Choosing the Right Ice Machine for Hospitality
In hospitality, ice is more than a luxury – it’s a necessity. Whether it’s keeping drinks chilled, displaying seafood, or supporting kitchen operations, a reliable ice machine is an essential part of your setup. Choosing the right size and cube type can make all the difference when it comes to performance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Choosing the right ice machine for hospitality is key so let's dive in.
Why ice machines matter in hospitality
From busy cafés and cocktail bars to hotels and catering operations, ice machines support a wide range of tasks:
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Beverage service – Customers expect crisp, cold drinks year-round, especially during summer peaks.
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Food presentation – Seafood displays, chilled buffets, and salad bars often rely on a bed of fresh ice.
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Kitchen and back-of-house – Ice is used in food prep, cold storage, and even injury management in high-paced kitchens.
Choosing the wrong ice machine – whether undersized or oversized – can lead to delays, wastage, and unnecessary costs. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to get it right.
Choosing the right size ice machine
Your daily ice requirement is the key factor when deciding on machine size. Here’s a simple guide:
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Small café or office: 20–40kg per day
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Mid-size restaurant or bar: 50–150kg per day
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Large hotel, venue or club: 200kg+ per day
Also consider:
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Storage capacity – It’s not just about production. Make sure the bin can hold enough ice to get through your busiest periods.
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Environment – Warmer ambient temperatures or tight spaces may affect the machine’s performance and cooling method.
At Simply Hospitality, we recommend the ITV range by SKOPE for reliable performance and smart design. With a wide selection of capacities and cube types, ITV machines are trusted by hospitality professionals around New Zealand.
Picking the right ice cube type
Different cube styles suit different uses. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Ice Type | Best for | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Full cube | Spirits, premium drinks | Slow melting, classic shape |
| Half cube | Soft drinks, blended drinks | Smaller, faster chilling |
| Nugget/chewable | Smoothies, healthcare, cafés | Soft, chewable texture |
| Flake ice | Food displays, seafood, medical use | Flexible, moulds to shape, fast cooling |
| Gourmet cube | High-end cocktails, luxury presentation | Crystal clear, slow-melting, elegant |
The ITV ice machines by SKOPE offer a variety of cube styles to suit your service – from classic full cubes to flake and gourmet ice.
Other features to consider
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Air-cooled vs. water-cooled – Air-cooled models are more energy-efficient; water-cooled units can be better for hot kitchens.
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Self-contained vs. modular – Self-contained machines are great for tight spaces, while modular units pair with separate bins for higher volume.
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Filtration and hygiene – Built-in filtration and easy-cleaning features help maintain ice quality and prolong machine life.
Plan for now – and the future
The right ice machine isn’t just about today’s demand – it should grow with your business. With reliable brands like ITV by SKOPE, you can count on long-term performance, efficient operation, and flexible configurations.
At Simply Hospitality, we can help you find the right fit for your venue – no guesswork, just practical advice based on what you really need.