Carlton Hire has developed a range of portable kitchens for the hospitality and events markets.

It has built two trailer units which are available for hire “bare” or with a range of equipment options.

The portable kitchens are fully reticulated with power, gas, water and waste, full stainless steel lining, food-safe surfaces, non-slip floor coverings and dual extraction.

David Patterson, general manager of Carlton Hire Group says there has been a need for some time for this type of portable kitchen. “We frequently provide marquees for temporary catering kitchens which are fine for a short (one or two day)events, but not for something running for a week or more,” he says.

Consequently the company designed a trailer unit set-up with free-standing bench units and equipment which allows for flexible layout option for a range of catering needs for customers who range from location caterers servicing the film industry to national sporting and entertainment events, and even emergency services.

“There are a number of converted mobile caravans and trucks around, but these are generally custom built for a specific use,” says Patterson.

“Carlton saw a need for a kitchen unit that had flexible options for fit-out so we have developed our units as fully reticulated with LPG, water and waste, single and 3 phase power, hygienic and OSH approved units. The equipment options are all modular and can be customised to each individual’s requirements.”

The dual hot and cold water supplies and dual waste outlets allow for a maximum of two dishwashers with pre-rinse sinks and two additional sinks. Each unit has four gas bayonets, and cylinders are connected externally and provide sufficient BTUs to run three commercial ovens or fryers.

Easily manoeuvred into position, each trailer, once set up, measures approximately 2.4m x 9.0m. They have 2.6m head room, lighting through roof hatches and excellent ventilation.

Depending on the location of the catering job, additional requirements like generators, water and waste disposal may be needed. Carlton will work with its clients to solve these logistics and has preferential hire rates with generator hire companies.

Carlton plans to build more portable kitchens, and Patterson sees potential for the fleet to increase by three or four units per year. “Like many of our products the demand is created by providing a market leading service with a point of difference,” he says.

Carlton Hire wants to ensure that these portable kitchen units conform to its occupational safety and health policies, so delivery and set-up of the units is carried out by Carlton staff.

Each trailer is also supplied with access stairs and safety rails.

If anyone is interested in viewing the Carlton Gold Line portable kitchens, they can contact David Patterson for an appointment. Email