Should I invest in a Counterline Hot Counter?

Everyone in the commercial catering industry will know that there have been increased demands for food-to-go over the last few years, and not just on availability but also on variety of choice for the consumer. With convenience food retailers feeling the pressure, we have seen a huge rise in hot food-to-go options for breakfasts, lunches and snacks. In order to keep up, you must invest in a reliable hot counter.

In a commercial setting, where hot food needs to be displayed safely and appealingly to the consumer, the hot counter you choose must have multiple functions. It must present the food not only in an attractive way, but in an accessible way too. But most importantly, the hot counter must also maintain the quality of the hot food. Achieving all these aspects is no mean feat. Counterline is the go-to manufacturer of food and drink display units for the catering, hospitality and food retail sectors, so we know a thing or two about hot counters.

Things to consider when choosing a Hot Counter

The Counterline team are specialists in designing and manufacturing all types of food display units, and hot counters are one of our specialities.

The fundamental function of any hot counter is to safely keep pre-made hot sandwiches, pastries, soups and other hot food offerings presented to the customer for as long as possible. When choosing a hot counter, you need to be sure that the one you purchase can deliver on both function and appearance. Options like our Vision Aire hot counter display your food offering clearly and attractively, whilst guaranteeing optimum food safety.

Our expert designers understand that grab-and-go options are convenience items that must be easily accessible. We therefore take into account details such as shelf height and depth to optimally display food and drinks on-the-go.

We also appreciate food safety and hygiene regulations when it comes to the environment and temperatures food should safely be stored and served at. We create our units using the latest technology to meet these guidelines, as well as our knowledge of consumer trends.

Consumer trends

The season, and more so the actual weather and outside temperature, often dictates consumer grab-and-go demand. Typically, as the temperature drops, the desire for hot produce rises. Hot sandwiches, pies, sausage rolls, and soups take up the shelves of hot holding displays in petrol and convenience stores, service stations, cafes, and other larger foodservice establishments.

However, with highstreet convenience food choices ever diversifying, and demands rising, hot food options are popular all year round.

As the choices broaden, consumer standards increase. Sub-standard produce that hasn’t been stored or displayed appropriately will not retain its freshness and the taste will be compromised. This can no longer be tolerated by modern consumers. With so much variety on offer it is essential operators and retailers purchase equipment that will effectively maintain the condition of the food they are selling.

Cleaning and maintenance of Hot Counters

As with any and every industry, the upkeep of any commercial catering equipment is fundamental to the smooth running of the business in which it is operating. Whilst daily in-house cleaning will comply with standard operating procedure, a regular cleaning and maintenance programme will prevent any major issues arising with your hot counter.

Our service engineers are qualified, experienced professionals who can identify and deal with any issue with your hot counter. From troubleshooting to repair with a good dose of spares and parts readily available, we have seen and dealt with it all. When it comes to emergency breakdowns, our engineers can have your equipment back up and running within 48 hours of your call.

More information

We’re the market leader for the design and manufacture of hot counters. For more information about our range of products or if you’d like to discuss any specific requirements, you can get in touch with the Counterline team today on 0151 548 2211 or by email at enquiries@counterline.co.uk.