99% Invisible
Hyperfixed: Dylan's Supermarket Cold Case
Dec 31, 2024
In this engaging conversation, Alex Goldman, host of HyperFixed and former co-host of Reply All, dives into the quirks of supermarket design. He investigates the mystery of a missing door, which leads to a broader look at the inefficiencies of open refrigeration units. Goldman highlights the environmental costs of current supermarket practices and urges a reevaluation of outdated designs. He also shares innovative stocking techniques from Latin America, shedding light on how these can enhance sustainability while saving costs.
26:20
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Quick takeaways
- Grocery stores benefit from open-air refrigeration units for customer convenience but face efficiency challenges leading to significant energy waste.
- Historical consumer behavior influences supermarket design choices that prioritize shopping experience over necessary energy efficiency improvements.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Open-Air Refrigeration
Grocery stores often use open-air refrigeration units, which present both a convenience and an efficiency challenge. These units, known as open-air multi-decks, allow customers to easily access products without doors, thus promoting a more user-friendly shopping experience. However, their design results in significant energy waste, consuming more than 50% of a supermarket's total energy costs. This practice raises environmental concerns, particularly as it contributes to unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions due to the high energy consumption required to cool exposed products.
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