Evaporator Fan Retrofits Do More Than Save Energy
By Jonathan Tan, VP Energy Services The AMS Group, Hillphoenix Electronically commutated (EC) motors have been an alternative to induction (shaded pole and permanent split capacitor) motors in evaporator fans for the past decade. Although EC motors can reduce energy consumption by as much as 65 percent compared with its predecessors, the higher cost of the technology – and longer payback period – has hindered significant adoption in the supermarket space. But as with most new technologies it’s only a matter of time until the price comes down, and EC motors are now essentially standard on evaporator fans in new [...]
Video: Coolgenix versus other conduction cooling cases
Only Coolgenix deck pans use pulse flow control technology to maintain natural moisture levels and preserve the integrity of meat and seafood. Other conduction cooling cases claim to work like Coolgenix, but they don’t. Protect the integrity of your meat and seafood with the only conduction cooling case that actually maintains natural humidity and prevents shrink.
For most utilities, natural refrigerants are a tough sell
By Keilly Witman KW Refrigerant Management Strategy LLC The fundamental difficulty with the opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is that, for most utilities in the country, greenhouse gas emissions in and of themselves are irrelevant. Most of the world’s population thinks that energy use and greenhouse gas emissions are one and the same, but utilities are well aware that this is not the case. In the utility world, these two concepts are separate, but related. Energy efficiency equals greenhouse gas reductions, but greenhouse gas reductions don’t always equal energy efficiency. While the vast majority of policy-makers in the world [...]
Don’t Overthink Merchandising Behind Refrigerator Doors
Does merchandising behind closed doors stress you out? Margie Proctor, Hillphoenix marketing & design specialist, offers some tips for merchandising glass-front cases.
Tips for Landscaping and Merchandising a Fresh Food Island
“Fresh” is at the forefront of the food industry, and food retailers are constantly seeking new ways to meet the fresh expectations of shoppers. Hillphoenix’s new Island 2 Innovate (i2i) modular island system gives retailers a unique opportunity to create a fresh Destination Center that combines hot, cold, wet and dry offerings into a one-stop fresh destination. Any department can be transformed into a Destination Center with i2i’s modular, multi-case design. i2i’s wide selection of end cap displays and center inline cases allow grocery retailers to create compelling merchandising experiences featuring an endless combination of refrigerated, heated, wet and/or dry [...]
i2i — Raising the Bar on Fresh in Small Format Stores
Small format grocery stores — and convenience stores, in particular — are taking fresh foods to a whole new level. Once a place to gas up the car and grab a soda and bag of chips, convenience stores are becoming part of the “What’s for dinner?” solution by offering fresh and healthy grab-and-go meals. And small format grocers appeal to shoppers with a middle ground alternative to traditional supermarkets and convenience stores. One thing all small format stores have in common is a desire to meet shoppers fresh and fast expectations without sacrificing quality, food integrity and profit — all within [...]
Woo Early Morning Shoppers with Front-of-Store Breakfast Stations
No doubt about it, breakfast presents a big opportunity for retailers. Research shows that Americans increasingly consider breakfast to be an essential meal. However, 53% of consumers often skip breakfast, according to digital pollster, Instantly. The main reason is familiar: Consumers just don’t have time to prepare a meal, especially as they’re running out the door for work or school. That’s where the opportunity lies for supermarkets. Serving up convenient, nutritious, portable breakfast foods can meet shoppers’ demand and drive sales at a typically slow part of the day. The key is merchandising for shopper convenience. Here are a few [...]
Equip Destination Centers for Versatility
By Margie Proctor Hillphoenix Marketing & Design Specialist Equipment for preparing and displaying foods should be able to accomplish a variety of goals. Along with supporting the menu, the right equipment plays a role in creating product theater. From ordinary to interactive Picture the typical produce department with cases along the perimeter and rows of islands out on the floor. Shoppers often navigate the space on autopilot, engaging momentarily to check items for freshness and integrity. Compare that familiar scene with this: staff chopping and slicing fresh fruits and vegetables at a refrigerated kiosk island in the center of the [...]
Follow Food Trends to Drive Sales
Following food trends isn’t just about the groceries you sell. It’s also about providing inspiration for shoppers, understanding their needs, and increasing access to the food experiences they crave. Ignoring trends, or simply neglecting to integrate them effectively into your merchandising, risks loss of sales and not capturing shopper loyalty.” Mark DiDomenico of Datassential, Inc. will be sharing the latest food trends at Supermarket Sense, September 20-21, 2017. From the healthy craze to what’s new or taboo, you won’t want to miss how trends can influence your store and your customers. The health and wellness industry continues its climb into [...]
Produce for the Win!
Pricing may get shoppers in the door, but the entire produce experience is what makes the sale. As the perimeter grows fresher and greener, understanding your customers’ wants and needs is paramount to staying the top pick for where they spend their dollars. Because produce consumption often is tied to health and wellness, shoppers are recognizing they need to add more vegetables across meals each day. Targeting the heart-healthy and waistline-friendly produce speaks to the consciousness of your customers. Wellness-focused signage and samples encourage your shoppers to try new varieties, increasing awareness and demand. Time-pinched customers are seeking easy-to-access fruit [...]