A guide to deli & bakery cases

Deli & Bakery Display Cases Buyers' Guide

Deli and display cases are perfect for showcasing fresh bakery and deli products. They provide attractive product displays and can help increase impulse buys. All deli and bakery display cases offered through KaTom Restaurant Supply are produced by our premier manufacturers, including Vollrath, Turbo Air, Beverage Air, and True.

Types of Display Cases

Deli and bakery display cases come in two types: refrigerated and non-refrigerated.

Refrigerated deli display cases are ideal for holding perishable products and extending the shelf life of premade items. These units typically hold products such as cheese, meats, pies, cakes, dairy products, drinks, salads, dips, and other fresh foods for display.

Non-refrigerated display cases can hold products that don't require refrigeration. Breads, donuts, muffins, cupcakes, and other baked goods are often placed in a dry pastry display case.

What’s the Difference Between a Deli Case and a Bakery Case?

While both types of display cases merchandise food items, deli cases are typically refrigerated and used for perishables, while bakery cases are often non-refrigerated and used for bread, cake, and pastries that don’t require constant cooling. Choosing the right case depends on the temperature requirements and freshness of your products.

Commercial Display Case Sizes

Find the Right Display Case Width

Choose a width that fits your layout and best showcases your products:

  • Refrigerated display cases: 361/4″ to 144″ wide
  • Non-refrigerated display cases: 8″ to 755/8″ wide

Whether you need a compact unit for a small storefront or a longer case for a full-service deli, there's a size to match your space. Some manufacturers provide units that connect side by side for an endless design.

Choose Your Storage Capacity

Match your case to your product volume with the right storage shelving space:

  • Shelving style: straight or recessed
  • Number of shelves: 1 to 6

Cases with a higher number of straight shelves are ideal for high-volume operations, while smaller units with recessed shelving work well for select offerings or tight spaces.

Deli Case Styles

Straight Glass Cases

  • Traditional, timeless look for any foodservice environment
  • Straight glass pane, sometimes slanted about 12° to reduce overhead glare and showcase products

Curved Glass Cases

  • Premium option with backward-curving glass for enhanced top‐down visibility
  • Delivers a sleek, high-end presentation that highlights your offerings

Counter-Height Display Cases

  • Enhances visibility by placing products at eye level
  • Ideal height makes it easy to serve items without overreaching

Bottom of Deli & Bakery Display Cases

Deli and display cases can be purchased with or without a storage area below the case. A display case with storage underneath provides convenient access to stored dry or prep items, freeing up storage space in other areas of your operation.

Units without this storage area underneath have a solid bottom that is sturdy and easy to clean. Most refrigerated units have a front-breathing refrigeration system on the base.

Display Case Specialty Options

Freezer Display Cases

  • Maintain temperatures for frozen goods
  • Ideal for storing and showcasing items like ice cream cakes
  • Ensures product safety and extends shelf life

Pass-Thru Display Cases

  • Refrigerated and Dry options
  • Designed with doors on both the front and back
  • Enables efficient restocking and customer self-service
  • Ideal for quick-serve or cafeteria-style setups

Stainless Steel Construction

  • Durable and easy to clean
  • Resists scratches, dents, and daily wear
  • Maintains a sleek, professional look with minimal upkeep

Glass End Display Cases

  • Provides additional product visibility from multiple angles
  • Maximizes merchandising space and encourages impulse purchases
  • Perfect for corner displays or high-traffic areas

Dual-Zone Display Cases

  • Combines refrigerated and non-refrigerated sections in one unit
  • Ideal for businesses with limited space and diverse product needs
  • Often includes glass ends for enhanced visibility and appeal

Installation & Site Requirements

Refrigerated display cases require upright installation on level ground to ensure the compressor works properly. Make sure your floor can hold the weight of a fully loaded case, and ensure ample breathing room for the refrigeration system. You will also need a floor or line drain and the appropriate electrical connection. Refer to your owner's manual for specific installation instructions, including:

  • Required electrical specs (voltage, dedicated circuit, ground fault protection)
  • Minimum clearance on sides/rear for airflow and maintenance
  • Weight limits and leveling feet or optional casters

Cleaning & Maintenance Procedures

Preventative maintenance prolongs the life of your display case, inhibits mold and odors, and keeps refrigerated units running efficiently. Follow these suggestions for the best upkeep:

  • Daily wipe-down: Clean interior glass, shelves, drip trays
  • Weekly deep cleaning: Remove gaskets, sanitize the interior, vacuum condenser coils
  • Use recommended cleaners: pH-neutral detergents, food-safe sanitizers

Find the Best Deli & Bakery Display Case

When looking for a display case for your bakery, deli, or self-serve food operation, consider factors like required size and volume, your preferred window style, and other specialty options. Shop KaTom to discover which bakery display case or refrigerated deli box is the right fit for your space. Browse our refrigerated deli cases and non-refrigerated bakery displays to find the ideal solution for your business.