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Open Air Merchandisers (a.k.a. “Multi-Decks”)
Open Air Merchandisers (also known as “Air Curtain Merchandisers” or “Multi-Decks”) have an open
front without doors, creating a “curtain” of cold air that flows down in front of the open space to keep
products behind the air curtain chilled. The cold air typically circulates from the top to the bottom,
forming a barrier between the cooler air inside and the warmer air outside. The design is perfect for
grab-and-go items, as it allows customers easy access to products without any physical barriers like
doors. This can encourage impulse purchases and improve the shopping experience. If your business
relies on quick access to products and high visibility, and if you’re prepared for slightly higher operating
costs due to energy use, an open air curtain merchandiser can be a great investment; however, if your
environment is particularly warm or humid, or if energy efficiency is a major concern, you might want
to explore other options or ensure the placement and maintenance of the unit are optimized to mitigate
these challenges. Some manufacturers now have options for similar Multi-Deck units but with low-
profile doors, cantilever shelving and no centre mullion to balance esthetics with increased efficiency.
Open air merchandisers are less energy efficient compared
to units with doors. The constant flow of cold air to maintain
the temperature can lead to higher energy consumption.
Because they’re open to the environment, these units can
be more susceptible to temperature fluctuations, especially
in warm or humid environments or when placed near the
entrance of a building where external air can interfere with
cooling. Nearby fans or HVAC vents can also compromise
the invisible air curtain and make the unit run harder to keep
products at the appropriate temperature.
In addition to installing the unit in the best location, proper product placement is crucial. Items need to
be arranged to ensure that the air curtain remains intact. Overloading the unit can disrupt the airflow,
leading to uneven cooling and, in reverse, the unit may not maintain optimal temperatures if it’s left
empty or without sufficient & proper product placement. Air curtain models will run most efficiently
when properly loaded with product.
How do Multi-Deck’s work?
Installation locations to consider
Most units come with multiple adjustable shelves that can be moved to accommodate different product
sizes and optimize the display space. In addition, price tag channels are typically available to clip on
the front of the shelves. Night curtains are a retractable curtain, typically made from a flexible, clear or
semi-transparent plastic material, often reinforced with mesh or fabric for durability, that can be pulled
down over the front of the merchandiser when the store is closed or during off-hours to help conserve
energy and maintain the internal temperature. Often these lock to protect products from dust, debris,
and potential tampering during off-hours.
Night curtain & other Accessories