Nearly 80 Years of Food Service Excellence
Since 1946, Lane & McClain Distributors has played a pivotal role in shaping the commercial food service equipment industry. As one of Taylor Company's very first distributors, our story is intertwined with some of the most iconic innovations in food service history.
From helping develop the first soft serve machines to introducing frozen carbonated beverages to 7-Eleven, Lane & McClain has been at the forefront of industry innovation for nearly eight decades.
The Modern Era
New leadership, a new headquarters, and a major brand expansion have positioned Lane & McClain for continued growth as Texas's premier food service equipment distributor.
Major Expansion
Significantly expanded capabilities by adding Middleby lines including Pitco, Blodgett, Concordia, and TurboChef. Hired additional service staff and equipped four new fully-stocked service vehicles.
New Headquarters
After 61 years in downtown Dallas, Lane & McClain relocated its corporate headquarters to Carrollton, TX — a modern facility with a fully functioning test kitchen and expanded parts warehouse.
McDonald's Partnership
Initiated the Brush Butler Program for McDonald's and hosted a Middleby leadership meeting, strengthening Lane & McClain's position with the world's largest restaurant chain.
Cinemark Expansion
Began Cinemark rollout for Taylor two-sided clam shell grills, expanding Lane & McClain's reach into the entertainment and cinema food service market.
New Ownership Era
Alan and Julie Rubin purchased 100% of the company stock, beginning a new chapter for Lane & McClain. That same year, the company celebrated 45 years with Brinker International.
Remembering Bruce Lane
Bruce Lane passed away in January after more than 50 years of dedicated service to the company. His legacy of leadership and partnership with Taylor Company shaped the industry.
New Leadership
Alan Rubin returned to Lane & McClain as President and COO, bringing fresh energy and a renewed vision for the company's future growth.
Industry Leadership
Lane & McClain cemented its role as an industry leader — inventing frozen carbonated beverages, equipping the first Chili's restaurant, and helping launch the frozen yogurt movement.
I Can't Believe It's Yogurt
Delivered the first Taylor soft serve machine to I Can't Believe It's Yogurt, helping launch the frozen yogurt movement that would sweep the nation in the 1980s.
The Original Chili's
Installed a Taylor margarita machine at the first Chili's restaurant on Greenville Avenue in Dallas — the beginning of a long-standing relationship with one of Texas's most famous restaurant brands.
7-Eleven Partnership
Lane & McClain sold FCB equipment to 7-Eleven, introducing frozen beverages to the chain and laying the groundwork for what would become the iconic Slurpee program.
Frozen Carbonated Beverages Invented
Co-founder Earl McClain retired. Taylor and Lane & McClain developed the first FCB (frozen carbonated beverage) machine, revolutionizing convenience stores and quick-service restaurants forever.
Taylor Distributor Council Formed
Bruce Lane was elected the first president of the newly formed Taylor Distributor Council. He helped develop the National Accounts Policy still in use by Taylor Company today.
The Founding Years
Two freight salesmen saw an opportunity in the emerging commercial food equipment industry and built a partnership that would endure for generations — becoming one of Taylor Company's very first distributors.
The Lane Name Returns
Bruce Lane, Jim's brother, joined as a new partner. The company name was restored to Lane & McClain Distributors, continuing the legacy his brother helped build.
Jim Lane Passes Away
Co-founder Jim Lane passed away, bringing the original Lane & McClain partnership to a close. The company briefly operated as McClain Freezers from 1959 to 1960.
Pioneering Soft Serve
Taylor developed their soft serve machine with the direct help of Jim Lane, establishing Lane & McClain as more than distributors — they were product development collaborators shaping the industry.
Lane & McClain Founded
Earl McClain and Jim Lane, two former freight salesmen who recognized a growing opportunity in commercial food equipment, founded Lane & McClain Distributors — becoming one of Taylor Company's very first distributors.
Continue the Legacy With Us
For nearly 80 years, Lane & McClain has been the trusted partner for Texas food service businesses. Let us help equip yours.
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