At Acme, we work closely with restaurants of all sizes, and one thing is always clear: proper cold storage plays a big role in keeping kitchens safe, efficient, and compliant. A fridge running a couple of degrees too warm can quickly lead to spoiled ingredients and food safety risks. That’s why we focus on helping […]
A well-designed bar is the heart of a hospitality business, a social hub, and a key driver of revenue. At Acme, we understand the importance of a thoughtfully planned bar, and we’re here to share our knowledge to help you create a space that works for you, your staff, and your customers. Optimising Workflow and […]
Efficient cooling equipment is the backbone of any bar, making sure drinks are served at their best and operations run smoothly. From storing beverages to maintaining quality, the right refrigeration solutions can significantly impact your business. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the ideal cooling equipment for your bar. Understanding Your Bar’s Cooling […]
Keeping Food at the Right Temperature At Acme we’re big believers in the power of well-managed refrigeration. After all, if you’re running a business that depends on storing fresh produce, meat, or dairy, temperature control can make or break the quality of your goods. A UK government study suggests that correct temperature regulation might cut […]
Why Ventilation Matters for Busy Kitchens We’ve spent many years at Acme working with hospitality businesses of all shapes and sizes. One common issue we come across is inadequate ventilation, which can leave staff members feeling overheated and expose them to unwanted fumes. Some experts say that commercial kitchens may need 20–30 air changes per […]
Food-focused businesses face constant pressure to keep items at their best, and cold storage often stands between a delightful dining experience and a less-than-pleasant surprise. When temperatures drop to recommended levels, items stay fresher for longer and maintain taste and texture. As reported by the Global Cold Chain Alliance, refrigerated warehouse capacity has surpassed 700 […]
At Acme, we understand that maintaining a comfortable working environment is important for any business. Whether you run an office, retail store, warehouse, or hospitality venue, keeping temperatures under control and ensuring good air quality can make a big difference to employees and customers alike. But when it comes to managing indoor conditions, should you […]
The upcoming 2025 ban on single split air conditioning systems with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 750 or more is a pivotal step in the UK’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Effective from 1 January 2025, it will be illegal to place these systems on the market in Great Britain. This regulation stems […]
As the festive season approaches, we’d like to share our Christmas and New Year opening hours to ensure you can plan ahead. Whether you require our services or need to get in touch, here’s when we’ll be available over Christmas: Christmas Opening Hours Friday 20th December: 8:30am – 5:00pm Monday 23rd December: 8:30am – 5:00pm […]
As the festive season approaches, the hospitality industry gears up for its busiest time of the year. For commercial kitchens, this means higher demand, tighter schedules, and increased pressure to deliver flawless service. At ACME, we specialise in providing end-to-end commercial kitchen solutions, ensuring every detail—from flooring to ventilation—is optimised for peak performance. With 24/7 […]
At Acme, we understand that running a successful commercial kitchen involves more than just the right ingredients and skilled staff; you must also ensure that you are adhering to industry regulations. Compliance with industry standards is not just about checking boxes; it protects the safety of both employees and customers while also helping the kitchen […]
With the recent surge in energy prices, businesses across the UK are looking for ways to decrease their energy consumption. Here at Acme, we are a leading UK contractor specialising in the design, installation, and maintenance of commercial kitchens, supporting companies UK-wide so we are familiar with the strain on businesses when it comes to […]
Air conditioning systems are important in maintaining a comfortable environment, especially in commercial spaces. However, like any other piece of equipment, they require regular upkeep to function efficiently. Skipping maintenance can lead to unexpected breakdowns, reduced energy efficiency, and costly repairs. Let’s look at why regular air conditioning maintenance is essential and how partnering with […]
In the UK, kitchen gas safety is governed by the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, which were implemented to minimise the risks associated with gas appliances, such as leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, and the threat of fires and explosions. These regulations make it mandatory for gas appliances in commercial kitchens to be regularly […]
