Supermarkets often bundled Evac’s vacuum collection systems into their wider refrigeration scope. Issues would be handled by fridge & freezer technicians, despite Evac equipment operating as a separate system with its own maintenance requirements.

“Refrigeration technicians are highly skilled, but they are not necessarily trained in Evac equipment. That led to a lot of misdiagnoses. Parts were replaced unnecessarily and the root cause of recurring problems was not always addressed. Our new program shifts maintenance towards a more preventative approach,” Beumel explains.

Strong uptake among supermarkets

For an annual fee, Evac-trained technicians will visit each participating store to inspect and service its vacuum units. If issues can be fixed on the spot, the technicians will do so without additional labour charges – the store only pays for the parts. Major retailers have been quick to adopt the program.

“One large supermarket chain has contracted us to service every Evac-equipped store they operate across the country. That’s around 90 stores today, with growth expected to continue,” says Beumel. “In another case, we’re preparing a 60-plus store pilot focused on locations that have historically caused issues.”

The financial logic is supporting uptake. According to Beumel, some supermarkets had been spending more than USD 20,000 per store each year on reactive service visits that often failed to resolve underlying problems.

“Now we can go in once and fix the root problem – dramatically reducing those costs. We’re also lowering operational risk and extending the lifetime of the equipment,” he says.

Reduced risk, increased revenue

The new program was developed through close collaboration across Evac’s US organisation, drawing on input from teams in sales, service and technical roles. Experience gained through long-established marine operations played a central role in shaping the program.

“We started working closely with the team in Florida that supports our marine service. They were instrumental in helping us to define the scope of work and train the technicians. The cross-functional collaboration was fantastic,” explains Beumel.

The focus now is on refining and expanding the model. Evac is exploring how earlier involvement – such as support during system commissioning – can further improve system performance. The program represents a repeatable service-based revenue stream, alongside the opportunity to provide spare parts before failures occur.

“This is about moving from being seen as an equipment supplier to becoming a long-term operational partner. Stores stay functional, while Evac builds a sustainable service model that supports our long-term growth,” concludes Beumel.