Heat and Control is showcasing its expanded thermal processing capability at interpack 2026, following the acquisition of UK-based dryer specialist Tek-Dry Systems.
Speaking with PKN at the show, Tek-Dry Systems sales director Scott Thompson said the acquisition formally brought together two companies that had already been collaborating closely for almost a decade.
“The relationship really started through Heat and Control’s Australian team in Brisbane,” Thompson explained. “They were approaching us for French fry line projects, and from there we built a strong working relationship.”
That relationship eventually led to discussions with Heat and Control president Tony Caridis, culminating in the acquisition approximately 12 months ahead of interpack 2026.
This marks Tek-Dry Systems’ first appearance at interpack as part of the Heat and Control group, after previously exhibiting independently at interpack 2023.
According to Thompson, the acquisition strengthens Heat and Control’s ability to deliver more complete turnkey thermal processing systems to customers.
“Heat and Control is already a market leader in high-speed snack frying and packaging,” he said. “What Tek-Dry brings is drying technology, so together we can now offer both frying and drying capability from a single supplier.”
Tek-Dry specialises in large-scale industrial thermal processing systems including dryers, coolers, toasters and roasters, serving sectors such as French fries, cereals and snack foods.
The snack category in particular represents a significant opportunity for the combined business, with Thompson noting strong alignment between Tek-Dry’s drying expertise and Heat and Control’s established snack processing customer base.
Because the company’s industrial dryers are too large to transport to trade shows, Tek-Dry is using a detailed 3D-printed scale model on the stand to demonstrate the technology and support customer discussions.
Tek-Dry Systems is exhibiting with Heat and Control at Hall 14, Stand A56.
