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Direct Cooling Countertop Display Refrigerators for Modern Food Merchandising

Update:23 Jun

In food retail, the first impression of a chilled product is often created before a customer reads a label, asks a question, or compares prices. The clarity of the glass, the stability of the temperature, the convenience of the door system, and the way products are arranged all influence buying behavior. Direct Cooling Countertop Display Refrigerators XCW-118L, XCW-138L, and XCW-248L are designed for businesses that need compact, reliable, and visually effective refrigerated merchandising in limited commercial space.

These countertop display refrigerators are intended for convenience stores, bakeries, cafés, beverage counters, dessert shops, small supermarkets, canteens, and foodservice locations that need to present chilled products at an accessible height. With three capacities, 118 liters, 138 liters, and 248 liters, the series gives operators flexibility to select a model according to product range, counter size, traffic volume, and daily sales requirements.

Unlike ordinary storage refrigerators that simply keep food cold, a countertop display refrigerator must perform two tasks at the same time. It must preserve the product within a safe and stable temperature range, and it must also create a clean, attractive, and easy-to-browse display. This product series addresses both needs through a direct cooling system, digital temperature control, front curved glass, front and back sliding doors, separated power and light buttons, adjustable feet, and a compact commercial structure.

Direct Cooling Countertop Display Refrigerators XCW-118L/138L/248L

Product Overview

The XCW-118L, XCW-138L, and XCW-248L models belong to the category of Countertop Display Refrigerators. They are direct cooling refrigerated showcases developed for commercial display applications where chilled visibility matters. The series provides a temperature range of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, equal to 35.6 to 46.4 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many chilled packaged foods, beverages, desserts, dairy items, prepared snacks, and other products that require refrigerated presentation.

All three models use R290 refrigerant, a widely recognized hydrocarbon refrigerant valued in commercial refrigeration for its low environmental impact and efficient thermal performance. The input power for each model is 150 W, which reflects a practical balance between cooling performance and commercial operating efficiency. The climate type is 6, indicating that the cabinet is designed to support demanding commercial environments where display equipment may face frequent door movement, warm surroundings, and daily operational pressure.

The product line includes three sizes. The XCW-118L offers 118 liters of gross capacity in a compact footprint. The XCW-138L increases capacity while maintaining a countertop format. The XCW-248L provides a much wider display area for businesses with larger product assortments or higher sales volume. This range allows a food retailer or hospitality operator to use the same design language across multiple store formats.

Key Specifications

Model

XCW-118L

XCW-138L

XCW-248L

Capacity, Gross

118 L / 4.2 cu. ft.

138 L / 4.9 cu. ft.

248 L / 8.8 cu. ft.

Temperature Range

2 to 8 °C / 35.6 to 46.4 °F

2 to 8 °C / 35.6 to 46.4 °F

2 to 8 °C / 35.6 to 46.4 °F

Input Power

150 W

150 W

150 W

Refrigerant

R290

R290

R290

Climate Type

6

6

6

Net Weight

39 kg

50 kg

62 kg

Gross Weight

42 kg

54 kg

98.5 kg

Product Size

700 x 845 x 410 mm / 27.6 x 33.3 x 16.1 in.

1000 x 845 x 410 mm / 39.4 x 33.3 x 16.1 in.

1800 x 845 x 410 mm / 70.9 x 33.3 x 16.1 in.

Package Size

800 x 950 x 590 mm / 31.5 x 37.4 x 23.2 in.

1100 x 950 x 590 mm / 43.3 x 37.4 x 23.2 in.

1900 x 950 x 590 mm / 74.8 x 37.4 x 23.2 in.

Loading Quantity

56 pcs / 20GP, 140 pcs / 40HQ

48 pcs / 20GP, 120 pcs / 40HQ

18 pcs / 20GP, 48 pcs / 40HQ

Direct Cooling System for Practical Commercial Use

The direct cooling system is one of the defining features of this countertop display refrigerator series. Direct cooling is valued in compact display equipment because it provides a straightforward and dependable refrigeration method. For operators, this means the cabinet can maintain the required chilled range without unnecessary design complexity. In daily retail use, simplicity is an advantage because it supports stable operation, easier maintenance, and consistent merchandising.

