E) COLD IN THE AISLES: EPTA’S SOLUTION TO ELIMINATE IT

The problem of low temperatures in the aisles is common to all sales outlets in which open refrigerator cabinets are installed. The natural properties of air cause a local “stratification” of the temperature: the air at ceiling-level heats up, while the cooling of the lower areas generates a temperature which is unpleasant for consumers.

This phenomenon has a negative effect on how long a customer remains in front of a product display unit and therefore also on purchasing dynamics. Tops avoid the cold spreading into the aisle but at the same time represent a small psychological barrier to access to products and reduce the efficiency of promotions and offers of new products.

Epta has been developing solutions which, as well as guaranteeing high energy saving, also reduce the natural dispersion of cold into the environment. The company has conducted considerable research into the effects of the various heating and climatisation systems found in sales outlets. The work of the R&D team has generated a number of different solutions which translate into effective measures to increase the comfort of customers and staff.

On the basis of its research, Epta is now able to design customised solutions for any type of shop.

Epta proposes several solutions:

1) Removal of cold air – localised
Specific fans blow the cold air upwards, and therefore the hot air is pushed downwards.

2) Removal of cold air – device integrated with the climatisation system
Removing cold air from the aisles encourages customers to remain for longer periods of time.

3) Distribution of low-level hot air – localised
Collection of high-level hot air and distribution in the aisles where it is needed, or the use of resistance heating.

4) Distribution of low-level hot air – device integrated with the climatisation system
Using an integrated system that brings the hot air down to where it is needed.

Each sales outlet could request a different solution based on its own characteristics and requirements. Epta engineers can assess the situation and propose a solution that best meets the customer’s needs.