Metcash Food Expo 2026 Wrap-up
The 2026 Metcash Food Expo brought together retailers, suppliers, and industry experts from across Australia, providing valuable insight into the evolving refrigeration landscape.
For the Baker Refrigeration team, the event was filled with meaningful conversations about store upgrades, energy efficiency, space optimisation and preparing for the future of refrigeration technology.
Coastal V2 and Eclipse Freezer Generate Strong Interest
One of the highlights of the Expo was the strong response to the new Coastal V2 Chiller and matching Eclipse Freezer.
Designed to create a consistent and modern merchandising solution, the Coastal V2 is now available for pre-order, with the first shipment expected to arrive later this year. The matching Eclipse Freezer also attracted significant attention from retailers looking to modernise their frozen food offering. Due to high demand, current stock is limited, with additional units arriving alongside the Coastal V2 shipment.
Why Retailers Were Interested
- Modern matching cabinet design
- Improved store presentation
- Flexible merchandising options
- Future-ready refrigeration technology
Space Efficiency Continues to Drive Cabinet Selection
A recurring theme throughout the Expo was the growing demand for solutions that maximise valuable retail floor space.
The Criocabin Elios, featuring sliding doors, was one of the most discussed cabinets on the stand. Retailers recognised its ability to reduce aisle obstruction while maintaining product visibility and energy efficiency, making it particularly suitable for high-traffic areas and checkout zones.
As store footprints become increasingly valuable, solutions that improve customer flow while maximising product display space continue to gain momentum.
Preparing for the Future of R404A
One of the most important conversations throughout the Expo centred on the future availability of R404A refrigerant.
Many retailers understand that changes are underway but are unsure what these changes mean for their stores. Australia’s HFC phase-down is progressively reducing the availability of R404A, making it increasingly difficult to source and more expensive over time.
For store owners, planning ahead can provide greater flexibility and help avoid unexpected costs or disruptions associated with equipment failures and refrigerant shortages.
Key Considerations for Retailers
- Assess existing refrigeration assets
- Understand refrigerant usage across the store
- Identify opportunities for future upgrades
- Develop a long-term refrigeration strategy
Baker Refrigeration continues to support retailers through these changes with guidance, service support and refrigeration health checks.
New Solutions Drawing Attention
Alongside the Coastal V2 and Eclipse Freezer, several other refrigeration solutions generated strong interest at the Expo:
Criocabin Enixe Deli Counter
A versatile serve-over deli counter, also available in self-serve configurations, designed to enhance food presentation while maintaining product quality.
Bonnet Névé Rock Urban
The latest addition to the Rock range, now available with slim doors to help maximise retail merchandising space.
Cove Island Chiller
A flexible island refrigeration solution available as either an open display case or with sliding lids.
Bonnet Névé Zenith
A high-efficiency refrigeration solution attracting attention from retailers focused on reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
Thank You for Visiting Baker Refrigeration
The greatest takeaway from the 2026 Metcash Food Expo wasn’t just the products on display, but the conversations shared with retailers from across the country.
Whether discussing future store developments, refrigeration challenges, energy efficiency opportunities or upcoming projects, the Baker Refrigeration team appreciated every opportunity to connect with customers, partners and industry professionals.
As the industry continues to evolve, we remain committed to helping Australian retailers navigate new technologies, refrigerant changes and refrigeration solutions that deliver long-term value.
We look forward to continuing those conversations and supporting your next refrigeration project.
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