Howard-McCray vs. Hillphoenix
Howard-McCray and Hillphoenix are two established equipment brands primarily known for manufacturing retail merchandisers. While Howard-McCray prioritizes display cases and merchandisers for small operations, Hillphoenix offers integrated refrigerated display solutions for larger retail environments.
Howard-McCray vs. Hillphoenix: Comparison Snapshot
While Hillphoenix equipment is best for designing complete merchandising systems in new operations, Howard-McCray supports new builds or small expansions with simple, adaptable designs.
About Howard-McCray
The McCray name traces its roots to Kendallville, Ind., where Elmer E. McCray founded a cold storage cabinet company in 1887. Nearly a century later, Howard Refrigerator Company purchased the McCray name and began producing deli cases. Today, Howard-McCray is nationally recognized for its retail merchandisers and display cases produced in Philadelphia, Pa.
Key Strengths:
- Endless-style designs enable side-by-side installation
- Full-service cases provide convenient product access
- Automatic defrost and air curtain technology
About Hillphoenix
C.V. Hill Refrigerator Works was founded more than 100 years ago in New Jersey by a former grocer who wanted to improve perishable product displays. Throughout its history, the company invented numerous retail merchandising features. Today, Hillphoenix is a division of Dover and continues to offer refrigerated display solutions for a wide range of applications.
Key Strengths:
- Modern glass reach-in merchandising designs
- Environmentally friendly CO2 refrigerant systems
- Preconfigured electrical and refrigeration management systems available
Key Differences Explained
Design and Modularity
Howard-McCray primarily manufactures open refrigerated cases ranging from 29 inches to nearly 100 inches wide in various styles. Many options feature endless-style designs that enable direct side-by-side installation for larger displays. Other models include solid or glass door reach-ins and islands. Hillphoenix offers highly configurable models wider than 100 inches, along with modular components such as islands, end caps, wedges, and specialty display sections. Optional add-ons for certain units include scale stands, dry cases, and workstations.
Performance and Reliability
Open merchandisers require steady environments below 75 degrees Fahrenheit with relative humidity under 55 percent to maintain food-safe temperatures. Howard-McCray units come standard with expansion valves, electronically controlled defrost and temperature controls, energy-efficient LED lighting, and either self-contained or remote refrigeration systems.
Hillphoenix offers numerous refrigeration styles, including self-contained, remote, and SoloChill® micro-distributed systems, which are effective for large connected systems and quiet performance, but they're more costly to install. Hillphoenix is also a leader in CO2 refrigeration systems, which have lower global warming potential than many traditional refrigerants.
Maintenance and Durability
Maintenance requirements largely depend on the refrigeration system used. Most Howard-McCray units use self-contained Copeland hermetic compressors and feature removable bottom-mounted grills for simple service. They also offer heavy-duty stainless steel exteriors, which can be covered with a laminate coating. Hillphoenix's specialized refrigeration systems, such as SoloChill and WeatherPac™, are designed for demanding environments while helping operators save space and simplify access, though they typically require professional installation and service.
Price and Value
Howard-McCray offers competitively priced merchandising solutions, producing reliable and polished units ideal for smaller locations. Though typically priced higher, Hillphoenix offers value for unique setups requiring larger refrigeration capacities and custom designs.
Which Display Cabinet Is Right for You?
When choosing a brand, consider your available space, energy requirements, merchandising needs, and overall store design. Howard-McCray is a strong choice for operators seeking standalone merchandisers and dependable performance, while Hillphoenix is better suited for larger facilities requiring custom layouts or extensive refrigeration infrastructure.
| Scenario | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small Deli or Bakery | Howard-McCray | Simplified accessibility and easy service |
| Convenience Store | Either | Choose a brand based on display needs and design |
| Medium-Sized Market or Retail Store | Hillphoenix | Energy efficiency and scaled merchandising systems |
| Education | Howard-McCray | Simple install and versatile displays support various applications |
Shop Howard-McCray at KaTom
KaTom offers open merchandisers, impulse coolers, reach-ins, and more from Howard-McCray. Browse a variety of sizes and configurations for merchandising fresh and frozen products in convenience stores, delis, bakeries, and other retail or service environments.
