Supplier Awards 2026: Cooking Equipment Brand of the Year – Convotherm

Welbilt group oven brand Convotherm has been recognised for being at the forefront of the AI age with ConvoSense – AI-driven combi-oven technology that enables fully automated cooking.

ConvoSense has been rolled out to nearly 2,000 operators on the maxx pro series, and over the past year the system was incorporated into the new compact Convotherm mini pro. Supplier Awards judges were impressed by how the manufacturer developed the technology to meet an operator’s biggest challenges – smaller spaces, shortage of trained staff and high energy and water costs.

The mini pro measures just 49.9cm and is a fully-fledged combi-oven that can deliver high volumes in limited time, space and effort. It is designed for front of house and operators of all skill levels can consistently produce exceptional quality food.

It is powered by AI-driven Optical Cooking and a solid-to-liquid cleaning system, and due to a new airflow system, cooking time is decreased without any increase in energy costs. The savings are supported by the data, with the mini pro offering 28% reduction in energy consumption, 18% shorter baking times and generating 17% less food waste compared to professional convection ovens.

Over the past year, Convotherm underlined its operator support credentials with a marketing campaign and by exhibiting at more than 40 global trade shows including six in the UK (ScotHot, Lunch!, Restaurant, Takeaway & Innovation and Catering Innovation Show). At each event, the team focused on live cooking demonstrations to illustrate the benefits of the equipment.

In the UK, Convotherm ran a specific maxx campaign for education caterers, which was well received, and numerous new relationships were built off the back of it.

The manufacturer further demonstrated its industry backing as an official partner for the last 25 years to culinary competition Bocuse d’Or by supplying its maxx pro combi-oven technology to the regional, national and the global finals.

Convotherm also expanded its offer in 2025 with a new flexx pro range of multifunction cookers, with nine models to choose from, including single- and double-pan configurations. As a result, sales rose 25% over the course of 2025, prompting Welbilt to invest in several new roles across both the UK sales and culinary teams.

The all-round development in this important equipment group has ensured that Convotherm is 2026’s Supplier Awards Cooking Equipment Brand of the Year.

Judges’ comment

“Convotherm demonstrated innovation that responds to market demand, including reduced footprint ovens, energy efficiency, increased product cooking intelligence and strong industry support initiatives.”

Edward Bircham, director, Humble Arnold Associates

The shortlist

• Convotherm

• Exclusive Ranges

• Falcon Foodservice Equipment

• Synergy Grill Technology