foodservice Archives - Lakeside Foodservice

Posted on August 8, 2023September 22, 2023 by thelakesideteam

How-To: Use the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart for Effortless Transport

As our society becomes increasingly dependent on technology and automation, the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart can be a game-changer in various industries for a variety of operators. Whether that operator is working in healthcare, long-term care, hospitality, K-12, or C&U, the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart can make hard work more efficient and effortless. The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart, in particular, is a powerful and sustainable tool that can make transportation of heavy items over long distances much more manageable with less staff. In this how-to guide, we will take a closer look at the features of the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart and offer some tips on how to use it.

Breaking Down The Controls…

Before an operator starts transporting with the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart, they must get accustomed to the cart’s controls. The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart comes with a wealth of versatile controls all at the fingertips of foodservice operators that step up to its ergonomic push handle. Here’s a brief rundown of each control:

Battery Charge Indicator - Indicates life of battery carriage underneath transaxle. If green bars are present, the cart is almost or fully charged. If only yellow or red bars are present, then the cart needs to be charged. Note: A fully charged battery will last 8 hours with standard usage.

Dual-Speed Switch - Features both a white silhouette of a turtle and rabbit. When the turtle’s side is pushed down, the cart can accelerate up to 1.5 MPH. When the rabbit’s side is pushed up, the cart can accelerate up to 3.0 MPH!

Horn Button - Activates the cart’s 68 dB horn. This is the perfect safety feature when an operator is transporting in a loud and traffic heavy environment such as a school, kitchen or loading dock.

Keyed Lock - Includes a key utilized for turning the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart “ON” and “OFF”. When the key is inserted inside the key lock, an operator should turn clockwise to turn the cart’s motor “ON”. They should turn the key counterclockwise to turn the cart “OFF”. The keyed lock is also designed to prevent unauthorized usage, which is vital in environments where security and safety are a top priority.

Control Levers - Activate the cart’s forward and reverse acceleration functionalities.

Emergency Stop Button - Immediately stops the cart to ensure operator safety and prevent injuries. Note: Key will need to be turned “OFF” to reset controls after an emergency stop is activated.

Utilizing Forward and Reverse Control Levers

Now that an operator has gotten familiar with the Motorized Utility Cart’s main functions, they are now ready to begin transporting supplies from point A to point B. The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart has forward and reverse motion control levers that allow for effortless transport of heavy loads in any direction, including on uneven terrain. When at the cart’s handle, the operator will see two red levers on both of the control panel’s sides. Push these up and the cart accelerates forward. Push these down and the cart moves in reverse.

When in motion, an operator shouldn’t hesitate to use the dual-speed switch as well. As mentioned above, this switch can convert from either 0.1 to 1.5 MPH or 0.1 to 3.0 MPH on the fly! This is incredibly useful when an operator needs that extra kick when going up a steep incline.

Switching to Non-Motorized Use

There is an engagement override lever located on the right side of the transaxle, which provides the option for non-motorized use. To switch to non-motorized use, an operator should simply push the lever up. Conversely, to return to motorized use, an operator should push the lever down, making it perpendicular to the transaxle. This feature offers convenient versatility and ease of operation.

Hauling Heavy Duty Loads Over Long Distances and Inclines

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is powered by a powerful 24-volt DC transaxle that allows it to haul heavy duty loads over long distances and inclines without any difficulty or fatigue. This Lakeside cart's robust battery powered electric motor does not require any fuel or gas, making it economical and environmentally-friendly. The motor is also incredibly quiet, which is ideal for use in environments such as hospitals, where noise can cause disruptions. The cart's 3 spacious 24” x 26” shelves with 3 shelf edges up, 1 down, enables safe transport of heavy duty loads up to 1,000-Lb., increasing labor efficiency.

Activating Automatic Stop

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart also has an automatic stop feature that activates when the operator releases control. This ensures safe and convenient operation of the cart when hauling heavy duty loads up and down inclines.

Casters For a Variety of Environments and Surfaces

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is a versatile solution for a wide range of environments, including hospitals, senior living communities, schools, loading docks, kitchens, recreation rooms, and parking lots. It is equipped with 4 durable 8" casters that provide excellent grip and stable maneuverability, even on uneven terrain.

The cart features 2 fixed, flat-free non-marking power wheels with grip tread in the front and 2 swivel (with brakes) rear wheels outfitted with non-marking cushion-tread. In order for an operator to engage the rear brakes, they simply need to apply pressure with their foot to either the "OFF" or "ON" side. This straightforward action further ensures the Lakeside cart will not roll down inclines.

Maneuvering Slim Profile Through Most Doorways

One of the best features of the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is its slim profile, making it perfect for use in and around tight spaces. This Lakeside cart's 24-1/2” wide slim design allows it to fit through most doorways comfortably, making transportation of heavy items more accessible and safer.

The cart's narrow profile also enhances its maneuverability around tight corners and furnishings, making it an ideal choice in healthcare environments. Combine this with the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart’s motion controls and hauling heavy loads around corners and tight spaces is effortless.