Compared with many competing countertop units that may focus only on appearance, this series is built around a practical cooling structure. A display refrigerator in a busy retail environment is opened frequently, placed near service counters, and loaded with products throughout the day. The direct cooling system helps the cabinet recover and preserve an appropriate internal temperature range for chilled products.

For food businesses, temperature stability is not just a technical detail. It affects product quality, customer confidence, and operational consistency. When desserts, beverages, packaged sandwiches, or dairy products are displayed at a controlled temperature, they appear fresher and remain more suitable for sale. The 2 to 8 °C range supports the chilled presentation that many retailers need for everyday commercial operations.

Digital Temperature Controller and Display

A digital temperature controller and display provides clear operating information. This feature helps staff check cabinet status quickly without opening the doors or interrupting product presentation. In a fast-paced store, bakery, café, or self-service counter, easy temperature visibility is valuable because it reduces uncertainty and supports routine monitoring.

Compared with mechanical or less visible controls on basic display cabinets, a digital display improves usability. Operators can monitor cabinet conditions more conveniently, and staff can identify whether the refrigerator is working within the expected range. This contributes to better store management, especially in locations where multiple employees use the equipment across different shifts.

The digital controller also supports a more professional appearance. Commercial buyers often want equipment that looks clean and modern, because visible control systems influence how staff and customers perceive the store. A digital display communicates that the cabinet is purpose-built for commercial refrigeration rather than adapted from ordinary household equipment.

R290 Refrigerant and Environmental Responsibility

The use of R290 refrigerant gives the series an important advantage in modern commercial refrigeration. R290 is propane refrigerant, known for low global warming potential and strong refrigeration efficiency when used in properly engineered systems. For buyers, this means the product is aligned with the industry’s movement toward environmentally responsible refrigerants.

Many markets are increasing expectations for energy efficiency and lower environmental impact. A countertop display refrigerator using R290 can help distributors, retailers, and foodservice operators meet these expectations. It is also a practical selling point for businesses that want equipment suitable for future-focused commercial refrigeration strategies.

Compared with older refrigeration models that may use refrigerants with higher environmental impact, this product series offers a more modern refrigerant solution. For wholesalers and project buyers, this is especially meaningful because refrigeration equipment is a long-term investment. Choosing R290-based equipment helps support responsible procurement while maintaining the cooling performance needed for daily food display.

Commercial Display Advantages

The front curved glass is designed to improve the customer’s viewing angle and create a more attractive display. In food merchandising, curved glass can make products appear more accessible and visually appealing. It softens the cabinet profile and helps the refrigerated display blend into cafés, dessert counters, bakery counters, and convenience store service areas.

Clear product visibility is a major advantage over ordinary enclosed refrigerators. Customers are more likely to make impulse purchases when products can be seen easily. A well-lit, clean, curved-glass refrigerated display can help increase attention to chilled drinks, cakes, fruit cups, sushi packs, sandwiches, and other ready-to-sell items.

The product also includes separated power and light buttons. This detail may look simple, but it improves operational control. Staff can manage lighting independently when needed, which is useful during setup, cleaning, closing hours, or maintenance. Compared with basic equipment where all functions are controlled together, separated buttons give operators more flexibility.

Front and back sliding doors are another important advantage. In many countertop display environments, the customer side and staff side may both need convenient access. Sliding doors require less clearance than swing doors, making them highly suitable for compact counters. They help save space, reduce obstruction, and support faster service.

Adjustable feet are also included as a standard feature. Commercial counters and floors are not always perfectly level. Adjustable feet help stabilize the cabinet, improve appearance, and support proper door alignment. Stability is particularly important for glass display equipment because an uneven position can affect sliding door movement and customer perception.

Three Models for Different Business Needs

XCW-118L for Compact Counters

The XCW-118L is the most compact model in the series, with a gross capacity of 118 liters and a product size of 700 x 845 x 410 mm. It is ideal for locations where space is limited but chilled display is still important. Small cafés, takeaway counters, breakfast shops, office refreshment areas, and convenience store checkout zones can benefit from this model.

