Unifrost Commercial refrigeration knowledge hub for Irish businesses
FAQ

How do I choose the correct size and capacity for my café’s display units?

FAQ
Quick answer

Start with what you need to sell, where, and how often you can restock:

Support note

This FAQ is designed for a fast answer first. Use the related guide links if you need the fuller decision path behind the short version.

Start with what you need to sell, where, and how often you can restock:

Menu and pack format: Use DCF when you need space for trays and an assisted-service presentation (deli meats, pastries behind the counter, plated items). Use FDR3 for pre-packed grab-and-go lines (sandwiches, salads, desserts in pots). Use GDR1000 for bottles/cans and packaged items.

Frontage vs depth: In tight counter areas, prioritise the unit that gives the most sellable frontage for your hero category (for many cafés that is grab-and-go, so an FDR3 can act as a “feature” unit). If you have queueing space and staff-led service, a DCF1300/DCF1600 style length is often chosen based on how many products you want visible at once.

Restock rhythm: If you can restock little and often, you can run a smaller display and keep it looking full. If restocking is infrequent (busy service, limited staff), size up so the display stays presentable through peak periods.

Layout reality check: Tape the footprint on the floor and confirm you can still achieve a clean flow: order point, payment, pick-up, and staff access behind the counter without bottlenecks.

Read the full guide: Comparing Unifrost FDR3 & GDR1000 Display Fridges with DCF Deli Counters for Irish Cafés.

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