BUSINESS AND TRAINING
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
Staycold’ s finished stock warehouse with over 1 000 units available for immediate dispatch to clients.
refrigeration units. For corporate clients, Staycold has introduced remote monitoring solutions that can help optimise performance and reduce costs,” he says.
CORPORATE RELATIONSHIPS AND REFRIGERANT INNOVATION
Staycold’ s largest customers include beverage bottlers and brewers, who use Staycold’ s products for trade marketing purposes. Hills explains how these companies often brand the refrigeration units with popular labels, ensuring their beverages are kept at optimal temperatures in supermarkets. The company operates through both direct and indirect sales channels, working with around 250 dealers who distribute to the general market, such as bars, cafes, restaurants and spaza shops.
The company’ s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its innovations with refrigerants. Hills discusses the environmental challenges posed by traditional refrigerants, such as hydrofluorocarbons( HFCs), which have a high global warming potential. Hills notes that, much like the transition from HCFCs to HFCs, the local industry will likely experience future shifts in refrigerant standards.“ In response to this, Staycold is focusing on the use of hydrocarbon refrigerants like R-290, which offer much lower global warming potentials, though some challenges remain with its use in freezers, due to the need for larger compressors.”
Hills also pointed out that while the demand for refrigeration in retail environments continues to rise, especially in the frozen food sector, the shift away from HFCs will require both innovation and adaptability. He warns that as regulations tighten, the cost of maintaining older, non-compliant units will increase, which could have a significant impact on the industry.
Hills also discusses the role of equipment longevity in the transition to more sustainable refrigerants. Units that are well-maintained can last for 20 to 30 years without needing refrigerant replacements, provided they don’ t develop leaks.“ Wellmaintained units won’ t be affected by the phase-down of HFCs, while there is also potential for retrofitting older units with R-290-compatible components, which aligns with the principles of the circular economy.” By sourcing components from trusted suppliers like Cubigel in Spain, |
controllers, Staycold ensures the quality and reliability of its products while supporting the local economy.
Hills emphasises the importance of considering the total cost of ownership when purchasing refrigeration equipment.“ While upfront costs are often a concern, businesses that focus on energy efficiency, durability and support will ultimately achieve greater value over time. Staycold’ s commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability positions it well to continue leading the market, offering tailored solutions that meet the specific demands of the South
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ebm papst fan motors, and Danfoss |
African market.” |
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Staycold’ s state-of-the-art, high-volume coil-to-cut Laser machine. |
34 www. coldlinkafrica. co. za COLD LINK AFRICA • May 2025