ResidentialBusiness

Major changes are afoot behind-the-scenes at Walmart. The retailer is cutting hundreds of jobs and shuttering its North Carolina office. Employees from certain locations are also being asked to move to its newly opened headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas, and other central hubs. News of the shake up was first reported by Fox Business after Walmart Chief People Officer Donna Morris sent a memo detailing the cuts and other changes to employees. “We are making these changes to put key capabilities together, encouraging speed and shared understanding,” the memo, viewed by Fox read. “Through this review process, we have eliminated some roles as we streamline how we work.” According to the memo, Walmart is also opening offices in Sunnyvale, California, Bellevue, Washington, and expanding offices in Hoboken, New Jersey and New York City. The cuts aren’t the first to hit Walmart, which is both the world’s largest employer and the world’s largest retailer. In May, the company cut hundreds of jobs and asked Dallas, Atlanta, and Toronto workers to relocate to central hubs, too. At the time, it also asked that all remote employees come back to the office full time. That move came shortly after the company said it would shut down its virtual health care service, and close its 51 in-store health centers. Some experts believe that Walmart’s efforts to streamline operations, including continued cuts and relocating employees to headquarters, are about staying competitive with the world’s largest online retailer: Amazon. “I think this is the year where Walmart’s assault on Amazon gains serious momentum,” Fox Business market analyst Keith Fitz-Gerald said per Newsweek in January. “I think the stock is going to radically outperform it, and we’re going to see a renewed customer confidence in that particular brand.” Walmart is not alone in its 2025 layoffs. Salesforce, a cloud-based software company, announced this week that it would cut 1,000 roles at the company. Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, have each had their own rounds of major layoffs already this year, too. And when it comes to retailers, 2025 is likely to be another big year for store closures. According to a January report from Coresight Research, as many as 15,000 U.S. retail locations could shutter this year. Party City, Big Lots, and Macy’s are among the brands that have already announced closures this year. News of the latest cuts comes shortly after the Walmart faced blowback for rolling back its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) program just months ago. After the brand announced it would end the initiative, 30 investors sent a letter to CEO Doug McMillian, voicing their collective disdain for the move. “Walmart has sent a clear signal to all underrepresented and marginalized groups that Walmart will not fight to protect their rights,” the letter stated. Walmart didn’t provide details on how many employees would lose their jobs, or how many it’s asking to relocate. But it did specify that employees would have a month to let Walmart know if they will move in order to keep their job with the company. View the full article

Your clothing and accessories can either clog up your closet for free or go out there, get a job, and earn its keep: I recently found an app that helps you to rent out your clothes and accessories (and borrow other people's), and maybe even help you declutter in the long run. Let me explain why I love Pickle. What does Pickle do?As I have explained, I have a low threshold when it comes to what will inspire me to download an app. Typically, I see an ad, tap on the App Store link, and install on sight. The other day, I saw an ad for one called Pickle, which is a peer-to-peer clothing and accessory rental service—like DoorDash for fashion. I attempted to download it only to discover it was already on my phone from what must have been a previous run-in with the ad that I never followed up on. Incredible! (Be advised, though, that it's only available for iOS right now.) Over the last year, I've gotten into selling my clothes via app, but it's been limiting because I own a lot of pieces I don't really want to get rid of—yet. But I can't wear them all at the same time, now, can I? So they're just sitting in my closet, waiting for their turn to shine. Pickle, it seemed, could give me a chance to put them to work. I listed a bunch of stuff, checked what others on the app were charging for a week's rental of similar items, and priced my goods competitively. Then, I waited—but not for long. I got a rental request the next day. The app functions just like resale platforms like Poshmark or Vestiaire Collective: You take a picture of your shoes, bag, dress, or whatever, fill in details about it like size and brand, and set a price. Here, though, the price is what you want to charge for a week's rental. You also indicate, via drop-down menu, whether you're willing to have someone show up at your place to pick it up, send it off with a courier, or even mail it somewhere. That last option really broadens your horizons, since Pickle mostly operates in New York City (where I live) and Los Angeles. While it's a lot easier to link up with a local and hand off your piece, the postal option expands your money-making capabilities to a much wider base of potential consumers. My "closet" and how it looks to edit a listing. Credit: Lindsey Ellefson When someone rents a piece from you, they first send a request outlining the way they'd like to receive it and how long they want to have it. From there, you can enter a chat with them to hammer out details or just accept their request. I accepted the offer sent to me and selected the day and time I would be home to hand my parcel off to a courier. This morning, the courier showed up, took it, and brought it to the borrower, with whom I had arranged for a four-day rental. I listed the piece for $30/week, Pickle took 20%, and I earned $24 despite the fact that it won't be gone for the full week. The process was seamless and remarkably easy and I got detailed notifications throughout the entire event. The app guides you every step of the way. Credit: Lindsey Ellefson Why I like this app as a route to declutteringThere are obvious benefits to using a closet-rental app. First, you can put your extra stuff to work for you and make a little money off of it. Second, you can rent clothes and accessories for special occasions at a major discount without adding to any consumerist clutter you may have going on—but that leads me to the hidden benefit I identified here. I consider Pickle similar to a "purgatory" box, which is a method for decluttering that doesn't require you to make instant decisions about what stays and what goes. Most decluttering techniques are pretty harsh. They call on you to go through a space in your home and make fast choices about what you keep, what you toss, what you donate, and what you sell. Doing that enough times builds a habit and you learn to be less sentimental; but it's still hard. Personally, I'm terrible at doing it with clothing and accessories because I can trick myself into believing I might need anything for a certain outfit in the future. It's not true, of course; I never really miss anything once I've sold it. But it's still difficult to push myself to get rid of items, so they sit there in my closet. With Pickle, I can send them out for days or weeks at a time, which mirrors the experience with the purgatory box that holds your stuff for a month so you can see what it's like not to have access to it. Conversely, Pickle can also help you declutter by providing you with a fallback plan when you do decide to get rid of something. Consider the 20/20 decluttering rule, which asks you to consider if you could replace something for under $20 and in less than 20 minutes if you got rid of it, then encourages you to do away with it if the answers are yes. Clearly, if you choose to sell or donate, say, a black purse that's just sitting in your closet, you won't get a similar one off Pickle in under 20 minutes or, probably, for under $20—but it's nice to know that if you did get rid of something you ended up needing for a particular occasion, you could rent a replacement without re-cluttering your space. View the full article

The partnership with homebuilder Onx Homes, the company's ninth joint venture, gives Loandepot more solid footing in the South. View the full article

Starting your own construction business? You’ll need a variety of construction tools to properly establish your operations. Fortunately, unlike in ancient times, obtaining these tools is no longer a difficult task when launching a construction project. Considerations When Choosing Tools for Construction As a small business owner, you have to consider several factors before you start collecting your construction tools. Let’s take a look at some of the key considerations to keep in mind. Rent or buy: Every business is different, and every business owner has a different budget to consider. That’s why, in many cases, it may make sense to rent your materials rather than make a direct purchase. The bare minimum: When you begin creating your list, you’ll quickly discover that there are numerous tools to think about. However, in the early stages of your business, do you truly require all these materials? Probably not. By starting with just the essential construction tools, you can keep your budget in check and expand your inventory as your financial situation improves. Quality of the tools: Quality is a key parameter when you buy or rent any construction tool. In some cases, investing in high-quality materials is a good idea, especially when you’re not too familiar with them. Ease of use: A fancy tool with several cool features is not useful when it’s too complicated to handle. That’s why it’s important to make sure the tool you’re considering is easy to use. Type of projects: You don’t need to undertake all types of projects when you set up your business. If you’re focused on repairs, you’re not going to need many tools for the more heavy-duty projects. List of Construction Tools to Use at Construction Sites Regardless of your specialty in building construction, you’ll require certain tools to begin your work. To assist you in selecting the appropriate ones, we’ve compiled a list of essential construction tools. Power Tools On top of your list, you must include some power tools. These construction tools are needed in most projects – both big and small. Which power tools should you focus on for your business? Let’s take a quick look. 1. Circular saw These tools use a rotary motion for cutting. These are mostly used for cutting plastic, masonry, and wood. 2. Power drill Whether it’s buffing or sanding, power drills always come in handy. You can opt for a cordless drill that comes with a charger and battery. 3. Angle grinder An angle grinder is used for grinding and polishing. It’s a handheld tool that helps remove excess material from a certain piece. 4. Brad Nailer Brad nailers are generally used to add decorative moldings to plain panels. These are popular with model makers and crafters. 5. Heat gun If you’re working on remodeling projects that involve stripping old wallpapers and upholstering, you’re most likely going to need a heat gun. 6. Miter saw For cutting materials at various angles, professionals utilize miter saws. These powerful construction tools are capable of making precise cross-cuts and are available in several sizes. Hand Tools Among other essentials, your toolbox must contain a selection of hand tools. These tools are particularly crucial for applying the finishing touches to your work. Let’s review the list for further details. 7. Chisel Chisels used for concrete bumps and surfaces are used quite frequently in building projects. These chisels tend to have a handle and a strong edge blade to cut through concrete. 8. Tile cutter Tile cutters are used to cut tiles in different shapes and sizes. 9. Surface earth rammer Earth rammers play a significant role in large construction projects. These construction tools are designed to compress or compact soil effectively. 10. Hand saw If you’re working with wood materials, you are going to need a hand saw. Also known as panel saws, these tools help cut pieces of wood into different shapes. 11. Float A float is used to smooth a wooden surface that’s applied on freshly laid mortar and concrete. 12. Putty knives In simple terms, putty knives are designed for applying and spreading materials. They come in various widths; narrow blades are generally used for filling small nail holes, while wide blades are suitable for covering larger surfaces. 13. Caulking gun Caulk is used to seal cracks and gaps. A caulking gun allows people to use caulks efficiently. Organizers & Accessories For any construction work, you are going to need more than just hand and power tools. You are also going to use a number of accessories. These tools will make your life easier in many different ways. Let’s take a quick look. 14. 5-gallon bucket A durable 5-gallon bucket is essential when you are working with water and paint. 15. Ladder To reach difficult to access corners, you’re going to need a ladder. 16. Step-stool Step stools are essential from a practical standpoint. These are useful when you need a little extra height to reach corners safely. 17. Extension cords (25′ and 100′) While these are essential, especially when electrical work is in progress, extension cords need to be handled with caution. Equipment Since your work will involve materials such as cement, it’s important to invest in suitable equipment that can come in handy. Let’s take a quick look at some of these tools. 18. Plumb bob Plumb bobs are useful for establishing vertical walls in construction projects or doorjambs while hanging a door. 19. Plumb rule A narrow board with a plumb line and bob, a plumb rule, is used mainly in carpentry projects. 20. Concrete mixer As the name suggests, a concrete mixer combines cement, water, and aggregates such as gravel or sand to create concrete. 21. Polisher Using a polisher allows you to contour to uneven flooring, resulting in a more balanced operation. 22. Measuring box A measuring box is used to measure construction materials such as dust, cement and sand. 23. Head pan The head pan helps you lift the excavated soil or concrete with ease. 24. Air compressors Air compressors provide energy for power tools such as grinders, drills and nail guns, among others. Essential Supplies 25. Circular saw blades To achieve fast, straight, cold cutting in metal, you will need circular saw blades. 26. Slab panels A variety of slab panels are utilized in construction projects. Based on your requirements, you can select from several options, including flat slabs, hardy slabs, and sunken slabs, among others. Safety Equipment For obvious reasons, the construction industry is considered one of the most hazardous segments in the country. That’s why it’s even more important to keep a stock of safety equipment including gloves and glasses. Let’s take a look at some of the essential safety equipment you are going to need for your business. 27. Safety glasses For your own safety, invest in safety glasses that can protect you from hazardous objects. 28. Earplugs Construction professionals work in extremely noisy environments that pose a serious risk to hearing. Hearing protection gear such as earplugs is therefore important to prevent any damage. 29. Kneepads Kneepads provide cushioning support when kneeling, which is quite common in construction work. Specialized Tools Alongside the essential tools and equipment required for construction work, there are specialized construction tools that assist in completing specific tasks. Let’s take a look. 30. Air hammer Air hammers are used in both construction and demolition jobs. These pneumatic tools can remove tiles, break down concrete surfaces and chisel through metal such as steel. 31. Torque wrenches An efficient tool, torque wrenches are used to apply a specific torque to a fastener such as a nut or a bolt. Where Do You Dispose of Waste Like Excess Concrete? To dispose of waste like excess concrete, you have some process options to consider. You may choose to rent a dumpster, take it to the landfill yourself, contact a junk hauling company or donate to your local community for future projects. Which Tool Is Used the Most by Construction Workers? Among all other construction tools, hammers are possibly the most commonly used ones in the construction industry. What Does an Initial Investment in Construction Tools Look Like? To get hold of the basic tools you’re going to need, you can get started with $2,000. Final Thoughts As with any other business, you should start by making a list of tools you truly need to set up things. Remember, you can always rent out tools that cost more and are not going to be used frequently. The more prepared you are, the greater your chances to succeed. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: How to Start a Construction Company Best Work Boots for Men Ultimate Guide to the Best Work Boots for Women Best Work Gloves for Women The Best Work Pants for Women Image: Envato Elements This article, "Construction Tools – Your List for Starting a Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Starting your own construction business? You’ll need a variety of construction tools to properly establish your operations. Fortunately, unlike in ancient times, obtaining these tools is no longer a difficult task when launching a construction project. Considerations When Choosing Tools for Construction As a small business owner, you have to consider several factors before you start collecting your construction tools. Let’s take a look at some of the key considerations to keep in mind. Rent or buy: Every business is different, and every business owner has a different budget to consider. That’s why, in many cases, it may make sense to rent your materials rather than make a direct purchase. The bare minimum: When you begin creating your list, you’ll quickly discover that there are numerous tools to think about. However, in the early stages of your business, do you truly require all these materials? Probably not. By starting with just the essential construction tools, you can keep your budget in check and expand your inventory as your financial situation improves. Quality of the tools: Quality is a key parameter when you buy or rent any construction tool. In some cases, investing in high-quality materials is a good idea, especially when you’re not too familiar with them. Ease of use: A fancy tool with several cool features is not useful when it’s too complicated to handle. That’s why it’s important to make sure the tool you’re considering is easy to use. Type of projects: You don’t need to undertake all types of projects when you set up your business. If you’re focused on repairs, you’re not going to need many tools for the more heavy-duty projects. List of Construction Tools to Use at Construction Sites Regardless of your specialty in building construction, you’ll require certain tools to begin your work. To assist you in selecting the appropriate ones, we’ve compiled a list of essential construction tools. Power Tools On top of your list, you must include some power tools. These construction tools are needed in most projects – both big and small. Which power tools should you focus on for your business? Let’s take a quick look. 1. Circular saw These tools use a rotary motion for cutting. These are mostly used for cutting plastic, masonry, and wood. 2. Power drill Whether it’s buffing or sanding, power drills always come in handy. You can opt for a cordless drill that comes with a charger and battery. 3. Angle grinder An angle grinder is used for grinding and polishing. It’s a handheld tool that helps remove excess material from a certain piece. 4. Brad Nailer Brad nailers are generally used to add decorative moldings to plain panels. These are popular with model makers and crafters. 5. Heat gun If you’re working on remodeling projects that involve stripping old wallpapers and upholstering, you’re most likely going to need a heat gun. 6. Miter saw For cutting materials at various angles, professionals utilize miter saws. These powerful construction tools are capable of making precise cross-cuts and are available in several sizes. Hand Tools Among other essentials, your toolbox must contain a selection of hand tools. These tools are particularly crucial for applying the finishing touches to your work. Let’s review the list for further details. 7. Chisel Chisels used for concrete bumps and surfaces are used quite frequently in building projects. These chisels tend to have a handle and a strong edge blade to cut through concrete. 8. Tile cutter Tile cutters are used to cut tiles in different shapes and sizes. 9. Surface earth rammer Earth rammers play a significant role in large construction projects. These construction tools are designed to compress or compact soil effectively. 10. Hand saw If you’re working with wood materials, you are going to need a hand saw. Also known as panel saws, these tools help cut pieces of wood into different shapes. 11. Float A float is used to smooth a wooden surface that’s applied on freshly laid mortar and concrete. 12. Putty knives In simple terms, putty knives are designed for applying and spreading materials. They come in various widths; narrow blades are generally used for filling small nail holes, while wide blades are suitable for covering larger surfaces. 13. Caulking gun Caulk is used to seal cracks and gaps. A caulking gun allows people to use caulks efficiently. Organizers & Accessories For any construction work, you are going to need more than just hand and power tools. You are also going to use a number of accessories. These tools will make your life easier in many different ways. Let’s take a quick look. 14. 5-gallon bucket A durable 5-gallon bucket is essential when you are working with water and paint. 15. Ladder To reach difficult to access corners, you’re going to need a ladder. 16. Step-stool Step stools are essential from a practical standpoint. These are useful when you need a little extra height to reach corners safely. 17. Extension cords (25′ and 100′) While these are essential, especially when electrical work is in progress, extension cords need to be handled with caution. Equipment Since your work will involve materials such as cement, it’s important to invest in suitable equipment that can come in handy. Let’s take a quick look at some of these tools. 18. Plumb bob Plumb bobs are useful for establishing vertical walls in construction projects or doorjambs while hanging a door. 19. Plumb rule A narrow board with a plumb line and bob, a plumb rule, is used mainly in carpentry projects. 20. Concrete mixer As the name suggests, a concrete mixer combines cement, water, and aggregates such as gravel or sand to create concrete. 21. Polisher Using a polisher allows you to contour to uneven flooring, resulting in a more balanced operation. 22. Measuring box A measuring box is used to measure construction materials such as dust, cement and sand. 23. Head pan The head pan helps you lift the excavated soil or concrete with ease. 24. Air compressors Air compressors provide energy for power tools such as grinders, drills and nail guns, among others. Essential Supplies 25. Circular saw blades To achieve fast, straight, cold cutting in metal, you will need circular saw blades. 26. Slab panels A variety of slab panels are utilized in construction projects. Based on your requirements, you can select from several options, including flat slabs, hardy slabs, and sunken slabs, among others. Safety Equipment For obvious reasons, the construction industry is considered one of the most hazardous segments in the country. That’s why it’s even more important to keep a stock of safety equipment including gloves and glasses. Let’s take a look at some of the essential safety equipment you are going to need for your business. 27. Safety glasses For your own safety, invest in safety glasses that can protect you from hazardous objects. 28. Earplugs Construction professionals work in extremely noisy environments that pose a serious risk to hearing. Hearing protection gear such as earplugs is therefore important to prevent any damage. 29. Kneepads Kneepads provide cushioning support when kneeling, which is quite common in construction work. Specialized Tools Alongside the essential tools and equipment required for construction work, there are specialized construction tools that assist in completing specific tasks. Let’s take a look. 30. Air hammer Air hammers are used in both construction and demolition jobs. These pneumatic tools can remove tiles, break down concrete surfaces and chisel through metal such as steel. 31. Torque wrenches An efficient tool, torque wrenches are used to apply a specific torque to a fastener such as a nut or a bolt. Where Do You Dispose of Waste Like Excess Concrete? To dispose of waste like excess concrete, you have some process options to consider. You may choose to rent a dumpster, take it to the landfill yourself, contact a junk hauling company or donate to your local community for future projects. Which Tool Is Used the Most by Construction Workers? Among all other construction tools, hammers are possibly the most commonly used ones in the construction industry. What Does an Initial Investment in Construction Tools Look Like? To get hold of the basic tools you’re going to need, you can get started with $2,000. Final Thoughts As with any other business, you should start by making a list of tools you truly need to set up things. Remember, you can always rent out tools that cost more and are not going to be used frequently. The more prepared you are, the greater your chances to succeed. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: How to Start a Construction Company Best Work Boots for Men Ultimate Guide to the Best Work Boots for Women Best Work Gloves for Women The Best Work Pants for Women Image: Envato Elements This article, "Construction Tools – Your List for Starting a Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Hedge fund manager suggested healthcare group could be inflating its profitsView the full article

