The European commercial refrigeration equipment market size was calculated to be USD 12.66 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to be worth USD 18.23 billion by 2033 from USD 13.18 billion In 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.14% during the forecast period.
Commercial refrigeration equipment includes a wide range of products such as refrigerators, freezers, display cases, walk-in coolers, and ice machines, designed for use in supermarkets, restaurants, convenience stores, and cold storage facilities. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), over 40% of the EU’s food supply chain relies on advanced refrigeration systems to maintain quality and safety standards. With rising urbanization and consumer demand for fresh produce, the commercial refrigeration market in Europe is poised for steady growth. A report by the UK Food Standards Agency reveals that over 70% of retailers are upgrading their refrigeration systems to meet sustainability goals, underscoring the market’s critical role in supporting Europe’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
The increasing demand for fresh and perishable goods is a major driver of the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reports that over 40% of household expenditure in Europe is spent on perishable items, including dairy, meat, and frozen foods, necessitating advanced refrigeration solutions. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are expanding their cold chain infrastructure to meet consumer expectations, with the UK Food Standards Agency highlighting that 70% of retailers have upgraded their refrigeration systems since 2020 to enhance food safety and shelf life. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce grocery platforms has further fueled demand, as these platforms require robust cold storage facilities. According to Eurostat, online grocery sales grew by 25% in 2022, driving investments in energy-efficient display cases and walk-in coolers. This trend underscores the critical role of commercial refrigeration in supporting Europe’s food supply chain.
Stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions are another key driver of the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market. The European Commission mandates the adoption of eco-friendly refrigerants and energy-efficient technologies under the EU Green Deal, which targets a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The German Environment Agency notes that commercial refrigeration systems account for approximately 10% of total energy consumption in the retail sector, prompting businesses to invest in sustainable solutions. For instance, France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition highlights that subsidies for natural refrigerant-based systems have increased adoption rates by 15% annually. Furthermore, the European Association of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heat Pump Contractors (AREA) emphasizes that over 60% of new installations in 2022 utilized low-global-warming-potential (GWP) refrigerants. These regulatory pressures are accelerating innovation and creating opportunities for manufacturers to develop cutting-edge, environmentally friendly equipment.
The high initial costs associated with advanced commercial refrigeration systems pose a significant restraint to market growth in Europe. The European Investment Bank highlights that energy-efficient and eco-friendly refrigeration units, such as those using natural refrigerants, can cost 30-50% more than traditional systems. This financial barrier is particularly challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the retail and hospitality sectors, which account for over 60% of end-users, according to Eurostat. The French Ministry for Economic Affairs notes that despite government subsidies, many SMEs struggle to afford the upfront investment required for modernization. Additionally, the German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association reports that installation and maintenance costs for these systems further increase the financial burden, deterring widespread adoption. As a result, businesses often delay upgrades, hindering the transition to sustainable refrigeration solutions and slowing market expansion.
Stringent regulatory compliance requirements present another major restraint for the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market. The European Environment Agency mandates strict adherence to F-Gas regulations, which aim to phase down hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants by 79% between 2015 and 2030. While these regulations are essential for reducing environmental impact, they impose significant operational challenges. The UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs notes that non-compliance can result in fines exceeding €50,000 per violation, creating financial risks for businesses. Furthermore, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency emphasizes that retrofitting existing systems to meet these standards requires substantial investments, with costs averaging €10,000-€20,000 per unit. Many businesses, especially smaller operators, face difficulties adapting to these evolving regulations, leading to slower adoption rates and increased market fragmentation.
The rapid expansion of e-commerce and cold chain logistics presents a significant opportunity for the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market. The European Commission highlights that online grocery sales grew by 25% in 2022, driving demand for advanced cold storage facilities and refrigerated transport solutions. According to Eurostat, over 70% of perishable goods now require temperature-controlled logistics to maintain quality during transit, underscoring the need for energy-efficient refrigeration systems. The UK Food Standards Agency notes that investments in cold chain infrastructure have surged, with an estimated €5 billion allocated annually to expand warehousing and delivery networks. Furthermore, France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition emphasizes that the adoption of smart refrigeration technologies, such as IoT-enabled monitoring systems, is expected to grow by 15% annually, enhancing operational efficiency. This trend positions the market to benefit significantly from the booming e-commerce sector.
The growing adoption of natural refrigerants and sustainable solutions offers another major opportunity for the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market. The German Environment Agency reports that over 60% of new installations in 2022 utilized low-global-warming-potential (GWP) refrigerants, driven by EU regulations mandating a 79% reduction in HFC usage by 2030. The European Association of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heat Pump Contractors (AREA) highlights that subsidies for eco-friendly systems have increased adoption rates by 20% annually in countries like Sweden and Denmark. Additionally, Italy’s Ministry for Economic Development notes that businesses are increasingly investing in energy-efficient display cases and walk-in coolers, which reduce energy consumption by up to 40%. As sustainability becomes a priority, manufacturers can capitalize on innovations in green technologies to meet rising demand and strengthen their market position.