At Acme, we know that keeping your refrigeration systems in the best condition is important for avoiding expensive repairs and maintaining efficiency. By following a clear maintenance routine, you can reduce downtime and make sure your equipment runs smoothly. Here’s a simple checklist that outlines daily tasks you can manage, alongside the professional inspections that […]
At Acme, we understand the complexities of designing a commercial kitchen. Whether you’re running a restaurant, hotel, school, or hospital, your kitchen needs to function efficiently while meeting all safety and compliance standards. That’s where our expertise comes in. With years of experience, we take pride in delivering tailored kitchen designs that support your business […]
In the hospitality industry, the right ice machine can make a significant difference in the quality of service you provide. Whether you’re running a restaurant, hotel, or bar, having a reliable and efficient ice machine is essential to keeping your operations smooth and your customers satisfied. From modular ice machines to undercounter ice makers, the […]
Effective kitchen ventilation is essential for any hospitality establishment, from small cafés to large restaurants. Proper ventilation ensures a safe, comfortable, and compliant environment, which is crucial for the health of both staff and patrons. This blog offers an overview of UK ventilation standards, guidance on selecting the appropriate ventilation system, and practical tips for […]
At ACME, we know that a comfortable and well-regulated environment is crucial for any business. Whether you run an office, a retail space, or a hospitality venue, efficient air conditioning is essential for maintaining productivity and ensuring customer and employee satisfaction. With over 50 years of expertise, ACME provides top-tier air conditioning installation services tailored […]
At ACME, we understand the importance of reliable cooling solutions for businesses that require large-scale storage. From small bakeries to a wholesale operation, maintaining the freshness and quality of your stock is paramount. With over 50 years of experience, ACME is your go-to provider for bespoke cooling solutions, including top-of-the-line walk-in chillers. Understanding Walk-In Chillers […]
In the fast-paced world of food service and retail, maintaining the freshness and safety of perishable goods is paramount. Commercial fridges ensure that products stay at optimal temperatures, directly impacting the quality and longevity of goods. With over 50 years of experience, ACME is dedicated to providing businesses across various sectors—from supermarkets and restaurants to […]
The Smart Choice for Catering Equipment: Renting with ACME Running a catering business involves juggling many different responsibilities, from staffing and marketing to maintaining high standards with your equipment. At ACME, we recognise that having the right equipment is crucial to success. That’s why our catering equipment rental services have become a preferred choice for […]
At Acme, we bring over 50 years of expertise to deliver bespoke refrigeration solutions that cater to a broad spectrum of businesses within a range of sectors. From butchers and bakeries to supermarkets and restaurants, we ensure that you can find the ideal refrigeration system for your specific business needs. We pride ourselves on supplying […]
When setting up a new bar, every detail matters – from the décor to the drink menu, and most importantly, the equipment that ensures a smooth operational flow. Amongst the most important pieces of equipment are bottle coolers. Effective cooling systems not only ensure beverages are served at the ideal temperature but also improve customer […]
As the warmer months approach, the value of an efficient air conditioning system becomes increasingly apparent, in both commercial settings and residential spaces. Ensuring your air conditioning unit is in top working order before the peak seasons hit is incredibly important to avoid malfunctions and breakdowns just when you need cooling relief the most. Whether […]
At Acme, we recognise that the commercial kitchen is the heart of any food service establishment, the place where menus come to life and are key to the success of the business. However, the needs of a kitchen evolve over time, driven by changes in technology, food trends, and regulatory requirements. Given these shifts, there’s […]
Cold rooms are indispensable in various industries, notably food, pharmaceuticals, and floriculture, where maintaining specific temperature conditions is crucial for product quality and safety. However, managing these sophisticated environments can be challenging, and selecting the right cold room supplier is equally critical. Understanding how to troubleshoot common problems can save time, and resources, and protect […]