Before a wildfire ravaged their street in northwest Altadena, Louise Hamlin and Chris Wilson lived next door to each other in nearly identical houses. “I chose an old home in an old neighborhood because it has soul,” said Hamlin, a 51-year-old single mom with a teenage boy, who bought her 1,500-square-foot home 10 years ago. Today, gone are their charming English-style cottages built in 1925 with the welcoming porches and Palladian windows. Amid the rubble and ash, little is left of their historic neighborhood. In the weeks since the Eaton wildfire took their homes, Hamlin and Wilson have been stumbling through the layers of business, bureaucracy and emotional trauma of surviving a natural disaster, with their sights firmly set on rebuilding. How they’ll navigate rebuilding is a story of contrasting fortunes and unequal recovery that reveals the nation’s growing home insurance crisis. Her insurance has already paid out nearly a million dollars and she is searching for contractors. He is contemplating loans, lawsuits and moving his family out of California. “It changes the whole trajectory to your life,” said Wilson, 44, who bought his house five years ago with his wife, who is six months pregnant with their first child. ‘The Unfair Plan’ Hamlin’s home was privately covered by Mercury Insurance, but Wilson was forced onto the California Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan — the state’s bare-bones insurance program — when SafeCo declined to renew his policy last May. The FAIR Plan insures people who can’t get private coverage but need insurance as a condition of their mortgage. As wildfires, hurricanes and other natural disasters become more frequent due to climate change, many property owners find themselves struggling to find or afford private insurance. The issue is particularly acute in California, where some major insurance companies have stopped writing new policies altogether or are refusing to renew existing ones. State officials recently started rolling out new regulations to entice insurers to stay in California, with the hope of getting as many homeowners as possible off the FAIR Plan. FAIR, with its high premiums and basic coverage, was designed as a temporary safety net until policyholders find a more permanent option. Yet the number of FAIR Plan residential policies more than doubled from 2020 to 2024, reaching nearly 452,000 policies last year. For Wilson and Hamlin, their parallel rebuilding journeys serve as a cautionary tale. Wilson paid nearly 60% more in premiums related to the fire than Hamlin, for less than half the coverage. “That’s why a lot of people call it ‘The Unfair Plan.’” said Amy Bach, executive director of the consumer advocacy group United Policyholders. SafeCo’s parent company Liberty Mutual said in a statement that it couldn’t comment on any individual policies but acknowledged “difficult but purposeful business decisions” in California. Mercury didn’t respond to requests for comment. Janet Ruiz, spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, which represents many major insurance companies, said California is fortunate to have the FAIR Plan, which is required to accept everyone. Ruiz said outcomes would be even worse if homeowners had no coverage at all. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara said California is working to make sure all claims are paid. He said in a statement that his office is working to get homeowners off the FAIR Plan and back to traditional more comprehensive insurance coverage. A FAIR Plan spokesperson declined to comment on Wilson’s case, and noted that it’s difficult to compare policies and coverage. 31,000 wildfire claims Thousands of people lost their homes in the Eaton and nearby Palisades fires, which were among the most destructive in California history. The FAIR Plan said it expanded staffing to meet the surging demand and has a funding mechanism in place to pay all covered claims. State data shows more than 31,000 wildfire-related claims had been filed as of last week, including roughly 4,400 claims under the FAIR Plan. Hamlin had standard comprehensive home insurance, with an annual policy premium of $1,264 at the time of the fire. She can receive up to $1.5 million to replace her home, other structures and personal property, including up to $303,000 for living expenses while displaced. Her policy further entitles her to coverage that could add more than $200,000 to help her rebuild. Wilson, meanwhile, pays a $2,000 premium for the FAIR Plan that sets his maximum payout at $686,000, including $100,000 for living expenses while displaced. Wilson also had to buy “wrap-around insurance” for $1,500 a year for issues the FAIR Plan doesn’t cover, such as burst pipes or falling objects. That supplemental plan doesn’t cover fire damage. Hamlin said Mercury’s support has been exceptional, immediately sending her money and helping with next steps such as finding housing and getting contractor quotes. Within days, the company wired her tens of thousands of dollars to get started while the process fell into place. “Being able to rest at night and wake up and deal with everything else is really important,” Hamlin said. Meanwhile, Wilson has struggled to even talk to a FAIR Plan representative. There was zero communication in the first two weeks, contact information was listed incorrectly, phone numbers had no voicemail and emails bounced back. “Half the time, I feel like I’m doing something wrong,” Wilson said. After The Associated Press reached out for comment, Insurance Department spokesperson Michael Soller said a representative would contact Wilson directly. ‘It’s just luck, really’ Wilson said he feels haunted by his choices. He thought he had bought property in a low-risk area, and had avoided looking for homes in another neighborhood further north after hearing that people there had been dropped by their insurers. Hamlin, too, was aware of the fire risks when she moved in. She previously lived in Pasadena and was surprised that State Farm, her then-insurance company, would not offer her coverage in Altadena. She chose Mercury because it was the cheapest option, and was considering pursuing even more robust coverage. “I could have been dropped when Chris was dropped. Any of us could be at any time. It’s just luck, really. It’s nothing I did or didn’t do,” Hamlin said, stunned by the comparison. “I had the same risk factors as everyone else.” Stephen Collier, a professor of urban planning at University of California, Berkeley, said the seemingly random nature of who gets dropped and when has much to do with insurance companies’ complicated risk models. “They’re all trying to manage their exposure,” Collier said. “If you think about wildfires, you don’t want concentrated exposure.” Wilson said SafeCo requested an inspection of his property before deciding not to renew his policy. Panicked, he tried unsuccessfully to negotiate with them, offering to clear brushes, trim trees near the roof, and other wildfire mitigation efforts. Wilson shopped around aggressively with his insurance agent but to no avail, and resigned himself to the FAIR Plan, assuming he would eventually find private insurance again. There was another catch: Wilson said he couldn’t get comprehensive replacement cost coverage on the FAIR Plan because his roof was too old. Instead, he ended up with what is known as “actual cash value” coverage, which greatly limits the payout based on the physical depreciation of what was lost. “We’re talking hundreds of thousands of dollars and that’s very, very painful,” said Bach of United Policyholders. An uninsurable future Citing rising fire risks and other problems, seven of the top 12 insurance companies either paused or restricted new business in California in 2023. State regulations give insurers more latitude to raise premiums in exchange for issuing policies in high-risk areas, including consideration of climate change in premiums and passing the costs of reinsurance to consumers. But those are only short-term solutions, said Dave Jones, California’s insurance commissioner from 2011 to 2018. He pointed to Florida, where officials have “done everything the insurers asked California to do” but yielded little success. “We’re marching steadily towards an uninsurable future in the United States because we’re not doing enough fast enough to address the underlying cause, which is climate change,” Jones said. Unless governments take on the financial burden of serious mitigation efforts, the price of California’s fire risk will remain unequal and left to the homeowners, Collier of UC Berkeley said. That could be the underinsured — like Wilson — swallowing their personal losses, or all California homeowners collectively saddled with increased premiums, or both. State Farm, California’s largest insurance company, this week urged the state to approve an emergency rate hike of 22% for homeowner policies starting in May after processing nearly 8,700 claims and paying out more than $1 billion to policyholders for the LA fires. “There’s a huge amount of risk in the system and there’s a big question of who is going to pay for this,” Collier said. Wilson expects he’ll have to take out loans to rebuild. He’s considering joining a lawsuit against Southern California Edison that alleges the utility’s equipment sparked the blaze, in hopes of receiving settlement money. But with a baby on the way, Wilson said he can’t fathom living in limbo on the FAIR Plan forever, and he’s thinking about leaving California if private insurance remains out of reach. “I don’t want to have to be prepared to maybe lose everything again,” Wilson said. “Stuck paying for an insurance that doesn’t cover anything. You don’t want to live in a risky area. You don’t have the safety net.” —Sally Ho and Trân Nguyễn, Associated Press Associated Press data journalist Aaron Kessler contributed to this report. View the full article

