Photo mosaic by: rapids @ Mosaically

Rapids has provided over 80 years of outstanding service to our customers. The company was founded in 1936, serving primarily the beer industry, and over the years has continued to expand its product line and locations to serve the food service and beverage industries in the United States and around the globe.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our web site, at one of our convenient locations, or in our frequently mailed catalogs, contact us via e-mail or our toll free phone number and fax lines.

One of our knowledgeable Rapids Sales Representatives will assist you in locating the products you need. Many of our Sales Representatives have worked in the food service and beer industries before coming to work with us.

They are continually being trained by breweries and equipment manufacturers to keep current on all of the latest in products that will make your job easier. You will experience the Rapids difference when you contact any of our sales representatives.

Items are in stock and ready to ship for orders received before 3 p.m. Central Standard Time. Unless otherwise noted, orders are shipped F.O.B. from one of our locations listed below. Items shipped directly from our vendors are generally F.O.B. from their location. If you need same day or next day delivery, Rapids has once again expanded the Rapidship stocking program to provide you with all of the products you need quickly. Rapidship means in-stock and ready to ship today! Some of the Rapidship products that are ready for you today are: Supreme® Cocktail Sinks, Arctic® Economy Reach-in Refrigerators and Freezers, True® Deli Display Cases, Bar Maid® Glass Washers, ISS® Shelving Kits, etc.


Our Locations

Rapids Wholesale Equipment
6201 South Gateway Drive, Marion, IA 52302
(319) 447-1670
email us

Rapids Restaurant Equipment Cash and Carry
2475 Doswell Ave St. Paul, MN 55108
(651) 256-0580
email us

Rapids Foodservice Contract and Design
Highway 280 and Como Ave, 2475 Doswell Ave, St Paul, MN 55108
(612) 339-4010
email us

Rapids Foodservice Contract and Design
13789 Rider Trail North, Ste 105, Earth City, MO 63045
(314) 344-1161
email us

About Rapids Wholesale


Photo mosaic by: rapids @ Mosaically

Rapids has provided over 80 years of outstanding service to our customers. The company was founded in 1936, serving primarily the beer industry, and over the years has continued to expand its product line and locations to serve the food service and beverage industries in the United States and around the globe.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our web site, at one of our convenient locations, or in our frequently mailed catalogs, contact us via e-mail or our toll free phone number and fax lines.

One of our knowledgeable Rapids Sales Representatives will assist you in locating the products you need. Many of our Sales Representatives have worked in the food service and beer industries before coming to work with us.

They are continually being trained by breweries and equipment manufacturers to keep current on all of the latest in products that will make your job easier. You will experience the Rapids difference when you contact any of our sales representatives.

Why Choose Us?

Retail Locations

Retail Locations

Industry Expertise

Industry Expertise

Fast Shipping

Fast Shipping

Custom Solutions

Custom Solutions

Exceptional Service

Exceptional Service

Special Offers

Special Offers

Our Locations


Rapids Wholesale Equipment

Rapids & Affiliates Headquarters

6201 South Gateway Drive, Marion, IA 52302

(319) 447-1670

Rapids Restaurant Equipment Cash and Carry

2475 Doswell Ave, Suite B, St. Paul MN 55108

(651) 256-0580

Rapids Foodservice Contract and Design

Highway 280 and Como Ave, 2475 Doswell Ave, Suite B, St Paul, MN 55108

(612) 339-4010

Rapids Foodservice Contract and Design

13789 Rider Trail North, Ste 105, Earth City, MO 63045

(314) 344-1161

Rapids History


1936
Harry Ribble left Pabst Brewery to develop the world’s first direct draw beer dispenser, founding Rapids in the process. By inventing, patenting, and manufacturing the first direct draw beer box, he established a niche for his company in what would become a $6 billion industry.
Harry Ribble with first direct draw beer dispenser
1938
Rapids launched its wholesale distribution with the release of its first printed catalog, marking the beginning of many more to come.
First Printed Catalogs
1972
Doug Van Meter succeeded the Ribbles, and new locations began to emerge nationwide. Rapids Inc. swiftly shifted its focus to direct marketing through an annual catalog. Today, Rapids Inc. is a wholesale distributor of over 10,000 products for the beer and foodservice industries.
Aerial Shot of Old Downtown Building
1992
The ownership team of Joe & Geri Schmitt and Joe & Diane Dodds began modernizing the organization for the 21st century. Recognizing the company's strong presence in the beer and restaurant industries, the new owners committed to delivering exceptional customer service. To support this commitment, they provided knowledgeable sales staff via multiple toll-free lines, ensuring prompt and effortless order fulfillment.
Joe & Geri Schmitt and Joe & Diane Dodds
2000
Operations were relocated from 2nd Ave in Cedar Rapids, IA, to a spacious 40,000-square-foot facility in nearby Marion. The new location offers convenient access for loading and unloading, with on-site foodservice experts available to assist with any questions or concerns.
Marion Showroom Building
2002
The acquisition of Advanced Contract & Design in Minneapolis further enhanced the company's offerings by complementing its restaurant equipment supply with full-service design options.
St. Paul Store Front
2004
With a comprehensive understanding of all facets of the commercial foodservice industry, Chain Supply Solutions is established to streamline R&M operations for our multi-unit customers.
Chain Supply Solution team
2009-2015
CRS continues to improve and grow, earning multiple awards and honors from our customers. The company was proudly recognized with the prestigious Foodservice Equipment Reports Magazine Management Excellence Award.
Awards Received
2018
The acquisition of Star Equipment allowed us to offer a complete turnkey solution to our customers. They brought valuable components to the table, including commercial foodservice repair and professional installation services.
Star and Rapids
2022
Eric Schmitt is appointed president, taking over from Joe Schmitt, who is passing the torch. Joe's leadership drove significant growth and innovation. Eric is set to continue this legacy with a focus on innovation and customer-centric strategies, marking a new chapter for the company.
Eric & Joe Schmitt
Present Day
Innovation is at our core, driving us to adopt new technologies and ideas to enhance our service and increase efficiency. With 3 branches, 2 retail stores, an installation and repair fleet, and e-commerce capabilities, we offer customers a comprehensive range of foodservice solutions.
NAFEM 2023