Idaho Steel

Idaho Steel is an internationally recognized manufacturer of potato processing equipment, specializing in stainless steel fabrication and machining. Founded in 1918 by the Lortz family as a small fabrication shop in Idaho Falls, the company has evolved into a global leader in its niche. The business shifted its focus to food processing equipment as the potato industry grew, particularly after World War II. In 1991, Lynn Bradshaw acquired the company, and in 2008, he sold it to his sons, Delynn and Alan Bradshaw, and his son-in-law, Davis Christensen. This family ownership structure is central to the company's culture. In 2024, Davis Christensen retired but remains on the board, with his son Jon Christensen joining the ownership group and becoming the Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

The company engineers, manufactures, and installs customized solutions and full processing lines for the global food processing industry. Its product portfolio includes equipment for flake, form, fry, and fresh mashed potato lines, such as Nex-Gem Formers, cookers, large-scale drum dryers, steam peelers, and blanchers. Idaho Steel serves a worldwide client base that includes major fast-food companies and frozen potato manufacturers, providing equipment for every continent except Antarctica. The business operates on a direct sales and project-based model, offering comprehensive services from design and engineering using 3D modeling to installation, automation, and ongoing support. The company's estimated annual revenue is between $28 million and $36.7 million.

A key component of Idaho Steel's global reach is its strategic partnerships. For over two decades, the company has had a symbiotic relationship with Kiremko, a Dutch engineering firm, where they represent each other's products in different global markets. This collaboration allows Idaho Steel to offer integrated, technologically advanced processing lines. The company also owns Reyco Systems, which provides complementary technology for oil recovery, conveying, and UVC decontamination systems. This tri-brand alliance enhances their ability to deliver comprehensive and efficient solutions to the international potato processing market.

Keywords: potato processing equipment, food manufacturing machinery, stainless steel fabrication, drum dryers, steam peelers, blanchers, potato flake lines, french fry lines, formed potato products, custom food equipment, process line engineering, machining services, food processing automation, Reyco Systems, Kiremko partnership, food equipment installation, industrial cookers, Nex-Gem Formers, potato handling systems, food processing design