When Joe Biden left office last month, he did so having forgiven more student loan debt than any of his predecessors—a total of $188.8 billion for 5.3 million borrowers over his four-year term. And yet, at the end of 2024, the total outstanding federal student loan debt was roughly $1.7 trillion, held by nearly 43 million borrowers. That’s more than when Biden took office. So, despite a four-year stretch during which the Biden administration actively forgave billions, it seemingly didn’t put a dent in the overall student debt balance. How can that be? It’s complicated, and there were several factors at play. For one, there was a long pause in student loan repayments due to the pandemic, during which borrowers were not required to make any payments and their loans didn’t accrue any interest, for a roughly three-and-a-half-year period between March 2020 and September 2023. During that time, borrowers were still able to borrow, adding to overall debt counts, but payments weren’t coming in to counteract it. The net effect? Total debt tallies increased. Additionally, college tuition and fees have continued to rise at an average of 7% annually over the past 20 years. Those additional costs mean that each year’s new crop of borrowers are taking on more debt than the ones before them, and many of those new borrowers are years away from starting repayments, presumably after they earn their degrees and enter the workforce. Why Biden’s loan forgiveness didn’t lower aggregate student debt In all, the Biden administration forgave around 12% of outstanding student federal loan debt, says Mark Kantrowitz, a higher education and financial aid expert. But “the total forgiveness was only $188 billion, which is the amount of new debt that accumulates in about two years. So, it was a two-steps forward, one-step back situation,” he says. In other words, the “crosscurrents” at play—more debt, less progress in paying down current debt, and Biden’s forgiveness programs—led us to a place where more debt accumulated over the past four years. We also don’t know how many people are actively repaying their loans after the pandemic-era pause, as the data has yet to be released, Kantrowitz says. But he does think that we’re likely to see total student debt levels increase with Trump back in office. That’s because there’s likely to be fewer, if any, new forgiveness programs, a scaling back of existing programs, and perhaps more lender-friendly legislation. Effectively, the environment could be the opposite of the Biden era’s. What’s causing the student loan crisis? Biden’s measures, which were of a higher caliber than any of his predecessors’, weren’t enough to reverse the total debt balance from rising. Getting to the heart of the issue may require looking deeper at what’s actually causing the student loan crisis. According to a September 2024 analysis by academic researchers Adam Looney and Constantine Yannelis and published by the Brookings Institution, part of the problem may be unintended consequences. The federal government wanted to make college degrees more affordable and attainable to more Americans, so it changed federal aid rules allowing for more people to access funding to pay for school. While those were noble aims, it isn’t necessarily what happened. “This led to rising enrollment of relatively disadvantaged students, but the increase was primarily at poor-performing, low-value institutions whose students systematically failed to complete a degree, struggled to repay their loans, defaulted at high rates, and floundered in the job market,” the report reads. “As these new borrowers experienced similarly poor outcomes, their loans piled up, loan performance deteriorated, and with it the finances of the federal program.” Kantrowitz agrees that students failing to earn their degrees is likely a focal point of the issue. “I’m not one of those people who believe that there’s a student loan problem that needs to be fixed,” he says, “so much as that we have a college completion problem.” He claims that the borrowers who generally have trouble repaying their loans and end up in dire financial situations as a result are those who take on debt, but don’t graduate—they pay a financial penalty but don’t reap the rewards in terms of career and earning opportunities that a college degree provides. With that in mind, Kantrowitz thinks that getting students to actually graduate may be the single biggest step we can take to help ease the pain of overall student debt balances. “What we need to do is find better ways to get students to the finish line,” he says. “If they get a degree that has value, they should be able to repay the student loans.” View the full article

If you’ve ever felt like you were duped by overpaying for something that was advertised as a “great deal,” you’re in the right place. It’s easy to get caught up in frenzied online shopping holidays like Black Friday or Prime Day, especially when retailers are known for sneaking price hikes before major “sales” or deceiving shoppers with tricks to spend more than you intended to. Figuring out the best time to buy something requires constant watch over ever-fluctuating online prices and some knowledge of how prices have changed in the past. As a shopping and deal writer, that is what I do for a living, and I know how time-consuming it can be. Luckily, you don’t have to figure it all out yourself: Here are the best websites and extensions I've been using for years to check price history and track prices so that you can be sure you’re getting the best deal possible. The best Amazon price tracker: Camelcamelcamel Credit: Camelcamelcamel.com CamelCamelCamel is among the best ways to track prices on Amazon products. You can install the browser extension (on Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera, and Safari) to get access to the site’s features without leaving Amazon, or you can just copy and paste an Amazon link or product name to the website’s search bar. CamelCamelCamel shows you how the price of the item has gone up or down over time, how prices have changed through Amazon directly, and the fluctuations from third-party Amazon sellers who list new and used items. If you sign up for a free account, you can set up alerts so the site can notify you by email when the price of an item drops below a certain amount, if you can get it used for a given price, or if it’s at an all-time low and now is a good time to buy. You can even see previous historic highs and lows and try to map out the best time to strike. The best price tracker for most online retailers and to compare prices: Honey Credit: Honey.com You've probably already heard of the Honey influencer scam that blew up in December of 2024. Essentially, Honey hijacked affiliate links from influencers who were sponsoring them. Also, in many instances, they deliberately chose not to give the best coupons to users who used the extension (going completely against their business model). Honey is not alone in this behavior. Many coupon aggregator companies hijack affiliate links; Honey just happens to be in the spotlight because they're the biggest one. Use your own judgment if you choose to use any of their services. The bad news for those looking for a price-tracking tool that can be used for most online retailers is that Honey is the only option. The good news is that Honey's price-tracking tool can't scam you or give you subpar coupons. The Honey browser extension compares prices from a whole bunch of retailers, not just Amazon. You can create a Droplist, which notifies you if the prices drop for an item on your list if you’re willing to wait for a deal. Here is what creating a Droplist can do for you: First, it’ll keep the items you want to keep tabs on organized and easily accessible. Second, it’ll track the prices of those products and alert you when they go on sale at any major retailer. You can see how much those prices cost leading up to the sale to see if they are, in fact, good deals or a trick from retailers to take advantage of you, and even compare them with other major retailers to see who has the best deal. You can see how to set up your droplist here. As long as you don't buy the products using a Honey link, you won't be giving money to the service. You can still use their tool to your advantage without giving them any of the affiliate revenue. Until there's a better alternative, Honey is the only option that can instantly pull up price histories and track prices for multiple retailers with a browser extension (for now). The best tool to compare prices: Capital One Shopping Credit: Amazon.com Capital One Shopping, previously known as Wikibuy, compares prices from other sellers when you shop on Amazon. The browser extension will notify you if a product you are looking at is cheaper somewhere else, and offers a summary of pricing history, estimated delivery time, and total price, including tax and shipping. If you can apply a coupon, it’ll add that as well. When the price drops for a product you’ve viewed, Capital One Shopping will notify you. When you shop, you can earn credits for your purchases at some websites, like Walmart and eBay, that Capital One Shopping has partnered with. You can trade that credit for gift cards or put it toward purchases through Capital One Shopping’s site. The extension is available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari, and an iOS app allows you to scan barcodes and search products to do price comparisons from your phone. The best price tracker tool for gamers: CheapShark Credit: CheapShark.com While most of the others in the roundup focus on products like electronics, apparel, household goods, and appliances, CheapShark is a great option for those looking to save money on video games. CheapShark combines all of the great places to get discounts on games in one place, one easily searchable directory and database of current prices from sites including Steam, GoG, Green Man Gaming, GameStop, Amazon, and more. Of course, it’s limited to video games, but you can search a game name not just to see how much it’ll cost you to buy, but even if you can buy it at all—and which retailer has it available. If you want, you can even filter by games currently on sale at their selected stores. When you search for a specific game, CheapShark tells you what the cheapest-ever price was, when it hit that price, and gives you the choice to either go ahead and buy it from your choice of retailer or to sign up for a price notification if it drops again. Honorable mentionsSlickDeals: Great for finding deals and checking pricesSlickDeals is known for bringing you up-to-the-minute discounts, coupons, and other deals from around the web, but its web-based price tracker is also great for watching prices on just about any item on Amazon and on a ton of other popular shopping sites, like Newegg, Gamestop, Chewy, Home Depot, and others. Credit: SlickDeals The service doesn’t give you a detailed price history like some of the others in the roundup—it only shows a “deal history” under the “price intelligence” section for a few popular products. However, it will track the price of your item from when you create an alert and send you an email if the price drops below a threshold that you set. You can also return to the price tracker at any time, log in to your account, and see all of your tracked items on the same screen. Keepa: Great price-tracking tool for Amazon and eBay Credit: Amazon.com using the Keepa browser extension Keepa works very similarly to Camelcamelcamel, but instead of clicking on the extension to see the price history, it'll be automatically displayed below the image of the product. This helps if clicking on the extension or installing is one click too much for you. Keepa also lets you track specific products and sends you notifications when they go below a specific price that you set. It also works on eBay. You can download the extension for Firefox, Chrome, Opera, Edge, and Safari. View the full article

Other issues have overshadowed closing costs of late but they're still a homeownership hurdle. Part five of five in a series: Automation and expenses View the full article

Chipotle—one of the original and most influential fast-casual spots in the country—just hit a major milestone. In 2024, they opened 304 new restaurants, marking the highest number of openings in a single year in their franchise history, according to a Tuesday earnings call. For a bit of context, they opened 271 locations in 2023, and in the two years before that, they were hovering just above 200 each year. And the growth isn’t slowing down—they’re planning to open between 315 and 345 new restaurants in 2025. The fast-casual juggernaut also reported a total revenue of $11.3 billion—an increase of 14.6% from last year’s $9.9 billion. The chain’s operating margin and diluted earnings per share also increased. “Chipotle had another outstanding year,” CEO Scott Boatwright said during the call. “I want to make sure that as we continue to scale Chipotle, everything we do is in service of our guests or those who serve our guests.” While Chipotle excelled in 2024, many fast-casual competitors struggled to stay afloat, with many beloved chains shutting down or filing for bankruptcy in the past year. The majority of Wahlburgers locations shut down in January after its partnership with midwestern grocery store Hy-Vee ended. Roti, a chain that pioneered mediterranean-style fast casual, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in August. Red Lobster and Buca di Beppo—both former giants of their field—also filed for bankruptcy last year. But other competitors like Cava and Sweetgreen have experienced record highs similar to Chipotle. Overall, “comparable” restaurant sales still increased by 7.4%, a little more than half of Chipotle’s growth. And Chipotle’s expansion comes at a time of reinvention for the restaurant that transformed “fast-casual” from a concept to a cultural zeitgeist with its fully customizable Mexican-style entrees. After Chipotle dealt with an onslaught of food safety scares from 2015–2018, CEO Brian Niccols stepped in—doubling the brand’s revenue over five years. He added loyalty programs, drive-throughs, delivery options, and even robot chefs to the chain’s repertoire of enticing customer-facing features. But Niccols abruptly left the position in September to run Starbucks, leaving former COO Boatwright as his successor. Since Boatwright’s ascension, the company raised menu prices, drawing consumer outrage, after promising to increase portions. The company has also struggled with adjusting wages to inflation. Boatwight said on the earnings call that long-term goals for the company include reaching 7,000 total restaurants in North America (there are currently 3,700 worldwide) and “becoming a global iconic brand.” View the full article

Gen Z consumers use Instagram and TikTok more often to discover products than Google. That’s according to a new survey from GRIN, a creator management platform. By the numbers. Asked where they most often discover new products, 18- to 27-year-old consumers said: Instagram: 30.4% TikTok: 23.2% Google: 18.8% YouTube: 14.5% However, Google isn’t going away anytime soon. Millennials (42.45), Gen X (41.1%), and Boomers (55.9%) and still rely on Google Search first. Why we care. Younger consumers search differently. They have more widely adopted social search than classic search compared to other generations. Social platforms have become hubs of information discovery. SEO continues to be a valuable channel – but it’s also part of a wider, integrated strategy that’s all about reaching and influencing consumers, wherever they are in the buyer journey. About the data. The findings are based on a survey of more than 1,000 U.S. consumers, age 18 to 65+. The report. The Power of Infuence (registration required). View the full article

Prime minister fends off his first no-confidence vote and pushes through delayed spending plansView the full article

