made too quickly, too late, or...
Inside Continental Refrigerator: Key Design Insights
Inside Continental Refrigerator: Key Design Insights Last week, Chris Simerda, Solutions Engineer from our MO branch, had the opportunity to step inside the manufacturing facility of Continental Refrigerator in Philadelphia, PA, and it’s the kind of visit that...
Boost Your BOH Speed with Smarter Kitchen Practices
Boost Your BOH Speed with Smarter Kitchen Practices Speed in the back of house comes from removing obstacles, not rushing the work. The most efficient kitchens run on consistency, clear organization, and systems that reduce hesitation. When every movement and decision...
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.
Eric Schmitt: A Leader Shaping the Corridor’s Future
Eric Schmitt: A Leader Shaping the Corridor’s Future At Rapids Foodservice Contract Design, we are proud to share that our President, Eric Schmitt, has been recognized by the Corridor Business Journal as one of the honorees in the 2024 Forty Under 40 class. This...
Rapids’ 2024 Chili Cook-Off
Rapids' 2024 Chili Cook-Off This 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...
MILITARY RECOGNITION DAY – Above and Beyond Award
RAPIDS & AFFILIATES Military Recognition Day - Above and Beyond Award Video of award ceremony and conversation with Randy Snyder We are proud to announce that Rapids & Affiliates has been honored with the prestigious “Above and Beyond Award” by the Employer Support of...
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!
Jason Andriano – DEEM Winner November 2024
While Scott was on vacation, Jason Andriano stepped in to assist the retail department by handling bank runs, ensuring smooth operations. His dedication, teamwork, and willingness to go beyond his usual duties exemplify the values we uphold at Rapids. Jason’s contributions are truly appreciated.
Darrin Birkicht – DEEM Winner October 2024
When a customer’s fryer broke down on a Saturday, Darrin Birkicht stepped in without hesitation to provide a replacement gas hose, allowing the customer to reopen. His willingness to help on his day off exemplifies the spirit of innovating tenaciously. Great job, Darrin!
Amy Beason – DEEM Winner September 2024
Amy Beason stepped up to help in the warehouse with little training, assisting Austin while Darrin and Jason were away. Her positive attitude and willingness to support the team, even after Darrin returned with a bad back, exemplify the spirit of cultivating community. Thank you, Amy!
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 2024 Alina 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 2024 Amy 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...
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