UK caterers could almost halve their energy costs by replacing clapped-out kitchen equipment with newer, energy-efficient models, claims equipment supplier Aga Foodservice. 

The group said the industry could slash its combined annual energy bill of £4.5b to £2.2b by switching to energy-saving models.

Yet company research found many kitchens still use equipment more than 25 years old. 

Aga has calculated that large commercial kitchens could save £44,400 a year, following an initial outlay of £80,000 on new equipment. 

Quick-service operators and small kitchens could save £11,800 and £6,850, respectively. 

Foodservice Consultants Society International member David Clarke, who is director of design consultant CDIS-KARM, agreed that businesses could achieve these levels of saving, but only if they also overhauled their overall practices and matched energy use to trading patterns. 

Energy prices have soared by 25% in the past year and are set to continue rising.  

• Aga’s commercial foodservice business boosted operating profit by 20.5% to £164m in 2005 on turnover that was up by 12% to £217m.  In the UK and Europe, operating profit soared by 37.3% to £14m and turnover by 14% to £172.8m.  Including its consumer arm, Aga boosted group pre-tax profit by 18.5% to £433.7m and turnover by 15.7% to £501.8m.

By Angela Frewin

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