Whether it's because of dietary restrictions, because you accidentally left them off the grocery list, or—I don't know—the price tag got too high, eggless desserts are a great thing to have in your baking arsenal. While you can try and replicate puddings, cakes, custards, and meringues with vegan ingredients, they can sometimes come up short when compared to the original. Luckily, there are many desserts that don’t call for any eggs to begin with. Never did. Here are my favorite egg-free desserts that are sure to satisfy every sweet tooth at your table. Strawberry shortcake Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann I’ll never turn away a strawberry shortcake. (If “I” do, that’s a clone, save me.) Any single component can stand well enough on its own, but together, they transform into magnificence. Make a soft, oversized (naturally eggless) buttermilk biscuit for the cake, like these funfetti-style ones, or these tender oat flour biscuits. Split it, and pile on the strawberries and whipped cream. BrigadeirosChewy, chocolatey, and made with just a few ingredients, the brigadeiro is a gift from Brazil. Grab a can of sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and a little butter. Stir them together in a pot for 10-15 minutes, and you’re nearly done. Roll them into bite-sized balls and press ‘em into sprinkles, chopped nuts, or coconut. A batch of these makes a lovely Valentine’s day gift for your beloved, or a nice anytime treat for yourself. Nutella-banana lava cake Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Pastries, puddings, and pies are fabulous, but sometimes there’s no substitute for cake. To make a cake that doesn’t require the lifting or binding power of eggs, try this Nutella-banana lava cake. The flavor combination of chocolate, hazelnut, and banana is a crowd-pleaser, but the banana acts as a stealth binding agent, eliminating the need for eggs. Drop in a spoonful of Nutella in the center and you’ve got a gooey “lava” that doesn’t require the specific timing of other lava cake recipes. Coconut peanut mochiMochi is made with sweet glutinous rice flour to create a chewy, slightly sticky delight that can be used in a number of ways. You may have seen it in the freezer section of your grocery store surrounding little balls of ice cream, but the center can be stuffed with a wide variety of fillings. One of my favorites is coconut peanut mochi. Make the chewy mochi dough, fill the center with a sugary, peanut powder, and press the edges shut to form a tiny ball. Roll the entire morsel in shredded coconut and enjoy. Panna cottaFor a dessert that’s not too sweet, plenty creamy, and simple yet impressive, look no further than the Italian panna cotta. There are hundreds of variations on this simple dessert of gelatin-set sweetened cream because the base flavors are flexible, and it’s easy to make. With little more than five base ingredients, panna cotta comes together in about 10 minutes. Allow it to set in the fridge for a few hours and enjoy it as-is, or top it with fresh fruit, caramel sauce, coconut shavings, or fruit compote. For a creative spin on the classic, try this cookie dough panna cotta. Chocolate peanut butter pudding pie Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann I grew up eating tofu, and I love it sweet, savory, silken, or firm. Anyone who hasn’t jumped aboard the tofu train should try a chocolate peanut butter tofu pudding pie. The tofu is completely undetectable among the chocolate and peanut butter, and you're left with a fudgey, sweet indulgence. The whole dessert comes together in a blender to make a deeply chocolatey, cool, and silky smooth pudding worthy of date night. Serve in a graham cracker crust as a pie, or simply dollop the mixture into fancy pudding glasses with a swirl of whipped cream, or chocolate shavings. Fruit piesFruit pies are simple delights that require no eggs at all. (Besides a purely aesthetic, completely optional egg wash on top that you can easily forgo, or use mayo instead.) Press a flaky butter or shortening crust into a pie plate and load it up with a seasonal cooked fruit filling (no one likes watery pie). The only thing you’ll need is a fork, and a heavy hand for the whipped cream. Breton cakeThe Breton cake is the party-sized version of the single-serving, crispy, caramelized kouign amann pastry. It’s composed of tender layers of dough, butter, and sugar, and baked in a 9-inch circular cake pan. While baking, its outside sugar crust caramelizes against the metal pan, and creates a palmier-style crunch, while inside, the butter melts into the dough layers. When served fresh, each bite is fluffy, rich, tender, and encased in the most delicately crisp caramel crust. Like many pastries, the recipe will suggest browning the top with a light coat of egg wash, but it’s not necessary if you’re backing off of eggs (and again, mayo works pretty well). I promise you, a final flourish of sugar will take care of the aesthetic. No-bake desserts Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann One of the primary reasons you bake a dessert is to cook raw ingredients. When no eggs are involved, baking becomes a lot easier to avoid. Fudgy, dense, eggless desserts are usually a good place to start. Try a no-bake cheesecake trifle that sets up in the fridge, or a no-bake panna colada pie (see what I did there). Chocolate trufflesThe chocolate truffle is a highly concentrated dose of fudgy chocolate. Whisk a roughly 2:1 ratio of dark chocolate pieces with hot heavy cream to create a thick chocolate ganache. That alone will send you into a chocolate delirium, but let it cool, and you can roll up spoonfuls of the stuff into balls of silky chocolate contentment. At this point, you can cram them into your mouth, or roll them in chopped nuts, coconut, cocoa powder, or powdered sugar to keep them from sticking together and add a bit of extra flavor. Kaju katliSome occasions call for a dessert that’s simple and dainty. Kaju katli, also called kaju barfi, is just the thing. Made from a cooked sugar syrup, floral aromatics, and ground cashews, this Indian dessert is satisfying and packed with flavor. You can decorate the top with a coating of edible silver leaf, or keep it simple with a sprinkle of crushed nuts. Pizza dough cinnamon rolls Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Rather than cracking into your egg supply to make an enriched dough, you can use a bag of store-bought, refrigerated pizza dough to make a cinnamon roll that’s way better than anything that comes out of a can. (Use this recipe to roll up a batch of your own.) Keep an eye on them as they finish baking so they don't overcook, and you’ll be rewarded with tender rolls packed with buttery, cinnamon flavor. Sorbet, frozen yogurt, and granitaMaking your own frozen desserts can be a lot of fun, especially if you have some children who need something to do. Making ice cream requires egg yolks or whole eggs, so make a sorbet, frozen yogurt, or granita instead. Sorbets and granitas are closely related, so it’s more a question of what texture you’re seeking. Both usually involve blending fruit with a sugar syrup. Granita is frozen and grated with a fork intermittently while freezing to make a shaved ice, while sorbet is aerated with a blender or ice cream maker for a softer, smoother texture. Frozen yogurt is just as simple, but churned with a dairy base, and the consistency of the yogurt smooths things out without the need for egg yolks. Shortbread cookiesPerfect in its simplicity, the shortbread cookie is made with three pantry staples: butter, sugar, and flour. The lack of a strong binder, like eggs, allows this biscuit to crumble and melt in your mouth. Mix up the dough with softened butter and shape into balls, squares, or press it into a tart shell. Honey apple puffs Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Store-bought frozen puff pastry makes this elegant treat easier than it looks. Simply cut out rounds of the thawed dough and top each circle with a slice of apple. I should mention that it's not just a boring ol' raw apple. The slices get sautéed in a puddle of butter first, preventing dry, leathery slices and imbuing them with rich flavor. Top the baked rounds with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving. Millionaire shortbread tartDid someone say shortbread tart shell? I know the perfect thing to fill it with: a soft, slightly chewy caramel. Top it off with a rich layer of dark chocolate, and you’ve got a millionaire shortbread tart. Millionaire shortbread is normally cut into bars, but there’s no law against slicing it into pie-like wedges. Eggless key lime pieIt may be 25°F outside, but you can bite into a summertime treat nonetheless. This three-ingredient key lime pie uses sweetened condensed milk as the clutch base ingredient to provide sweetness and body. For a vegan version with sweetened condensed coconut milk, try this recipe. Other recipes for chill-and-serve key lime pies use cream cheese or whipped cream to create a fluffier base. Before settling on a recipe, decide if you want something dense and silky or light and fluffy, then choose your base accordingly. Whichever you choose, make sure to let it set in the fridge before slicing. Fried dough Credit: Claire Lower There’s fancy food, and then there’s comfort food. Fried dough, in all of its global iterations, is the most comforting. Take the pressure off of yourself and pick up a bag of premade pizza dough from the fridge or freezer section, and turn it into your favorite deep-fried county fair treat. Fry the pieces and toss them in powdered sugar for a simple batch of zeppoles, or try your hand at fried Oreos. Wrap the dough around a cookie, secure the seam well, and fry. Eggless tres leches cakeTres leches is a single layer cake with an open crumb, perfect for soaking up a sweet mixture of three different milks. Evaporated milk, whole milk, and sweetened condensed milk are blended together and poured over a layer of cake. The open crumb soaks up the liquids over the course of several hours, and the whole thing is finished with a whipped topping. The cake layer is usually the component that requires eggs, but luckily there are recipes that don't. If you’d like to stick with the original dairy-based soak, mix genres and bake up the vegan cake, then soak it with the three classic milks. ConfectionsMost confections rely on the structure of melted sugar or melted chocolate, and don’t even bother with eggs. Try your hand at making honeycomb on the stovetop, or melt some chocolate and gather your inclusions to make a gorgeous chocolate bark. Stir peanuts into hot, buttery caramel and cool it in a thin sheet for a delicious peanut brittle. Snap these confections into large or small fragments, and store them in airtight containers to keep out the humidity. View the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. A reader asks: I work for a small company of 25 employees. We still call ourselves a start-up (with all of the cultural elements that brings), but we’ve been around almost 10 years now. The founder believes “titles don’t matter” and it’s more important to focus on the responsibilities each person has. So most people have their official title as basically the department they work for (business development, software engineering, etc), although the management team does have official titles. Do job titles matter? Am I wrong to feel that I want my growth recognized through a new title? I answer this question over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. View the full article

