Working closely with Pure Cold, Central Co-op became the first retailer in the world to trial A2L direct expansion (DX) convenience stores, integrating the benefits of ultra-low-GWP refrigerants (R455a and R454c) with the simplicity and familiarity of DX architecture.
At the time, the food retail industry was facing pressure from F-Gas regulations, to move away from high-GWP HFCs towards sustainable, energy-efficient alternatives. And we understood that for convenience stores, adopting low-GWP solutions can be particularly challenging because of their compact environments and installation constraints. They require reliable, simple-to-maintain refrigeration systems that balance performance, cost and long-term compliance.
Central Co-op, one of the UK’s largest independent retail co-operatives, has consistently prioritised sustainability and innovation. It sought a refrigeration approach to future-proof its convenience stores while reducing long-term environmental impact.
This groundbreaking project demonstrated how A2L refrigerants could be safely and effectively implemented in convenience-store settings, creating a scalable model for future installations.
The client required a solution that could:
They also wanted a solution that did not involve complex new infrastructure.
Our Approach
We partnered with Central Co-Op to create a forward-thinking refrigeration solution, built around A2L-ready DX systems, and designed to match their sustainability goals. Our approach included:
A considered refrigerant strategy
We implemented A2L refrigerants with ultra-low GWP values, ensuring full compliance with upcoming regulatory thresholds and a lower pressure solution while retaining the simplicity, maintainability and efficiency of DX systems.
Purpose-built full-glass door cabinets
By recognising the critical difference between a cabinet purpose-built for doors and an open cabinet retrofitted with doors, we designed dedicated cabinets with doors engineered for maximum performance and convenience-store footprints.
Designing specifically for the convenience environment
We designed every aspect – from airflow and door performance to cabinet depth – around the real-world operational constraints of convenience stores, not supermarkets.
Seamless installation
We ensured rapid installation with minimal disruption across multiple sites.
By 2021, Pure Cold’s A2L direct expansion (DX) using R454C became Central Co-op’s standard refrigeration solution. It also helped to position Central Co-op at the forefront of environmentally responsible refrigeration.
High-efficiency system engineering
A key innovation was achieving sub-1 kW extraction rates on a 3750 mm full-door fridge fixture – a breakthrough in performance for the convenience segment. At the time, this was the most energy-efficient multideck on the UK Energy Technology List, delivering up to 40% savings – a balance of high performance and sustainability.
The world’s first A2L DX convenience stores delivered significant improvements across performance, environmental impact and futureproofing:
This UK-first solution for convenience retail became a refrigeration blueprint, setting a new benchmark for cabinet design in compact stores. Four years later, it has become well-established within the industry.