There are various different types of display refrigerators and they differ in function to the refrigerators found within domestic homes.
A display fridge will give the business premises two distinct functions: the ability to refrigerate food and drink products and the ability to display these within the customers’ view to improve their shopping and customer experience.
There is a vast range of models on the market to suit various needs. These range from small cases designed for mini-delis and mobile catering businesses to large shop and restaurant display models with extra-large capacity and flexible illumination.
Features
Most modern display refrigeration solutions will be designed with energy efficiency in mind and this is always a concern for business owners who are keen to minimize their costs. A great design that makes the best use of space is also an important feature, along with advanced functionality which allows optimum product display whilst keeping the refrigerator contents cool. Look for features such as slim-line dimensions for smaller spaces, adjustable shelves, Perspex shelf rises, EPOS ticket strips, a night blind, reinforced shelf strengtheners, vertical displays and canopy lighting, digital temperature control and display, panoramic vision end walls and also varied multiplex options.
One or More?
Larger restaurant, canteen and hotel kitchens will tend to use a varied range of display fridges for a variety of needs. Restaurants will usually store various prepared ingredients and foods in bulk, as well as beverage systems, so their needs will be diverse and tend to encompass a range of differently sized fridge systems which will hold certain specific items. The type of fridge required will also depend on the size of the storage ingredients, whether they are displayed plated or pre-cooked and whether they need to be displayed visually to customers at a particular height.
The most common type is known as the ‘reach-in’ fridge and this is the one usually found in homes too. It contains three central shelves and storage shelves located inside the door. These are popular with smaller catering establishments. Larger businesses will often use walk-in models which have small enclosed rooms for bulk ingredient storage.
Other Things to Know
Air curtain fridges are very useful for businesses too. They are narrow and tall cooling units with several shelves which are thinly spaced. They use a fan system that will circulate cold air around and completely cover the food contents across all angles. These systems are great for food trays that are pre-prepared and very useful for events catering. Look too at glass bakery or deli cases, beverage dispensers and ingredient stations which provide additional focused ways of displaying pastries and cakes, drinks and preparation ingredients to their best effect.
The type of refrigeration solution chosen will depend on the type and size of the business. It is important to make the right decision, however, as mistakes can be costly to rectify.
