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Call Systems Technology (CST) is launching a new version of its EasyCall system.
The system makes it easier for customers to call for service and for staff to respond.
CST's Ashley Sheppard says the new EasyCall will "reduce labour costs, increase customer satisfaction and make extra profits for the caterer."
EasyCall is a micro-technology button that customers press for service. The button transmits a signal to a stylish stainless steel LCD panel that alerts staff by vision or tone. The new EasyCall technology also sends an alert to a silent pager worn by waiting staff, allowing an instant response.
Small and discreet, the buttons can be countersunk directly into tables or walls or seated in a mobile coaster.
With the introduction of the smoking ban, EasyCall is perfect for pubs expanding outdoors as it is IP-rated weatherproof.
A complete ten-button system costs from £1,000.
For more information call 0800 389 5642 or visit www.call-systems.com
Bigger and better
Dudson has launched a larger version of its square plate in its Geometrix range. The 91cm by 24cm plate offers pub chefs a range of options for food presentation.
The plates are microwave and dishwasher safe and carry the BS4034 kitemark for quality of manufacture.
For more information visit www.dudson.com or call 01782 819337.
Hey presto
BKI Europe is stocking a pasta cooker which is able to deliver a variety of pasta recipes, cooked from fresh or frozen in minutes.
Filled pasta, such as ravioli and tortellini, can be cooked from frozen in 90 seconds.
The fresh or frozen pasta is placed in the machine's cooking baskets and then immersed in a vat of boiling water for a pre-determined cooking time. The baskets oscillate during cooking to ensure pasta is cooked evenly and thoroughly.
For more information visit www.bkideas.co.uk
Magic microwaves
Apuro has introduced two new light-duty Samsung microwave ovens that offer an output of 1.1kW.
The models are ideal for small pubs where demand doesn't justify the expense of heavy-duty appliances but domestic microwaves aren't up to the job.
The new models are based on Samsung's range of light duty microwaves but their power output has been increased to speed up cooking. Control panels have also been redesigned and are more user-friendly. There are two models in the new range: the CM1059 with programmable touch controls and the CM1069 with manual dial controls. Both have stainless steel outer casing, five power levels, a 26-litre capacity and a pull to open door with a large window display.
Apuro supplies both models with a three-year, fully-comprehensive on-site guarantee, covering all mechanical failures, including parts and labour costs. The cost for both models is £425 excluding VAT.
For more information contact Apuro on 01217 440968 or visit www.apuro.co.uk
Pizza perfect
Apuro's SmartCook pizza oven cooks pizzas in 90 seconds.
The Whirlpool electric SmartCook pizza oven is small enough to stand on a worktop but makes a generous 34cm diameter pizza that looks and tastes as if it's been cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Pizzas offer huge scope for imaginative chefs to develop healthy options such as fresh roasted vegetables, chicken and low-fat beef, including old favourites such as Margherita, pepperoni and Hawaiian.
The enhanced convection oven has electronic controls for temperatures up to 450°C and two fan motors (one at the top and one at the bottom of the oven cavity) for uniform, fast cooking.
Measuring only 600mm x 548mm x 581mm, and with a power rating of 3.7kW and 230volt, the oven is available for £2,216 excluding VAT with a full one-year parts and labour warranty.
For more information contact Apuro 01217 440968 or visit www.apuro.co.uk
Cool idea
Under-counter refrigeration is increasing in popularity and bringing chilled ingredients into the heart of the kitchen.
Precision Refrigeration supplies a Counter 500 Series which is 500mm deep. Its stainless steel construction ensures a longer life and good hygiene. Prices start from £1,995.
The Series 500 accepts standard gastronorm shelves and trays and is available in two, three or four-door versions, or doors can be replaced by drawers in banks of two or three.
"Drawers are a definite trend in the catering market," says Precision managing director Jeremy Hall. "They cost more than a door, but make it easier to store different foods separately and bring big energy savings, because you lose less cold air accessing a drawer than when you open and close a fridge door." All Precision fridges and freezers include a one-year warranty.
For more information visit www.precision-refrigeration.co.uk or call 01842 753994.