Someone operating a business through eBay will need to be aware of the return policy, as a dissatisfied customer happens to every seller at some point. This complete guide contains everything a business owner needs to know about the eBay return policy and how to issue a refund. What is the eBay Refund Policy? The eBay return policy is very straightforward and follows three simple steps as you can see below. The reasons for returning the item will determine the options of the seller, and these will be examined in detail further below. The eBay process to issue a refund works as follows: Buyers open a return application via the website after changing their minds. Enter reasons for returning the order. Send the order back. Receive a full refund, partial refund, or replacement item. Sellers operating an eBay shop have a three-day window to respond to a return request after it has been submitted. Once the return is approved, the customer will either receive a return shipping label or will be asked to pay for return shipping, depending on the reason for the buyer’s change of heart regarding the purchase. Additionally, eBay offers a money-back guarantee that applies to most transactions, ensuring that buyers receive a refund if their order fails to arrive, is defective or damaged, or does not match the listing. If you’re wondering how to refund a buyer on eBay, this guarantee is a key aspect to consider. Why the Buyer May Want to Return an Item There are four reasons why an honest buyer changes their mind about a purchase: Item doesn’t match the information in the listing description. Delivery of the wrong item. Damaged or defective item. Item arrived too late / no longer needed. How to Issue a Refund via eBay: Simple Steps The refund process from a seller’s point of view is obviously more complicated than it is for the buyer, so here we will run through the steps necessary to perform a refund through eBay. Check your Returns Policy A business owner should always check their returns policy before issuing a requested refund, as there may be a ‘no returns’ rule for certain items. Check or edit your policy via the Sell option after clicking on the My eBay tool at the top of any eBay page. Accept or Decline the Refund Request There is a Returns dashboard on your seller’s homepage where you can accept or decline refund requests. You must respond within 3 business days to each request, though you have the right to dispute the refund claim if you believe it is unwarranted. Select ‘Send Refund’ from the Drop Down Menu in the Seller Hub To issue a full refund, select View Return Details on your dashboard and select Send Refund. You will need to add or edit some extra details before finalizing the refund. Select a Reason for the Refund You have the option to add reasons for the refund for future reference. These can simply be the reasons provided by the buyer or more detailed reasons with extra insight from the seller. Select the Amount to Be Refunded Full refunds will automatically prompt you to refund the total paid for the item by the buyer along with the shipping cost of the problem item, but you can edit the partial refund cost. Decide How the Item will be Sent and Who Pays Shipping Costs The shipping fees of the problem order will be covered by whichever party is responsible for the return. If the problem is the order articles arrived damaged or faulty, then it is the responsibility of the seller to cover the return shipping costs. If the seller is covering the shipping for their part, then they must choose the most suitable carrier for the article from the shipping options available. Send the Refund and Confirm Once you have edited or confirmed the additional details, click Continue. The next page will display the amount to be refunded. Finally, choose the option to Refund the Buyer. What Happens Next? Once the return has been accepted and the refund process outlined above is completed, eBay will inform the buyer of the deadline for returning the items. This timeframe is typically 15 days, although it can extend to 35 days in certain situations. If the seller is responsible for shipping the item, they must supply a shipping label to the buyer. Keep in mind that your transactions with customers contribute to eBay statistics, so it’s important to treat your customers well whenever possible. How to Give a Refund on eBay via Paypal As eBay uses PayPal to process its payments, sellers have the option to issue refunds directly through the online payment method. It has the advantage of allowing the seller to get the transaction fee back via Paypal, minus a processing charge, while many customers like using their email address account for this payment method. The refund via PayPal process is as follows: 1. Click the Activity link on your PayPal account page. 2. Locate the transaction to be refunded. 3. Click the Refund This Payment button. 4. Enter the amount to be refunded and confirm. What is a Partial Refund on eBay? A partial refund occurs when the business owner returns a portion of the total payment. Companies frequently provide partial refunds for issues with an item that do not justify a full return. Situations that may warrant a partial refund include: Minor blemishes. Wrong color product. Wrong logo words. Inexpensive product. How to Issue a Partial Refund on eBay Open your Returns dashboard to offer a partial refund. Select View Return Details beside the item. Click on Offer a Partial Refund and then Continue. Enter the amount of the partial refund. Add words such as comments or questions for the buyer regarding the partial refund. Select Send Offer to propose a partial refund to the buyer. What are the Issues with Partial Refunds? Partial refunds can cause issues if the buyer is not satisfied when the seller wants to offer a partial refund. The customer may challenge with answers insisting on a larger amount of the sale price for reasons such as: Dissatisfaction with service. Different case or holder than advertised (main item fine). Poorer quality item than the customer understood it to be. Things to Note About a Refunded Item When it comes to eBay refunds, whether they are full or partial, sellers should be aware of some additional details. These include: Automatic Relisting – Items that are returned are automatically relisted, so the business owner will need to manually unlist any damaged or faulty items. Final Value Amount Crediting – eBay may credit the final value amount of the item once the return or the issue refund request has been fully resolved. How do I refund a buyer on the eBay app? To initiate the refund process, choose ‘Start Refund’ from the dropdown menu in the Seller Hub. Next, select a reason for the refund, enter the refund amount, and click the ‘Send Refund’ button to finalize the transaction. How do I refund an eBay-managed payment? Managed payments are a good way to sell and get paid in the same place, with buyers able to use a wide variety of eBay-protected ways to pay, including by credit card. To refund via managed payments, follow these steps: Select Send Refund from the dropdown menu in the My eBay Sold tab. Select a reason for the refund. Enter the refund amount at the item or order level. Confirm the refund amount and select Send Refund. Does an eBay seller have to accept returns? All eBay sellers are required to clearly communicate their returns policy in their shop listings. Private sellers have the option to implement a no-returns policy, but they still must comply with eBay’s Money Back Guarantee. In contrast, business sellers are legally obligated to accept returns and must inform customers through their policy that they can initiate a return within 14 days. Will I get my final value fee back from eBay after a return? Sellers are not automatically given the money paid in transaction fees relating to the articles sold. If eligible, sellers can request their final value fee by opening a case in eBay’s Resolution Center. Can I decline an eBay return request after 30 days? Sellers can decline a return request if 30 days have passed because the money-back guarantee has expired. A buyer can still open a request to discuss the order details, but there is no longer an obligation on the seller to accept it for any reason. Can I refuse to give a refund on eBay? Technically, yes, you can refuse a request, but the buyer has ways to open an account case with eBay, who will make the final decision. If they decide the request is reasonable, then they will process the request and transfer the money from the company’s funds to the buyer. Image: Depositphotos This article, "How to Refund a Buyer on eBay" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Someone operating a business through eBay will need to be aware of the return policy, as a dissatisfied customer happens to every seller at some point. This complete guide contains everything a business owner needs to know about the eBay return policy and how to issue a refund. What is the eBay Refund Policy? The eBay return policy is very straightforward and follows three simple steps as you can see below. The reasons for returning the item will determine the options of the seller, and these will be examined in detail further below. The eBay process to issue a refund works as follows: Buyers open a return application via the website after changing their minds. Enter reasons for returning the order. Send the order back. Receive a full refund, partial refund, or replacement item. Sellers operating an eBay shop have a three-day window to respond to a return request after it has been submitted. Once the return is approved, the customer will either receive a return shipping label or will be asked to pay for return shipping, depending on the reason for the buyer’s change of heart regarding the purchase. Additionally, eBay offers a money-back guarantee that applies to most transactions, ensuring that buyers receive a refund if their order fails to arrive, is defective or damaged, or does not match the listing. If you’re wondering how to refund a buyer on eBay, this guarantee is a key aspect to consider. Why the Buyer May Want to Return an Item There are four reasons why an honest buyer changes their mind about a purchase: Item doesn’t match the information in the listing description. Delivery of the wrong item. Damaged or defective item. Item arrived too late / no longer needed. How to Issue a Refund via eBay: Simple Steps The refund process from a seller’s point of view is obviously more complicated than it is for the buyer, so here we will run through the steps necessary to perform a refund through eBay. Check your Returns Policy A business owner should always check their returns policy before issuing a requested refund, as there may be a ‘no returns’ rule for certain items. Check or edit your policy via the Sell option after clicking on the My eBay tool at the top of any eBay page. Accept or Decline the Refund Request There is a Returns dashboard on your seller’s homepage where you can accept or decline refund requests. You must respond within 3 business days to each request, though you have the right to dispute the refund claim if you believe it is unwarranted. Select ‘Send Refund’ from the Drop Down Menu in the Seller Hub To issue a full refund, select View Return Details on your dashboard and select Send Refund. You will need to add or edit some extra details before finalizing the refund. Select a Reason for the Refund You have the option to add reasons for the refund for future reference. These can simply be the reasons provided by the buyer or more detailed reasons with extra insight from the seller. Select the Amount to Be Refunded Full refunds will automatically prompt you to refund the total paid for the item by the buyer along with the shipping cost of the problem item, but you can edit the partial refund cost. Decide How the Item will be Sent and Who Pays Shipping Costs The shipping fees of the problem order will be covered by whichever party is responsible for the return. If the problem is the order articles arrived damaged or faulty, then it is the responsibility of the seller to cover the return shipping costs. If the seller is covering the shipping for their part, then they must choose the most suitable carrier for the article from the shipping options available. Send the Refund and Confirm Once you have edited or confirmed the additional details, click Continue. The next page will display the amount to be refunded. Finally, choose the option to Refund the Buyer. What Happens Next? Once the return has been accepted and the refund process outlined above is completed, eBay will inform the buyer of the deadline for returning the items. This timeframe is typically 15 days, although it can extend to 35 days in certain situations. If the seller is responsible for shipping the item, they must supply a shipping label to the buyer. Keep in mind that your transactions with customers contribute to eBay statistics, so it’s important to treat your customers well whenever possible. How to Give a Refund on eBay via Paypal As eBay uses PayPal to process its payments, sellers have the option to issue refunds directly through the online payment method. It has the advantage of allowing the seller to get the transaction fee back via Paypal, minus a processing charge, while many customers like using their email address account for this payment method. The refund via PayPal process is as follows: 1. Click the Activity link on your PayPal account page. 2. Locate the transaction to be refunded. 3. Click the Refund This Payment button. 4. Enter the amount to be refunded and confirm. What is a Partial Refund on eBay? A partial refund occurs when the business owner returns a portion of the total payment. Companies frequently provide partial refunds for issues with an item that do not justify a full return. Situations that may warrant a partial refund include: Minor blemishes. Wrong color product. Wrong logo words. Inexpensive product. How to Issue a Partial Refund on eBay Open your Returns dashboard to offer a partial refund. Select View Return Details beside the item. Click on Offer a Partial Refund and then Continue. Enter the amount of the partial refund. Add words such as comments or questions for the buyer regarding the partial refund. Select Send Offer to propose a partial refund to the buyer. What are the Issues with Partial Refunds? Partial refunds can cause issues if the buyer is not satisfied when the seller wants to offer a partial refund. The customer may challenge with answers insisting on a larger amount of the sale price for reasons such as: Dissatisfaction with service. Different case or holder than advertised (main item fine). Poorer quality item than the customer understood it to be. Things to Note About a Refunded Item When it comes to eBay refunds, whether they are full or partial, sellers should be aware of some additional details. These include: Automatic Relisting – Items that are returned are automatically relisted, so the business owner will need to manually unlist any damaged or faulty items. Final Value Amount Crediting – eBay may credit the final value amount of the item once the return or the issue refund request has been fully resolved. How do I refund a buyer on the eBay app? To initiate the refund process, choose ‘Start Refund’ from the dropdown menu in the Seller Hub. Next, select a reason for the refund, enter the refund amount, and click the ‘Send Refund’ button to finalize the transaction. How do I refund an eBay-managed payment? Managed payments are a good way to sell and get paid in the same place, with buyers able to use a wide variety of eBay-protected ways to pay, including by credit card. To refund via managed payments, follow these steps: Select Send Refund from the dropdown menu in the My eBay Sold tab. Select a reason for the refund. Enter the refund amount at the item or order level. Confirm the refund amount and select Send Refund. Does an eBay seller have to accept returns? All eBay sellers are required to clearly communicate their returns policy in their shop listings. Private sellers have the option to implement a no-returns policy, but they still must comply with eBay’s Money Back Guarantee. In contrast, business sellers are legally obligated to accept returns and must inform customers through their policy that they can initiate a return within 14 days. Will I get my final value fee back from eBay after a return? Sellers are not automatically given the money paid in transaction fees relating to the articles sold. If eligible, sellers can request their final value fee by opening a case in eBay’s Resolution Center. Can I decline an eBay return request after 30 days? Sellers can decline a return request if 30 days have passed because the money-back guarantee has expired. A buyer can still open a request to discuss the order details, but there is no longer an obligation on the seller to accept it for any reason. Can I refuse to give a refund on eBay? Technically, yes, you can refuse a request, but the buyer has ways to open an account case with eBay, who will make the final decision. If they decide the request is reasonable, then they will process the request and transfer the money from the company’s funds to the buyer. Image: Depositphotos This article, "How to Refund a Buyer on eBay" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A commercial steam table is an indispensable piece of equipment in the food service industry. Used primarily in buffet-style dining settings and commercial kitchens, these tables use steam or heated water to keep cooked food at the optimal serving temperature. Commercial Steam Tables Commercial steam tables, or buffet steam tables, are designed to keep prepared food at safe serving temperatures for extended periods. Using either electric heat or gas, they heat water to produce steam surrounding the food pans, keeping food warm without further cooking. They are most commonly found in establishments that need to maintain food temperature over a period, such as in buffet lines, cafeterias, and catering events. These tables consist of wells where water is heated to create steam. Above these wells, food pans containing the prepared food are placed. The steam that rises from the wells envelops the food pans, maintaining the temperature of the food. The benefit of this method is that it prevents food from drying out, which can occur with dry heat methods. Steam tables are available in various sizes and designs, with some having two or more compartments to simultaneously hold different types of food. Some models also include storage bins underneath for added convenience, enabling the efficient organization of supplies. Whether serving lasagna or stir-fried vegetables, commercial steam tables ensure that your food remains at the ideal temperature and texture. The primary purpose of commercial steam tables is to keep food warm while preserving its quality. Unlike other methods that continue to cook food while keeping it warm, steam tables eliminate this problem, ensuring that the food remains at the correct serving temperature without becoming overcooked. This makes them an ideal choice for commercial food-serving establishments. Best Commercial Steam Table Picks for Your Business Keep the foods you serve at your place of business warm with these commercial steam tables, now available on Amazon. FeatureTop Pick: Worcest 6 Pan Commercial Steam Table Food WarmerRunner Up: Leblett Commercial Countertop Steam Table with Temperature ControlBest Value: VEVOR Commercial Electric 4-Pot Steam Table Food Warmer BrandWorcestLeblettVEVOR ColorStainless SteelStainless Steel and GlassAll Stainless Steel MaterialStainless Steel201 Stainless Steel304 Stainless Steel Voltage110 Volts110V/ 60Hz110V/60Hz Wattage1500 watts1.2kW2000 W Number of Food Pans664 Capacity16 Qt/15LTotal Capacity: 36L/ 38QtEach Pan Capacity: 22L/5.8 gals Temperature Range86-185℉/30-85℃30-85℃/ 86-185℉0-100℃/0-212℉ Anti-Dry-Boll Button DesignYesYes- Safety FeaturesETL, CE ROHS certifiedPrevents dry burning- Adjustable TemperatureYesYesYes Worcest 6 Pan Commercial Steam Table Food Warmer Key Features: High Capacity: With 6 compartments and included lids, this food warmer provides a total capacity of 16 Qt/15L, accommodating all your food heating requirements. Thermostatic Adjustment Design: The adjustable knob allows you to easily control the temperature within the range of 86-185°F/30-85°C. This thermostatic temperature control guarantees a consistent temperature throughout the unit, helping to save energy while keeping your food warm. Anti-Dry-Boll Button Design: The food heater includes an anti-dry button that automatically stops dry-boiling when the water is depleted. Simply add water and press the button to restart the heating process. Cleaning is also convenient, with a built-in faucet for easy water drainage. Food-Grade Safety Stainless Steel: Crafted from food-grade 304 stainless steel, this steam table is resistant to rust and corrosion. The thickened wall adds sturdiness and durability, ensuring long-lasting performance. The product is certified ETL, CE, and ROHS for supreme quality and safe use. Wide Applications: Ideal for restaurants, canteens, catering services, and other high-demand food establishments, this electric food warmer is a versatile choice for keeping and heating food efficiently. Worcest 6 Pan Commercial Steam Table Food Warmer Buy on Amazon Leblett Commercial Countertop Steam Table with Temperature Control Key Features: Maintain Optimal Taste: This steam table efficiently heats food with hot water, retaining heat and freshness for longer durations compared to traditional alcohol-heated warmers. Enjoy your food at the perfect temperature, preserving its taste and quality. High Safety: Preventing dry burning, the steam table automatically shuts off power when water levels are insufficient, ensuring safe and worry-free operation. Large Capacity: With six 6L/6.3Qt pans, this commercial steam table provides ample space for holding significant quantities of food, effectively meeting your customers’ needs. Temperature Adjustable: Easily adjust the temperature with the control knob, offering a range of 30-85?/86-185? to suit different food requirements. Constant Temperature Function: The commercial steam table features an automatic constant temperature function that stops heating once the desired temperature is achieved and resumes as necessary, ensuring food remains at a consistent temperature. High Efficiency: Featuring a 1.2kW power output and a U-shaped heating element, this commercial steam table quickly and uniformly heats food, guaranteeing effective food preparation. Easy to Use: Add water to the bottom of the food warmer, load your food, and plug in the electricity to start using—no complicated processes or setup required. Customer Service: We are committed to providing quality products and excellent service. If you encounter any issues, please get in touch with us, and we will promptly assist you. Leblett Commercial Countertop Steam Table with Temperature Control Buy on Amazon VEVOR Commercial Electric 4-Pot Steam Table Food Warmer Key Features: All Stainless Steel Construction: The heavy-duty stainless steel structure ensures robust sturdiness and longevity, with all parts in contact with food made of food-grade material for added safety and hygiene. Four Full-Size Pans: This steam table can accommodate four 1/1-size, 6″ deep food pans, allowing you to separate different foods and maintain their original flavors. Adjustable Temperature: Easily set the temperature between 0-100°(0-212?) using the rotary knob, ensuring your food is kept at the ideal temperature. Please note that this steam table is intended for dry use. Fast Heating: The well-designed thickened heating tube provides rapid and even heating, maximizing efficiency and ensuring quick heat transfer for your food. 2 Lockable Wheels: Equipped with 360-degree rotation lockable wheels and a side handle, the steam table offers easy movement and secure placement, allowing you to position it conveniently in your kitchen. Cutting Side Table & Under Shelf: The included poly cutting board provides an extra workspace for ingredient preparation, while the practical under-shelf offers storage space for utensils, food pans, and other essentials. VEVOR Commercial Electric 4-Pot Steam Table Food Warmer Buy on Amazon ROVSUN 42.3QT 4-Pan Electric Commercial Steam Table Key Features: Premium Quality: Constructed with high-grade stainless steel for durability, corrosion resistance, and food safety. Large Capacity: Features a 42.3QT capacity with four compartments and lids, providing ample space for various food items. Humanized Design: Equipped with a convenient faucet for easy operation and cleaning. Long-term insulation preserves the delicious taste of the food. Adjustable Temperature: Easily adjust the temperature from 86-185?/30-85? to quickly heat up your food and keep it at the ideal temperature. Versatile Applications: Suitable for nacho cheese, chicken wings, stews, eggs, porridge, soup, chili beans, milk, and more. Ideal for restaurants, catering, parties, cafeterias, and other events. ROVSUN 42.3QT 4-Pan Electric Commercial Steam Table Buy on Amazon SYBO Commercial Grade Stainless Steel Food Warmer Steam Table Key Features: Large capacity pan with compartments and lid included Durable food-grade 304 stainless steel construction Interchangeable design for easy replacement ETL, CE, and ROHS certified for commercial use Automatic shut-off and keep-warm function for convenience 2-year new replacement warranty for peace of mind SYBO Commercial Grade Stainless Steel Food Warmer Steam Table Buy on Amazon VBENLEM Commercial Electric Food Warmer 3 Pot Steam Table Key Features: High-quality food-grade stainless steel construction Three-well pans with lids for holding full-size food pans Individual temperature control for each well Foldable cutting board for extra workspace Practical under shelf for storage of utensils and food pans Wide application in restaurants, canteens, fast food establishments, and more Fast heating with efficient heat transfer Foldable side table for additional workspace VBENLEM Commercial Electric Food Warmer 3 Pot Steam Table Buy on Amazon TAIMIKO Food Warmer Buffet Steam Table Key Features: Large capacity pan with six compartments and lid included Durable stainless steel construction for easy cleaning and long-lasting performance Adjustable temperature control for personalized warming Fast heating stainless steel U-shaped heating tube for efficient heat transfer Suitable for various occasions, including family gatherings, parties, and commercial use Easy-to-clean design with a drain tap for effortless maintenance TAIMIKO Food Warmer Buffet Steam Table Buy on Amazon Cadco WTBS-2RT Countertop Buffet Warmer Key Features: 2 half-size steam pans: Allows you to serve a variety of dishes simultaneously. Variable heat control: Temperature range of 155°F – 205°F for precise heat adjustment. Removable pans and pan holders: Easy to clean and customize according to your serving needs. Warming shelf base: Provides additional space for warming or serving. Cool-touch handles: Ensures safe handling during operation. Stainless steel construction: Offers durability and a sleek appearance. Non-skid feet: Ensures stability and prevents slipping on countertops. Cadco WTBS-2RT Countertop Buffet Warmer Buy on Amazon Sabary Electric Commercial Stainless Steel Food Warmer Key Features: 32 Qt Large Capacity with 6 Compartments: Ideal for keeping a variety of dishes warm and ready to serve. Solid and Rustproof Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures durability and reliability, keeping your food warm for a long time. Temperature Control with Anti-Dry Burning System: Provides even heating and automatically stops heating when the water level is low. Easy to Clean: Features a tap for draining excess liquid, making cleaning effortless. Widely Applicable: Suitable for office cafeterias, school cafeterias, birthday parties, restaurants, and more. Sabary Electric Commercial Stainless Steel Food Warmer Buy on Amazon TECHTONGDA Propane Gas Steam Heater Key Features: Uniform Heating & Durability: Made of stainless steel 304, this food warmer ensures uniform heating and offers a long service life. Propane Gas Operation: Easily control the temperature with the gas regulator valve and adjust the inlet flow. Note that the machine cannot be used on flammable material. Large Capacity: With 8 wells and a generous size of 13″10.5″4″ (32.5cm26.5cm10cm) for each container, you can conveniently pack a variety of dishes, including soups. Simple Operation: The easy-to-use button and clear indicator light make operation hassle-free. Package & Content: The wooden box and foam packaging provide additional safety, and the package includes a heating tank and matching lid. TECHTONGDA Propane Gas Steam Heater Buy on Amazon Importance and Applications of Commercial Steam Tables Commercial steam tables are essential for businesses that need to maintain the temperature of prepared food for long periods. From buffets and cafeterias to banquet halls and catering companies, these units enable large quantities of food to be kept warm and ready to serve. They are designed to be robust and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of a busy commercial kitchen. In addition to their primary function of keeping food warm, steam tables also contribute to an efficient workflow in the kitchen. Some models come equipped with storage bins underneath, allowing for the convenient storage of additional food pans, utensils, or other necessary supplies. This feature can significantly improve the organization and efficiency of a commercial kitchen, making the service process smoother and faster. Furthermore, commercial steam tables also play an important role in ensuring food safety. By maintaining food at a temperature above the “danger zone” (between 40°F and 140°F, where bacteria grow most rapidly), steam tables help to prevent foodborne illnesses. This is especially critical in buffet settings, where food is exposed for extended periods. From a customer’s perspective, steam tables also improve the dining experience. Food kept at the right temperature tastes better and has a more appealing texture. Whether in a restaurant, a catered event, or a school cafeteria, a commercial steam table ensures that the food served is not just safe but also delicious and enjoyable. Different Types of Commercial Steam Tables Several types of commercial steam tables are available in the market, each designed to meet specific needs. The most common types are gas steam tables and electric steam tables. As their names suggest, gas steam tables use propane or natural gas as a heat source, while electric steam tables use electricity. Gas steam tables are often preferred for their high heat output and quick recovery times. They are ideal for use in environments where access to electricity may be limited or in establishments that already utilize gas for other tasks. Structure and Design of Commercial Steam Tables The structure and design of commercial steam tables differ based on the specific requirements of an establishment. Nevertheless, there are several standard components that constitute these units. This section will cover the essential components, the materials utilized in their construction, and the variations in design depending on the manufacturer and model. Key Components of a Commercial Steam Table A commercial steam table comprises heating elements, wells or compartments, a water pan, and food pans. The heating elements, powered by gas or electricity, heat the water in the well or compartment to produce steam. This steam then envelops the food pans placed above, keeping the food warm. The compartments or wells in a steam table are designed to hold water and create a steam environment for the food pans. They are typically lined with spillage pans, which collect any food or liquid that may drip or spill from the food pans, ensuring that it doesn’t contaminate the water or other foods. The food pans are shallow, rectangular trays that sit above the steam wells and hold the food items. They are designed to transfer heat evenly across their surface, ensuring uniform food heating. Some steam tables also feature a sneeze guard or protective shield to protect food from airborne contaminants. Finally, some steam tables have storage bins underneath the wells. These bins provide additional storage space for spare food pans, utensils, or other supplies, adding to the efficiency and convenience of the steam table setup. How Commercial Steam Tables Work Commercial steam tables utilize steam heat to maintain the temperature of cooked food for extended periods. This section will examine the heating process, the variations in heating techniques, and how steam tables ensure food stays safe and of high quality. The Heating Process Commercial steam tables keep food warm by using water to create steam that heats the food pans from below. Here’s how it works: the steam table wells are filled with water, then the heating elements, either electric or gas, heat the water until it turns into steam—the steam envelopes the food pans, warming the food evenly and efficiently. The efficiency of heating food using steam comes from the fact that steam transfers heat better than dry air. This results in the food maintaining its temperature without becoming dry or overcooked, as can happen with other warming methods. The moisture also helps to preserve the food’s flavor and texture. It’s important to note that steam tables are designed to keep already cooked food warm and are not meant for cooking food. This is because they operate at a consistent temperature optimal for maintaining food warmth, not cooking. Variations in Heating Techniques Two main heating methods are employed in commercial steam tables: electric heating and gas heating. Electric steam tables utilize heating elements to warm the water in the wells. This approach provides precise temperature control and is often preferred in environments where gas access may be limited. On the other hand, gas steam tables use a natural gas or propane burner to heat the water. This method provides powerful and efficient heating and is often preferred in high-volume food service operations. However, it requires proper ventilation and access to a gas supply. Some models of steam tables use exposed elements to heat the water directly, while others use sealed elements that heat the water indirectly. Each method has its advantages, with the direct heating method providing fast heating times and the indirect method offering more even heating. Ensuring Food Safety and Quality Commercial steam tables play a significant role in maintaining food safety. They keep food at temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, the point at which harmful bacteria can start to multiply rapidly. This ensures the food remains safe for consumption for longer periods. In terms of quality, steam tables help maintain the food’s texture, moisture, and flavor. Unlike dry heat methods, which can cause food to dry out or become overcooked, steam heat provides gentle, even heat that helps food retain its original quality. This is particularly beneficial for delicate dishes that can easily become tough or rubbery if exposed to dry heat. Commercial steam tables offer an effective and efficient solution for keeping food warm, safe, and tasty, making them an invaluable tool in any food service operation. Choosing the Right Commercial Steam Table When selecting a commercial steam table for your food service business, various options can feel overwhelming. Your choice will significantly affect your kitchen’s operational flow and efficiency. In selecting commercial steam tables for our recommendations, we meticulously assess a series of key factors to ensure that we present options that are efficient, durable, and cater to the varied needs of food service establishments. Here’s how we evaluate them, complete with an importance scale for each criterion: Capacity and Size: Importance: 9/10 The size and number of compartments are essential. The commercial steam table must be capable of holding the amount of food that is usually served, ensuring it fits appropriately within the available kitchen or serving area. Temperature Control and Consistency: Importance: 9/10 Precise and consistent temperature control is vital for keeping food at safe and optimal serving temperatures. Build Quality and Material: Importance: 9/10 Durability is key in a commercial setting. Stainless steel construction is preferred for its longevity and ease of cleaning. Energy Efficiency: Importance: 8/10 Considering the extended operating hours, energy-efficient models can significantly reduce operating costs. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance: Importance: 8/10 The unit should be designed for easy cleaning and simple maintenance to ensure hygiene and extend its lifespan. Versatility and Adaptability: Importance: 7/10 A steam table that can accommodate various pan sizes and types offers more flexibility for different menu items. Safety Features: Importance: 8/10 Safety aspects, such as cool-to-touch areas and splash guards, are important for protecting staff and customers. Drainage and Moisture Control: Importance: 7/10 Good drainage systems help manage moisture and make cleaning easier, maintaining the quality of food. Cost and Budget Considerations: Importance: 7/10 We aim to balance the price with the features and benefits offered, seeking options that provide long-term value. Aesthetics and Design: Importance: 6/10 The appearance should be professional and suitable for front-of-house use if applicable. Warranty and Manufacturer Support: Importance: 7/10 Reliable customer support and a solid warranty are important for peace of mind and assurance of quality. FAQs What are the benefits of using a commercial steam table in a restaurant setting? Commercial steam tables provide numerous advantages in a restaurant environment. They keep food at safe temperatures for extended durations, ensuring that it remains hot and fresh without the risk of drying out or overcooking. This is particularly useful in buffet-style restaurants or catering events where food must be served for long periods. Furthermore, they enhance kitchen efficiency by incorporating storage bins underneath for supplies and additional food pans. How does a commercial steam table ensure food is kept at safe temperatures? A commercial steam table ensures food is kept at safe temperatures by using heated water to generate steam. This steam surrounds the food pans, creating a consistent temperature environment. Most steam tables also feature thermostatic controls, allowing operators to adjust the temperature as needed to meet food safety regulations, which typically mandate holding hot food above 140°F. What types of food are best suited for a commercial steam table? A variety of food types are suitable for a commercial steam table, especially those that benefit from moist heat to maintain quality over time. These include stews, soups, casseroles, and sauces. However, it’s also good for non-liquid items such as rice, pasta, and vegetables. It’s not recommended for crispy foods as the steam can make them soggy. What is the energy consumption of a commercial steam table compared to other warming equipment? Commercial steam tables can be more energy-efficient than other types of warming equipment. This is because they use steam to heat the food, which requires less energy than dry heat methods. However, actual energy consumption can vary based on the model, size, usage, and whether the steam table is electric or gas-powered. How should I clean and maintain my commercial steam table to ensure it remains efficient? To ensure efficiency, a commercial steam table needs to be cleaned daily to prevent the accumulation of food particles and bacteria. This process includes emptying and sanitizing the water pans, wiping down all surfaces, and cleaning the heating elements according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Additionally, regular maintenance should involve inspecting and replacing any worn components, such as seals or heating elements, to guarantee the steam table operates efficiently. What safety measures should be taken when operating a commercial steam table? When operating a commercial steam table, it’s important to use heat-resistant gloves to prevent burns. Always check water levels to prevent the unit from running dry and overheating, which can be a fire hazard. When cleaning or performing maintenance, ensure the unit is turned off and cooled down to avoid burns or electric shock. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Best Countertop Refrigerators for Your Business What’s the Best Commercial Refrigerator for Your Business? Best Commercial Margarita Machine for Your Business Commercial Hand Dryer: Our Top Picks For Your Business Image: Amazon This article, "Commercial Steam Table: Best Picks for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A commercial steam table is an indispensable piece of equipment in the food service industry. Used primarily in buffet-style dining settings and commercial kitchens, these tables use steam or heated water to keep cooked food at the optimal serving temperature. Commercial Steam Tables Commercial steam tables, or buffet steam tables, are designed to keep prepared food at safe serving temperatures for extended periods. Using either electric heat or gas, they heat water to produce steam surrounding the food pans, keeping food warm without further cooking. They are most commonly found in establishments that need to maintain food temperature over a period, such as in buffet lines, cafeterias, and catering events. These tables consist of wells where water is heated to create steam. Above these wells, food pans containing the prepared food are placed. The steam that rises from the wells envelops the food pans, maintaining the temperature of the food. The benefit of this method is that it prevents food from drying out, which can occur with dry heat methods. Steam tables are available in various sizes and designs, with some having two or more compartments to simultaneously hold different types of food. Some models also include storage bins underneath for added convenience, enabling the efficient organization of supplies. Whether serving lasagna or stir-fried vegetables, commercial steam tables ensure that your food remains at the ideal temperature and texture. The primary purpose of commercial steam tables is to keep food warm while preserving its quality. Unlike other methods that continue to cook food while keeping it warm, steam tables eliminate this problem, ensuring that the food remains at the correct serving temperature without becoming overcooked. This makes them an ideal choice for commercial food-serving establishments. Best Commercial Steam Table Picks for Your Business Keep the foods you serve at your place of business warm with these commercial steam tables, now available on Amazon. FeatureTop Pick: Worcest 6 Pan Commercial Steam Table Food WarmerRunner Up: Leblett Commercial Countertop Steam Table with Temperature ControlBest Value: VEVOR Commercial Electric 4-Pot Steam Table Food Warmer BrandWorcestLeblettVEVOR ColorStainless SteelStainless Steel and GlassAll Stainless Steel MaterialStainless Steel201 Stainless Steel304 Stainless Steel Voltage110 Volts110V/ 60Hz110V/60Hz Wattage1500 watts1.2kW2000 W Number of Food Pans664 Capacity16 Qt/15LTotal Capacity: 36L/ 38QtEach Pan Capacity: 22L/5.8 gals Temperature Range86-185℉/30-85℃30-85℃/ 86-185℉0-100℃/0-212℉ Anti-Dry-Boll Button DesignYesYes- Safety FeaturesETL, CE ROHS certifiedPrevents dry burning- Adjustable TemperatureYesYesYes Worcest 6 Pan Commercial Steam Table Food Warmer Key Features: High Capacity: With 6 compartments and included lids, this food warmer provides a total capacity of 16 Qt/15L, accommodating all your food heating requirements. Thermostatic Adjustment Design: The adjustable knob allows you to easily control the temperature within the range of 86-185°F/30-85°C. This thermostatic temperature control guarantees a consistent temperature throughout the unit, helping to save energy while keeping your food warm. Anti-Dry-Boll Button Design: The food heater includes an anti-dry button that automatically stops dry-boiling when the water is depleted. Simply add water and press the button to restart the heating process. Cleaning is also convenient, with a built-in faucet for easy water drainage. Food-Grade Safety Stainless Steel: Crafted from food-grade 304 stainless steel, this steam table is resistant to rust and corrosion. The thickened wall adds sturdiness and durability, ensuring long-lasting performance. The product is certified ETL, CE, and ROHS for supreme quality and safe use. Wide Applications: Ideal for restaurants, canteens, catering services, and other high-demand food establishments, this electric food warmer is a versatile choice for keeping and heating food efficiently. Worcest 6 Pan Commercial Steam Table Food Warmer Buy on Amazon Leblett Commercial Countertop Steam Table with Temperature Control Key Features: Maintain Optimal Taste: This steam table efficiently heats food with hot water, retaining heat and freshness for longer durations compared to traditional alcohol-heated warmers. Enjoy your food at the perfect temperature, preserving its taste and quality. High Safety: Preventing dry burning, the steam table automatically shuts off power when water levels are insufficient, ensuring safe and worry-free operation. Large Capacity: With six 6L/6.3Qt pans, this commercial steam table provides ample space for holding significant quantities of food, effectively meeting your customers’ needs. Temperature Adjustable: Easily adjust the temperature with the control knob, offering a range of 30-85?/86-185? to suit different food requirements. Constant Temperature Function: The commercial steam table features an automatic constant temperature function that stops heating once the desired temperature is achieved and resumes as necessary, ensuring food remains at a consistent temperature. High Efficiency: Featuring a 1.2kW power output and a U-shaped heating element, this commercial steam table quickly and uniformly heats food, guaranteeing effective food preparation. Easy to Use: Add water to the bottom of the food warmer, load your food, and plug in the electricity to start using—no complicated processes or setup required. Customer Service: We are committed to providing quality products and excellent service. If you encounter any issues, please get in touch with us, and we will promptly assist you. Leblett Commercial Countertop Steam Table with Temperature Control Buy on Amazon VEVOR Commercial Electric 4-Pot Steam Table Food Warmer Key Features: All Stainless Steel Construction: The heavy-duty stainless steel structure ensures robust sturdiness and longevity, with all parts in contact with food made of food-grade material for added safety and hygiene. Four Full-Size Pans: This steam table can accommodate four 1/1-size, 6″ deep food pans, allowing you to separate different foods and maintain their original flavors. Adjustable Temperature: Easily set the temperature between 0-100°(0-212?) using the rotary knob, ensuring your food is kept at the ideal temperature. Please note that this steam table is intended for dry use. Fast Heating: The well-designed thickened heating tube provides rapid and even heating, maximizing efficiency and ensuring quick heat transfer for your food. 2 Lockable Wheels: Equipped with 360-degree rotation lockable wheels and a side handle, the steam table offers easy movement and secure placement, allowing you to position it conveniently in your kitchen. Cutting Side Table & Under Shelf: The included poly cutting board provides an extra workspace for ingredient preparation, while the practical under-shelf offers storage space for utensils, food pans, and other essentials. VEVOR Commercial Electric 4-Pot Steam Table Food Warmer Buy on Amazon ROVSUN 42.3QT 4-Pan Electric Commercial Steam Table Key Features: Premium Quality: Constructed with high-grade stainless steel for durability, corrosion resistance, and food safety. Large Capacity: Features a 42.3QT capacity with four compartments and lids, providing ample space for various food items. Humanized Design: Equipped with a convenient faucet for easy operation and cleaning. Long-term insulation preserves the delicious taste of the food. Adjustable Temperature: Easily adjust the temperature from 86-185?/30-85? to quickly heat up your food and keep it at the ideal temperature. Versatile Applications: Suitable for nacho cheese, chicken wings, stews, eggs, porridge, soup, chili beans, milk, and more. Ideal for restaurants, catering, parties, cafeterias, and other events. ROVSUN 42.3QT 4-Pan Electric Commercial Steam Table Buy on Amazon SYBO Commercial Grade Stainless Steel Food Warmer Steam Table Key Features: Large capacity pan with compartments and lid included Durable food-grade 304 stainless steel construction Interchangeable design for easy replacement ETL, CE, and ROHS certified for commercial use Automatic shut-off and keep-warm function for convenience 2-year new replacement warranty for peace of mind SYBO Commercial Grade Stainless Steel Food Warmer Steam Table Buy on Amazon VBENLEM Commercial Electric Food Warmer 3 Pot Steam Table Key Features: High-quality food-grade stainless steel construction Three-well pans with lids for holding full-size food pans Individual temperature control for each well Foldable cutting board for extra workspace Practical under shelf for storage of utensils and food pans Wide application in restaurants, canteens, fast food establishments, and more Fast heating with efficient heat transfer Foldable side table for additional workspace VBENLEM Commercial Electric Food Warmer 3 Pot Steam Table Buy on Amazon TAIMIKO Food Warmer Buffet Steam Table Key Features: Large capacity pan with six compartments and lid included Durable stainless steel construction for easy cleaning and long-lasting performance Adjustable temperature control for personalized warming Fast heating stainless steel U-shaped heating tube for efficient heat transfer Suitable for various occasions, including family gatherings, parties, and commercial use Easy-to-clean design with a drain tap for effortless maintenance TAIMIKO Food Warmer Buffet Steam Table Buy on Amazon Cadco WTBS-2RT Countertop Buffet Warmer Key Features: 2 half-size steam pans: Allows you to serve a variety of dishes simultaneously. Variable heat control: Temperature range of 155°F – 205°F for precise heat adjustment. Removable pans and pan holders: Easy to clean and customize according to your serving needs. Warming shelf base: Provides additional space for warming or serving. Cool-touch handles: Ensures safe handling during operation. Stainless steel construction: Offers durability and a sleek appearance. Non-skid feet: Ensures stability and prevents slipping on countertops. Cadco WTBS-2RT Countertop Buffet Warmer Buy on Amazon Sabary Electric Commercial Stainless Steel Food Warmer Key Features: 32 Qt Large Capacity with 6 Compartments: Ideal for keeping a variety of dishes warm and ready to serve. Solid and Rustproof Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures durability and reliability, keeping your food warm for a long time. Temperature Control with Anti-Dry Burning System: Provides even heating and automatically stops heating when the water level is low. Easy to Clean: Features a tap for draining excess liquid, making cleaning effortless. Widely Applicable: Suitable for office cafeterias, school cafeterias, birthday parties, restaurants, and more. Sabary Electric Commercial Stainless Steel Food Warmer Buy on Amazon TECHTONGDA Propane Gas Steam Heater Key Features: Uniform Heating & Durability: Made of stainless steel 304, this food warmer ensures uniform heating and offers a long service life. Propane Gas Operation: Easily control the temperature with the gas regulator valve and adjust the inlet flow. Note that the machine cannot be used on flammable material. Large Capacity: With 8 wells and a generous size of 13″10.5″4″ (32.5cm26.5cm10cm) for each container, you can conveniently pack a variety of dishes, including soups. Simple Operation: The easy-to-use button and clear indicator light make operation hassle-free. Package & Content: The wooden box and foam packaging provide additional safety, and the package includes a heating tank and matching lid. TECHTONGDA Propane Gas Steam Heater Buy on Amazon Importance and Applications of Commercial Steam Tables Commercial steam tables are essential for businesses that need to maintain the temperature of prepared food for long periods. From buffets and cafeterias to banquet halls and catering companies, these units enable large quantities of food to be kept warm and ready to serve. They are designed to be robust and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of a busy commercial kitchen. In addition to their primary function of keeping food warm, steam tables also contribute to an efficient workflow in the kitchen. Some models come equipped with storage bins underneath, allowing for the convenient storage of additional food pans, utensils, or other necessary supplies. This feature can significantly improve the organization and efficiency of a commercial kitchen, making the service process smoother and faster. Furthermore, commercial steam tables also play an important role in ensuring food safety. By maintaining food at a temperature above the “danger zone” (between 40°F and 140°F, where bacteria grow most rapidly), steam tables help to prevent foodborne illnesses. This is especially critical in buffet settings, where food is exposed for extended periods. From a customer’s perspective, steam tables also improve the dining experience. Food kept at the right temperature tastes better and has a more appealing texture. Whether in a restaurant, a catered event, or a school cafeteria, a commercial steam table ensures that the food served is not just safe but also delicious and enjoyable. Different Types of Commercial Steam Tables Several types of commercial steam tables are available in the market, each designed to meet specific needs. The most common types are gas steam tables and electric steam tables. As their names suggest, gas steam tables use propane or natural gas as a heat source, while electric steam tables use electricity. Gas steam tables are often preferred for their high heat output and quick recovery times. They are ideal for use in environments where access to electricity may be limited or in establishments that already utilize gas for other tasks. Structure and Design of Commercial Steam Tables The structure and design of commercial steam tables differ based on the specific requirements of an establishment. Nevertheless, there are several standard components that constitute these units. This section will cover the essential components, the materials utilized in their construction, and the variations in design depending on the manufacturer and model. Key Components of a Commercial Steam Table A commercial steam table comprises heating elements, wells or compartments, a water pan, and food pans. The heating elements, powered by gas or electricity, heat the water in the well or compartment to produce steam. This steam then envelops the food pans placed above, keeping the food warm. The compartments or wells in a steam table are designed to hold water and create a steam environment for the food pans. They are typically lined with spillage pans, which collect any food or liquid that may drip or spill from the food pans, ensuring that it doesn’t contaminate the water or other foods. The food pans are shallow, rectangular trays that sit above the steam wells and hold the food items. They are designed to transfer heat evenly across their surface, ensuring uniform food heating. Some steam tables also feature a sneeze guard or protective shield to protect food from airborne contaminants. Finally, some steam tables have storage bins underneath the wells. These bins provide additional storage space for spare food pans, utensils, or other supplies, adding to the efficiency and convenience of the steam table setup. How Commercial Steam Tables Work Commercial steam tables utilize steam heat to maintain the temperature of cooked food for extended periods. This section will examine the heating process, the variations in heating techniques, and how steam tables ensure food stays safe and of high quality. The Heating Process Commercial steam tables keep food warm by using water to create steam that heats the food pans from below. Here’s how it works: the steam table wells are filled with water, then the heating elements, either electric or gas, heat the water until it turns into steam—the steam envelopes the food pans, warming the food evenly and efficiently. The efficiency of heating food using steam comes from the fact that steam transfers heat better than dry air. This results in the food maintaining its temperature without becoming dry or overcooked, as can happen with other warming methods. The moisture also helps to preserve the food’s flavor and texture. It’s important to note that steam tables are designed to keep already cooked food warm and are not meant for cooking food. This is because they operate at a consistent temperature optimal for maintaining food warmth, not cooking. Variations in Heating Techniques Two main heating methods are employed in commercial steam tables: electric heating and gas heating. Electric steam tables utilize heating elements to warm the water in the wells. This approach provides precise temperature control and is often preferred in environments where gas access may be limited. On the other hand, gas steam tables use a natural gas or propane burner to heat the water. This method provides powerful and efficient heating and is often preferred in high-volume food service operations. However, it requires proper ventilation and access to a gas supply. Some models of steam tables use exposed elements to heat the water directly, while others use sealed elements that heat the water indirectly. Each method has its advantages, with the direct heating method providing fast heating times and the indirect method offering more even heating. Ensuring Food Safety and Quality Commercial steam tables play a significant role in maintaining food safety. They keep food at temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, the point at which harmful bacteria can start to multiply rapidly. This ensures the food remains safe for consumption for longer periods. In terms of quality, steam tables help maintain the food’s texture, moisture, and flavor. Unlike dry heat methods, which can cause food to dry out or become overcooked, steam heat provides gentle, even heat that helps food retain its original quality. This is particularly beneficial for delicate dishes that can easily become tough or rubbery if exposed to dry heat. Commercial steam tables offer an effective and efficient solution for keeping food warm, safe, and tasty, making them an invaluable tool in any food service operation. Choosing the Right Commercial Steam Table When selecting a commercial steam table for your food service business, various options can feel overwhelming. Your choice will significantly affect your kitchen’s operational flow and efficiency. In selecting commercial steam tables for our recommendations, we meticulously assess a series of key factors to ensure that we present options that are efficient, durable, and cater to the varied needs of food service establishments. Here’s how we evaluate them, complete with an importance scale for each criterion: Capacity and Size: Importance: 9/10 The size and number of compartments are essential. The commercial steam table must be capable of holding the amount of food that is usually served, ensuring it fits appropriately within the available kitchen or serving area. Temperature Control and Consistency: Importance: 9/10 Precise and consistent temperature control is vital for keeping food at safe and optimal serving temperatures. Build Quality and Material: Importance: 9/10 Durability is key in a commercial setting. Stainless steel construction is preferred for its longevity and ease of cleaning. Energy Efficiency: Importance: 8/10 Considering the extended operating hours, energy-efficient models can significantly reduce operating costs. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance: Importance: 8/10 The unit should be designed for easy cleaning and simple maintenance to ensure hygiene and extend its lifespan. Versatility and Adaptability: Importance: 7/10 A steam table that can accommodate various pan sizes and types offers more flexibility for different menu items. Safety Features: Importance: 8/10 Safety aspects, such as cool-to-touch areas and splash guards, are important for protecting staff and customers. Drainage and Moisture Control: Importance: 7/10 Good drainage systems help manage moisture and make cleaning easier, maintaining the quality of food. Cost and Budget Considerations: Importance: 7/10 We aim to balance the price with the features and benefits offered, seeking options that provide long-term value. Aesthetics and Design: Importance: 6/10 The appearance should be professional and suitable for front-of-house use if applicable. Warranty and Manufacturer Support: Importance: 7/10 Reliable customer support and a solid warranty are important for peace of mind and assurance of quality. FAQs What are the benefits of using a commercial steam table in a restaurant setting? Commercial steam tables provide numerous advantages in a restaurant environment. They keep food at safe temperatures for extended durations, ensuring that it remains hot and fresh without the risk of drying out or overcooking. This is particularly useful in buffet-style restaurants or catering events where food must be served for long periods. Furthermore, they enhance kitchen efficiency by incorporating storage bins underneath for supplies and additional food pans. How does a commercial steam table ensure food is kept at safe temperatures? A commercial steam table ensures food is kept at safe temperatures by using heated water to generate steam. This steam surrounds the food pans, creating a consistent temperature environment. Most steam tables also feature thermostatic controls, allowing operators to adjust the temperature as needed to meet food safety regulations, which typically mandate holding hot food above 140°F. What types of food are best suited for a commercial steam table? A variety of food types are suitable for a commercial steam table, especially those that benefit from moist heat to maintain quality over time. These include stews, soups, casseroles, and sauces. However, it’s also good for non-liquid items such as rice, pasta, and vegetables. It’s not recommended for crispy foods as the steam can make them soggy. What is the energy consumption of a commercial steam table compared to other warming equipment? Commercial steam tables can be more energy-efficient than other types of warming equipment. This is because they use steam to heat the food, which requires less energy than dry heat methods. However, actual energy consumption can vary based on the model, size, usage, and whether the steam table is electric or gas-powered. How should I clean and maintain my commercial steam table to ensure it remains efficient? To ensure efficiency, a commercial steam table needs to be cleaned daily to prevent the accumulation of food particles and bacteria. This process includes emptying and sanitizing the water pans, wiping down all surfaces, and cleaning the heating elements according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Additionally, regular maintenance should involve inspecting and replacing any worn components, such as seals or heating elements, to guarantee the steam table operates efficiently. What safety measures should be taken when operating a commercial steam table? When operating a commercial steam table, it’s important to use heat-resistant gloves to prevent burns. Always check water levels to prevent the unit from running dry and overheating, which can be a fire hazard. When cleaning or performing maintenance, ensure the unit is turned off and cooled down to avoid burns or electric shock. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Best Countertop Refrigerators for Your Business What’s the Best Commercial Refrigerator for Your Business? Best Commercial Margarita Machine for Your Business Commercial Hand Dryer: Our Top Picks For Your Business Image: Amazon This article, "Commercial Steam Table: Best Picks for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

