Waitrose is set to introduce advanced refrigeration units capable of operating in outdoor temperatures as high as 48 degrees Celsius, addressing the challenges posed by increasingly intense heatwaves across Europe. The grocer, part of the John Lewis Partnership, is developing cooling technology that integrates traditional refrigeration with heat pumps to maintain performance in extreme heat conditions.

This innovation will allow equipment to function reliably even when temperatures reach the highest levels ever recorded on the continent. In addition to new refrigeration technology, Waitrose has improved the design of its existing refrigerated cabinets to better retain cold air and enhance energy efficiency. More than 100 branches have already installed updated fridges designed to withstand hotter weather as the company continues to develop the new systems.

The move comes after a series of summer heatwaves that have repeatedly disrupted refrigeration in stores nationwide, with temperatures often surpassing 30 degrees Celsius and peaking at 37 degrees in June. Experts predict such extreme weather events will become more frequent, prompting retailers to adapt accordingly.

Tina Mitchell, retail director at Waitrose, highlighted the need for resilience in the face of climate change, saying the current summer has demonstrated the superiority of their latest refrigeration equipment over older models. Mitchell emphasized ongoing investments aimed at maintaining product freshness and store reliability while enhancing energy efficiency as hotter summers become the norm.

Other sectors are also responding to rising temperatures. Greggs chief executive Roisin Currie acknowledged the bakery chain might need to upgrade its refrigeration infrastructure to cope with future heatwaves, despite having experienced few breakdowns so far. Currie noted that the refrigeration industry is increasingly developing units designed to operate reliably at temperatures well above 34 degrees Celsius, signaling a sector-wide shift in response to climate challenges.

The difficulties posed by high heat extend beyond retail refrigeration. Earlier this month, Eurostar announced it had revised an order for 50 double-decker trains to include equipment capable of handling temperatures up to 55 degrees Celsius. This updated “Sahara option” features enhanced air conditioning and components rated for extreme heat, exceeding the original specification of 45 degrees.

Waitrose’s refrigeration overhaul is part of a broader £1 billion investment plan under the leadership of John Lewis chairman Jason Tarry, who is focusing efforts on revitalizing the retail segment. This commitment will support the opening and refurbishment of 28 store locations, underpinning the company’s strategy to adapt to evolving environmental and consumer demands.