How to Choose the Right Open Display Fridge for Your Shop or Café

If you run a café, takeaway, grocery store or petrol station, chances are you’ll need a reliable open display fridge to show off your cold drinks, dairy, pre-packed meals or fresh snacks. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your business?

Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the perfect open display fridge that suits your space, your products, and your budget.

What Is an Open Display Fridge?

An open display fridge (also called a grab-and-go fridge or open-front merchandiser) is a refrigerated unit without a front door. It’s designed to keep food and drinks chilled while giving customers easy access and clear visibility of your stock — ideal for impulse buys!

Key Things to Consider in Your Open Display Before Buying

1. 📏 Size & Layout

Measure your available space — check width, depth, and ceiling height.
Think about how many shelves you’ll need and how much daily stock you plan to store.
Will it go against a wall or in the middle of the shop for double-sided access?

👉 Tip: A 900mm deep open fridge is great for small cafés. Bigger shops might need a 1500mm+ multideck unit.

2. ❄️ Temperature Range

Most open display fridges sit in the 2°C to 5°C range, ideal for dairy, soft drinks, sandwiches, and salads.
If you’re displaying meats or fresh seafood, check if the unit meets food safety standards for your products.

3. 💡 Lighting & Visibility

Choose a model with high-impact LED lighting to make your products pop.
Look for extra-clear tempered glass sides for side-view visibility.

4. ⚡ Energy Efficiency

Look for fridges using R290 natural refrigerant — better for the environment and your power bill.
Features like night blinds, EC fans, and low-E glass help reduce energy usage overnight.

5. 🔧 Ease of Maintenance

Choose a model with automatic defrost, evaporating water tray, and easy-to-clean shelving.
Check brand reliability — trusted brands like Bromic, Atosa, and Skope offer strong warranties and nationwide support.

6. Final Tips

Always consider your local climate — some fridges operate better in hot, humid conditions
Invest in a well-lit unit for premium product visibility
Don’t forget delivery and installation access (doors, steps, tight corners)

Popular Uses of Open Front Fridges in Australia

Cafés & Coffee Shops

Open display fridges are a must-have for cafés wanting to upsell chilled items. They’re perfect for showcasing cold-pressed juices, iced coffees, sandwiches, wraps, fruit cups, and salads — all clearly visible and easy to grab. A well-lit fridge near the counter can help boost those quick lunch and takeaway purchases, especially during busy hours.

Convenience Stores & Mini Marts

For servo shops, 7-Elevens, or independent corner stores, open display fridges are ideal for storing milk, flavoured drinks, yoghurt tubs, energy drinks, and quick snacks. Customers on the go want to see what’s available at a glance — and these fridges make it easy. Choose models with night blinds to save energy after hours.

Petrol Stations & Roadhouse Stops

High foot traffic and fast decision-making mean your stock needs to shine. Open fridges in petrol stations are perfect for bottled water, energy drinks, soft drinks, fresh sandwiches, and pre-cut fruit. With bright LED lighting and easy access, customers can quickly grab something cold without waiting — ideal for tradies, travellers, and truckies.

Supermarkets & Grocery Stores

In larger retail spaces, open display fridges are brilliant for ready-to-eat meals, meal kits, salads, yoghurt, dips, deli items, and cold desserts. They invite shoppers to browse and buy while keeping food safely chilled. Many supermarkets use multideck open fridges to create a “fresh zone” feel and encourage upsells with promotional signage.

Where to Buy Open Display Fridges?

At BENDGS Catering Equipment, we stock a wide range of commercial open display fridges suitable for any size business. Fast delivery across Australia and friendly expert advice – just give us a ring on 1300 434 125 or browse online.

Shop Open Display Chillers