It’s almost become cliche for employers to express concern about Gen Z’s lack of training in the social skills necessary for life in the office. Employers want new recruits with a certain level of professionalism—the ability to casually converse with office higher-ups, or negotiate with their own managers—that they just haven’t had the ability to practice, especially after coming of age during pandemic restrictions and widespread remote work, says Tigran Sloyan, CEO of worker assessment and learning platform CodeSignal. “When you’ve just come out of college, you’ve never really worked anywhere, so it’s very hard,” he says. To help fill that gap, CodeSignal on Wednesday launched an AI-powered addition to its platform that will let users practice skills involving business conversation on their own and confer with an AI assistant and coach called Cosmo. CodeSignal already let users practice technical skills like writing code in a simulated development environment, but the new addition will let them similarly practice skills like negotiations, giving feedback, and holding sales calls. Universities have also participated in beta testing, letting students applying for jobs practice talking with simulated recruiters. Employers can customize practice scenarios based on employee needs, like letting budding salespeople pitch their companies’ own specialized products, and AI conversational partners can become tougher to handle as workers level up their skills, Sloyan says. “It will get more and more and more difficult as you progress through your skills,” he says. CodeSignal is one of a number of companies that have rolled out AI systems to let employees develop skills that previously could only be practiced by roleplaying with other humans, find other educational opportunities, and demonstrate their aptitude for particular roles. They’re not just for entry-level employees. People taking on new positions, like those entering management, can also benefit, as can anyone looking to brush up on particular skills they’re already using, AI developers say. After all, some studies have suggested the majority of managers received no formal training for their jobs after moving up from other roles. “We’ve all been managed by bad managers,” says Sloyan. “And it’s for a good reason—because they never get the training.” AI technology, which can help assess worker experience and adapt lessons to individual needs, is also helping drive a shift to hiring and training employees based on very particular social and technical skills they need for their roles, whether that’s making sure managers know how to have difficult conversations with underperforming employees or coders know how to efficiently work with databases. “I think the beauty of it is its ability to create learning content at scale and speed,” says Ravin Jesuthasan, global transformation leader at consulting firm Mercer. Skills-based hiring is often seen as a way to get access to a broader talent pool than traditional indicators of aptitude like a college degree, and skill-focused training can let employees keep up to date even as their positions evolve due to technological and societal changes like the rise of AI and hybrid work. AI can help measure what skills employees already have, then create or locate highly targeted course material to fill in any gaps. “Instead of you sitting in a class with everyone else going through two months of training, you’re maybe spending three days or something because you’ve got a lot of those technical skills,” Jesuthasan says. In the past, while employers might have offered access to training materials like videos, written materials, and podcast-style audio, workers could feel overwhelmed by the possibilities and unsure how to fit learning in between work tasks, says Kian Katanforoosh, CEO and founder of skills assessment company Workera. In September, the company unveiled an AI mentor called Sage that can give employees quick and (ideally) fun skill assessments using a variety of interfaces. Those include a virtual coding workpad, a voice interface, and an on-screen whiteboard for presenting ways to connect ideas and concepts. The results can help route staff to particular projects or to personalized training options. Those can include some instruction from Sage itself, though Workera generally connects users to coursework from across a variety of learning platforms, matched to individual needs, Katanforoosh says. “Some providers have really good metadata which allow us to have the transcripts of every course and understand videos at a transcript level, and be able to say this is a good video or not for the user,” he says. And when AI itself provides interactive training, it has the advantage of being available on demand around the clock to tirelessly generate practice material for different skills and scenarios. A company called Alelo works with employers and training firms to create AI-powered educational material, where workers can practice skills interacting with digital avatars, then receive feedback generated by another specialized AI model. Healthcare training is a common use case, with nurses and others in the field practicing patient interactions, says Lewis Johnson, the company’s president and CEO. Scenarios, which can include short sessions where health providers demonstrate their ability to express empathy for a patient in pain or longer interactions that simulate an entire patient interaction, are meant to be repeated. Typically, users are intended to practice a particular training at least five times, then repeat them as needed later on to keep skills fresh, Johnson says. [Screenshot: Alelo] “Part of the goal here is to encourage learners to practice as much as they need in order to gain proficiency,” he says. “Each run may be somewhat different, so this really encourages people to keep practicing until they’re comfortable and able to fully meet the training objectives.” Employers or training organizations get access to dashboards that let them see at a glance how employees are advancing through the training. In general, AI instructional tech can help save time for employers by automating training, assessment, and development of learning plans for staff. In October, learning platform Udemy announced a new AI assistant to guide learners to relevant material, and a Skills Mapping system that can help identify employee skills needing an upgrade within an organization. The AI then provides a custom “learning path” of instructional material to get workers trained. “Skills Mapping has significantly reduced the median time needed to create a public learning path, slashing it by more than 80%,” writes Eren Bali, Udemy’s cofounder and CTO, in an email. “Notably, over one-third of paths created by organizations since the launch have been AI-powered paths, indicating Skills Mapping’s impact on efficiency and performance.” Still, AI training likely won’t eliminate traditional mentoring and instruction any time soon. Training company Mursion, known for its avatar-based training experiences powered by human actors, recently introduced a fully AI-powered alternative. It lets workers practice skills at any time, without Mursion needing to ensure its own staff are available, which is especially important for clients training employees in environments like restaurants or warehouses where downtime may be unpredictable, says CEO Mark Atkinson. “It’s just impossible to build a staffing model that knows that we need to be ready at that moment,” he says. [Photo: Mursion] The company’s simulations can help train service workers in techniques like conflict de-escalation and dealing with challenging customers, Atkinson says, and Mursion also helps employees in management, healthcare fields, and sales practice techniques relevant to their work. Avatar-based simulation in general can help employees practice types of uncomfortable scenarios that could feel too awkward or embarrassing for traditional in-person role play, he says, and generative AI has proven adept at consistently simulating particular behaviors for employees to practice responding to. It’s also beginning to play a role in Mursion’s human-directed simulations, automatically and consistently scoring participant performance. That, in turn, lets Mursion’s human simulation leaders focus on playing their roles rather than evaluating responses. They’ll keep playing those roles for the foreseeable future, Atkinson says, since they can offer a level of narrative variety and adaptability that AI can’t currently easily match. “I’m not saying it won’t ever happen, but the way I see it is the AI is pushing us to be better at the human [side], while delivering an incredibly valuable, on-demand experience for those who want that,” he says. But as the workplace continues to evolve, and new generations of workers continue to graduate and seek employment, then move into management or other new roles, AI seems likely to also be on hand to guide and, sometimes, even conduct their training. After all, while Gen Z is currently being called out for a lack of workplace savvy, it wasn’t too long ago that employers said similar things about millennials starting their first full-time jobs. “These are skills that we somehow expect that the younger generation would just come out of school knowing but they don’t, because they’ve never really had the chance to practice,” Sloyan says. View the full article

