Middleby Corporation has dipped its hand in its pocket to further advance its steam cooking portfolio by acquiring Crown Food Service Equipment.
The deal sees it take control of the Toronto-based company founded by the late Josef Stritzl nearly 40 years ago. Today it turns over more than $20m a year (£16m).
The Crown acquisition complements other recent strategic investments that Middleby has made in the steam cooking category, including the acquisitions of Firex and Market Forge. 
Chairman and CEO, Selim Bassoul, stated: “Josef Stritzl was a pioneer in the development of the steam and kettle cooking industry as well as a long-time friend and respected business colleague. Our strong and deep rooted relationship with the Stritzl family goes back for more than 25 years.”
Middleby has made group president John Perruccio head of its steam group following the deal, in addition to his responsibilities for the Southbend and Star brands
Mr Bassoul said the firm believes it can capture significant growth opportunities in the steam cooking category.
“With this collection of brands and products, the Middleby steam platform is positioned with industry leading innovations and customer solutions including unique offerings that address customer demands for labour savings, menu flexibility and automation, while also supporting growing foodservice trends of sous vide-cooking, organic, and health awareness.”