The European Council has recently agreed to revisions to the F-gas regulation, approving a legislative resolution on the 16th of January 2024. This decision, following the European Parliament’s endorsement, marks a major step forward in the EU’s efforts to reduce the use of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants across the refrigeration, air conditioning, and […]
As specialists in commercial ventilation and kitchen solutions, Acme understands the important role that effective ventilation plays in the hospitality and food sector. Our experience in designing and installing bespoke kitchens and ventilation systems positions us uniquely to offer insights into the standards and benefits of these systems. In this blog, we’ll explore why commercial […]
The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) has recently released an updated version of its esteemed Guide M: Maintenance Engineering and Management (2023). This 2023 edition reaffirms the important role of thorough maintenance in the lifespan and efficiency of building systems, a principle that Acme has long championed in our HVAC, commercial kitchen, and […]
In the heart of the UK’s vibrant hospitality sector, the essence of a perfect pint lies in its serving – a task heavily reliant on keg-cooling equipment. Here at Acme, we specialise in a range of refrigeration and cooling solutions, including keg-cooling systems. In this blog, we are going to delve into the essentials of […]
As we welcome in 2024, have you thought about giving your bar a refresh? At Acme, a leading UK contractor specialising in commercial kitchens, bar design, refrigeration, and HVAC, we’re excited to share the latest developments that are set to redefine the bar scene this year. Whether you’re considering a new bar installation or just […]
At Acme, we’re dedicated to improving the efficiency and reliability of your business through our comprehensive range of cold storage solutions. As a leading UK contractor, we specialise in designing, installing, and maintaining a wide range of cooling systems. Our expertise extends to cellar cooling, cold rooms, commercial refrigeration, and walk-in coolers/freezers, ensuring we cater […]
The festive season is upon us, and for commercial kitchens, it’s the busiest and most crucial time of the year. As a leading UK contractor specialising in commercial kitchens and everything related, Acme understands the importance of ensuring your kitchen is in top condition. Maintenance is key to smooth business operations, so in this blog, […]
Navigating the array of commercial air conditioning units available can be a daunting task, but it’s a crucial step to ensure a comfortable and productive environment for your staff and visitors. With over 50 years of heritage, Acme has decades of experience in installing and maintaining air conditioning and ventilation units. In this blog, we […]
As we progress further into winter, businesses across the UK are bracing for the inevitable surge in energy costs, particularly in commercial kitchens where energy consumption is high. Here at Acme, we are a leading UK contractor specialising in the design, installation, and maintenance of commercial kitchens, supporting companies UK-wide. With our knowledge and expertise, […]
When embarking on the creation or renovation of a commercial kitchen, there are numerous considerations to be made. It’s much more than merely deciding where the oven will sit or where the fridge should be placed – this is where experts step in. Commercial kitchen design companies bring a wealth of expertise, ensuring your kitchen […]
When it comes to securing the optimal solution for your establishment, many find themselves weighing up the options between ventilation and air conditioning. How do they differ, and which is more suited to your specific needs? Tackling this question head-on is paramount, as an oversight could impact your operations. For example, whilst an air conditioning […]
The success of many establishments, from restaurants to hospitals, heavily relies on the efficiency of their refrigeration systems. A hiccup in your refrigeration unit could bring your operations to a standstill, so it is important to be vigilant about refrigeration maintenance. Implementing a solid preventative maintenance schedule is the solution to this potential risk, ensuring […]
As we head into a new season, many restauranteurs and bar owners might find themselves contemplating a fresh start or refurbishment for their premises, and what better way to breathe new life into your space than a stylish and efficient bar design? A well-designed bar not only enhances your brand aesthetics but can also help […]
