What are the best display fridges for a takeaway?

As a takeaway owner or manager, you’ll know takeaway sales often rely on impulse purchases. You’ll also know how vital keeping your food fresh and visually appealing is. After all, first impressions count, especially when customers are making quick decisions. It could mean the difference between someone ordering or walking away.

That’s where display fridges come in. They’re about far more than just keeping things cold; they’re about showcasing fresh produce in the best possible light. But with so many options, how do you choose the best one for your takeaway?

Types of display fridges and what works best for your takeaway

You’re in luck. When it comes to display fridges, you’ve got a massive range to choose from. Each type has unique advantages, depending on the kind of takeaway you run and what you want to achieve. Don’t be afraid to set out your requirements for a display fridge before browsing. This often helps narrow the options and ensures your purchase contributes to your strategic goals.

On this page, we’ve assembled a quick rundown of the three most popular types that will most likely bring a high potential ROI for takeaway businesses:

Countertop display fridges

Let’s start small with countertop display fridges.

If you’re running a small takeaway with limited counter space, a countertop display fridge is a real winner. These compact fridges are perfect for showcasing pre-packed meals, drinks or deli items. As the name suggests, they sit on your counter, right at the easy-to-reach eye level of your customers, so they’re ideal for grabbing attention. Plus, as smaller units, they carry a lower upfront cost.

Whether you’ve got a few bottles of cold drinks or ready-to-go sandwiches, countertop fridges can keep everything visible and fresh. However, their small volume means countertop display fridges aren’t so appropriate for takeaways needing to sell large quantities every day.

Vertical glass front display fridges

Vertical glass front display fridges are a great option that most food- or drink-based retail companies opt for.

These units stand upright, often with multiple shelves, offering maximum visibility and easy access. They’re perfect for takeaway businesses providing a wide range of chilled products, like cold salads, drinks, desserts and meal combos. Plus, you get the advantage of flexible storage options and can display more items without taking up much floor space.

Most takeaway businesses would benefit from a vertical glass front display fridge. Utilising minimal square footage, this fridge style is tried, tested and safe, usually coming in with a medium price tag. But if you’re interested in something that makes you stand out, keep reading.

Serveover counters with integrated fridges

When it comes to maximising visual appeal to drive impulse buys – the main point of display fridges, after all – serveover counters are the way to go.

For takeaways with a larger setup or those offering a buffet-style service, a chilled food counter with an integrated fridge could be the best choice. These counters are all about aesthetics and come with a sleek and efficient design. They’re ideal for either self-service or for customers to browse the options before making a choice, like cake, sandwich or salad displays. These fridges also work wonders in busy takeaway environments.

However, thanks to their size and extra design features, serveover counters cost more initially. These units also typically take up quite a lot of floor space, so if square footage is a premium, ensure it will be well used.

Key features to look for in a display fridge

It’s not just about the size and style of your display fridge; it’s also about the features that will help it perform best for your takeaway business. Here are the main considerations:

Visibility

‘Display fridges’ must ‘display’. Your food has to be clearly visible and easy to access. Customers should be able to clearly see your products without moving items around or pressing their faces against the glass.

That’s where features like LED lighting and wide, clear glass doors come in handy. Look for fridges with adjustable shelving so you can configure them according to the products you’re displaying. And don’t forget to keep on top of cleaning, maintenance and defrost cycles.

The more visible and accessible your food is, the more likely you are to make a sale.

Temperature control

Maintaining the correct temperature is non-negotiable for any food business. It’s best practice for food safety, quality, taste and texture – and it’s also the law.

Your display fridge needs to keep things cool but not too cold. Excessively cool temperatures cause condensation and spoil your food. A good fridge will offer precise temperature controls and should come with a reliable thermostat.

Energy efficiency

Yes, energy efficiency is discussed so much these days that one could easily become numb to it. Nevertheless, it remains vital to consider. Display fridges can be energy-hungry, so choosing one that helps lower your running costs is crucial.

Look for fridges with excellent energy ratings. This way, you’ll keep your food fresh without running up huge bills.

Space optimisation

Takeaways often have limited space, so every square metre counts. A well-designed display fridge can maximise the use of space without making your premises feel cramped.

Consider the size of the fridge, the shelving layout and how many items you want to store and display. Of course, taller units allow you to stock more produce in a smaller footprint – but that’s not always a good thing. Some units also offer flexible shelf configurations, while others allow you to stack products efficiently.

Whichever type of fridge you choose, make sure it works well with the layout of your takeaway.

Maximising sales with strategic positioning and maintenance

Once you’ve decided on your display fridge, it’s time to think about optimal positioning. For maximum sales impact, think about where customers will naturally be drawn. Placing your fridge near the point of service can encourage impulse purchases, especially for drinks and sides. Another proven tactic is to put display fridges near the entry doors, immediately drawing the customer’s eye as they enter your takeaway shop. Position it somewhere visible from all angles if space allows, so customers can easily spot your offerings.

Maintenance is also crucial in keeping your fridge running smoothly and your products looking their best. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of grime or bacteria, which could affect the appearance and safety of your food. Don’t forget to check temperature settings frequently and defrost your fridge when necessary to avoid overworking the compressor. A well-maintained fridge will last longer, saving you money in the long run and maximising the unit’s ROI.

Choosing the right display fridge for your takeaway

Investing in the right display fridge is a long-term decision that will impact your takeaway’s operations, efficiency and customer satisfaction. Think about what kind of food you’ll be displaying, how much space you have and how often you’ll be opening the fridge, and you’ll be off to a great start.

At Fridgesmart, we offer a range of commercial fridges that meet the specific needs of takeaway businesses. With over 40 years in business, industry-leading warranty options, next-day delivery and rental possibilities, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch today, and let’s find your perfect display fridge.