NEW ORLEANS - Commercial refrigeration equipment manufacturer Master-Bilt is launching a nationwide contest to find the company's oldest self-contained cabinet or merchandiser that is still operating.

The "Frozen in Time" contest was officially unveiled here at the North American Food Equipment Manufacturers (NAFEM) Expo. The contest will conclude in May 2004 at the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Expo in Chicago.

Once the unit is found, 65-year-old manufacturer Master-Bilt said it will replace it free of cost. The owner of the oldest unit will be flown to Chicago for the "exchange" ceremony at the NRA show. The old unit will then be placed on display in the company's headquarters in New Albany, Miss.