Running a successful food service business depends on many factors, such as design, quality equipment, and most importantly ventilation. Ensuring proper ventilation in your commercial kitchen is essential for maintaining a safe, efficient, and comfortable working environment. Adequate ventilation is also required by law within the UK, so it is important to be knowledgeable about […]
If you work within the hospitality sector, you will understand the significance of a well-functioning ice machine, particularly in bars and restaurants. In this blog post, we are going to explore the various types of ice machines, their unique features, and the scenarios where they are most efficient. Whether you are starting up a new […]
As a leading provider and servicer of commercial kitchen equipment, ACME understands that safety in a kitchen setting is non-negotiable. Among various safety protocols, a key requirement that deserves more attention is the Kitchen Gas Safety Test. In this blog post, we aim to provide a closer look into this procedure to ensure you have […]
In an industry where fresh food display and preservation are paramount, display refrigeration serves as a cornerstone. Understanding the different types, uses, and maintenance practices for commercial display fridges will not only ensure the longevity of your products but will also help to add a new dimension to your food presentation and customer satisfaction. Whether […]
Air-conditioning units play a vital role in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, whether that be a school, hospital, office, or any other public building. Especially as we head further into the summer season, it is important to ensure your air-conditioning is working effectively to keep indoor temperatures cool and safe. Just like other heating and […]
In the fast-paced environment of a commercial kitchen, where efficiency, productivity, and safety are important, an ergonomic design plays a crucial role. Whether you’re a restaurant owner or have a kitchen within a hotel or golf club, an ergonomic kitchen layout can greatly enhance workflow and improve employee and customer satisfaction. To create a functional […]
Many companies offer contract rental and leasing for a range of products, from cars and machinery to electronics and appliances. There are many ways to rent products, but what about catering equipment? As with any other rental agreement, catering equipment rental is no different! Here at Acme, we are one of the UK’s leading suppliers […]
Whether you work in a supermarket, own a farm shop, or work within a similar industry, you will understand the importance of keeping produce fresh and at the right temperature. Your refrigeration system is one of the most important features of any retail store, especially when food and perishable goods are on offer. Refrigeration units […]
Here at Acme, we provide a variety of refrigeration and cooling systems, supplying to a vast selection of industries including butchers, supermarkets, restaurants, and pubs all across the UK. From small basic projects to large complex briefs, we can install stand-alone chillers and freezers, as well as cold rooms and cellar cooling. Cellar cooling has […]
Air conditioning (AC) is an essential component of any comfortable indoor environment, especially during summer months and hot environments such as kitchens. To keep your AC unit running efficiently and effectively, it’s important to plan regular maintenance, but how often should you schedule it to be completed? As a company that specialises in air conditioning […]
Here at Acme, we have been delivering refrigeration systems since 1965 and throughout the many years we have built upon our knowledge and expertise to deliver our clients the very best of the best. From retail chillers to commercial kitchen refrigeration, our portfolio of projects and services has grown and grown but did you know […]
When it comes to storing perishable goods, walk-in chillers and freezers are effective solutions for storage and food safety, whether that be for a commercial or industrial business. At first glance, walk-in chillers and freezers can easily be confused with one another as they look the same, however, they do serve different purposes and demands. […]
Indoor air quality is a critical aspect of our lives, as the majority of us will spend most of our time indoors, whether that be at home or in the workplace. It is apparent that pollution levels are increasing, and air quality is decreasing, so it is essential to maintain a healthy indoor environment wherever […]
A well-designed commercial kitchen is a crucial aspect of any successful food service business. From the effective use of space to the placement of cooking equipment, every detail matters when it comes to running a smooth and efficient operation in the kitchen. However, the process of designing a commercial kitchen can seem overwhelming, especially for […]
Are you looking for a new role in the new year? We’re currently hiring for a CAD designer amongst several other posts… to join the Acme team, apply here.