Back in December, OpenAI rolled out a new way to chat with ChatGPT: You can reach out to the generative AI by calling 1-800-CHATGPT (no, really)—or, if you have WhatsApp, you can text that same number to share what's on your mind. While many of ChatGPT's distinct features were missing, the core of the experience was still present. You text or ask ChatGPT something out loud, and the bot responds in kind. For WhatsApp users, that largely feels like texting a friend—only, that friend happens to respond right away with a detailed response generated entirely by AI. (We all have one of those friends, right?) Now, less than two months after rolling out this new way to contact ChatGPT, OpenAI is expanding its features on WhatsApp. There are two key updates here: One, you can now upload and send images when chatting with ChatGPT, which means you can request that the bot analyzes a photo, or provide an image as added context to a greater query. Second, you can share voice messages to ChatGPT. If there are times when you can't call ChatGPT and talk for extended periods of time, but you don't want to type out your full question, you can simply send a voice message instead. OpenAI also shared that the company is working on a way for users to link their ChatGPT accounts (whether free, Plus, or Pro) to WhatsApp, but that feature isn't live yet. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. While these updates should make it a bit easier for WhatsApp users to use ChatGPT through the messaging app, the entire experience is still quite limited: OpenAI gives all U.S. numbers 15 minutes of call time per month, with a "daily limit" on WhatsApp messages. In addition, this experience has a knowledge cut off of October of 2023, so don't expect this version of ChatGPT to know anything that's happened in the past year and a half. If you like ChatGPT, you should probably just download the ChatGPT app. However, if you only want to interact with the bot once in a blue moon, and don't want to clutter your phone up with yet another app (another AI app, at that), sure—send ChatGPT all the images and voice messages you want (or, more accurately, can). View the full article

