Great Dane demonstrated the unique features and benefits of hidden innovations at the 2018 International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) Distribution Solutions Conference. The conference is being held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, TX, Oct. 28-30.
“Nothing to See Here” is the theme of Great Dane’s exhibit at Booth #419. The display demonstrated how technology that is invisible to the naked eye, such as the company’s exclusive ThermoGuard reefer lining featuring Microban broad-spectrum antimicrobial technology, can help fight hidden threats to refrigerated trailers that can cause irreversible damage.
“As the company that pioneered the refrigerated trailer in the 1940s, Great Dane understands how invisible issues like water weight gain and bacteria growth can go largely unseen in your reefer until it’s too late,” said Chris Hammond, Great Dane’s executive vice president of Sales. “Luckily, we also know how to protect against these invisible threats. Great Dane’s exclusive ThermoGuard reefer lining featuring Microban antimicrobial technology can help improve insulation performance and provide a cleaner environment for temperature-sensitive goods. Since it’s difficult to see this technology at work, we’re using our IFDA exhibit to demonstrate how ThermoGuard with Microban protection helps protect payloads, profits and reputations with strength that’s hidden in plain sight.”
Visitors to the booth will had the chance to test their refrigerated trailer knowledge by participating in an interactive trivia game called “Trailer Pursuit.” They also learned about the many benefits of Microban broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection, while taste-testing delicious snacks prepared by Grove Point Plantation Executive Chef Tim Filgate inside the Great Dane food trailer.
Great Dane also presented in the IFDA Innovation Theater on Oct. 29 from 1:00-1:45 p.m. Representatives from Great Dane and Microban International discussed how the effects of foodborne illness in the supply chain and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) have affected trailer design and the needs of the industry. They also discussed how ThermoGuard with Microban protection can help meet these changing needs by helping prevent temperature-sensitive goods from reaching unsafe temperatures and providing a cleaner environment for transport.
The Great Dane booth also featured three pieces of equipment: An Everest Multi-Temp refrigerated trailer, a Johnson R-Series composite refrigerated truck body and a Johnson C-Series all-electric refrigerated truck body. The Everest Multi-Temp on display was designed and built exclusively for Ben E. Keith Co., a broadline foodservice and beverage distributor. This highly-customized 28-foot reefer features several options to meet foodservice needs, including PunctureGuard lining with Microban antimicrobial protection, three temperature-controlled compartments with moveable bulkheads and remote evaporators, and two curbside doors featuring Great Dane’s unique blade lock design, which features dual-compression seals to prevent air loss around the total perimeter of the door.
The Johnson R-Series composite refrigerated truck body features six automotive-style doors, three on each side, and a low ground-to-floor height, which helps reduce injuries and lets drivers quickly identify products at ground level. The R-Series also features a back-up alarm, back-up camera system and LED strip lighting above each door that is activated with keyless entry for improved visibility and safety.
The Johnson C-Series on display is Great Dane’s prototype all-electric refrigerated truck body. This body features the latest electric evaporator and solar panel technology. It uses Great Dane’s AE Series all-electric refrigeration system, which requires no diesel fuel, reduces operating costs and virtually eliminates particulate matter, reducing overall fuel consumption and carbon footprint. The roof-mounted solar panels combined with a 48 VDC condensing unit and the composite construction of the truck body provide a complete, thermally-efficient solution for distributors and a reliable alternative to diesel-powered units.
Finally, the booth featured information about Great Dane’s AdvantEDGE National Aftermarket Parts & Service Program, which gives members access to its Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) program, controlled ordering and invoicing, competitive labor rates and more.
About Great Dane
Great Dane is the leading manufacturer of high-performance commercial transportation equipment, including dry and refrigerated trailers and truck bodies, as well as steel, aluminum and combo platform trailers. Great Dane has a storied history in the commercial trucking industry and is a driving force in trailer technology, innovation, quality and customer service. Headquartered in Chicago, IL, and with additional corporate offices in Savannah, GA, Great Dane has manufacturing plants strategically located throughout the U.S. The company’s network of corporate-owned branches, full-line independent dealers and parts-only independent dealers offers a broad range of distribution points for new and used trailers as well as aftermarket services across North and South America. Visit Great Dane online at www.greatdane.com.
