Supplier Awards 2026: Light Equipment Brand of the Year – Buffalo

Buffalo’s achievement as Light Equipment Brand of the Year is due to a constant innovation pipeline and in-depth consideration of its hospitality operator clients’ needs.

In the past 12 months alone, the company has launched more than 70 products for hospitality operators, using direct mail and social media to drive sales of its new range, which includes the Digital Silent Bar Blender. This appliance was designed with operators in mind, for performance and ease of use, as well as to meet the soaring demands for shakes, frappés and smoothies. The blender not only provides all the power needed quickly blend ingredients and crush ice in its 1.8 litre container, reducing running costs, it also operates with minimal noise, thanks to the addition of a sound enclosure.

Buffalo’s operator outreach extends to running various discounted promotions and special offers, and as part of the Nisbets family of brands it can offer customers access to Nisbets’ Rewards and Rewards Plus programme, where customers earn one point for every £1 spent, resulting in vouchers when they have accumulated enough points. Operators also have the chance to upgrade to Rewards Plus to earn double points, along with free standard delivery, exclusive early access to discounts and £100 back in vouchers every year.

The brand draws upon its 18 years of experience to constantly invest in new products and innovation to make machines easier to use, more efficient and better value. Most Buffalo products are sold with a free two-year parts and labour warranty as standard, with dishwashers and glasswashers supplied with a one-year warranty. Buffalo spare parts are available for the entire lifetime of the machines, even after a product has been discontinued, to ensure existing equipment can still be fixed rather than replaced. The brand’s key offerings include a price match promise, 30-day money back guarantee and free next day delivery, plus it is part of Nisbets’ wider environmental sustainability policy – all of which help to support operators.

Over the past year, the range of Buffalo products, encompassing commercial fryers, waffle makers, catering toasters, kettles, coffee machines, grills, salamanders, dehydrators and rice cookers, have garnered more than 140,000 sales. With this 20% year-on-year growth, it’s no wonder that Buffalo proved to be a standout winner.

Judges’ comment

“Buffalo is a winner showing constant innovation in a competitive market. Its commitment to excellence has translated into industry trust, positioning it as a go-to supplier that is reliable and well-respected.”

Laura Sharpe, director of operations, Firmdale Hotels

The shortlist

• Buffalo

• Jestic Foodservice Solutions

• Metcalfe

• Unox