AoFrio launches iQ to boost global smart refrigeration fleets

AoFrio has announced the launch of a new software-as-a-service solution, AoFrio iQ, aimed at enhancing commercial refrigeration management and supporting the company's recurring revenue growth strategy.

The AoFrio iQ solution combines Internet of Things (IoT) hardware with a software platform for insights and remote management, reflecting a shift towards subscription-based income for the Auckland-based company. Annual subscriptions are anticipated to become a greater portion of AoFrio's overall revenue as the product gains traction globally.

Greg Balla, Chief Executive of AoFrio, described the development as a major milestone for the company and highlighted the platform's capabilities for customers with large fleets of commercial coolers.

"This is a bold step forward in how we deliver value to our customers. AoFrio iQ unlocks the full potential of our data and redefines what's possible with connected refrigeration fleets. It's the most integrated solution on the market, helping businesses operate more efficiently, reduce costs and future-proof their fleets," says Balla.

Central to the new offering is the SCS 800 cellular-connected controller, a device which enables direct two-way communication between cooling equipment and the AoFrio iQ platform. This connectivity is designed to provide businesses with timely data and controls, allowing them to respond rapidly to issues and make decisions that improve efficiency.

AoFrio asserts that the features of the iQ platform provide actionable intelligence for reducing equipment downtime and improving revenue.

Key functions include real-time fleet monitoring, allowing users to track the health, performance and location of cooling units across an entire fleet. Through the platform's remote management capabilities, operators can modify equipment settings or perform diagnostic checks without physically accessing units, potentially reducing maintenance expenses and streamlining operations. The platform is also designed for compatibility with a range of existing hardware, making it suitable for both new installations and retrofitting older equipment.

AoFrio's technology is already adopted by several international beverage brands and equipment manufacturers, with the company stating that it has connected more than three-quarters of the world's smart refrigeration units. The launch of AoFrio iQ is positioned as a move to increase its presence further in key overseas markets in North America, South America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

The latest product utilises the company's hardware, such as energy-efficient ECR motors and monitoring devices, within a single platform that AoFrio says is designed to support the long-term requirements of its clients.

"AoFrio iQ represents a strategic shift toward full-fleet intelligence. It's designed to scale with our customers' needs, using insights to drive long-term value and more sustainable refrigeration," adds Balla.

According to the company, AoFrio iQ's development was driven by direct customer feedback on pain points experienced in managing commercial refrigeration fleets. AoFrio describes its offering as the only fully integrated hardware and software solution available at scale, aiming to reduce complexity for customers and promote operational efficiency across international markets.

The global expansion of AoFrio iQ is seen as a response to growing demand for connected, remotely controlled refrigeration, with the company expecting this will help further establish its position in the sector.