Who decides
Equipment for new locations is specified by the restaurant group's construction or purchasing team, often from the franchisor's approved-equipment list. Repair and preventive-maintenance contracts are set by the group's facilities or operations lead. Hotels buy through the owner or the hotel management company.
Where to focus
New openings buy full equipment packages; established groups need refrigeration service and replacements. Franchisees follow their brand's equipment standards, so check the brand before you pitch.
Vendor approval
Restaurant groups usually ask for a certificate of insurance and a W-9 before a first job. Franchisees may also have to follow the brand's approved-supplier rules.
Timing
Refrigeration calls peak in Texas summers; replacement budgets are often set in Q4.
Biggest single decisions in Dallas–Fort Worth
Companies that control the most properties in the segment that suits this trade.
| Company | Locations | HQ city |
|---|---|---|
| Starbucks Corporation | 340 | Seattle |
| Aramark group (Aramark Educational Services, LLC) | 191 | Philadelphia |
| Panda Express, Inc. | 109 | Rosemead |
| Fries Restaurant Management, LLC | 91 | Dallas |
| Ampex group (Ampex Brands PH of Dallas 2, LLC) | 77 | Richardson |
| Pei group (Pei Wei Asian Diner, LLC) | 77 | Irving |
| Soar Restaurants IV, LLC | 75 | Plano |
| Cabana group (Texas Taco Cabana, L.P.) | 68 | San Antonio |
| Whataburger Restaurants LLC | 63 | San Antonio |
| Mark of Excellence Pizza Company | 61 | Hurst |
Questions from commercial kitchen equipment and refrigeration companies
How do commercial kitchen equipment and refrigeration companies get contracts at Dallas–Fort Worth restaurant locations and hotels?
Equipment for new locations is specified by the restaurant group's construction or purchasing team, often from the franchisor's approved-equipment list. Repair and preventive-maintenance contracts are set by the group's facilities or operations lead. Hotels buy through the owner or the hotel management company.
How many locations could a kitchen equipment & refrigeration company serve in Dallas–Fort Worth?
8,466 restaurant locations, 1,242 hotels (WhoRunsWhat data, October 2026).
When do Dallas–Fort Worth restaurants buy kitchen equipment & refrigeration services?
Refrigeration calls peak in Texas summers; replacement budgets are often set in Q4.