Rational AG

RATIONAL Aktiengesellschaft is a German-based Aktiengesellschaft and the global market and technology leader in innovative solutions for thermal food preparation in professional kitchens, holding approximately 50% market share. Founded in 1973 in Landsberg am Lech by Siegfried Meister, the company pioneered the combi-steamer by combining steam, convection, and precise control of time, temperature, and humidity into multifunctional appliances like the SelfCookingCenter, iCombi Pro, iCombi Classic, iVario, and CombiMaster Plus. These self-cleaning, programmable ovens range from compact tabletop units to large models capable of producing up to 500 meals daily, complemented by the VarioCooking Center from its French subsidiary FRIMA and services via the ConnectedCooking online portal. RATIONAL Aktiengesellschaft serves diverse sectors including restaurants, hotels, communal catering for hospitals, schools, military, and retirement homes, as well as quick-service outlets, supermarkets, and delivery services, distributing through independent partners in over 120 countries. With a focus on customer benefits, innovation, and financial strength—evidenced by high equity ratios around 77%, robust cash flows, and founding family ownership of over 55%—it maintains operational excellence and independence. Employing around 2,550 people, primarily in Germany, the company reported 2024 sales of EUR 1,194 million and an EBIT margin of 26%.