The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best Refrigerated Display Cases To Boost Your Profits

In the foodservice industry, your success depends not just on the quality of your products but also on how effectively you present them. A well-chosen display case can elevate your sales by attracting customers and maintaining product quality. With various types of display cases available, understanding their features and applications is essential to maximizing your profits.

1. Temperature Options: Matching Display Cases to Your Needs

Display cases generally fall into three main categories: refrigerated, non-refrigerated, and dual-temperature. Choosing the right type is critical for maintaining product safety and appeal.

Refrigerated Cases: Essential for perishable items like sushi or chocolates, these cases maintain proper temperature control to meet food safety standards. There are two primary cooling mechanisms:

• Forced Air Systems: Use fans to circulate cool air. While effective, they can dry out products and are less ideal for raw meats or seafood.

• Gravity Coil Systems: Employ a chilled coil to allow cold air to naturally settle over products. This system is gentler and better suited for delicate items like fresh meats or seafood.

Non-Refrigerated Cases: Best for shelf-stable items like pastries, bagels, or bread, these cases are perfect for high-turnover products.

Dual-Temperature Cases: Provide flexibility by accommodating both refrigerated and non-refrigerated items in one unit, making them ideal for bakeries or mixed-use establishments.

Other specialized options include freezer cases for ice cream, open-air cases for impulse purchases, and heated cases for pizza or warm snacks.

2. Appearance Matters: Attracting Customers with Visual Appeal

A well-designed display case does more than store your products; it enhances their presentation. Here’s how to optimize your display:

• Panel Colors: Black panels can make colorful items stand out, while white panels provide a clean and classic look.

• Glass Style: Choose between straight or curved glass depending on your aesthetic preferences and brand image. Ensure the glass is kept spotless, inside and out.

• Lighting: Install encapsulated lights for safety and consider specialty lighting to highlight product colors. Mirrored panels at the back and sides can make displays look more abundant.

• Shelving and Rotation: Proper shelving enhances product visibility, while strict rotation practices ensure freshness and quality control.

3. Key Specifications: Practical Considerations for Optimal Performance

Beyond appearance and temperature, technical specifications play a vital role in your display case's functionality.

Air Curtain Units: Open-display cases with air curtains are popular for their accessibility and customer convenience. To maintain optimal performance:

Place the unit in a stable environment with no more than 55% humidity and an ambient temperature of 75°F.

Avoid positioning near HVAC vents, fans, or doorways to protect the air curtain's effectiveness.

Keep the unit out of direct sunlight.

Stock the unit fully, as they operate most efficiently when loaded.

Maintenance Tips:

• Pre-chill items before placing them in the display; these units are designed to maintain cold, not to cool warm products.

• Use a night cover to retain insulation during off-hours.

• Regularly inspect the unit’s exhaust and intake air placement to ensure it complies with manufacturer specifications.

• Air curtain units are available in both vertical and horizontal designs, allowing you to choose the configuration that best suits your layout and product mix.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Sales with the Right Display Case

A strategic investment in the right refrigerated display case can transform your product presentation and drive profits. Consider the specific needs of your establishment, from temperature requirements to visual appeal and technical specifications. By making informed choices, you’ll not only enhance your customers' experience but also strengthen your bottom line.

Contact us at benny@ntsmart.com. We’re here to help you design efficient, compliant, and highly functional kitchen spaces that meet all industry standards.