Demand for Commercial Refrigeration Soars Due to COVID-19

Every year, industries undertake numerous studies designed to forecast future trends and patterns. Throughout 2020, however, additional studies have been conducted to assess how COVID-19 is impacting various sectors. Furthermore, researchers have been tasked with predicting how the pandemic will impact businesses in the future. 

Although coronavirus has decimated many sectors, the cold supply chain has become more important than ever. Commercial refrigeration, in particular, is being used more often to cope with increased demand. Medical refrigeration, chillers, bottle coolers, commercial kitchen fridges, cold storerooms, refrigerated trucks and walk-in freezers are just some examples of the equipment being used in increasing numbers. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the healthcare industry has been a major user of commercial refrigeration facilities in 2020. In research facilities, laboratories and hospitals across the world, blood samples, medicines and testing kits have been stored in controlled conditions in order to preserve them. With COVID-19 still spreading across the globe, the need for medical refrigeration shows no signs of slowing down. 

Changing Industries Require Flexible Solutions

No industry has been unaffected by the virus and many are struggling to bounce back from the loss of income they’ve experienced in the second quarter of 2020. In a bid to meet changing lockdown restrictions and resume trading, many firms are embracing flexible solutions, such as temporary refrigeration units. 

With adequate commercial refrigeration, hospitality businesses, such as takeaways and restaurants, can preserve food and ingredients for longer periods of time. This enables them to minimise their costs and reduce food wastage, while still keeping goods fresh for customers. 

Additionally, supermarkets and retailers have relied on cold storage to ensure they have enough stock to meet the needs of their customers. With rumours of food shortages circulating throughout the UK at the beginning of lockdown, retailers were struggling to keep their shelves stocked. As supply chains were disrupted, temporary commercial refrigeration units were used to ensure that stock could be housed safely. 

In analysis compiled by Orian Research, it’s suggested that the commercial refrigeration market will continue to grow over the next few years. Looking forward until 2026, researchers conclude that businesses will increase their reliance on cold storage technology, which will lead to further innovation in the industry. 

Re-Launch Your Business with Commercial Refrigeration

Employment has been significantly affected by COVID-19 and many people are still unsure whether they will be able to return to their usual roles. With many companies suffering significant losses, a considerable number of people are facing redundancies or job losses. Certainly, the way in which we work has been forever changed by the lockdown restrictions imposed in England on 23rd March 2020. 

As non-essential workers were required to work from home wherever possible, individuals and businesses began to see the benefits of remote working. Even when the Government is encouraging people to return to their workplaces, many firms are implementing long-term remote working arrangements to enable people to work from home. 

If you’re not currently employed, however, or you’re looking for a business opportunity, commercial refrigeration could be the answer. The infinite flexibility offered by industry-grade refrigeration units enables you to re-launch or start a business in almost any location. Furthermore, this level of flexibility allows you to respond to ever-changing trading guidelines and meet the evolving needs of your target audience. 

How Can Commercial Refrigeration Help? 

If you own a café or eatery, for example, the social distancing rules will mean that you’re unable to seat as many customers as usual. With the use of temporary commercial refrigeration, however, you can update your floorplan to cater for as many people as possible. Alternatively, expanding your business and catering for people outdoors may be a viable way to meet customer demand safely and secure a second stream of revenue. If so, temporary cold stores and refrigerators with portable generators can be used to serve customers in any location. 

With so many possibilities, it’s easy to see why the commercial refrigeration industry is set to grow in upcoming years. With numerous industries reliant on cold storage and the cold supply chain, the changing times will mean that flexibility is a top priority. 

Of course, the need for extra commercial refrigeration from businesses and companies isn’t the only reason there will be an increase in demand in the future. As researchers continue to try and find a COVID-19 vaccine and countries continue to test residents on a large scale, the on-going need for medical refrigeration is likely to play a significant role in the evolution of the industry.