Nyle Systems was established in Brewer, Maine, over 40 years ago, initially specializing in energy-efficient technologies for lumber drying.
Source: Nyle
The fact that Nyle Dehydrators started its manufacturing focus on energy-efficient lumber drying technologies makes perfect sense once you know its headquarters in Brewer, Maine, is just a stone’s throw across the Penobscot River from Bangor, the former “Lumber Capital of the World.”
Initially established in 1977 as Nyle Systems, the company eventually grew from its lumber beginnings and diversified into water heating and HVAC solutions. In response to growing demand for sustainable, low-temperature food drying systems, Nyle Dehydrators was launched, offering heat pump and indirect gas-based solutions tailored for commercial and industrial processors.
Since then, this 67-person company has built a reputation for engineering excellence, customer partnership, and sustainable technology, serving clients across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
But Nyle’s evolution from a niche heat pump manufacturer to a trusted player in commercial and industrial food processing wasn’t accidental. It’s the result of decades of listening to customers, refining technologies, and staying ahead of shifting market needs.
“We’re known for combining energy efficiency with product integrity,” says Jeremy Howard, president. “Our heat pump technology allows us to deliver closed-loop drying systems that not only save energy but also protect the quality of what our customers are producing.”
Partnership over products
What sets Nyle apart isn’t just its technology — it’s its approach to business.
“We don’t just sell equipment,” says Niki St. Denis, sales and marketing manager. “We partner with customers to understand their goals, production challenges, and growth plans. Our engineering and service teams work side by side with them to build solutions that fit.”
This partnership philosophy is woven into every stage of the customer journey, from the first inquiry to installation and beyond. A dedicated Sales Manager leads each project, supported by a Customer Advocate, engineering, and service teams, ensuring seamless communication and responsive support. Once a system is installed, Kyle Barnes, Director of Service, and his team take over—providing hands-on training, remote support, and ongoing service.
Built for flexibility
FD-Series dehydrators are designed for low-temperature, energy-efficient drying. Ideal for fruits, vegetables, herbs, pet treats, and more.Source: NyleNyle’s product line has grown significantly in recent years, catering to the diverse needs of the industry with an ever-growing product range. With innovations like the FD-Series and FDG-Series batch dehydrators and the CD-Series continuous dehydrators, their systems are built to support everything from small-batch production to high-capacity industrial throughput. With the MD-Series, Nyle delivers modular systems designed for both adaptability and long-term durability—built to scale as production demands increase.
To balance customization with manufacturing efficiency, Nyle uses a modular approach:
Standardized chamber designs allow for scalable solutions.
Customizable control systems offer tailored operator access and visibility.
Heat recovery ventilation (HRV) and gas preheat options optimize energy usage.
Flexible conveyor configurations on continuous systems help fine-tune, and automate production flow.
“Our modular systems give us the flexibility to deliver exactly what each operation needs,” says Howard. “Whether it’s a single unit or a full-scale solution, we build to fit the customer—not the other way around.”
Lean and agile
Operating from a 125,000 sq. ft. facility, Nyle practices lean manufacturing, with a build-to-order model that minimizes waste and maximizes responsiveness. By preordering key components and maintaining a flexible production floor, the company can meet demand without overstocking or sacrificing lead times.
Nyle’s lean principles extend beyond the shop floor. Continuous internal feedback loops help identify inefficiencies and drive practical improvements—a strategy that’s made them both agile and customer-focused.
Scaling up with PMMI
After attending PACK EXPO International, Nyle saw firsthand how PMMI serves as a hub for packaging and processing innovation. The decision to join PMMI was a strategic leap aimed at deepening industry connections and staying ahead of market trends.
“We view PMMI membership as a long-term investment,” says St. Denis. “It’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow alongside some of the best in the industry.”
While still new to the PMMI community, Nyle is actively exploring opportunities to engage with its training programs, networking events, and market resources.
A culture of loyalty and innovation
Behind Nyle’s success is a close-knit team defined by trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to solving customer challenges. Employees aren’t just clocking in—they’re contributing to a company mission they believe in.
“We empower our people to take ownership and grow in their roles,” says Howard.. “That culture of innovation and personal connection is what keeps our team—and our customers—coming back.”
Looking ahead
With annual revenues between $20 and $50 million, Nyle continues to expand its global footprint. The company is committed to refining its lean practices, growing its service network, and investing in smart, sustainable drying solutions.
“We’re here to help customers improve how they dry—more efficiently, more intelligently, and with sustainability in mind,” says Howard. “As the need for smarter food processing grows, we’re positioned to lead the way with the right solutions and the right team behind them.”
Company Background
When established: 1977
Range of products: Nyle Dehydrators designs and manufactures energy-efficient dehydration systems for commercial and industrial food and ingredient processing. Its product lines include batch dehydrators and continuous conveyor-belt style dehydrators.
Executive team:Jeremy Howard, President; Nathan Cyr, Chief Operating Officer; Ingo Wallocha, VP of Sales, International; Eric Martin, Head of Engineering and Kyle Barnes, Director of Service
Headquarters/manufacturing location(s): Brewer, Maine
Number of employees: 67
Number of field service personnel: 15
Facility square footage: 125,000 sq ft
Geographic sales and support areas: Worldwide, providing sales, technical support, and service to North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
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