We’re proud to showcase our work with Olive Tree Brasseries in our latest case study. Olive Tree has grown from a single restaurant to having four restaurants throughout the North West. We were involved in the fit out of their Stockton Heath & Lytham restaurants. Click here to watch the video case study and read […]
We’re proud to showcase our work with The Foodwell in our latest case study. We’ve recently completed kitchen and bar works at their flagship site in Salford New Bailey, a new and upcoming area in Manchester City Centre. Click here to watch the video case study and read more…
We’re proud to showcase our work with WOLF Street Food in our latest case study. Over the past year, we’ve completed works across their new Manchester Arndale, Manchester Spinningfields and Nottingham stores, with bespoke fresh serving counters installed at all three. Click here to watch the video case study and read more…
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everyone at the Acme Facilities Group. We have restricted opening hours over the Christmas period…
Acme are thrilled to have made the shortlist for this year’s Catering Insight Awards. Nominated for Distributor of the Year- North of the UK Category, Acme has been yet again recognised for completing a major project for Stuart Gillies at the Bank House restaurant in Chislehurst, and for achieving Constructionline Gold Membership. The awards recognise […]
We are delighted to have taken the prize for ‘Best Commercial Kitchen Installation Firm’ at this year’s Global Hospitality Awards. The Global Hospitality Awards are designed to recognise firms and the individuals behind them that have worked tirelessly over the past 12 months to achieve industry leading success, client satisfaction and market growth. We are […]
Last weekend, over ten of the Acme team ventured out in challenging weather conditions for a very special sponsored walk, in memory of Carlie Morrison and in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust. They joined colleagues from Pentland Wholesale and The Canopy Company, as well as family and friends of Carlie. Carlie is the late daughter […]
We currently have roles live for a ‘Sales Account Manager’ and ‘Service Administrator’. Do you have what it takes to join the Acme team? Click here to view the roles and here to find out more about working at Acme.
This article is for you if: You operate medium-sized refrigeration equipment, such as retail refrigeration, walk-in cold rooms, cellar cooling or chillers (it will likely not apply to small refrigeration, such as undercounter fridges, bottle coolers and upright fridges). Your equipment was purchased before mid-2018 You want to know more about the refrigeration gas ban […]
We’re proud to have worked with WOLF Street Food on several projects this year, the latest of which is their new Manchester Spinningfields restaurant. With a prime location, authentic fresh-and-fast Italian dishes and an attractive contemporary décor, the restaurant is already thriving. Our teams designed and installed the open-kitchen, along with the bespoke fresh-food counter […]
As we grow and evolve, so do our marketing materials. We’ve just released a new brochure as well as a variety of new marketing materials. You can download our new brochure here. Take a look at our case studies and other collateral throughout the website.
We’re happy to report another strong summer, with a broad variety of projects completed throughout the busy season. Local authorities continue to trust us with their summer works, including a number of school kitchen refurbishments completed locally for Lancashire Council this summer. Our catering teams have enjoyed delivering two new restaurants for Wolf Street Food, […]
As another demonstration of our commitment to health & safety best-practice, we have now become an official training provider for IOSH ‘Managing Safely’ and ‘Working Safely’ courses. This gives us the capability to internally deliver IOSH training to all company employees as well as throughout the wider group. IOSH Working & Managing safely accreditations are […]
This month, Chef and former Gordon Ramsay Group CEO Stuart Gillies is due to open ‘Bank House’, an exciting new standalone restaurant in Chislehurst, London. It is the first opening for Stuart since he left the Gordon Ramsay Group, which he led firstly as managing director and then as CEO, for over 10 years. We […]
Our teams have worked hard to increase our Constructionline accreditation to Gold standard – a new achievement for Acme. This accreditation sits alongside our many other construction & health & safety accreditations to demonstrate our capabilities and commitment to safe systems of work. Ian Simcock, Health & Safety Manager for Acme said, “Constructionline Gold puts […]
The summer has arrived and for many hospitality businesses, it’s peak trading period. Hotels and holiday parks are bustling, bars are thriving and al-fresco dining is at its peak. The public wants to enjoy the sunshine, and so does your business! It’s also a busy time for us too, but for a slightly different reason. […]
The team at Acme were delighted to be awarded ‘Highly Commended’ in this year’s Hive Awards. The Hive Awards recognise business excellence throughout Blackburn, Darwen & the surrounding areas. Acme have been based in Blackburn since the business was established in 1964 and we’re proud to play a large part in the local community. This […]
