Introduction
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bonds Dining, a company based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, faced unprecedented challenges as physical restaurant operations stalled. Recognizing the urgent need to pivot towards e-commerce, the company launched its online platform, “Date no Kura,” focusing on high-quality frozen meat products. With a firm commitment to maintaining product excellence, Bonds Dining turned to ZeroKara, a specialist in advanced freezing technologies, to enhance the quality and productivity of its e-commerce operations.
Background of the Introduction: Commitment to Meat Quality
The pandemic compelled many restaurants to shut down, prompting Bonds Dining to delve deeply into the e-commerce market, primarily focusing on frozen products. Understanding the potential quality degradation that could arise from conventional freezing methods, they sought a solution that could ensure optimal product preservation. After careful evaluation, the liquid-cooled rapid freezing system developed by ZeroKara stood out due to its speed and compact design, which fit seamlessly into their central kitchen constraints.
Impact Post-Implementation: Overwhelmed by Success
The installation of ZeroKara's rapid freezing machine yielded impressive results for Bonds Dining:
- - Enhanced Quality and Repeat Purchases: The remarkable freezing speed significantly minimized cellular damage, thus reducing moisture loss during thawing. Customers were delighted to discover that the quality of these frozen meats led to statements like, "This doesn’t taste frozen at all," resulting in a surge of repeat sales.
- - Productivity Boost Demanding New Packaging: Due to the consistent and high-speed freezing process, their original tabletop packaging machines became inadequate. In response, they integrated a new conveyor belt vacuum packaging system, enabling production to align with peak demands.
- - Comprehensive Application and Continuous Production: ZeroKara's unique heat exchange technology prevents temperature rise during continuous production, ensuring stable operations. Initially limited to certain products, the freezing technology is now applied across their entire range,
Mechanism of Liquid Rapid Freezing
Conventional freezing methods often lead to the growth of ice crystals, damaging cellular structures. Conversely, ZeroKara's rapid liquid freezing minimizes this issue, preserving the product in a state close to its original quality.
Future Outlook: Expanding into Seafood and Strengthening Branding
Bonds Dining’s e-commerce sales have not only improved but now exceed pre-pandemic levels. Plans are underway to extend their product line further into seafood, leveraging their existing seafood offerings. The collaboration between ZeroKara and Bonds Dining aims to enhance product development further while strengthening branding around the superior freezing quality.
About Bonds Dining
Bonds Dining is renowned for its commitment to quality meat dishes, primarily through its platform “Date no Kura.” The company emphasizes fresh and flavorful products, garnering a loyal customer base.
About ZeroKara
ZeroKara provides the fastest freezing technology, ensuring optimal product quality. They offer freezing tests and tastings at their facility, and assist clients with support systems for funding and leasing, catering to large-scale production needs.
- - Location: 3-31-11 Shin-Yoshida Higashi, Kohoku Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa
- - Established: November 1, 2017
- - Official Website: zerokarainc.com