{"id":5209,"date":"2026-01-19T09:02:35","date_gmt":"2026-01-19T08:02:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/itv.es\/icemakers\/?p=5209"},"modified":"2026-01-19T09:02:35","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T08:02:35","slug":"professional-ice-trends-for-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/itv.es\/icemakers\/en\/professional-ice-trends-for-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Professional Ice Trends for 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

The professional ice sector is constantly evolving, with the hospitality industry demanding higher quality, speed, and environmental responsibility than in previous years. Looking ahead to 2026, ice machines continue to transform to meet these needs.<\/span><\/p>\n

At ITV<\/a>, we want to share the professional ice trends for 2026 and the key factors that will make the difference.<\/span><\/p>\n

Energy Efficiency: The new industry standard<\/span><\/h2>\n

Rising energy costs have accelerated a shift that was already underway: today, efficiency has become a necessity for many businesses. Ice machines need to offer lower electricity consumption, and in 2026 we will see advances in this area.<\/span><\/p>\n

How? Through improvements in thermal management, new high-efficiency compressors, and widespread use of natural refrigerants.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Efficiency also applies to the production process itself: shorter cycles, lower gas loads, stabilized temperatures, and systems capable of producing more ice with fewer resources. This holistic approach allows hospitality businesses to reduce operating costs while promoting responsible energy use.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sustainability: A lifecycle perspective<\/span><\/h2>\n

In 2026, sustainability will be a decisive factor in professional hospitality, where equipment that supports responsible practices is essential.<\/span><\/p>\n

Trends point to machines made from more durable materials<\/strong>, assembly processes with lower environmental footprints, and a circular approach: repair, maintain, optimize.<\/span><\/p>\n

At ITV, this includes initiatives such as solar-powered production, eco-friendly refrigerants, fully recyclable machines, and sustainable filters<\/a>. Sustainability is no longer a trend but an ethical, environmental, and business obligation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Compact and functional design: Less space, more possibilities<\/span><\/h2>\n

Another trend in professional ice for 2026 is smaller footprints with greater utility. Modern kitchens and bars are optimized to the millimeter, so ice machines are evolving toward more compact, quiet, and easy-to-integrate designs.<\/span><\/p>\n

An interesting trend is the combination of under-counter equipment with more accessible storage bins<\/strong>, allowing bartenders to work faster and without interruptions.<\/span><\/p>\n

We will also see an increase in machines featuring:<\/span><\/p>\n