Hoshizaki America, Inc. Named 2026 Kitchen Innovations® Award Recipient for New PR67B-Z Pizza Prep Table
Hoshizaki America, Inc. is proud to announce that it has received a 2026 Kitchen Innovations® (KI) Award from the National Restaurant Association for its new PR67B-Z 67” Pizza Prep Table. This recognition highlights Hoshizaki’s continued commitment to advancing efficiency and excellence in commercial kitchens through innovative design and performance-driven solutions. The PR67B-Z is part of the Steelheart® Series Pizza Prep line, known for its durability, performance, and smart design.
The KI Award honors progressive new equipment that drives measurable impact in commercial kitchens. Award winners are selected by an independent panel of industry professionals, including foodservice consultants, multi-unit operators, and design experts, who evaluate solutions that address the most pressing challenges facing today’s operators.
Designed with direct input from foodservice operators, the PR67B-Z builds on the proven Steelheart® line, including capabilities from previous models such as Day/Night Mode for precise rail temperatures, and optimal airflow for consistent cooling, while introducing purposeful enhancements that help reduce ingredient waste, streamline prep processes, and maintain consistent product quality in demanding environments.
New enhancements on the PR67B-Z include:
Refrigerated Catch Trays
Keeps unused ingredients at optimal, food-safe temperatures in ambient conditions ranging from 65°F to over 100°F, reducing food waste and maintaining food safety.
Three-Section Speed Rail
Excess toppings fall through wire rails into refrigerated catch trays, keeping prep surfaces cleaner and ingredients properly stored during busy periods.
Independent Temperature Controls
Dual digital controls manage rail and cabinet temperatures separately, ensuring food safety and consistent quality while reducing energy use.
Elevated Hood
Ample headspace for upright sauce bottle storage, supporting organization and faster next-day start-up.
Additional Storage
Slots for catch tray lids and top-of-cabinet space keep tools within reach and workstations uncluttered.
“We’re honored to receive the KI Award for the PR67B-Z,” said Seth Sawyer, Director of Product Management, Refrigeration for Hoshizaki America. “This recognition speaks to the work of our Engineering and New Product Development teams who stay focused on understanding operator pain points and turning that insight into meaningful equipment improvements.”
The PR67B-Z will be launching soon and will be showcased at the Pizza Expo, taking place March 24–26, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV at Booth 845. The unit will also be featured at the National Restaurant Association Show from May 16–19, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL at Booth 6207, and in the Kitchen Innovations showroom.
For more information, visit the Pizza Prep page on the Hoshizaki America website.