Whether you operate a Convenience Store or a Food Service Business, your customers will appreciate an efficient take-out beverage counter when they’re thirsty. Cups and lids should be easy to grab for customers on the go.
In this article we’ll overview the top five types of lid dispensers that are commonly available. Any way you stack-it, a lid dispenser will save space and keep your lids tidy!
Lid Dispensers are generally purchased from display companies that specialize in the foodservice industry. They can be purchased as either a stock dispenser (off the shelf), or a customized unit to suit your beverage needs.
A. Stock Lid Dispensers:
These items are in stock and can generally be ordered and shipped within the same week, depending on the quantity you need. Stock dispensers are designed by professionals who cater to the foodservice trade.
Therefore they will hold standardized sized lids that fit the normal variety of cups, so you can order them with confidence, knowing they will fit your lids. The following list gives you an idea of the five main types of stock lid dispensers that are generally available. These units take into account the variety and quantity of lids you’ll display, as well as providing an option to add a condiment dispenser, as well.
Five Stock Lid Dispenser Configurations:
1. 2-Way Acrylic lid dispenser: This compact unit is designed to accommodate two lid sizes, and it can sit on a counter or hang on the wall.
2. 3-Way Acrylic lid dispenser: This unit accommodates small, medium and large size lids. Like the 2-Way, it can sit on a counter or hang on the wall.
3. 4-Way Acrylic dispenser: This unit accommodates small, medium, large and extra large size lids.
4. 5-Way Lazy Susan Acrylic Dispenser with Condiment Holder: This clear acrylic dispenser rotates in place on the counter top. Unit accommodates small, medium and large size lids. Additionally, the top of the unit has compartments for straws, stir sticks and sugar packs.
5. 5-Way Lazy Susan with Condiment Holder & Labels: The clear acrylic dispenser rotates in place on the counter top. Unit accommodates small, medium and large size lids. Additionally, the top of the unit has compartments for straws, stir sticks and sugar packs. The unique feature of this dispenser, is the colorful label that clearly identifies the contents of each compartment.
In addition to stock lid dispensers, you may have specific dispensing and display needs in your take out beverage area. In this case, you have the option of ordering custom units.
B. Custom Lid Dispensers
If you have a larger take-out beverage area, or other unique dispensing and display needs, you might want to consider a custom lid dispenser.
In this situation, a qualified display manufacturer that specializes in the foodservice industry can help you out! You simply contact the vendor and describe your needs. From there, you generally receive an estimate, based on the quantity of units you’ll need.
If you approve the estimate, you might receive a design with detailed specifications for your unit, and potentially a prototype that you can test with your lids. Once any adjustments are made to the prototype, the unit is manufactured and delivered to you.
It’s important to recognize that any custom display requires a lead time to design and produce it. Therefore if you have a store opening, or client with one, you’ll need to plan far enough in advance to meet the deadline.
Lid dispensers are a key part of any take-out beverage center for the retail setting, snack bar, or cafeteria -whichever style you decide to invest in. They create an efficient beverage service experience for the customer that also keeps the area organized – especially when combined with condiment dispensers and cup dispensers. Customers who are on the go will appreciate you for your organization – and reward you with repeat business.
Tags: beverage center, clear acrylic, compact unit, convenience store, food service business, foodservice industry, foodservice trade, lazy susan, lids, types of stock