New Member Q&A: Connerton
As part of its mission to celebrate organizations that strengthen the foodservice equipment and supplies industry, FEDA publishes Q&As with member companies. This week's newsletter features Connerton, a manufacturer of fryers, hot plates, ranges, boilers and other cooking equipment based in Santa Fe Springs, California.
Please tell us a little bit about your company's history.
Somaya Wasit, operations planning director: Founded in Southern California in 1936, Connerton revolutionized speed cooking with its innovative appliances designed for efficient steak preparation. This early innovation established Connerton as a leader in user-friendly, high-performance commercial cooking equipment.
In 2017, Connerton transitioned to a new management team that continued the brand's legacy with significant enhancements. This included standardizing griddle thickness to 1 inch and launching a new line of restaurant ranges, reinforcing Connerton’s commitment to engineering excellence and quality. Over the years, Connerton has expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of products such as charbroilers, griddles, hot plates, convection ovens, fryers, and the new range series, becoming renowned for durability and exceptional performance. Our commitment to engineering excellence has remained steadfast for over 88 years, ensuring that our appliances continue to deliver outstanding performance today.
How has your company set itself apart in the foodservice equipment and supplies industry?
Connerton sets itself apart in the foodservice equipment and supplies industry through a combination of innovation, precision engineering and personalized service. With over 88 years of experience and proudly based in Southern California, Connerton offers U.S.-made commercial kitchen equipment that rivals leading brands at a more competitive price point. We focus on engineering durability and efficiency in every product.
Unlike many mass-produced imports, Connerton offers customization, fast lead times and a hands-on support system from live cooking demos to tailored marketing assistance for dealers. Our commitment to listening to chefs and dealers has driven continuous improvement in both product design and customer experience. That’s what makes Connerton more than a manufacturer; we’re a reliable partner in the success of every kitchen we serve.
How has the company innovated in recent years?
Connerton has developed its cooking line, moved toward high-tech models, changed designs, added a range series, and introduced chrome and grooved models.
What are some trends in foodservice equipment and supplies your company is closely watching? What do you believe is driving those trends?
One trend we’re following is the need for high-tech solutions for modern restaurant kitchens. As the foodservice industry evolves, chefs and restaurant managers increasingly seek equipment that combines advanced technology with user-friendly design. They need solutions that accelerate cooking times, ensure precision and consistency, and offer smart features like saving menus and recipes — all to improve kitchen efficiency without complicating operations.
How is your company making the best use of new technology?
We’re introducing features such as digital controls, recipe memory, preheat/hold functions, and adjustable fan speeds — each of which is designed to save time, improve consistency and support chefs in high-demand kitchens. Our focus is on smart, practical innovations that deliver real value to the end user.
How is your company growing?
Connerton is growing by delivering performance-driven innovation, expanding dealer relationships and supporting sales through targeted programs. We’ve strengthened our product lineup with features like fast recovery times for higher cooking efficiency and fully welded seams on top and bottom for added durability and easier cleaning. Several of our products are energy-efficient and rebate-qualified, helping operators save on long-term costs.
To support our growth, we offer dealer incentive programs, sales performance incentive funds (SPIFFs) and marketing tools such as live cooking demos to help drive engagement and sales. Connerton continues to build momentum by focusing on reliability, efficiency and dealer success.
Is there anything else FEDA members should know about your company?
We stand 100 percent behind our products.