It was a pleasure to sponsor & attend last nights ‘Stadium Experience Awards’ at Manchester’s Etihad Stadium. Hospitality teams from over 50 stadiums attended the annual awards evening which recognised hospitality excellence in stadiums throughout the UK. Congratulations to all the deserved winners and thank you to the teams at Manchester City, Fabulous Fan Fayre […]
We’re delighted to have made the shortlist for this year’s ‘Hive’ Blackburn & Darwen Business Awards. We’ve been shortlisted for three categories: The Environmental Business Award The Investing in Future Skills Award The Commitment to Blackburn & Darwen Award This is a great achievement and represents how hard our teams work across all three areas. […]
We were very proud to be involved with this year’s British Masters Golf Championship, held at Hillside Golf Club. Hillside are a longstanding customer of ours and we were delighted when they asked us to provide some temporary catering equipment for the event, in addition to the new commercial kitchen that we installed several years […]
Last week, we visited Foodwell, a new and unique restaurant in Manchester, for a special event by the Manchester Hospitality Network. With speakers from ‘Mindbox’ and Manchester’s own Warehouse Project/ParkLife, the event focused on promoting mental health & welbeing in the hospitality industry. With many of Manchester’s key names in hospitality in attendance, it was […]
Foxfields Country Hotel is a well-established 44-bed hotel based on the outskirts of the picturesque Ribble Valley. The hotel has recently made a substantial investment in a unique and modern new restaurant named ‘Artisan Ribble Valley’. Bringing a taste of city-centre dining to the countryside, the result is a contemporary space that is like nothing […]
Happy Easter from everyone at Acme! We have restricted opening hours over the Easter period. Please find our office opening times below: Sales Office – Closes 5.00pm Thursday 18th April and Re-opens business as usual on Tuesday 23rd April 2019 – Normal Office Hours. Accounts – Closes 5.00pm Thursday 18th April and Re-opens business as […]
Branwood Preparatory School, based in Monton in Greater Manchester, is an independent school catering for children between the ages of five and eleven. After decades of heavy use, Branwood decided that it was time to give their school kitchen a full refurbishment, and hired Acme to design, specify and install it. The result is a […]
We had a great time on Tuesday meeting so many Robinsons’ tenants at the annual Robinsons’ Trade Show. As a gathering of key food & equipment suppliers, the event was a one-stop-shop for Robinsons tenants to find out about the latest developments in products and technology and secure some great deals. Alaric & Leigh from […]
We’re excited to welcome three new starters to the Acme team this month. Ian joins us as our new Group Health & Safety Manager. With NEBOSH qualifications, IOSH membership and substantial experience to his name, Ian is perfectly qualified to take the reigns of Acme’s health & safety. Our teams already have an excellent reputation […]
We’re delighted to announce that we’ve recently secured a place as a supplier to Surrey County Council (SCC). After a competitive tender, we were awarded a place on SCC’s framework for the supply & installation of refrigeration equipment. Our teams supply a wide range of refrigeration equipment to SCC – from retail grab-and-go units for […]
We are delighted to confirm that we have been shortlisted for the North West ‘Business Masters’ Awards 2019. Hosted by TheBusinessDesk.com, the Business Masters recognises leading businesses throughout the North West for their achievements throughout 2018. We have been nominated for the ‘Investment Award’ thanks to the launch of our new website, updated brand and […]
We are delighted to announce that we’ve made this years’ shortlist for the Catering Insight Service & Maintenance Provider of the Year award. As one of the industry’s most prestigious award ceremonies, the Catering Insight awards celebrate the achievements of the UK’s most successful distributors and suppliers. The nomination goes to recognise the hard work […]
Our Financial Director Roger Swansbury has just returned from a 400 km bike ride in Madagascar to raise money for children’s charity CAFT (children’s adventure farm trust). Starting in the stunning capital Antananarivo, the ride embraced some tough uphill climbs to the Malagasy highlands, then wound through small villages, paddy fields, and beautiful roads lined […]
It’s a special week here at Acme as we launch our new brand identity. Our in house creative team have been working really hard to bring to life the great work we do here…
Acme are delighted to report a record-breaking summer season. Acme have enjoyed their busiest summer period in 4 years
As the business is celebrating its 53rd birthday, it’s the perfect time for a re-fresh. The team have been working hard at Acme’s HQ in Blackburn and have recently given the reception area a makeover to give the business a more modern, contemporary feel. White walls with flashes of bright green furniture and foliage, along […]