Minnesota IGA Stores Add Energy Efficient Refrigerated Doors

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October 18, 2012

Three Rush Foods store in southeastern Minnesota have added energy efficient cooler doors and eco-save island merchandiser covers at one store. Previously the stores used open-air cases and coolers.

The store also upgraded their case lighting to more efficient LED fixtures, which in addition to energy savings, enhances visibility and product display. The retailer contracted with Remis America for the retrofits and door and lighting equipment.

The estimated annual kilowatt hour savings at each store is 5,367 kWh for the store in Harmony; 40,757 kWh for the Preston store, and 39,558 kWh for Rushford, according to data provided the chain by Tri-County Electric Cooperative.

Although saving money was the primary reason to install the new glass doors, improving product quality was a driver as well. The doors provide temperature consistency “not only extend the shelf life of our fresh foods, but it will also keep foods fresh longer in our customers’ refrigerators,” said Brad Hoiness, co-owner/operations manager of Rush Foods, an IGA grocer.

“Our customers like to see improvements made to ‘their store’ and they understand that electricity is getting to be a bigger expense even in their own home. Our employees understand it is necessary to save money on the electric bill and are proud that we've accomplished that with this project,” he added. So far, customers have shown their appreciation for how much warmer the store feels, which makes shopping more enjoyable, Hoiness noted.

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