US president’s proposal to expel millions of Palestinians follows years of interventions favouring the Israeli rightwingView the full article

Spend a few minutes imagining a clean slate. By Ed Mendlowitz Tax Season Opportunity Guide Go PRO for members-only access to more Edward Mendlowitz. View the full article

Spend a few minutes imagining a clean slate. By Ed Mendlowitz Tax Season Opportunity Guide Go PRO for members-only access to more Edward Mendlowitz. View the full article

The dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development will deliver a major blow to efforts including humanitarian assistance in Colombia, conservation efforts in the Brazilian Amazon, and coca eradication in Peru—South American countries that have been a priority for the support. Even if some foreign aid resumes after the 90-day suspension ordered by President Donald Trump, many USAID-backed projects focus on areas he has derided as ideological: climate change, biodiversity, and minority and women’s rights, so several recipients fear their projects are now dead. Colombia has long been the largest recipient of U.S. foreign assistance in South America. Recent USAID money has supported emergency humanitarian aid to more than 2.8 million Venezuelans who fled economic crisis. In 2024 alone, the agency transferred some $45 million to the U.N. World Food Programme, mostly to assist them. The end of U.S. humanitarian assistance in Colombia, Brazil, and other Latin American countries is another huge setback for Venezuelans abroad. Last week, the Trump administration also revoked a temporary immigration status that has allowed roughly 600,000 people from Venezuela to stay in the U.S. The first large group could be deported in about two months. “Trump’s cuts will hit Latin America’s most vulnerable populations, including millions of Venezuelan migrants and refugees, as grassroots organizations providing essential care, guidance, and food are left without funding,” Bram Ebus, a Bogota-based consultant at the International Crisis Group, told the Associated Press. “Migrant populations are targeted by organized crime and armed groups. If aid projects are not resumed quickly, it will allow these groups to abuse and exploit vulnerable migrants.” Despite the fact that the U.S. is the largest source of aid to Colombia, President Gustavo Petro said some of this help is not welcome and has to go. “Hundreds of immigration officials who guard our borders were paid by the United States. This aid is poison,” he said during a cabinet meeting Monday. “That should never be allowed. We are going to pay with our money.” In 2024, the agency paid nearly $385 million to Colombia. Trump told reporters Monday that shutting down USAID “should have been done a long time ago.” Billionaire Elon Musk, who is leading government cost reduction in the new administration, said the agency was run by “radical left lunatics.” In Brazil, USAID’s largest initiative is the Partnership for the Conservation of Amazon Biodiversity, which focuses on conservation and improving livelihoods for Indigenous peoples and other forest communities. About two-thirds of the world’s largest rainforest is in Brazil. One Brazilian organization USAID has supported is the Amazon-based Roraima Indigenous Council, which operates in 35 areas including the territory of the Yanomami tribe, totaling some 157,000 square kilometers (60,600 square miles), larger than Greece. This direct support is representative of a shift at USAID over the past few years to prioritize funding grassroots organizations. In a region vulnerable to illegal gold mining and drug-trafficking, the Roraima Indigenous Council is using the money for improved family farming, adapting to climate change, and income generation for women. Now everything is at risk, Edinho Macuxi, the tuxaua (leader) of the Indigenous Council, told the AP. In recent weeks, his organization, which represents some 60,000 people, laid off workers and canceled activities due to lack of funds. “The partnership with USAID has existed for seven years. If the decision is to end it, this will shake our organizational structure and projects that are very important for strengthening the economy and autonomy of Indigenous peoples,” he said. “Our message to President Trump is that he should maintain the resources not only for Brazil but for other countries as well. In Brazil, Indigenous peoples who access this funding are the ones who effectively keep most of the forest standing, ensuring life not just for people in Brazil, but also the world,” Macuxi said. In recent years, USAID also supported arguably the most successful sustainable resource effort in the Amazon, the managed fishing of pirarucu, the region’s famously giant fish. The U.S. funds built a slaughterhouse where fishers could work during the legal catch. Indigenous and riverine communities helped recover what was an endangered species, at the same time getting income and food. In 2024, USAID disbursed $22.6 million to Brazil. Over half, close to $14 million, went to general environmental protection, with the Amazon, which stores crucial amounts of carbon from the atmosphere, as a top priority. For Peru, the humanitarian agency disbursed some $135 million in 2024. Part of it is to control cocaine production by financing alternatives such as coffee and cacao. Those efforts date back to the early 1980s. Peru is the world’s second-largest cocaine producer after Colombia, which runs similar programs financed with American assistance. In a statement, Peru’s Premier Gustavo Adrianzén said his government will continue the crop substitution program without U.S. funding. The Peruvian National Commission for Development and Life Without Drugs, known as DEVIDA, declined to comment on the new U.S. administration’s freeze. A former DEVIDA chief, Ricardo Soberón, said that USAID’s pause is an opportunity to review a partnership that has not been effective. “It has always been conditional assistance, with politics involved. It has been minimal, often delayed, and not integrated with the actions of the Peruvian state,” he told AP. Soberón said that neighboring Bolivia, which expelled the U.S. agency in 2013, has achieved better results in controlling cocaine production since then. “Despite its problems and external limitations (the economic and political crisis), the withdrawal of USAID has provided Bolivia with a high degree of autonomy to develop social control policies, which have been much more efficient.” ______ The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. —Fabiano Maisonnave, Associated Press View the full article