Flake Ice Machines for Professional Use: Their Role in Supermarkets and Large Retail Chains
In the world of professional flake ice machines, one of the applications closest to the end consumer is their use in supermarkets, hypermarkets, and large fish counters. Flake ice is essential for maintaining the freshness, appearance, and quality of fish throughout the entire day.
INESA has installed hundreds of flake ice machines for supermarkets and hypermarkets across Spain, supplying major retail chains such as EROSKI, CARREFOUR, EL CORTE INGLES, E. LECLERC, DIA, MERCADONA, CAPRABO, and SEMARK. All of them rely on GENEGLACE flake ice generators, which are also installed in major retailers across Europe, America, and Asia due to their high performance and reliability.
Adapted Solutions for Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
INESA always adapts its range of flake ice machines to the specific needs of each client. Hypermarkets have a much greater demand for ice because of the size of their fish sections, making this segment one of our main areas of specialization.
Most large retail chains now operate through centralized logistics platforms, where products are prepared before distribution. INESA has installed professional flake ice machines in these facilities, typically with production capacities exceeding 5,000 kg/24 hours. These machines produce high-quality ice automatically, avoiding manual handling that could lead to contamination or loss of quality.
The storage silos integrated into these systems ensure a constant supply of ice based on the FIFO method (“first ice produced, first ice extracted”), meeting the tight operational schedules and strict standards of logistics centers.
Flake Ice Throughout the Distribution Chain
When fish arrives at distribution centers, it is sorted, processed, and packed into boxes with flake ice. These boxes are then shipped to supermarkets and hypermarkets.
At the point of sale, the fish is displayed on counters in the fish section, where flake ice plays a critical role. Because ice melts throughout the day, it must be continuously replenished to maintain product quality.
To optimize this workflow, INESA installs flake ice machines directly behind the counter, allowing staff to access ice quickly and efficiently. This setup saves time, improves productivity, and reduces the effort required to maintain the displays.
Technology Tailored to Every Type of Store
Supermarkets typically use smaller flake ice machines producing less than 1,000 kg/24 hours, mainly from BREMA and FRIGOTECNICA.
Hypermarkets, on the other hand, require higher-capacity systems. For them, INESA installs medium-output flake ice machines producing between 2,000 and 3,000 kg/24 hours, primarily from GENEGLACE, known for their durability and reliability.
Advantages of Using Flake Ice in Supermarkets
Flake ice offers numerous benefits for preserving fish:
It is dry and supercooled, keeping fish fresh for longer.
Its flat shape and low moisture content provide optimal refrigeration, maintaining texture, flavor, and quality without damaging the product.
It reduces product spoilage, prevents shrinkage, and minimizes financial losses by maintaining a constant temperature in the display area.
In supermarkets, flake ice also plays an essential role in visual presentation. Its bright whiteness enhances the appearance of fresh fish, creating a natural and appealing display. Its ability to cover a large surface area results in a professional look that customers appreciate. Shoppers perceive the glistening fish displayed on flake ice as a sign of freshness and quality.