Its compact footprint helps operators place refrigerated products close to the point of purchase. This can encourage add-on sales, such as bottled beverages with bakery items or chilled desserts with coffee. The XCW-118L offers enough capacity for targeted product ranges while keeping counter space available for service activities.

XCW-138L for Balanced Capacity

The XCW-138L increases capacity to 138 liters while keeping the same height and depth as the smaller model. With a width of 1000 mm, it provides more room for product arrangement and is suitable for businesses that need a broader chilled selection. It can display multiple product categories without requiring a large floor-standing refrigerator.

This model is a good choice for operators who want a balance between compact design and practical capacity. It can serve bakeries, drink shops, campus stores, small supermarkets, and foodservice counters that sell chilled packaged items throughout the day.

XCW-248L for Wider Product Presentation

The XCW-248L is the largest model in the series, offering 248 liters of gross capacity and a width of 1800 mm. It provides a broad visual merchandising area while retaining the countertop display concept. This model is suitable for higher-volume businesses or locations where a wide chilled display can directly support sales growth.

Compared with smaller competitors, the XCW-248L gives retailers the ability to present more products at once. This is valuable for peak-hour service, prepared food counters, dessert shops, and beverage displays where customers need to browse quickly. A wider cabinet can also improve product organization by separating categories and reducing clutter.

How the Series Helps Improve Sales Presentation

A display refrigerator is not only a cooling machine; it is a selling tool. Products placed behind clear glass in a temperature-controlled environment often look more trustworthy and appealing. Customers can evaluate freshness, color, package condition, and product variety before making a decision. This visual experience helps convert attention into sales.

The countertop format places products near eye level or hand level depending on counter height. This can be more engaging than lower cabinet storage because customers do not need to bend down or search through a deep refrigerator. For impulse products, this is especially important. A chilled cake slice, bottled juice, yogurt cup, salad box, or sushi pack can sell more effectively when displayed directly in the customer’s line of sight.

Compared with rear-storage refrigeration, a display showcase reduces the need for staff to explain product availability. The customer can see what is available immediately. This speeds up service and helps the business manage customer flow. During busy hours, easy product visibility supports both sales efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Advantages Over Common Competing Products

The first competitive advantage is the complete model range. Many countertop refrigerators are available in only one or two sizes, forcing buyers to compromise between capacity and available space. This series offers 118 L, 138 L, and 248 L choices, allowing distributors and end users to match the cabinet to different store formats.

The second advantage is the combination of display design and operational practicality. Curved front glass improves presentation, while sliding doors support space-saving access. Separated power and light buttons improve daily control. Adjustable feet support stable installation. These features together create a more complete commercial solution than entry-level refrigerated boxes.

The third advantage is the use of R290 refrigerant. Buyers increasingly prefer equipment that supports environmental responsibility. Compared with older refrigerant systems, R290 is a more modern choice for commercial refrigeration. This helps the product remain relevant in markets where sustainability and compliance are becoming more important.

The fourth advantage is the consistent 150 W input power across the three models. For businesses comparing operating requirements, a clear and manageable power specification helps simplify planning. Although actual energy use depends on ambient conditions, loading habits, and operating patterns, the product is designed as a practical commercial countertop solution rather than an oversized or inefficient cabinet.

The fifth advantage is the support of an experienced manufacturing company. Ningbo XiangChi Electrical Co., Ltd has more than ten years of experience since its establishment in 2007 and operates a modern management garden factory of 40,000 square meters. The company’s focus on vertical display cabinets, cake cabinets, and warming cabinets gives it specialized manufacturing knowledge in commercial food display equipment.

Manufacturing Strength Behind the Product

Product performance depends not only on design but also on how consistently the product is manufactured. Ningbo XiangChi Electrical Co., Ltd is a professional manufacturer with a dedicated focus on commercial refrigeration and display equipment. Its product categories include vertical display cabinets, countertop display coolers, cake showcases, display warmers, open display coolers, four-sided glass display coolers, and four-sided glass freezers.

The company’s manufacturing strength comes from its combination of experience, production capacity, research and development, and testing capability. A 40,000-square-meter modern factory provides space for organized production, material handling, assembly, inspection, and packaging. This scale is important for commercial buyers because stable supply and repeatable product quality are essential in wholesale and project procurement.

