Impulse Display Case

An impulse display case is one of the most effective methods for increasing sales in HoReCa businesses — it captures the customer’s attention precisely at the moment they are waiting for an order or approaching the checkout. Studies show that well-displayed and attractively arranged products at the checkout increase the average receipt by 15–30%. The effectiveness of an impulse display case depends on proper placement, lighting and product arrangement. BHS offers impulse display cases to HoReCa businesses across Europe.

Types and construction of impulse display cases

Countertop display cases — compact cases that can be installed directly on a service counter or checkout desk. They take up minimal surface space while ensuring excellent product visibility. Freestanding display cases — self-supporting structures that can be placed next to checkouts or in customer flow areas without occupying counter space. Multi-level stands — vertically organised display cases with several product levels, allowing a wider range to be showcased. Rotating display cases — with a turntable that ensures product visibility from all sides. Heated and refrigerated impulse display cases — for products requiring a specific temperature regime. BHS offers various types of impulse display cases.

Products in an impulse display case

In bakeries and confectioneries, impulse display cases showcase fresh bread, cakes, pastries, crackers and other packaged confectionery items that maintain a fresh appearance without refrigeration. In cafés at the checkout, display cases feature chocolates, hazelnut spreads, confectionery, packaged biscuits and other impulse-buy products. In delicatessens and bistros, display cases present cheeses, cured meats, olives and other deli items that are appealing to the touch. In quick-service restaurants, an impulse display case at the checkout encourages additional purchases — desserts, sweets and drinks. BHS helps you choose a display case based on the type of products being showcased.

Hygiene and HACCP for impulse display cases

Product demonstration in an open environment requires careful hygiene control. An impulse display case must be made from easy-to-clean materials — stainless steel or food-grade plastic — with easily removable shelves and trays for regular cleaning. For packaged products, the HACCP requirements are lower, but open or unpackaged products must be protected from foreign matter contamination. Regular cleaning and disinfection of the display case is a mandatory hygiene procedure. Product rotation — the FIFO principle — must also be observed for products placed in the display case. BHS offers impulse display cases made from hygiene-friendly materials.

HoReCa usage scenarios

A café installs a compact impulse display case at the checkout with chocolates and packaged desserts — the average receipt increases as customers add spontaneous purchases to their coffee orders. A bakery-confectionery uses a freestanding display case at the entrance, showcasing fresh bread and cakes, encouraging impulse buys as customers enter. A hotel lobby café uses an elegant display case for premium chocolates and souvenir products, increasing the average receipt. In a quick-service restaurant, an impulse display case at the checkout with desserts increases the dessert attachment rate.

Frequently asked questions

How to choose the right size for an impulse display case? The size of the display case depends on the available surface area and the planned range volume. Compact countertop display cases (30–50 cm) are suitable for small ranges and limited counter space. Larger freestanding display cases are ideal for a wider range and higher customer flow. BHS helps you choose the optimal size based on space and requirements.

Can an impulse display case be used for both cold and hot products? Standard impulse display cases are designed for room-temperature products. Refrigerated impulse display cases — often small refrigerated cases at the checkout — are suitable for chilled products. Heated display cases are for hot products. BHS helps you choose the appropriate temperature solution.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.