Rising energy costs pose a significant challenge to the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market, as these systems are among the most energy-intensive in commercial operations. The European Commission reports that energy prices surged by 30% in 2022, disproportionately affecting small retailers and restaurants reliant on refrigeration. The UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy highlights that refrigeration accounts for approximately 50% of total energy consumption in supermarkets, squeezing profit margins amid economic uncertainty. Additionally, the German Environment Agency notes that older systems, which remain prevalent in many businesses, consume up to 40% more energy than modern alternatives, exacerbating operational costs. While energy-efficient systems exist, their high upfront costs deter adoption, leaving many operators locked into outdated, costly technologies. This financial strain limits market growth and slows the transition to sustainable solutions.
Supply chain disruptions and material shortages have emerged as critical challenges for the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market. Eurostat reports that global supply chain bottlenecks caused delivery delays of up to 6-8 weeks in 2022, impacting manufacturers' ability to meet rising demand. The French Ministry for Economic Affairs highlights those shortages of key materials, such as copper and aluminum, essential for refrigeration components, led to price increases of 20-25% during the same period. Furthermore, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency notes that reliance on imported components, particularly compressors, has left manufacturers vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions. These disruptions hinder production timelines and inflate costs, making it difficult for businesses to scale operations or innovate. As a result, the market faces constraints in addressing growing demand for advanced refrigeration systems across Europe.
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REPORT METRIC |
DETAILS |
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Market Size Available |
2024 to 2033 |
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Base Year |
2024 |
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Forecast Period |
2025 to 2033 |
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CAGR |
4.14% |
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Segments Covered |
By Product, End use, Application, and Region |
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Various Analyses Covered |
Global, Regional & Country Level Analysis; Segment-Level Analysis; DROC, PESTLE Analysis; Porter’s Five Forces Analysis; Competitive Landscape; Analyst Overview of Investment Opportunities |
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Regions Covered |
UK, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Netherlands, Turkey, and Czech Republic |
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Market Leaders Profiled |
Bitzer SE, GEA Refrigeration Technologies, Carel Industries, Viessmann Group, AHT Cooling Systems, Bock GmbH, SCM Frigo S.P.A., De Rigo Refrigeration S.r.l., Freor Lt Uab, FRIGOBLOCK GmbH, INTARCON, Kelvion PHE GmbH, Pfannenberg GmbH, TEXA Industries, Walter Roller GmbH & Co. |
The deep freezers segment accounted for 35.3% of the European market share in 2024. The growth of the deep freezers segment in the European market is driven by the critical role that deep freezers play in preserving frozen food products, with over 40% of perishable goods reliant on these systems. The German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association highlights that energy-efficient deep freezers are increasingly adopted due to EU regulations mandating a 10% reduction in energy use by 2025. These systems are indispensable in supermarkets, cold storage facilities, and e-commerce logistics, where demand for frozen goods is rising. As online grocery sales grow by 25% annually, deep freezers remain vital for maintaining supply chain integrity and meeting consumer expectations.
The medical refrigerators segment is anticipated to progress at a CAGR of 8.5% over the forecast period. Factors such as the increasing need for precise temperature control in storing vaccines and biologics, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic is boosting the growth of the medical refrigerators segment in the European market. The French National Institute for Health notes that medical refrigerators now account for 15% of specialized equipment sales. Stringent healthcare regulations and the expansion of pharmaceutical infrastructure further fuel adoption. With Europe’s aging population and focus on preventive healthcare, medical refrigerators are pivotal in ensuring product safety and efficacy, making them a key growth driver in the commercial refrigeration market.
The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment occupied the largest share of 45.9% of European market in 2024. The domination of supermarkets and hypermarkets segment in the European market is primarily driven by the extensive use of refrigeration systems for perishable goods, with over 70% of retail food sales reliant on temperature-controlled storage and display solutions. The UK Food Standards Agency highlights that supermarkets are upgrading their refrigeration infrastructure to meet sustainability goals, with energy-efficient systems reducing power consumption by up to 30%. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has increased the need for robust cold storage facilities, as online grocery sales grew by 25% in 2022. Supermarkets' reliance on advanced refrigeration ensures product quality, safety, and customer satisfaction, solidifying their leadership in this market.
The hotels and restaurants segment is another major segment in the European market and is likely to exhibit a CAGR of 7.8% over the forecast period owing to the post-pandemic recovery of the hospitality sector and increasing consumer demand for fresh, high-quality food. The French Ministry for Tourism notes that over 60% of hotels and restaurants are investing in modern commercial kitchen refrigerators and display coolers to enhance operational efficiency. Rising urbanization and tourism further boost demand, with Europe welcoming over 500 million tourists annually, driving the need for reliable refrigeration solutions. As hotels and restaurants focus on sustainability and compliance with food safety regulations, this segment's rapid expansion underscores its importance in shaping the future of the commercial refrigeration market.
