The energy shift: transforming commercial refrigeration in hospitality operations

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, operational efficiency and sustainability are crucial for long-term success.
Back-of-house operations – specifically commercial refrigeration units – quietly ensure food safety, quality, and service continuity.
For large hospitality brands, back-of-house commercial refrigeration represents a hidden opportunity to drive cost savings, sustainability, and operational excellence. Let’s explore how upgrading to energy-efficient commercial refrigeration units can transform your business.
The hidden costs of outdated commercial refrigeration
Legacy commercial refrigeration units, especially those installed over 10 years ago, are often energy inefficient and pose several challenges:
High energy consumption: Older commercial refrigeration units can consume more energy than modern alternatives, driving up utility bills across multiple sites.
Frequent breakdowns: Aging units are prone to maintenance issues and breakdowns, risking costly disruptions to service.
Regulatory non-compliance: Many older units rely on high GWP refrigerants, which are now restricted or phased out, creating compliance risks.
The case for energy-efficient commercial refrigeration
Upgrading to modern commercial refrigeration units isn’t just a cost-saving measure – it’s a strategic investment in your brand’s future. Today’s commercial refrigeration units come equipped with:
Advanced compressors: High-efficiency compressors reduce energy consumption without compromising performance.
Enhanced insulation: Improved materials minimise thermal loss, maintaining consistent temperatures while using less energy.
Natural refrigerants: Natural refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP) help brands meet sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.
Key benefits for hospitality brands
- 1
Lower energy costs: reduce utility bills
Did you know that upgrading to an energy-efficient freezer can cut your electricity costs by over £1,297.50 per unit annually? Here’s how:
Current Model (Older Unit)
- Capacity: 620L reach-in freezer
- Energy Consumption: 6,194 kWh/year
- Electricity Cost: £0.30 per kWh
- Annual Cost: £1,858.20
Upgraded Model (Energy-Efficient Unit)
- Capacity: 620L reach-in freezer
- Energy Consumption: 1,869 kWh/year
- Electricity Cost: £0.30 per kWh
- Annual Cost: £560.70
That’s a saving of £1,297.50 per freezer, per year. Now, imagine the impact across an entire hotel chain or restaurant group – tens of thousands in energy savings while also reducing your carbon footprint.
- 2
Sustainability alignment:
Upgrades support Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, enhancing your brand’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
- 3
Reliable operations:
Fewer breakdowns and maintenance needs ensure seamless service, protecting your reputation and revenue.
Energy efficient commercial refrigeration: the rental+ advantages
For businesses looking to upgrade their commercial refrigeration without large upfront investments, Rental+ refrigeration provide a cost-effective and flexible option.
Rental+ plans deliver the following advantages:
- 1
8 hr response time
Guaranteed rapid response time to minimise disruption.
- 2
Planned preventive maintenance
Enjoy peace of mind with regular PPMs to keep cabinets running smoothly.
- 3
Fix or replace policy
If your refrigeration breaks down, we’ll fix it. If we can’t fix it, we’ll replace it.
- 4
Access to a range of energy efficient units
Choose from a wide range of energy-efficient commercial refrigeration units, tailored to meet your operational needs.
- 5
No capex
Reinvest those savings into other investments or strategic initiatives.
Conclusion
In today’s hospitality landscape, upgrading back-of-house commercial refrigeration units are more than an operational improvement – it’s a commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and excellence.
By investing in modern refrigeration and exploring rental options, hospitality leaders can reduce costs, achieve ESG goals, and future-proof their operations.
Considering Rental?
Opting for a Rental+ model allows you to upgrade to modern, energy-efficient refrigeration with no upfront CapEx. Even after factoring in rental costs, businesses can still retain additional net savings per unit, per year, making it a cost-effective and sustainable choice.