The company has its own professional R&D team and advanced testing facilities. This supports product innovation and quality improvement. In commercial refrigeration, R&D is not limited to appearance design. It includes airflow evaluation, cooling performance, material selection, controller compatibility, electrical safety, refrigerant system matching, structural reliability, and packaging protection.

Advanced testing facilities also help ensure that products meet expected performance standards before shipment. Testing may include temperature verification, electrical inspection, insulation assessment, refrigerant leak testing, door movement checks, controller operation, lighting inspection, and overall cabinet appearance review. These steps help reduce risk for distributors and end users.

Certifications and Global Market Readiness

The company has obtained major international certifications, including CE, GS, CCC, CB, ROHS, and ETL. These certifications show that the manufacturer understands the expectations of global commercial refrigeration markets. For buyers, certifications are important because they help simplify evaluation, support import planning, and demonstrate attention to safety and quality requirements.

Different markets have different regulations and expectations. A manufacturer with experience in multiple certification systems is better positioned to support global customers. This matters for distributors, chain stores, hospitality procurement teams, and equipment importers that need products suitable for professional use.

Certifications also reflect a systematic approach to product development. Commercial refrigeration equipment must combine electrical safety, mechanical reliability, refrigeration performance, and material compliance. A manufacturer that invests in certification and testing is more likely to maintain consistent quality across production batches.

Advanced Production Concepts

The company follows the concept of innovation, quality, and service. These principles are highly relevant to the XCW countertop display refrigerator series. Innovation supports improvements in cooling systems, appearance, usability, and product range. Quality ensures that the cabinet can withstand daily commercial use. Service helps customers obtain suitable product information, after-sales communication, and long-term cooperation.

In modern refrigeration manufacturing, advanced production is not only about machines. It is about process control. Sheet metal preparation, cabinet assembly, glass installation, refrigeration circuit production, electrical wiring, foaming, final testing, and packaging must be coordinated carefully. A weakness in any step can affect product performance or shipping safety.

For countertop display refrigerators, glass quality and cabinet alignment are especially important. Sliding doors must move smoothly, front curved glass must present products clearly, and the cabinet structure must remain stable during transportation and installation. Production discipline helps protect these details.

Refrigeration system assembly is another key process. The compressor, condenser, evaporator, capillary or expansion components, refrigerant charge, and controller must work together. Proper evacuation, refrigerant charging, and leak detection are essential for long-term reliability. The use of R290 also requires careful manufacturing procedures and suitable safety control during production.

Packaging is equally important for export-oriented commercial equipment. The product specifications include package sizes and loading quantities for 20GP and 40HQ containers, indicating that the series is planned for efficient logistics. Good packaging helps protect glass components, cabinet surfaces, and refrigeration parts during transportation.

Application Scenarios

Bakeries and Dessert Shops

Bakeries and dessert shops rely heavily on presentation. Cakes, mousses, puddings, fruit desserts, and chilled pastries must look fresh and inviting. A countertop display refrigerator with front curved glass can create an attractive showcase close to the service counter. The 2 to 8 °C range supports chilled dessert presentation while allowing customers to view products clearly.

The front and back sliding doors can be useful in dessert service. Staff can access products from behind the counter, while the display remains visible from the customer side. The cabinet helps organize products and makes it easier to promote seasonal desserts or high-margin items.

Cafés and Beverage Counters

Cafés often need compact refrigeration for bottled drinks, milk-based desserts, yogurt, sandwiches, and grab-and-go snacks. Floor space is usually limited, and the service counter must remain efficient. The XCW series gives cafés a countertop solution that combines cooling with display.

Because the series includes different widths, a café can select the model that fits its counter layout. The smaller XCW-118L may be suitable for a narrow counter, while the XCW-138L or XCW-248L can support larger product selections in busier stores.

Convenience Stores and Checkout Areas

Convenience stores benefit from impulse sales. A chilled product displayed near the checkout counter can attract last-minute purchases. The countertop design supports this strategy by placing products in a visible and accessible position.

