MEIKO’s M-iQ Cup Named a 2026 Kitchen Innovations Award Recipient
LA VERGNE (February 18, 2026) – MEIKO is proud to announce that the MEIKO M-iQ Cup has been named a recipient of the 2026 Kitchen Innovations (KI) Award by the National Restaurant Association. The M-iQ Cup will be recognized and showcased at the National Restaurant Association Show, taking place May 16–19 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
For more than two decades, the Kitchen Innovations Awards have honored equipment and technology that advance efficiency, sustainability, safety, and overall kitchen performance. Awardees are selected by an independent panel of third-party judges who evaluate each submission based on its real-world operational impact and ability to address critical industry challenges.
MEIKO, a global leader in professional warewashing and hygiene solutions, developed the M-iQ Cup to support high-volume operations processing reusable dishware while delivering measurable improvements in performance and resource efficiency.
The M-iQ Cup stands out for its:
- Powerful 360° AirStream drying, ensuring reusable dishware leaves the machine dry and ready for immediate reuse
- Advanced filtration system that removes food waste from the wash water and actively extracts it from the tank — without additional water — completely eliminating it from the warewashing process
- Optimized water, energy, and detergent usage through intelligent tank management
- Hygienic, automated cleaning features designed to maintain the highest sanitation standards while reducing manual labor
“We’re incredibly proud to be recognized as a 2026 Kitchen Innovations Award recipient,” said Lee Baker, Vice President of Product Management at MEIKO USA. “Being selected by an independent panel of judges reinforces our commitment to developing solutions that help operators work smarter, operate more sustainably, and adapt to the increasing demand for reusable programs. Showcasing the M-iQ Cup at the National Restaurant Association Show allows us to connect directly with industry leaders focused on the future of commercial kitchens.”
This recognition continues MEIKO’s strong legacy of innovation. The company’s last Kitchen Innovations Award recognition was for the MEIKO M-iClean UM with GiO Module, further demonstrating MEIKO’s consistent leadership in advancing professional warewashing technology.
As a 2026 Kitchen Innovations Award recipient, MEIKO will highlight the M-iQ Cup in the dedicated Kitchen Innovations Showroom at booth 3295. While the full machine will not be onsite due to its scale, we will feature a dedicated activation designed to showcase the technology behind the M-iQ Cup and help attendees explore how it is shaping the next generation of commercial kitchens.
Visitors can also experience MEIKO’s broader portfolio of warewashing and automation solutions at our main booth, #2848, located on the show floor.
The National Restaurant Association Show is the premier global event for the restaurant and hospitality industry, bringing together leaders, operators, and innovators to explore emerging trends, products, and technologies.