When running a restaurant, cafe, convenience store, or any business that handles perishable items, refrigeration is not just an option—it is a necessity. Whether you are storing dairy products, beverages, or frozen foods, choosing the right refrigerator can significantly impact your store’s efficiency, space utilization, and energy costs.
The 2 most common types of commercial refrigerators are upright refrigerators and undercounter refrigerators. While both serve the essential purpose of keeping food fresh, they come with different benefits, drawbacks, and ideal use cases.
So, which one is the best fit for your business? Let’s break it down!
What is an Upright Refrigerator?
An upright refrigerator, also called a vertical refrigerator, is designed to provide maximum storage capacity by using vertical space efficiently. Available in single-door, double-door, and multi-door configurations, these smart refrigerators are ideal for restaurants, supermarkets, and food service businesses.
Key Features of an Upright Refrigerator
- Tall and slim design to maximize storage in a limited footprint.
- Multiple shelves for better organization and product separation.
- Varied temperature settings to store different types of products efficiently.
Pros of Upright Refrigerators
✅ Large Storage Capacity: Upright refrigerators can hold a significant amount of food, beverages, and perishables, making them ideal for high-demand businesses.
✅ Better Organization: With multiple compartments, you can categorize different food items for quick access, reducing the time spent searching for products.
✅ Improved Cooling Performance: Many upright refrigerators come with powerful fans and circulation systems, ensuring that items stored at different levels receive consistent cooling.
✅ Energy-Efficient Options Available: Newer models often feature energy-saving technology, such as digital temperature controls and automatic defrosting systems, reducing electricity bills.
Cons of Upright Refrigerators
❌ Takes Up More Space: Since they stand vertically, upright refrigerators require sufficient floor space, which might not be ideal for small stores or cafes.
❌ Limited Accessibility: Unlike undercounter units that keep everything within arm’s reach, some items in upright refrigerators can be harder to retrieve, especially from the top or back.
❌ Higher Initial Cost: Commercial upright refrigerators often come with a higher upfront cost compared to smaller, undercounter models.
What is an Undercounter Refrigerator?
An undercounter refrigerator is a compact, space-saving refrigeration unit designed to fit beneath countertops or workstations. These are commonly found in cafes, bars, and small retail stores, where quick access to chilled items is necessary.
Key Features of an Undercounter Refrigerator
- Low-profile design that fits seamlessly under prep tables or counters.
- Smaller storage capacity but more accessible for frequently used items.
- Energy-efficient cooling for localized storage.
Pros of Undercounter Refrigerators
✅ Space-Saving Solution: If your store has limited space, an undercounter refrigerator is the best choice. It doesn’t take up extra room while still providing easy access to essential items.
✅ Convenient Accessibility: Items stored in an undercounter refrigerator are easier to grab without having to reach high shelves or open large doors. This speeds up service, especially in fast-paced businesses like coffee shops, bars, and small eateries.
✅ Lower Energy Consumption: Since undercounter refrigerators are smaller, they generally use less electricity, helping businesses cut down on energy costs.
✅ Aesthetic and Functional: These units blend well into a store’s layout without being too obtrusive, making them great for front-of-house storage in restaurants and bars.
Cons of Undercounter Refrigerators
❌ Limited Storage Capacity: If your business needs to store large quantities of products, an undercounter fridge may not be enough, requiring additional refrigeration solutions.
❌ Less Flexibility in Organization: Since undercounter refrigerators are smaller, they lack multiple shelving options found in upright models, making it harder to organize different food types.
❌ Higher Cost Per Cubic Foot: While undercounter refrigerators save space, they often cost more per unit of storage capacity compared to upright refrigerators.
Upright vs. Undercounter Refrigerators: Which One Should You Choose?
Now that you understand the differences, the best refrigerator for your store depends on your business needs. Both options offer unique benefits, making them ideal for different settings and requirements.
Choose an upright refrigerator if:
✔️ You need large storage capacity for bulk ingredients or beverages.
✔️ Your store has ample floor space to accommodate a tall unit.
✔️ You require better organization with multiple shelving options.
✔️ Your business operates in a high-volume setting, such as a supermarket or restaurant kitchen.
Choose an undercounter refrigerator if:
✔️ You have limited space and need a compact, discreet solution.
✔️ Quick and easy access to refrigerated items is a priority.
✔️ You run a bar, cafe, or small retail store with lower storage needs.
✔️ Energy efficiency and lower power consumption are important to your business.
Best of Both Worlds?
If space and budget allow, many businesses use both upright and undercounter refrigerators. Upright refrigerators handle bulk storage, while undercounter refrigerators provide easy access to frequently used items.
Find the Right Refrigerator with Anke International
Choosing the right refrigerator for your business is more than just a purchase—it’s an investment in storage efficiency, product quality, and seamless operations. Whether you choose an upright refrigerator for bulk storage or an undercounter refrigerator for quick access, selecting the right option can make all the difference.
At Anke International, we specialize in high-quality stainless steel refrigeration solutions designed to meet the needs of restaurants, convenience stores, cafes, and supermarkets. If you are looking for expert guidance on the best fit for your business, feel free to contact us—our team is here to help you find the ideal refrigeration unit for your business.
