Turning Profits with Commercial Roller Grills

Roller grills may not be flashy, but they’re great at rolling in profits. That’s why they’re a staple in operations like C-stores, stadiums, and arenas. But not all roller grills accomplish the same things. They’re a diversified piece of equipment that can serve different menu applications and volumes.

According to Technomic’s 2025 industry outlook*, convenience store foodservice is expected to see continued investment and expansion among leading operators, highlighting the category’s ongoing relevance and profitability. Roller grills can contribute to this growth. Why? Because they deliver consistency, speed, and profitability in high-traffic environments.

That’s exactly the kind of staying power that Star Holdings Group has engineered into every one of its commercial roller grills.

Which Commercial Roller Grill Is Right for Me?

Choosing the right roller grill starts with asking the right questions. Star Holdings Group’s roller grill selector tool guides operators through a series of simple, intuitive steps designed to match your specific needs. From capacity to coating to controls, every decision helps you get closer to a grill that will perform for your menu, your space, and your business goals.

Step 1: What Capacity Do You Need?

The first thing to consider is how much volume you need to move, and how much counter space you have available to accommodate it. Star Manufacturing and APW Wyott commercial roller grills come in various sizes, with hot dog capacities ranging from 30 to 75 units. Smaller models like the 30ST are a smart solution for compact spaces or low-volume service areas. Larger units, such as the X*PERT series, are built for stadiums, arenas, and high-traffic convenience stores, where nonstop snacking means nonstop rotation.

This choice is essentially a balance between footprint and output. Ask yourself: What’s my peak traffic window? How many items do I need ready at once? And do I have the space to accommodate that volume comfortably?

Step 2: What Type of Tube Coating Works Best?

Next comes the question of roller surface. While it may seem like a minor detail, the coating can significantly affect cleanup time and food presentation. Star offers Duratec® and Staltek™ roller coatings. APW Wyott offers Chrome and Tru-Turn roller coatings.

While chrome rollers are the traditional option, today’s foodservice operators are expanding beyond hot dogs to a wider variety of menu items. Duratec® provides a non-stick surface that helps warm and reheat food easily and makes the rollers easier to clean, especially useful for items like cheese-filled sausages or taquitos. Staltek™ offers an even higher grade of non-stick performance and is built to withstand the demands of high-volume operations where residue and repetition can wear equipment down quickly. Tru-Turn rollers also feature an enhanced non-stick coating—one of the thickest in the industry—for smooth turning, easy cleaning, and a polished, professional appearance.

Step 3: Do You Prefer Digital or Analog Controls?

Finally, you’ll choose between two control types: analog and digital. Analog controls offer straightforward temperature adjustment with a simple dial display. Digital controls provide greater temperature precision with an easy to read digital display. Both options are plug and play ready with multiple temperature zones.

If you’re managing multiple menu items with different holding needs, digital may offer more flexibility with its tighter temperature range. If your preference is a manual dial and clear functionality without extra features, analog controls may still be the right fit.

Take the Guesswork Out of Your Grill

With so many options and considerations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why the commercial roller grill selector tool exists. It won’t complicate your decision but simplify it. By guiding you through capacity, coating, and controls, you’ll walk away with a product that supports your operation’s specific needs.

Sources:

* Technomic