What are the best display fridges for a convenience store?

Adding a display fridge to your convenience store can provide a real boost to your sales. An eye-catching display that showcases products in the best light makes the whole buying process much easier for customers, helping them make quick decisions or tempting them into impulse buys.

The decision to invest in a new display fridge takes careful consideration; in this post, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the right display fridge for your convenience store.

Required capacity and dimensions to fit the store’s layout

Your display fridge’s size and dimensions will depend your convenience store’s unique needs and layout.

It’s important to think through the optimum size carefully; if you invest in a fridge that’s too large for your needs, it will take up valuable space and lead to unnecessary energy costs. However, if the fridge is too small, you’ll limit the amount of products you can stock, both now and in the future.

When deciding on the best location, consider which position will increase product visibility and maximise sales, as this can have a huge impact on your profits. Typically, areas towards the front of a store near the entrance or the tills will be the most visible, boosting ‘grab and go’ or impulse buys.

Equally, think through the practicalities of its possible positions, considering how your customers behave and whether the fridge will be in the way as they move through the store.

Measure the physical dimensions of the location, also considering the space that will be left around it. A fridge crammed in tightly will not have adequate space for airflow, which could lead to operational issues.

It’s worth remembering that some of the latest models, such as those in TEFCOLD’s Galaxy+ range, are made using the latest slimline frames, meaning that for the same floorspace your get a lot more display capacity.

Type of products to be stored and displayed

The type of products you currently stock will play an important part in your decision about which display fridge you invest in. It can also be an opportunity to expand your range and stock new products.

There are a wide range of refrigerated display solutions available, and each will suit certain products more than others. For example, drinks tend to be more suited to countertop fridges, whereas fruit and veg is best displayed on angled shelving.

TEFCOLD’s range includes glass door chillers, back bar coolers, multidecks, counter-top and serveover display units, as well as models designed specifically for fresh meat, fish, patisserie, cakes, chocolate, and fruit and veg.

Models in TEFCOLD’s Atom Maxi range feature adjustable shelves, enabling you to change your display according to the size and nature of the items inside.

It’s always best to tailor your fridge to your specific products, where possible leaving flexibility for expansion in the future. TEFCOLD’s experts are always available to guide you through the options and give advice on which models will suit your needs.

Energy efficiency ratings and eco-friendly options

Investing in an energy efficient display fridge in your convenience store can be good for profits as well as for your carbon footprint and overall reputation.

While it can be tempting to reduce your initial investment and purchase a cheaper, less efficient model, you risk increasing your energy bills in the future if the fridge is costly to run, doesn’t use sustainable refrigerants or include energy saving features, as the LED lighting in TEFCOLD’s Atom Maxi range.

All fridges will be labelled with energy efficiency ratings, according to latest guidelines. Those awarded A or B, such as those in TEFCOLD’s Galaxy+ range, are the most efficient to run thanks to their use of cutting-edge sustainable technology and the inclusion of eco-friendly features as standard.

Durability, build quality, and warranty coverage

Choosing a fridge that’s built with high quality, durable materials might require a larger initial outlay. However, in the long term its reliability and longevity can prove financially beneficial to your business. Frequent repairs or breakdowns will cost you money, not only in parts and labour, but also from the loss of spoiled products and reduction in sales while your fridge is out of order.

Fridges from reputable manufacturers such as TEFCOLD are built with high quality parts that will last. Many, such as those in our Galaxy+ range, also come with energy saving features as standard, which will reduce the day-to-day energy costs to your business.

Fridges in high traffic areas of your store are more likely to be bumped or scratched. If you think this could be the case for your fridge, look for those with robust metal finishes. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, and is naturally more resistant to staining, rust and corrosion.

It’s also important to investigate the warranty provided with your new display fridge, as this often differs between manufacturers. Fridges are typically provided with either 24- or 36-month warranties, which can cover parts and labour, or parts only, which can lead to additional labour costs in the event of repairs or breakdowns. TEFCOLD offers the option to add labour to your warranty, providing the flexibility to choose a package that suits your business.

Adaptability and customisation options

Branding is an important part of running a successful convenience store; it sets you apart from others and can lead to greater customer loyalty and increased sales.

Fridges that feature ticket strips will increase visibility of products you particularly want to showcase by providing additional product information or highlighting special offers. Some manufacturers will also offer eye-catching branded sign panels or decals that will draw customers to your displays and create a professional, polished look.

TEFCOLD’s branding service can be applied to all the display fridges in our range, and uses advanced technology and superior quality prints that will last.

How can TEFCOLD help?

Choosing the right display fridge can lead to significantly increased sales, as well as reduced costs and a boost to your store’s image.

With over 50 years of experience in commercial refrigeration, TEFCOLD is the expert in the market. We use high quality materials that will stand the test of time in a busy convenience store and offer an extensive range of models, each with additional customisation options, meaning there is sure to be one that suits your business.

We’re always happy to offer advice and guidance, so please get in touch today to discuss your needs.