A Serendipitous Collaboration
At New Age Industrial, we’re passionate about partnering with our customers to create innovative solutions that meet their unique needs. Recently, we had the opportunity to collaborate with a forward-thinking client and a talented manufacturer’s representative to develop a groundbreaking new product.
What starts as a casual conversation can lead to an extraordinary innovation. Such was the case for Leah Miller, a talented designer from Pro Reps West. When a client approached her with a unique challenge—a need for a mobile, efficient, and customizable solution for bussing tables and storing glassware—Leah knew she had an opportunity to create something truly special.
The client, a busy B&I customer required a flexible and functional solution to streamline their operations, to combat the lack of convenient waste disposal options on their patio. After meals, guests were unsure where to place dirty dishes, utensils, and other waste. They desired a mobile solution that incorporated separate compartments for compost, trash, and recycling. This all-in-one unit would provide a designated and easily accessible area for waste disposal and could be conveniently wheeled in and out of the patio as needed.
A Collaborative Effort
Working closely with our sales and engineering teams, Leah and New Age Industrial developed a custom solution that exceeded the client’s expectations. The design incorporated innovative features such as ample storage space, a mobile base, and durable construction. By utilizing our expertise in manufacturing and engineering, we were able to bring this design to life and deliver a high-quality product.
Leah shared, “I was fortunate to be involved in this project from the beginning. I connected with the client and quickly realized the potential of their idea. So, I brought in Jeff from New Age, a seasoned expert in product design and engineering. Together with Dakota, we worked closely with the client to refine their initial sketch and develop a detailed design.”
To bring this vision to life, New Age Industrial Regional Foodservice Sales Manager, Jeff Erber, and Product Engineer, Dakota Criqui, both played a crucial role. They worked closely with Leah and the end user to understand their specific needs and preferences. The client provided a detailed drawing outlining their requirements, including:
- Bus Tub Storage: A designated area for storing bus tubs.
- Waste Management: An enclosed area for compost, recycling, and trash, with easy access for removal.
- Glassware Storage: A top shelf for holding glass racks.
- By carefully considering these requirements and incorporating them into the design, Dakota ensured that the final product would meet the client’s exact specifications.
Dakota Criqui commented, “The client had a very clear vision for the cart, and we were able to bring that vision to life. We worked closely with Leah and her client throughout the design process, making adjustments as needed to ensure that the final product exceeded their expectations. I’m excited to see how this product will improve efficiency and productivity for this client and other businesses in the foodservice industry.”
One of the most significant challenges was ensuring that the cart could accommodate the client’s specific trash cans and bus tubs. However, this wasn’t a challenge at all for New Age Industrial, as we specialize in personalized product customization. By closely collaborating with Leah and her client, and leveraging our expertise, we were able to design a custom solution that perfectly fit their needs.
A Winning Design
Leah’s design is a standout, resulting in the Dish Zone Mobile Bussing Cart. It incorporates innovative features such as:
Versatile Storage: Ample space for glassware, tableware, and other essential items including Bus Tub Storage shelves and a Slanted T-Bar Upper Shelf for storing Glass Racks & Miscellaneous Items.- Integrated Waste Management: A 3-sided enclosure with cutouts designed to hold recycling and trash bins, promoting sustainability and cleanliness.
- Mobile Design: Easy to maneuver and transport, featuring smooth-rolling casters and a sturdy frame.
- Durable Construction: Built to last with a robust aluminum frame and a durable stainless-steel top. Aluminum’s natural resistance to rust and corrosion make it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, even in cold or wet environments.
- Ergonomic Design: Designed to minimize strain and maximize efficiency, with features like easy-access storage and an ergonomic counter height.
- Customizable Options: Adaptable to various needs and preferences.
By combining these features, the design offers a comprehensive solution for efficient (and mobile) table bussing and storage.
A Smooth Collaboration with New Age Industrial
Leah said that working with New Age was a seamless experience. She expressed, “It was super easy to customize a product with New Age Industrial. I didn’t have to chase down any answers and they were always very responsive. Jeff was even willing to jump on a call for me to answer questions the end user had, which I really appreciated!” She continued, “Their team of experts was responsive, knowledgeable, and committed to delivering high-quality products. They provided invaluable guidance throughout the design process, from initial concept to final production. It was great to have a true partner to work with on this project.”
In response, Jeff Erber shared, “”Leah was a fantastic partner throughout the entire process. She had a clear vision for the product and was great at communicating with the client. She’s a true professional and a great collaborator. It was a privilege to work with her to create this new product.”
A Bright Future for the Winning Design
This winning design has the potential to revolutionize the way foodservice operations handle bussing and cleaning tasks, especially for special events or outdoor eateries. Its versatility and efficiency make it ideal for a wide range of applications, including:
- Cafeterias: Streamlining operations and reducing labor costs by providing a centralized location for dish collection and transport, minimizing trips to the dishwashing area.
- Catering Companies: Enhancing efficiency and professionalism by providing a mobile, central location to place soiled dishes and glasses before rolling them to the dish room all at once, saving time and reducing labor costs.
- Banquet Halls: Improving service and minimizing clutter by providing a dedicated space for dirty dishes and glassware, keeping dining areas clean and tidy.
- Restaurants: Optimizing back-of-house operations and enhancing customer satisfaction by providing a mobile solution for efficient dish and glass removal, reducing wait times, and improving overall service.
Outdoor Eateries: Providing a convenient and efficient solution for outdoor dining or event services by offering a mobile, weather-resistant cart for collecting and storing dirty dishes and glassware, even in outdoor conditions.- Hotels and Resorts:
- Poolside Bars: Efficiently collect and store glassware and dishware, minimizing trips to the main kitchen.
- Beachside Restaurants: Ideal for outdoor dining, providing a mobile solution for dirty dishes and glassware.
- Conference Centers: Streamline catering operations and improve service efficiency during events.
- Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities:
- Cafeterias: Enhance cleanliness and efficiency in high-traffic areas.
- Patient Rooms: Provide a convenient solution for collecting and storing dirty dishes and glassware.
- Staff Break Rooms: Improve hygiene and reduce clutter.
- Corporate Offices and Event Spaces:
- Catering Events: Efficiently manage dishware and glassware during events, both indoors and outdoors.
- Office Kitchens: Provide a dedicated space for dirty dishes and glassware, keeping the kitchen area clean and organized.
- Schools and Universities:
- Cafeterias: Streamline operations and reduce labor costs by providing a mobile solution for dish and glassware collection.
- Dining Halls: Improve efficiency and cleanliness during peak mealtimes.
- Campus Events: Provide a convenient way to collect and store dirty dishes and glassware during outdoor events.
Jeff Erber, Foodservice Regional Sales Manager at New Age Industrial said, “I’m excited to see how this innovative product will impact the industry. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and New Age Industrial’s commitment to providing solutions.”
This project highlights the power of collaboration. By working closely with our clients and design partners, we can create innovative solutions that drive business success. New Age Industrial is proud to be part of this exciting project and look forward to continuing to partner with our customers to shape the future of industrial design.
New Age Industrial is a leading manufacturer of custom industrial equipment and solutions. With a focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, New Age Industrial has been providing tailored solutions to businesses across various industries for decades. From concept to completion, their team of experienced engineers and designers work closely with clients to develop innovative and efficient products.
Want to learn more about the Dish Zone Mobile Bussing Cart or have a custom project in mind? Contact us today!