Charging Quick Charge Battery Carriage When Not in Use

To get the most out of the cart's power, it is essential to ensure that the battery is charged properly and maintained regularly. This is done by turning the key counterclockwise to power it off. Immediately after, an operator should plug the quick charge battery carriage’s power cord into a nearby outlet. The power cord possesses three tongs and is located at the front of the cart on top of the transaxle for easy storage and access.

Static Release Floor Belt Dissipates Static Charges

The battery carriage also includes a static release floor belt. This is an overlooked safety feature that dissipates static charges so that the operator isn’t electrocuted or seriously injured. When looking under the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart, an operator will notice it hanging off of the battery carriage.

It’s Time to Power Up

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is an excellent investment for both foodservice and healthcare industries that require the transportation of heavy items with limited staffing. Its powerful battery powered motor, slim design, and versatile features make it a top choice for effortlessly hauling heavy loads in various industries, including healthcare, long-term care, hospitality, K-12 and C&U settings. By following our tips on how to use it correctly, an operator can maximize the benefits of this Lakeside cart and make work more efficient, effortless and fatigue free! Click ‘Power Up’ below to see the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart in action!

Posted on August 1, 2023September 22, 2023 by thelakesideteam

Innovation Infusion: From Trade Show Idea to Sustainable Outdoor K-12 Foodservice Solution

The Backstory of the Outdoor Merchandising Cart With Hanging Baskets

It all started at NAFEM, a trade show for foodservice equipment and supplies, where both a dealer and rep noticed a Lakeside 68322 Merchandising Cart that had potential to be turned into something extraordinary. With a few modifications to the standard design, they knew it could be the perfect application for an end user looking to serve beverages and snacks outdoors. They soon approached us with their idea. From there we began the transformation of the original Lakeside 68322 Merchandising Cart into something versatile and functional for outdoor K-12 foodservice.

In this edition of Innovation Infusion, we'll take a closer look at how we modified this Lakeside cart to better serve the needs of both our dealer’s and rep’s customers and made it the ideal choice for serving beverages and snacks to K-12 students outdoors.

How We Executed It

The design of our modified merchandising cart incorporated several features that made it highly adaptable for outdoor use. For starters, the cart was constructed using 430 grade stainless steel, which is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, and can stand up to the harsh elements of an outdoor environment. Additionally, we added an inclined cutout to the shelves (3 per shelf, instead of the standard 2 per shelf) that could hold 12” x 20” pans, perfect for serving a large quantity of snacks. With the addition of a flat top for serving drinks, the foodservice cart on wheels was ready for use as a beverage and snack station.

To ensure the cart was functional and convenient for foodservice operators, we included a few essential elements. We added a drop leaf with a cord port, making it easy to set up a POS station for transactions. We also added a 4” backsplash around the top, which helped to contain spills, reduce waste, and minimize clean-up time. And for ease of use, we installed a tubular handle on both ends of the Lakeside cart, making it easy to maneuver it and position it in the desired location of the end user.

One of the most innovative and unique features of our modified Lakeside Merchandising 68322 Cart was the hanging basket system. This removable system attaches to the tubular handle and allows for the foodservice cart on wheels to be used for different types of foodservice operations. When not needed, the baskets can be removed, and the cart can be used for holding containers or other food items. The basket system is a great solution for serving in crowded areas as it allows for easy accessibility and enhanced appearance of merchandise.

Finally, the cart was completed with (4) 6” swivel casters, two of which had brakes, making it mobile while also being secure when stationary, even on uneven terrain. With a sturdy construction and thoughtful design, our modified Lakeside 68322 Merchandising Cart was the perfect solution for outdoor foodservice operations.

A Sustainable Result For Outdoor K-12 Foodservice

The Lakeside 68322 Merchandising Cart served as an excellent starting point for our design team to create a modified and durable piece of outdoor foodservice equipment. With the addition of a flat top, inclined cutouts for 12” x 20” pans, a drop leaf with a cord port, a backsplash, a tubular handle, and a removable basket system, we transformed a standard merchandising cart into a sustainable piece of foodservice equipment. Ready to roll right out of the box! We are proud to have been able to help our dealers, reps, and customers find the ideal solution for outdoor K-12 foodservice operations.

Feeling inspired? Want to design the perfect cart to fit your K-12 foodservice operation and its unique needs? Well, as you found out with the modified Lakeside 68322 Merchandising Cart, no design is too difficult for us to custom build. Get started with a free consultation by clicking ‘Design Your Cart’ to speak to our Lakeside customer service team!

Or see our previous edition of Innovation Infusion: The Remarkable Transformation of a Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart, click HERE.

