Long John Silver’s had been using outdated equipment for mixing batters and liquid seasoning mixes, which presented several challenges. The previous equipment comprised multiple parts, making them easy to lose and difficult to clean. “It had multiple parts that all had to come apart to clean, so stores were constantly losing a gear or a part,” commented Greg Grisanti (CFSP), Director of Culinary and QA at Long John Silver’s.
Hand mixing wasn’t a viable alternative due to consistency issues. The company needed a solution that could streamline the mixing process, ensure consistency and simplify cleaning procedures.
AyrKing’s Mixstir emerged as the ideal solution for the Long John Silver’s team, as they recognized the Mixstir’s simplicity and durability as key advantages. With only one moving part, the Mixstir simplified operations and reduced the risk of malfunctions. Its stainless-steel construction offered durability and ease of cleaning, addressing the challenges posed by the previous plastic equipment. “If you look at the unit we used to have, it’s definitely an upgrade,” remarked Grisanti.
Feedback from Long John Silver’s employees was overwhelmingly positive. They appreciated the Mixstir’s ease of use, reliability, and straightforward operation. Grisanti remarked, “The employees that use it love it. As the old machines wear out, we replace them with the AyrKing unit.” The one-button functionality simplified training, making it easy for new employees to learn.
From an operator’s perspective, Teresa Morrell, general manager at a Long John Silver’s franchise in Morristown, TN, shared that the Mixstir’s durability is unmatched. Prior to using the Mixstir, Morrell’s team had to keep several commercial blenders on hand, as they often broke unexpectedly, especially when handling the thick batter Long John Silver’s is known for. This is an issue she hasn’t faced since switching to the Mixstir, which handles the batter with no problems. Morrell also noted cleaning the Mixstir is much simpler, adding to the overall satisfaction with the product.
Partnership with AyrKing
Grisanti highlighted AyrKing’s exceptional partnership, emphasizing their responsiveness and willingness to collaborate closely. He praised the direct access to engineering and the c-suite, allowing for seamless communication and efficient problem-solving. “They’re a fantastic partner,” Grisanti stated. “There’s no red tape to go through. I go straight to the engineers and talk about what I need.” Unlike experiences with larger corporations, where bureaucracy often hinders progress, AyrKing’s agility and customer-centric approach stood out.
Mixstir features
The Mixstir, designed for commercial blending and stirring, offers several benefits:
Enhanced kitchen operations
By adopting AyrKing’s Mixstir, Long John Silver’s achieved enhanced efficiency, consistency and ease of operation in their kitchens. The partnership with AyrKing provided not just a product but a collaborative solution tailored to meet Long John Silver’s specific needs. The Mixstir’s simplicity, durability and superior performance positioned it as a valuable asset in Long John Silver’s pursuit of culinary excellence.