Are deli serveovers any good

Presentation, presentation, presentation (as a former Prime Minister didn’t quite say).

In delis, cafes and takeaways, your products’ visual appeal is make or break. But it’s not just about looks; the taste and texture must meet expectations. You’ve done all the hard work with your food prep, so your refrigerator is the only factor left to consider.

And that begs the valid question posed as the title of this article: Are deli serveovers actually any good? As we’ll explain in this article, the answer is, well, yes – provided you choose the right deli serveover for your specific business.

What are deli serveover counters, and how do they work?

A deli serveover counter is a refrigerated display unit designed to keep your food chilled, visible and visually tempting. These counters feature glass fronts and LED lighting so customers can see everything you’ve got in stock and how fresh it is. They also come with easy access for staff to serve your clientele quickly and efficiently. Available in various models, they’re ideal for showcasing everything from meats to fresh salads.

Deli serveover counters are available in a variety of sizes and configurations, designed to fit neatly into your space while offering excellent visibility for your products. Whether you’re running a small deli or a large café, serveover counters allow you to showcase a variety of chilled goods while keeping them at the perfect temperature.

Regarding specific options, Fridgesmart offers a wide range of units to suit your business needs.

Why deli serveovers are a smart choice for your business

Below, let’s take a closer look at why investing in a deli serveover or upgrading your existing model makes sense:

Improved product visibility

The clear glass display of a serveover counter provides an unobstructed view of your products, encouraging customers to buy. Customers are more likely to grab something when they see it clearly, whether it’s meats, cheese or ready-to-go sandwiches. This visibility is especially effective in high-traffic areas where customers are deciding quickly.

Temperature and humidity control

Serveover deli counters are designed to maintain the perfect environment for fresh food. Fans and refrigerants work hard to keep a steady temperature and humidity, keeping food fresh without drying it out or causing condensation. Of course, this is also critical for food safety.

Customer service

The convenience of a serveover counter extends beyond its design. With easy access to chilled products, staff can serve customers more quickly. There’s also more opportunity for rapport building with your servers, as your customers see the care and skill they put into preparing their meal or snack.

In some instances, like buffet delis and cafes, you could even set these units up for customers to serve themselves. In either example, customers feel more connected to the produce they purchase and eat.

Energy efficiency

Like any refrigerated unit, serveovers consume energy, but modern units are much more energy-efficient than older models. The best way to balance your energy needs is to analyse how much produce you need your deli serveover unit to sell and purchase an appropriately sized unit. Anything too small, and you won’t make as many sales (or staff will need to restock more frequently); too big, and you’ll be using more electricity than necessary.

Things to consider before investing in a deli serveover

Before committing to a deli serveover counter, there are several factors you need to keep in mind.

Cleaning – deli serveovers require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good working order. Cleaning is particularly important, as food spills, grime, and sometimes mould could build up over time. Opt for an easy-to-clean unit. That means removable shelves, smooth surfaces, and a simple-to-access interior.
Maintenance – alongside regular cleaning, deli serveover fridges need maintenance. Most importantly, ensure your unit’s auto-defrost settings are working. Defrosting avoids ice build-up and prevents the fridge from overworking. Also, temperature readings should be taken using extra thermometers to ensure the thermostat is still working, and the compressor and coils should be dusted off every couple of weeks.
Space and layout – space is often limited in smaller businesses, so you’ll need to choose a unit that fits well into your layout. Think about how much square footage you have available and how much produce you need the fridge to hold and sell.
Cost vs. long-term investment – the upfront cost of a deli serveover may seem high, but it’s a long-term investment. A quality serveover counter keeps your products fresh and simultaneously enhances your overall customer experience, making it a win/win.

Choosing the right deli serveover for your business

Selecting the right deli serveover counter depends on your unique needs. Consider how much space you have, the types of products you need to display, and how much foot traffic you experience. Fridgesmart offers various options for all businesses, from compact Shelf-Top Fridges to larger units like Serveover Counters and Meat & Fish Display units.

With so many options available, choosing the right model is vital. If all the possibilities feel overwhelming, don’t worry. We’re here to help. Our live chat is available any time during business hours. Don’t hesitate to reach out through it; our specialists will assist. Also, take advantage of our market-leading service, including fantastic warranties, rental opportunities, next-day delivery, and more.

Browse our display fridge section, and we’ll help you find the perfect deli serveover unit for your business.