A ketchup dispenser, or any other condiment dispenser, can range from a divided plastic bin to a stainless steel pump dispenser. Small businesses that offer pickup food service generally only need totes to hold packets of condiments, such as pepper, salt, mustard and ketchup.

Larger restaurants benefit from using the larger pump dispensers. These are either located on a condiment bar so patrons can help themselves, or in the kitchen for the cooks to use as needed. Ketchup dispensers and mustard dispensers are usually the most popular, and must be able to stand up to heavy-duty use.

Here are some things to think about when choosing a condiment dispenser:

1. Think about the kind food service your business offers. This will guide you to the correct type of condiment dispenser.

2. Decide how much a condiment is used on the food you serve. If relish isn't that popular, then heavy-duty relish dispensers are not necessary.

3. Determine the type of dispenser your business needs. Dispenser options range from squeeze bottles to heavy-duty pump dispensers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose condiment bin dispensers for fast, convenient service

If your business sells fast food or offers simple pickup service, like that found at gas station convenience stores, then a plastic condiment dispenser may be all that's necessary. You can put it on the counter, allowing the customer to take as many condiment packets as they like.

I recommend: Buy plastic condiment bin dispensers at The Restaurant Source. They offer an assortment of bins that are stackable, in addition to side-by-side plastic dispensers. Kano Korn offers an assortment of countertop organizers made of steel and plastic, which makes the dispensers sturdier.

Install wall-mounted restaurant condiment dispensers

Look at your restaurant's menu and buy dispensers for the condiments your customers are likely to use frequently. You can provide sparsely-used condiments in little packets stored under the counter. You can install wall-mounted dispensers to save space.

I recommend: Purchase wall dispensers from Server Products Equipment Lines. A wall-mounted dispenser for condiment packets is available at SuiteSupply.

Buy a cart for your condiment dispensers

If the dispenser for condiments will be used by patrons in a cafeteria or popular restaurant, it may be best to purchase a condiment cart. The cart is on wheels, and has removable dispensers that make replenishing condiments as easy as pulling one container out and replacing with the new, fresh container.

I recommend: Select a condiment cart from the choices offered by Lakeside Products. You can order replacement dispensers for the carts at Galasource, Inc..

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Mayonnaise dispensers with stainless steel pumps are perfect for dispensing the right amount of product, every time. This will save food preparers time, which saves on labor costs. It also prevents the restaurant from wasting product.