Reliable refrigeration is the backbone of any commercial kitchen. From preserving fresh ingredients to ensuring food safety compliance, a high-quality commercial fridge is essential for daily operations.

But with so many types on the market – upright fridges, undercounter units, prep counters, and gastronorm-compatible models – choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Size, temperature range, energy efficiency, and layout all play a role in what’s best for your kitchen.

At Alexanders Direct, we’ve supplied commercial refrigeration to thousands of UK food businesses. In this guide, we share our top recommended fridges for 2025 and explain what to consider before buying.

Top Commercial Fridges for 2025


Sterling Pro Cobus SPR400S Single Door Stainless Steel Upright Refrigerator, 360 Litres

  • Capacity: 360 Litres
  • Dimensions: W600 x D610 x H1850 mm
  • Features: Stainless steel exterior, R290a refrigerant, temperature range 0 to +10°C, fan-assisted cooling
  • Best for: Medium-sized kitchens requiring reliable, energy-efficient refrigeration

Liebherr MRFvc 4001 Single Door Forced-Air Upright Refrigerator, 377 Litres

  • Capacity: 377 Litres
  • Dimensions: W597 x D654 x H1884 mm
  • Features: White exterior, adjustable shelves, R600a refrigerant, fan-assisted cooling
  • Best for: Establishments seeking a high-quality, durable refrigeration solution

Polar CD612 C-Series Single Door White Upright Fridge, 400 Litres

  • Capacity: 400 Litres
  • Dimensions: W600 x D600 x H1850 mm
  • Features: Stainless steel interior and exterior, R600a refrigerant, fan-assisted cooling
  • Best for: Budget-conscious kitchens needing a reliable upright fridge

Tefcold SD1380B Single Door White Upright Fridge, 372 Litres

  • Capacity: 372 Litres
  • Dimensions: W595 x D600 x H1840 mm
  • Features: White interior and exterior, R600a refrigerant, fan-assisted cooling
  • Best for: Smaller establishments requiring efficient refrigeration in a compact footprint

Blizzard HW40 Single Door White Laminated Upright Refrigerator, 305 Litres

  • Capacity: 305 Litres
  • Dimensions: W595 x D640 x H1850 mm
  • Features: Adjustable shelves, lock as standard, replaceable door gasket
  • Best for: Venues needing a compact, secure refrigeration solution

What to Look for in a Commercial Fridge (2025 Buying Guide)


  • 1. Capacity and Storage Layout
    Measured in litres, most commercial upright fridges range from 300L to 1,400L. Check the number of shelves, gastronorm compatibility, and interior layout to suit your stock rotation and kitchen flow.

  • 2. Type – Upright, Undercounter or Counter Fridge
    Upright fridges offer maximum storage, while undercounter models save space. Counter fridges combine cold storage with worktop space, ideal for prep stations and pizza counters.

  • 3. Cooling System – Static vs Fan-Assisted
    Fan-assisted (forced-air) cooling offers faster recovery times and even temperatures – ideal for busy kitchens. Static cooling is quieter and more energy-efficient, but best for light use or overnight storage.

  • 4. Temperature Range
    Most commercial fridges operate between 0°C and +8°C. Look for digital controls and clear displays to monitor settings easily, especially during inspections.

  • 5. Build Quality and Finish
    Stainless steel models are more durable and easier to clean, while white laminated finishes offer better value for lighter-use settings.

  • 6. Energy Efficiency and Refrigerant Type
    Modern units use eco-friendly refrigerants like R290 or R600a. Look for energy ratings or eco labelling to reduce running costs and environmental impact.

  • 7. Brand Reputation and UK Support
    Stick to reliable manufacturers with solid warranties and available spare parts. Downtime in refrigeration can be costly – good support matters.

Quick Buyer Checklist


FeatureRecommendedWhy It Matters
Capacity 300L+ Yes Ensures enough space for daily stock without overloading the fridge
Fan-Assisted Cooling Yes Maintains consistent internal temperatures even with frequent door openings
Stainless Steel Exterior Yes (if heavy use) More durable and hygienic for demanding kitchen environments
Digital Temperature Display Yes Makes HACCP compliance and monitoring easier
Eco Refrigerant (R290 / R600a) Yes Improves efficiency and reduces environmental impact
Door Lock Optional Useful for schools, shared kitchens, or mobile catering
UK Support & Spare Parts Yes Helps reduce downtime and keeps your kitchen running

Frequently Asked Questions


What size commercial fridge do I need?

This depends on your kitchen volume. A single upright fridge of 300–400L is usually enough for small operations, while larger kitchens may need multiple units or a high-capacity 600L+ model.

What’s the difference between static and fan-assisted cooling?

Static cooling uses natural convection – it’s quieter and more energy-efficient, but may have hot spots. Fan-assisted (forced air) ensures even temperatures and faster recovery when doors are opened frequently.

Do commercial fridges need to be stainless steel?

Not always. Stainless steel is more durable and hygienic for heavy-duty use, while white laminated finishes are fine for lower-traffic kitchens or front-of-house use.

What temperature should a commercial fridge be set to?

Typically between 0°C and +5°C. This keeps food safely chilled and compliant with food safety regulations. Always check your HACCP guidelines.

Can I use a domestic fridge in a commercial kitchen?

It’s not recommended. Domestic fridges aren’t built for constant opening or large stock loads, and they may not meet hygiene or durability standards for professional use.

Need Help Choosing the Right Commercial Fridge?


Not sure which fridge is right for your kitchen? Our team is here to help.

Whether you need a space-saving undercounter model or a high-capacity upright fridge, we’ll guide you through the best options based on your menu, layout, and budget.

Need Help Choosing the Right Equipment?


Get expert advice and make confident choices with our full range of Commercial Catering Equipment Buying Guides . Discover tips, comparisons, and top recommendations – all in one place.

Live Chat | Call Us | Send a Message