The Ultimate Grocery Equipment Guide for 2025: Tools, Tech, and Trends Grocers Need to Know
By George Goodwin
Introduction: Top Grocery Store Equipment for 2025: Essential Tech & Tools for Retail Success
Why Grocery Equipment Choices Matter More Than Ever
Running a grocery store in 2025 isn’t what it used to be. Between inflation, rising labor costs, shifting consumer preferences, and rapid tech adoption, grocers are under pressure to do more with less. The difference between profitability and frustration often comes down to the systems and equipment behind the scenes.
At Innovar Marketing Agency, we work with grocers nationwide to modernize operations, improve brand visibility, and streamline processes. That starts with choosing the right tools. Whether you're launching a new store or upgrading an existing one, this blog breaks down the essential equipment you need, backed by the latest insights and expert recommendations.
Top Grocery Equipment Categories to Invest In
1. Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems A modern POS system is the nerve center of any grocery operation. Beyond processing payments, today’s systems track inventory, support loyalty programs, and offer real-time sales analytics. According to Toast, 86% of CPG sales come from omnichannel shoppers, and having a unified POS is key to capturing that revenue.
Top Options:
Cloud-based POS systems like BasketPOS or Toast Retail
POS-integrated inventory and payroll tools
Smart credit card terminals with Tap-to-Pay capabilities
2. Self-Checkout Kiosks Self-checkout is no longer optional—it’s expected. These kiosks reduce labor costs and shorten checkout times, especially during peak hours. Just make sure to pair them with theft-reduction features like built-in scales and monitoring tools.
Stat to Know: The use of self-checkout systems grew by 10.3% YoY in 2024, per Grocery Dive.
3. Inventory Management Systems Manual inventory systems are a thing of the past. A POS-integrated or standalone inventory solution can prevent costly stockouts, automate reordering, and reduce waste from expired goods.
What to Look For:
Real-time tracking
Mobile scanning (like Toast’s SmartScan)
Automated low-stock alerts
4. Commercial Refrigeration & Display Cases From open-air coolers to gravity coil meat displays, your refrigeration choices affect both compliance and customer perception. Look for energy-efficient units with backup power compatibility.
Pro Tip: Refrigeration failure is one of the top reasons for inventory loss. High-quality units reduce long-term risk.
5. Shelving, Storage, and Layout Gondola shelving, end-cap merchandisers, and modular backroom storage all play into the customer experience and restocking efficiency. Consider adjustable options to maximize flexibility and seasonality.
6. Deli & Prepared Foods Equipment Slicers, scales, hot cases, and prep counters are critical for grocery delis. These departments often carry higher margins than center-store items and drive repeat visits when executed well.
7. Security & Surveillance Systems Retail theft is expected to exceed $150 billion by 2026. Smart cameras, access control systems, and panic buttons are becoming must-haves. Choose solutions with remote monitoring and cloud storage.
8. Shopping Tools & Customer Experience Enhancers Baskets, carts, signage, and even loyalty kiosks all play a role in the shopper journey. Well-placed merchandiser racks and digital shelf tags are small upgrades that pay off big.
What to Consider When Choosing Grocery Equipment
Longevity vs. Cost: Investing in high-quality equipment upfront saves on repairs and downtime later.
Space Planning: Use blueprints and measure before you buy. Crammed aisles hurt sales.
Ease of Cleaning & Use: Prioritize NSF-rated, stainless steel, and self-cleaning models.
New vs. Used: Buying used shelving may make sense. Refrigeration and POS? Not so much.
Lease vs. Buy: Leasing can preserve cash flow, but always calculate long-term costs.
Call to Action: Let Innovar Help Outfit Your Store Right
Choosing the right equipment is only the beginning. At Innovar Marketing Agency, we help grocers build operationally sound, brand-forward stores that thrive. From POS software consulting to in-store layout and signage strategy, our team of industry insiders (including 4th-generation grocers) is ready to help.
Ready to modernize your store? Schedule a free discovery call today and get tailored recommendations for your next store refresh or launch.
Useful Resources & Recommended Reads: Find all source links referenced in this article, including IT Retail, Toast, JLL, Grocery Dive, and NIQ, by visiting our blog's resource hub.
Freebies:
Ecommerce Comparision
Key Takeaways:
The right POS and inventory systems are essential for efficiency and growth
Self-checkout and mobile tech improve throughput and customer satisfaction
Commercial-grade refrigeration and shelving choices impact safety and store perception
Investing in security now prevents costly losses later
Innovar can guide you through every step of your store setup or upgrade
Let us help you build a smarter, stronger grocery store for 2025 and beyond.