The sliding door structure is useful in crowded store environments because it does not require extra front clearance. Staff can restock products efficiently, and customers can view the selection without the cabinet occupying unnecessary floor space.

Prepared Food and Grab-and-Go Areas

Many foodservice businesses now sell ready-to-eat meals, salads, fruit cups, sushi packs, and packaged snacks. These products require chilled presentation and clear visibility. A countertop display refrigerator helps maintain a professional merchandising area without requiring a large refrigerated wall case.

The larger XCW-248L is especially suitable for grab-and-go displays where product variety is important. Its wide format allows operators to arrange products by category, price, meal type, or promotion.

Operational Convenience

Daily operation is one of the most important considerations for commercial refrigeration. Staff need equipment that is easy to turn on, monitor, clean, and restock. The separated power and light buttons offer simple control. The digital temperature display supports quick checking. The sliding doors make access more convenient in limited spaces.

Adjustable feet help during installation. When a cabinet is level and stable, doors operate more smoothly, product presentation looks better, and the cabinet feels more professional. This detail is often overlooked, but it can make a difference in daily use.

The countertop format also helps cleaning routines. Staff can clean around and below the counter area more easily than with some large floor-standing equipment. The display surface and glass should be maintained regularly to preserve product visibility. Clean glass improves customer perception and supports better merchandising.

Logistics and Wholesale Advantages

The product data includes loading quantities for 20GP and 40HQ containers, which is valuable for distributors and importers. The XCW-118L can load 56 pieces in a 20GP container and 140 pieces in a 40HQ container. The XCW-138L can load 48 pieces in a 20GP container and 120 pieces in a 40HQ container. The XCW-248L can load 18 pieces in a 20GP container and 48 pieces in a 40HQ container.

These loading quantities help buyers plan costs, inventory, and distribution. Commercial refrigeration equipment is bulky, and logistics efficiency can significantly affect final product pricing. A manufacturer that provides clear container loading information supports professional procurement planning.

For wholesalers, the three-model range also supports market segmentation. Smaller retailers may prefer the XCW-118L, mid-sized operators may choose the XCW-138L, and higher-volume stores may require the XCW-248L. A distributor can stock the series and serve multiple customer groups with a unified product family.

Why Countertop Display Refrigeration Matters

Modern consumers often choose food quickly. They may be purchasing a drink before work, selecting a dessert after lunch, or buying a packaged meal during a short break. The display equipment must help them understand the offer immediately. A well-designed countertop refrigerator can shorten the distance between product and purchase.

Compared with hidden refrigerated storage, display refrigeration turns inventory into visual promotion. It shows freshness, quantity, variety, and brand value. For small businesses, this can be one of the most cost-effective ways to improve product presentation. Instead of relying only on menus or staff recommendations, the cabinet lets the product sell itself.

The XCW series supports this approach by providing a professional refrigerated showcase in a compact footprint. The combination of curved glass, sliding doors, digital control, R290 refrigerant, and multiple capacity choices makes it suitable for a wide range of modern food retail settings.

Quality, Service, and Long-Term Cooperation

Commercial buyers do not evaluate a refrigerator only by its appearance. They also consider supplier reliability, production consistency, certification support, and after-sales communication. Ningbo XiangChi Electrical Co., Ltd emphasizes innovation, quality, and service, and seeks opportunities to grow together with global partners.

This cooperation-oriented approach is important for international buyers. Commercial refrigeration projects often involve repeat orders, spare parts communication, technical questions, packaging requirements, and market-specific preferences. A manufacturer with established experience and a professional team can support these needs more effectively.

The company’s specialization in display refrigeration categories also gives it an advantage over general appliance suppliers. A focused manufacturer understands the requirements of product visibility, glass display structure, refrigerated merchandising, and commercial store operation. This expertise helps improve product suitability for real retail environments.

Maintenance and Usage Considerations

To keep a countertop display refrigerator working effectively, operators should follow good usage habits. Products should be loaded in a way that allows cold air to circulate. The doors should be closed properly after use. The glass should be cleaned regularly to maintain visibility. The cabinet should be placed away from excessive heat sources when possible.

Staff should monitor the digital temperature display as part of daily routines. If the cabinet is newly loaded with warm products, the temperature may need time to return to the normal range. Proper product pre-chilling can improve performance and presentation.