Posted on June 6, 2023May 15, 2023 by thelakesideteam

The State of Self-Service in Foodservice

The Rising Growth of Self-Service…

The game is changing in foodservice as it’s been recently reported that over 84 percent of Generation Z and 82 percent of Millennials prefer to visit restaurants with self-serve kiosks. But how can this be? Whatever happened to the days when people went to diners strictly for the comradery of receiving quality service from restaurant staff? Sadly, those days look to be coming to an end as today’s generations prefer a more quick and streamlined experience. Let’s quickly break down why both Generation Z and Millennials prefer to serve themselves instead of getting served…

Easier Access to Menus: 63% find it simpler to use a digital menu on a self-serve kiosk compared to a traditional menu board.

Faster Ordering: 83% report quicker service and a faster way to pay compared to speaking to a cashier.

Less Pressure to Choose: 61% feel less pressure to choose what to order compared to having to order on the spot.

So what does this say about the current state of self-service several foodservice segments such as hospitality, K12, and C/U? It shows that the lives of Gen Zers and Millennials are so entangled with digital technology that it’s shaping how they choose to operate in their lives. This is demonstrated in the self-serve kiosk study above as both generations prefer to take their time browsing new products like they would with content on social media platforms such as Tik Tok, Instagram, and YouTube.

That brings us to the million dollar question. How can foodservice operators enhance both accessibility and create comfort when it comes to serving these generations? It involves the following: More space, more options, and more strategic design. Let’s dig into how these can be achieved. Ready? Let’s go!

Enhancing Accessibility and Creating Comfort

More is more? Is that a mindset that foodservice operators in K12 and C/U should have? When your customers consist of Millennials and Generation Z then yes, it is. When it comes to best serving these demographics as a foodservice operator, having multiple cases of the same items throughout a high traffic environment is encouraged. This not only minimizes traffic jams at grab and go stations, but creates a wide array of accessibility that these generations prefer. In return, a sense of comfort is created as students will feel empowered by helping themselves to what they want.

In order for a buffet in a student dining hall to truly be seamless, an organized layout is key. Foodservice directors may begin this process by asking themselves questions such as: How many drink dispensers do we need? Where will the plate dispensers go? What will create the smoothest experience throughout a buffet line? Now, that last question is often crucial for many C/U foodservice directors as lines usually get backed up when students come back up to grab a forgotten item. How is this crucial in creating a faster experience for Gen Z students?

One way foodservice directors can solve this issue is by making sure condiments and beverages are located at the end of the buffet line. This very same strategy can be applied across other foodservice segments such as hospitality. For example, a foodservice operator who runs a self-serve coffee shop may have multiple counters extended onto the dispenser station. They may also have several coffee dispensing stations throughout a specific area. This creates accessibility, comfort, and speed not only for those who forgot a straw or packet of sugar, but for those wanting to quickly get a cup of warm java.

The Tools to Increase Revenue

Having the proper tools to successfully deliver results to those who prefer self-service is critical for any foodservice operator. However, a good place for foodservice operators (especially those in K12, C/U, hospitality, and long-term care) to start is by investing in mobile spring loaded plate dispensers. How so? Mobile dish carts add flexibility to both the front and back-of-the-house as well as catered and off-site events. Let’s break down three Lakeside Mobile Plate Dispensers that can take the self-service of a foodservice operation to the next level!

Lakeside 6210 Mobile Plate Dispenser

Heated thermostatic controls that range from 100°F to 175°F.
Two dispenser tubes that hold two stacks of 9 ¼ to 10 ⅛ inch plates.
Adjustable spring tension that doesn’t require tools.
NSF listed.

Lakeside 6209 Mobile Plate Dispenser

Two heated dispenser tubes that hold two stacks of 8 ¼ to 9 ⅛ inch plates.
Smooth all-swivel casters (2 ea. with brake) allow foodservice operators flexibility during transport.
Stainless steel construction is easy to clean and sanitize after a day's use.
NSF listed.

Lakeside 6109 Mobile Plate Dispenser

Compact and heated single tube that holds one stack of 8 ¼ to 9 ⅛ inch plates.
Equipped with bottom corners to protect furniture, serving counters, and doors.
All-swivel casters (2 ea. with brake) hold 8 ¼ to 9 ⅛ inch plates.
NSF listed.

Lakeside also offers versatile Adjust-A-Fit® plate dispensers that allow operators to use a single plate dispensing unit for dinnerware that ranges in various shapes and sizes. To discover more, click ‘See Now’.

Dispensing and Beyond

Dish carts offer an excellent way for foodservice operations to provide a quick, fast, safe, and even hygienic service for the needs of Generation Z and Millennials alike, increasing the potential for increased revenue through improved customer comfort and selection. In both K12 and C/U schools, heated plate dispensers facilitate improved service to allow students to access their meals quickly and easily, so they can return to classes or other activities.

Furthermore, due to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of spring loaded plate dispensers, there is no need to put pressure on budgets or health codes. All things considered, it’s clear that when foodservice operators invest in high quality plate dispensers, revenue-generating potential is improved while busy staff members will have an easier time assisting in the self-service of many hungry customers each day. So go ahead and help a foodservice operator reap these perks and more by clicking ‘Grab a Plate’ below to experience the difference plate dispensers make!

Tag: foodservice