Another major UK supermarket is rolling out Mediterranean-style fridges amid 35C highs

A MAJOR supermarket is preparing to roll out “Mediterranean-style” fridges that can withstand temperatures of up to 48C. Waitrose is developing advanced cooling technology that combines heat pumps with refrigeration. The high tech fridges are being developed Credit: Alamy These features will help the fridges operate even when it reaches up to 48C outside. This is the hottest it has ever reached in Europe. The posh grocer, which is owned by John Lewis, is also installing revamped fridges that can better cope with the heat, while the more advanced tech is being developed. Sign up for the Money newsletter Thank you! Tina Mitchell, the retail director of Waitrose, said: “This summer shows our latest refrigeration technology is more resilient than older equipment, and we’re continuing to accelerate investment across our estate. “As hotter summers become more common, we’re continuing to invest in technology to keep products at peak freshness, help our stores perform reliably and improve energy efficiency.” It comes as the UK is basking in its fourth heatwave of the year, with temperatures reaching up to 35C. Prolonged bouts of hot weather has placed extreme pressure on UK supermarkets, with fridges struggling to do their job in the intense heat. Major retailers including M&S and Sainsbury’s had fridges “fail in the heat”, with reports of machinery leaking water and freezers being involuntarily turned off. M&S said a few weeks back it splashed out on refrigeration equipment designed to function in heat up to 45C. Most read in Money Roisin Currie, the chief executive of Greggs, also said on Wednesday the chain would “have to look at” upgrading its tech. The bakery giant made a decision to close some of its stores amid a red weather warning in late June. Comment now