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Merchandising

Beverage Cooler Pack-out: How to Compare Usable Capacity

Turn can and bottle dimensions into shelf spacing, facings and replenishment decisions before selecting a cabinet.

Define the product set

List each can, bottle or carton with width, depth, height and expected mix. Note whether products stand upright, lie on their side or use shelf-management accessories. This becomes the input for a pack-out drawing.

Make a first facings estimate

For a simple straight shelf, divide usable shelf width by the pack width or diameter and round down to a whole number. Then subtract space for rails, dividers, price strips, door edges and comfortable hand access. This is a planning estimate, not a certified capacity claim.

For example, 300 mm of theoretical shelf width divided by a 66 mm can diameter gives four whole facings before any clearance allowance. Depth positions and shelf count must be checked separately; multiplying a nominal volume by a package size does not establish the final sellable load.

Protect functional clearances

Shelf spacing must allow loading and removal while preserving airflow, door closure and evaporator clearance. A drawing that fills every millimetre may not perform well in daily use.

Match facings to the retail task

Checkout placement may value a small number of high-visibility facings. High-volume convenience retail may prioritise deeper stock and fast replenishment. Define the commercial task before comparing cabinet volume.

Approve a stocked sample

For important rollouts, test the real packages in the sample. Confirm visibility, shelf deflection, door access, price-strip position and the time needed to reload the cabinet.

Keep nominal space and usable loading separate

The simple facings example is a theoretical calculation, not the shelf size or approved loading of a MARKOOL model. Check every layer on the actual drawing and use the same package assortment when comparing two cabinets.

Layout fieldCheck on the modelReason to keep it separate
Shelf envelopeClear width, depth and available heightCabinet outside size is not shelf space
HardwareRails, dividers and front stopsThese can occupy product positions
AccessDoor opening and hand clearanceA pack must be reachable and removable
Air pathClearance to ducts, evaporator and openingsA tightly filled drawing is not a performance result
Loaded sampleFacing, shelf support and replenishmentActual pack geometry must be reviewed
Hand retrieving a can from a cooler shelf above rows of bottled water
Process illustration

Check the hand path as well as the package count

Place the intended bottles and cans on the proposed shelf layout. Review retrieval, shelf-front access and the space required by the model for airflow. A layout that fits the packs still needs confirmation against the actual shelf dimensions and operating requirements.

Include in your brief
  • Package width, depth and height
  • Shelf positions and customer retrieval
  • Model-specific airflow and loading limits

Put this guide to work.

Apply the checklist

Request a model-specific pack-out drawing.

Send your package dimensions, intended model or cabinet format, required facings and destination market. The supplied shelf plan and clearances must be checked for the final configuration.

Request a pack-out drawing ↗

From application to model

Start with a shortlist you can compare.

Each option links to its own specifications and buying brief. Compare the same packs, placement and destination before choosing.

Drinks at the checkout or counter

Choose the footprint around the counter, then compare your actual cans and bottles.