Regular inspection of sliding doors, adjustable feet, and general cabinet condition helps maintain long-term usability. Commercial equipment works best when operators treat it as part of a controlled food display system rather than simple storage.

Q&A Section

What products are suitable for the XCW countertop display refrigerators?

They are suitable for many chilled display applications, including bottled beverages, packaged desserts, dairy products, chilled snacks, sandwiches, fruit cups, prepared foods, and other items that need to be displayed within the 2 to 8 °C range.

What is the main difference between XCW-118L, XCW-138L, and XCW-248L?

The main difference is capacity and width. The XCW-118L offers 118 liters for compact spaces, the XCW-138L offers 138 liters for balanced capacity, and the XCW-248L offers 248 liters for wider product display and higher-volume sales.

Why is R290 refrigerant important?

R290 is a modern hydrocarbon refrigerant known for low environmental impact and efficient refrigeration performance. Its use helps the product align with the commercial refrigeration industry’s move toward more environmentally responsible solutions.

What are the advantages of front and back sliding doors?

Sliding doors save space because they do not need swing clearance. Front and back access can also make service and restocking more convenient, especially in cafés, bakeries, convenience stores, and prepared food counters.

How does the digital temperature controller help daily operation?

The digital controller and display allow staff to check operating temperature quickly. This supports better monitoring, reduces uncertainty, and gives the cabinet a more professional commercial appearance.

Why is the curved front glass useful?

The curved front glass improves the visual presentation of chilled products. It helps customers view items clearly and can make the display look more attractive, which is important for impulse sales and food merchandising.

What makes this series competitive compared with ordinary countertop coolers?

The series combines direct cooling, R290 refrigerant, digital temperature control, curved glass, sliding doors, separated power and light buttons, adjustable feet, and three capacity options. This makes it more complete and commercially practical than many basic countertop refrigeration units.

Is the product suitable for international wholesale distribution?

Yes. The product specifications include container loading quantities, and the manufacturer has global certifications such as CE, GS, CCC, CB, ROHS, and ETL. These factors support international procurement and distribution planning.

What manufacturing strengths support the product?

The manufacturer has more than ten years of experience, a 40,000-square-meter modern factory, a professional R&D team, advanced testing facilities, and specialization in commercial display refrigeration equipment.

How should operators maintain good performance?

Operators should keep doors closed when not in use, avoid blocking internal cooling circulation, clean glass regularly, monitor the digital display, place the cabinet away from strong heat sources when possible, and ensure the unit is level with its adjustable feet.

Conclusion

The Direct Cooling Countertop Display Refrigerators XCW-118L, XCW-138L, and XCW-248L provide a practical and attractive solution for chilled food and beverage merchandising. Their direct cooling system, 2 to 8 °C temperature range, R290 refrigerant, digital temperature controller, curved glass, sliding doors, separated buttons, and adjustable feet make them well suited for commercial environments that need reliable cooling and strong product visibility.

The three-model structure gives buyers flexibility. The XCW-118L is ideal for compact counters, the XCW-138L provides balanced display capacity, and the XCW-248L supports wider, higher-volume merchandising. This makes the series useful for bakeries, cafés, convenience stores, dessert counters, beverage areas, and prepared food displays.

Beyond the product itself, the manufacturing strength behind the series is a major advantage. Ningbo XiangChi Electrical Co., Ltd combines years of experience, a large modern factory, professional R&D capability, advanced testing facilities, and internationally recognized certifications. These strengths support consistent product quality and make the series a strong choice for wholesalers, distributors, and commercial end users seeking dependable countertop display refrigeration.

References

ASHRAE Handbook: Refrigeration, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

International Institute of Refrigeration, Commercial Refrigeration and Food Display Equipment Guidelines.

United Nations Environment Programme, Low-GWP Refrigerants in Commercial Refrigeration.

IEC Standards for Commercial Refrigerating Appliances and Electrical Safety.

General Principles of Food Hygiene and Chilled Food Storage, Codex Alimentarius Commission.

Product: Direct Cooling Countertop Display Refrigerators XCW-118L/138L/248L