Thermo-Kool Blog

What BABA Compliance Means for Commercial Kitchens

Written by Thermo-Kool | Jul 21, 2025 4:31:06 PM

Selecting the right walk-in cooler or freezer is about more than food safety. It’s about protecting timelines, budgets, and long-term performance. In public-sector kitchens where funding regulations and approval processes can cause delays, a compliant cold storage solution offers a significant advantage. That’s where Thermo-Kool stands apart. 

With over 65 years of U.S.-based manufacturing experience, our company offers more than refrigeration. We deliver trust, project confidence, and a legacy of dependability, all backed by full compliance with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act.

Why ‘Made in the USA’ Still Matters

Domestic manufacturing continues to be a key factor in foodservice success. It provides better control over quality, more reliable delivery timelines, and localized service when it’s needed most. With every walk-in cooler and freezer built at Thermo-Kool’s Laurel, Mississippi facility, customers can count on consistency from start to finish.

Because Thermo-Kool’s team manages fabrication, testing, and shipping under one roof, there’s no guessing about how each unit performs in the field. Their focus on craftsmanship includes durable panel construction with tongue-and-groove alignment and cam-lock fasteners to preserve efficiency and structural integrity over time. The result is a walk-in that stands up to daily demands while protecting perishable products and operating budgets.

Understanding the Build America, Buy America Act

The Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act was introduced as part of a larger effort to improve U.S. infrastructure and support domestic supply chains. Under this legislation, federally funded projects must prioritize American-made materials and products to qualify for grants or contract awards.

In foodservice, this includes schools, correctional facilities, VA hospitals, and other government-backed operations. Compliance with BABA ensures that kitchen equipment, including walk-in refrigeration, aligns with procurement requirements and speeds up the funding process.

What BABA Compliance Means for You

Working with a BABA-compliant manufacturer like Thermo-Kool eliminates a common barrier to project approval. For operators, dealers, consultants, and facility managers, that means fewer documentation headaches and more predictable timelines.

Because Thermo-Kool meets BABA standards, customers in the public and private sectors can confidently accept our equipment. Cold storage needs are met without compromise, helping teams move quickly from planning to installation with complete confidence in sourcing and code compliance.

More Than Cold Storage. Confidence Built In.

Thermo-Kool products are engineered to provide long-term peace of mind. Customers aren't just purchasing refrigeration equipment. They’re investing in a product that reflects decades of innovation, consistent field performance, and a commitment to supporting American manufacturing.

From superior panel design to energy efficiency and personalized service, Thermo-Kool delivers solutions built for the real world. Every unit is designed to meet performance expectations now and for years to come. That’s the kind of reliability foodservice professionals can count on, no matter how complex the project or application.