Testimonials/News Story
Market Forge Achieves Award Status With Help From Netaac and The Taa For Firms Program
Market Forge Industries, an Everett, Massachusetts-based steam equipment manufacturer has made
incredible strides to not only survive but thrive in an ever-increasing global market. Over its 110+ years in business, Market Forge has successfully transformed itself many times over.
Founded in 1896, the company originally produced meat racks for historic Qunicy Market in Boston. By 1920, Market Forge became a specialist in the foodservice industry, building meat racks and refrigeration equipment. The company then began fabricating products out of stainless steel, which included a cast iron vegetable steamer (the first modern steam cooker).
In 1970, Market Forge sold many of its divisions and focused on becoming the premier steam equipment manufacturer in the world. The company added many new products to complement its line. In 1993, with a dedicated workforce already in place, Market Forge converted to an ESOP
further strengthening the company's passion and commitment to succeed.
In September of 2006, with foreign competition growing, Market Forge was once again facing a need to think outside the box.
With an estimated annual foreign and domestic market size of over $700 million, competition remains
intense. German products are the most problematic as they have a large U.S. presence and strong
brand recognition.
Given that challenge, Market Forge knew it had to evolve once again and turned to the New England Trade Adjustment Assistance Center (NETAAC) for help.
With NETAAC’s assistance, Market Forge was awarded $150,000 under the Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms program. The funding covered services for financial restructuring and engineering for new product 
development.
Market Forge immediately began consulting with engineers to develop additional innovative products specific to eco-friendly technology. Market Forge has designed and manufactured the first ever Energy Star rated gas steam cooker.
The Eco-Tech Plus has received tremendous attention and for good reason. Its environmentally friendly built-in water management system consumes less than 14 gallons of water per hour (as compared to 120 gallons of water for typical steam cookers of its size); representing not only GREEN technology but also substantial water and energy cost savings.
The Eco-Tech Plus also reduces gas consumption and helps to save the environment by reducing green house gas emissions. These innovative features have resulted in national recognition.
In 2007, Market Forge received the “Blue Flame Award—Product of the Year” from the Gas Foodservice Equipment Network (GFEN).
In 2008, Market Forge received “Kitchen Innovations Award” and was also declared a Smaller Business Association of New England (SBANE) “Innovator Award Winner.”
David Zappala, President of Market Forge, said “NETAAC’s funding helped us win the awards. We are working on additional ideas and the funding should allow us to stay one step ahead of our competition by introducing even more combination Energy Star / water conservation equipment to the marketplace.”
“On behalf of the Employee/Owners of Market Forge, we can never thank NETAAC enough for its assistance.”
Market Forge has recently purchased a very complimentary line, “Stellar Steam.” NETAAC’s funding
was a catalyst in offsetting expenses, affording funds for this transaction.
Today, Market forge has over 350 models of steam equipment, more than any other company in the industry, and prides itself on its innovative products and customer service.
February 26, 2009
New England Trade Adjustment Assistance Center, Inc. (NETAAC)
71 Faulkner St., N. Billerica, MA 01862