The food & beverage retail segment led the market by accounting for 40.1% of the European market share in 2024. The domination of food & beverage retail segment is primarily driven by the widespread use of refrigeration systems in supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores to preserve perishable goods and enhance product visibility. The UK Food Standards Agency highlights that over 70% of fresh produce and dairy products require temperature-controlled environments to maintain quality and safety. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has accelerated investments in energy-efficient display cases and cold storage solutions, with online grocery sales growing by 25% annually. As retailers prioritize sustainability and regulatory compliance, food & beverage retail remains a critical driver of innovation and adoption in the commercial refrigeration market.
The food & beverage distribution segment is estimated to expand at a CAGR of 8.2% over the forecast period owing to the expansion of cold chain logistics to support the booming e-commerce sector and ensure the safe transportation of perishable goods. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition notes that over 60% of perishable goods now require temperature-controlled logistics, with investments in refrigerated transport and warehousing increasing by 15% annually. Rising demand for frozen and fresh foods, coupled with stricter food safety regulations, further drives adoption. As Europe strengthens its cold chain infrastructure to meet consumer expectations and reduce food waste, food & beverage distribution emerges as a pivotal segment propelling market growth.
Germany occupied the leading share of 30.8% of the European market share in 2024. The advanced manufacturing capabilities and leadership of Germany in energy-efficient technologies are propelling the German commercial refrigeration equipment market growth. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs highlights that Germany’s retail sector, which accounts for 25% of Europe’s supermarket chains, drives demand for innovative cold storage solutions. Stringent EU regulations on energy efficiency have positioned German manufacturers at the forefront of adopting eco-friendly refrigerants and sustainable systems. With strong R&D investments and a focus on reducing carbon emissions, Germany continues to shape the future of the commercial refrigeration market.
France is likely to hold a substantial share of the European market during the forecast period. France has a vibrant foodservice and hospitality industries. The French National Institute for Statistics and Economic Studies notes that France’s tourism sector, which attracts over 90 million visitors annually, significantly boosts demand for hotel and restaurant refrigeration systems. Additionally, France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition emphasizes that government incentives for sustainable cold chain infrastructure have accelerated adoption rates. Investments in energy-efficient systems, particularly in urban areas, further drive growth. France’s commitment to sustainability and its robust food retail network ensure its position as a key player in the regional market, meeting both consumer expectations and regulatory standards.
Italy is one of the notable markets for commercial refrigeration equipment market in Europe. The growth of the Italina market is driven by its world-renowned food and beverage production industry. The Italian Ministry of Agricultural Policies highlights that Italy’s focus on exporting fresh produce, such as cheese, wine, and cured meats, has increased investments in advanced refrigeration systems. These systems ensure compliance with global food safety standards, enhancing Italy’s competitive edge in international markets. Furthermore, the Italian Association of Refrigeration highlights that the country’s adoption of energy-efficient technologies has grown by 10% annually, aligning with EU sustainability goals. Italy’s emphasis on preserving product quality and expanding cold chain logistics solidifies its role as a significant contributor to the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market.
Major Players of the Europe commercial refrigeration equipment market include Bitzer SE, GEA Refrigeration Technologies, Carel Industries, Viessmann Group, AHT Cooling Systems, Bock GmbH, SCM Frigo S.P.A., De Rigo Refrigeration S.r.l., Freor Lt Uab, FRIGOBLOCK GmbH, INTARCON, Kelvion PHE GmbH, Pfannenberg GmbH, TEXA Industries, Walter Roller GmbH & Co.
This research report on the European commercial refrigeration equipment market has been segmented and sub-segmented based on product, end user, application, and region.
By Product
By End User
By Application
By Region
Frequently Asked Questions
The growth of the commercial refrigeration equipment market is driven by factors such as increasing demand for frozen and processed food, advancements in energy-efficient refrigeration technologies, government regulations on food safety, and the expansion of the retail and hospitality sectors.
Key market players in the commercial refrigeration equipment industry include Carrier Global Corporation, Daikin Industries Ltd., Dover Corporation, Emerson Electric Co., Hussmann Corporation, Johnson Controls International plc, and Panasonic Corporation.
Technological advancements are enhancing energy efficiency, improving temperature control, integrating IoT-based monitoring systems, and enabling the use of eco-friendly refrigerants, which help reduce environmental impact and operational costs.
The primary end-users of commercial refrigeration equipment include food and beverage retail (supermarkets, convenience stores), foodservice (restaurants, hotels, catering), healthcare (hospitals, laboratories), and cold storage logistics providers.
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