Considerations When Evaluating Food Display Cases: Choosing the Best Fit for Your Business

December 17, 2024

Have you ever walked into a restaurant or cafeteria and noticed the bakery case out front tantalizing you with scrumptious cakes, pies and other sweets? Did it make you want to order a piece or even take a whole dessert home?

What about pizza? Would you rather choose a slice from a pan sitting out under a heat lamp, or one that is beautifully displayed with delicious toppings on a two-tiered shelf covered by glass?

In foodservice, whether it be a restaurant or a high school cafeteria, food display cases aren’t just equipment; they’re a way to showcase your offerings and attract customers. Selecting the right display case maintains food quality and adds a visual appeal you didn’t know you were missing. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a food display case for your foodservice business.

Determine food display case needs

What type of food are you serving and to whom? These answers will influence your buying decision. For example, are the food displays primarily for customers or internal staff? Customer-facing displays should focus on visibility and appeal, while staff-only displays might prioritize function over form. Next, determine what type of food you’ll be serving. Do you need food display cases for hot pizzas, chilled sandwiches or dessert pastries?

If you require both hot and cold options, a tiered food display product like LTI’s QuickSwitch hot and cold food display cases allows operators to convert from a heated shelf to a frosted top in an hour or less with the flip of a switch. This product is available as a single-shelf or two-tier display.

Look for durable materials and a quality build

Ensure you choose a product that is built with durable materials, like stainless steel and tempered glass. These materials provide longevity even in high-traffic environments such as in high school cafeterias, for instance. Stainless steel and tempered glass are also easy to clean and offer a hygienic solution for daily upkeep. Moreover, a well-constructed food display case with clear panels can improve food visibility and encourage purchases.

Consider size

When determining the size needed for your food display case, think beyond floor space. Sure, your restaurant may have room for a larger case, but if the products you’re selling have a short shelf life, you should opt for a smaller food display case. Not only will a condensed option save energy, but it will also save space and money.

If you’re a convenience store owner or operate a small diner, check for low-profile food display cases, which incorporate the benefits of a larger size in a compact design, especially when space is a concern. No matter what size food display case you require, make sure to review the specification sheet first for measurements to make sure the case will fit through your doorway.

Modular food display cases allow for future expansion and adaptability. A tiered food display, like LTI’s QuickSwitch glass, provides a compact solution with high visual impact by maximizing vertical space. LTI’s food display equipment comes in a range of configurations, allowing you to select a setup that fits your needs precisely, from compact countertop displays to larger, multi-tiered setups.

Search for energy-efficient equipment and ease of access

Look for modern food display cases equipped with energy-saving technology, which can lead to cost savings over time. Pay attention specifically to the unit’s heating or cooling elements.

Additionally, you’ll want to choose equipment that is easy for foodservice staff to access, restock and clean. And, if customers are serving themselves, ensure the design allows for safe and easy access, especially in buffet food displays. Food display cases should include safety features, like sturdy glass and ergonomically designed handles, to prevent accidents.

Consider your bottom line

Purchasing a glass food display case or food warmer display can be a good way to increase sales in about any foodservice operation, including cafeterias, restaurants, convenience stores and hospitals. Determining which equipment is right for your business comes down to your specific needs; however,

factors like size, customization options, type of food served and accessibility all play a role. At the end of the day, a well-chosen food display case not only helps present your food offerings in an aesthetically pleasing way but also adheres to food safety standards and gives your operation the flexibility and reliability it requires.

For more information on LTI’s QuickSwitch Glass, or any of our other innovative food serving solutions, contact your rep!