EPTA's new refrigerated display cabinet aims to be a "manifesto for circular refrigeration"

Up to 80% recyclable, the isobutane-based UNIT is made from recycled plastic and biodegradable cork.

EPTA recently announced the launch of UNIT, a counter-mounted beverage cooler that is a "manifesto for circular refrigeration". In its pages you can find isobutane (R600a) refrigerant, recycled plastic, biodegradable cork insulation and versatile components.

The company says UNIT is up to 80% recyclable, and Norman Sarabelli, Epta’s Iarp Product Marketing Manager, who was one of those most closely involved in its development, told NaturalRefrigerants.com that “elements of the UNIT design approach are already being explored for integration into Epta’s larger refrigerated cabinets.”

NaturalRefrigerants.com recently spoke with Sarabelli about the design of UNIT and how it has evolved since it was first introduced as a concept in 2023, and how it compares to more traditionally designed under-the-counter beverage coolers.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

When UNIT debuted in 2023, it was 95% recyclable and used no refrigerant. What has changed since then?

Norman Sarabelli, Epta Product Manager

Norman Sarabelli: The main difference has been the transition from concept to production, and the integration of the model into EPTA’s entire portfolio. The 2023 version was a prototype born out of an experimental university paper. In contrast, the newly launched UNIT is the first refrigerated display cabinet to be industrialized according to the principles of the circular economy.

Several key technical modifications were made. Most notably, the original Peltier thermoelectric cooling system, which proved to be energy-intensive and lacked sufficient cooling capacity for commercial applications, was replaced by a small amount of isobutane. This not only reduced energy consumption but also significantly improved refrigeration performance. The new UNIT now achieves energy class B.

The industrialized version of the UNIT contains several additional components that significantly improve cooling efficiency and product preservation. These have led to a recalibration of the recyclability rate, which now measures up to 80%, highlighting Epta’s pragmatic and transparent approach to sustainability: prioritizing measurable results over claims and delivering solutions that are both environmentally friendly and operationally efficient. Epta is committed to a progressive circular strategy with the explicit goal of achieving 100% recyclability.

Does Epta take responsibility for the recycling process?

NS: The recycling process is managed by authorized operators, but Epta plays an active role in enabling responsible end-of-life management. Customers receive clear, detailed documentation, including a dedicated end-of-life manual, to guide the correct disassembly and recycling of components. However, recycling is only part of Epta's wider circular vision.

Through EptaService, the Group provides ongoing support, promoting preventive maintenance and refurbishment programs aimed at extending the life of products and delaying their end-of-life phase. Epta not only promotes recycling, but also actively reduces the need for recycling.

Is UNIT as efficient as similar products of more traditional design?

NS: The energy efficiency offered by UNIT meets the high standards of the Epta Iarp brand range already available on the market. One of the main challenges in the industrialization process was to replace conventional polyurethane foam with cork. This requires a slightly thicker insulation layer, but does not result in a loss of thermal performance. On the contrary, the natural insulating properties of cork help to improve energy efficiency and reduce the model's carbon footprint. UNIT proves that sustainability can drive, rather than hinder, efficiency.

EPTA's UNIT counter-mount beverage cooler contains cork-based insulation.

Cork-based insulation from UNIT.

Is UNIT currently on the market?

NS: The first batch has already been produced, marking the initial stages of a go-to-market strategy designed to meet customer demand and market potential. Epta is well positioned to scale up production and flexibly respond to larger sales batches based on commercial feedback and partner needs. While specific sales forecasts are still evolving, early market response confirms strong interest.

Does the circular nature of UNIT’s design mean it will command a higher price?

NS: While the initial investment in UNIT may be slightly higher than a traditional counter, its circular design offers clear economic advantages in the medium to long term. UNIT is designed to reduce the need for replacement and waste management, significantly reducing the total cost of ownership. In this sense, a circular approach is not only environmentally responsible, but also a strategic and cost-effective choice for forward-thinking retailers.

Does Epta have plans to introduce UNIT’s design into its larger refrigerated cases?

NS: Absolutely. With UNIT, Epta has achieved an important milestone in developing a solution that fully embraces the principles of the circular economy. However, this is not an isolated innovation. What started with UNIT has now inspired a comprehensive development across the entire product portfolio. This journey is well underway and will be a central theme at EuroShop 2026, where Epta will unveil a new chapter in its circular economy strategy.

“A circular approach is not only environmentally responsible, but also a strategic and cost-effective choice for forward-thinking retailers.” ——Norman Sarabelli, Iarp Product Marketing Manager at Epta