Designing the Perfect Back Bar: How the Right Bottle Cooler Enhances Workflow and Sales

When planning a new bar setup or refurbishing an existing one, the back bar design can make or break your team’s efficiency and customer experience. One of the unsung heroes of a well-designed bar is the bottle cooler — a staple that impacts everything from workflow to sales, energy use, and aesthetics.

Whether you're fitting out a brand-new venue or giving your current bar a much-needed upgrade, here’s how choosing the right bottle cooler can level up your back bar.

1. Workflow Starts with the Right Layout

Speed matters behind the bar — especially during peak hours. A well-placed bottle cooler ensures your staff can quickly grab chilled drinks without unnecessary movement.

Think of it as strategic positioning:

• Double- and triple-door bottle coolers are ideal under the counter, keeping drinks within arm’s reach. 
• Slimline models fit tight spaces but still offer generous capacity.
• Positioning coolers near the till or service point reduces steps and improves speed of service.

The result? Faster service, happier customers, and more sales. 

2. Boost Staff Efficiency

In a fast-paced environment, your team needs tools that work with them — not against them. The right bottle cooler:

• Has bright internal LED lighting so staff can spot drinks instantly.
• Offers adjustable shelving for flexible stock management.
• Features self-closing doors to prevent energy waste and streamline movement.

It’s about giving your bar team every possible advantage so they can serve faster and sell more. 

3. Lower Energy Bills with Modern Efficiency

Not all bottle coolers are created equal. Older models or budget units often run inefficiently — meaning higher electricity bills and inconsistent cooling.

DS Refrigeration supplies energy-efficient models that: 

• Use eco-friendly refrigerants
• Feature triple-glazed glass to retain cool temperatures
• Operate quietly and consistently throughout service hours

This isn’t just good for your budget — it’s a win for your sustainability goals too. 

4. Style Matters: Match Your Brand Aesthetic

Today’s bottle coolers don’t just cool drinks — they’re part of your bar’s visual identity. Choose from: 

• Classic black or stainless steel finishes
• Frameless glass doors for a modern, minimalist look
• LED-lit interiors that highlight your premium products

A sleek, attractive back bar can influence what customers order. Visible, well-lit, and stocked with tempting options? That’s free merchandising. 

5. Planning a New Bar or Refurbishment? We Can Help

At DS Refrigeration, we specialise in bar fit-outs and refurbishments, supplying bottle coolers and full bar equipment setups for: 

• Pubs & bars
• Hotels
• Cafés
• Nightclubs
• Restaurants

Whether you're designing from scratch or upgrading your current layout, we’ll help you choose the best equipment for your space, your budget, and your goals. 

✅ Ready to Upgrade?

If you’re planning a new bar setup or refurb, let’s talk bottle coolers.
📞 028 3751 1425
🌐 Check out our range of bottle coolers. 
📩 Or email us on sales@ds-refrigeration.co.uk and we’ll get back to you with options.