The Vital Role of Generators in Supermarkets

Running a supermarket is a complex business. From managing a vast inventory to customer service, every element needs to be spot on. And when it comes to managing perishable items like frozen goods and deli, the stakes are incredibly high. A reliable source of power is crucial in maintaining the quality of these products and meeting health regulations. Plus, most insurance policies require supermarkets to have a robust backup power system.

Maintaining Freshness Round the Clock

A single power outage can lead to over $150,000 in revenue losses, and more than 40% of businesses estimate that figure at over $1 million. Frozen and deli goods are highly perishable, and maintaining their freshness is paramount. To prevent spoilage and ensure safety, these must be kept at specific temperatures. This is typically achieved through sophisticated refrigeration systems that require a continuous power supply. When utility power is not available, a source of reliable power generation equipment is needed. Temperature control is not just a matter of preference, but a regulatory requirement. Any deviation from the optimal temperature range can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria, rendering the product unsafe for consumption. This makes the reliability of the refrigeration system a top priority for supermarket managers.

Preventing Financial Losses

A power outage in a supermarket can lead to significant financial losses. During a power outage, a supermarket can incur merchandise losses of up to $30,000 in just one day. A single instance of downtime can lead to the spoilage of an entire inventory, leading to substantial monetary losses. By investing in Marathon’s reliable alternators, supermarket managers can safeguard against such risks, ensuring their products stay in prime condition. Merely having a power source isn’t enough to ensure efficient operations. While managers typically invest in power generators to keep their systems running, it's equally crucial to invest in high-quality and reliable products like Marathon’s MagnaPlus© or Harsh Duty© alternators. These alternators are specifically designed to handle demanding environments, providing consistent power output and minimizing downtime. By incorporating such dependable equipment, supermarket operations can run smoothly and safely, enhancing productivity and customer satisfaction. This strategic investment not only safeguards the electrical infrastructure, but also provides peace of mind, knowing that the store can operate effectively even during power fluctuations or outages.

Why Marathon MagnaPlus and Harsh Duty

The clean, comfortable environment of a supermarket does not extend to the typical location where generator sets are installed. All MagnaPlus© generators are built to withstand rigorous installations, but sometimes the work environment is more demanding. If your installation location can expose your generator to high levels of dust, grit or humidity, Marathon’s Harsh Duty© and Mariner© generators deliver a robust solution. Beginning with the same durable components as the MagnaPlus, these rugged units are built with added protection against the elements.

• Exciter stator coils are toroidally wrapped in fiberglass tape, fully encapsulating the winding.
• Main stator windings receive multiple dip and bake cycles with 100% solid varnish.
• Exciter stator is coated with a topcoat finish varnish for maximum protection.
• A single-piece lamination and wet-layer winding provide the most reliable rotor construction on the market.

Key Considerations for Implementing Backup Power Solutions

Capacity Planning

When implementing power solutions, it's essential to conduct thorough capacity planning. This involves determining the power requirements of all critical systems in the supermarket, including refrigeration and lighting systems. Ensuring the power system can handle loads such as motor-starting (starting a motor typically requires 6-8 times full load current) is crucial for effective operation. Supermarket managers typically are not experts in on-site power, so it’s critical to partner with an industry leader such as Marathon® for proper sizing and features of power generation equipment.

Regular Maintenance

Power generation systems must be regularly maintained to ensure their reliability. This includes routine inspections, testing, and servicing of components like industrial alternators and diesel engines. Regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they lead to system failures. Fortunately for supermarket operators, Marathon® MagnaPlus© and Harsh Duty© alternators require minimal maintenance and include bearings lubricated for life.

Compliance with Regulations

Regulations often stipulate specific requirements for backup power systems in supermarkets. Managers must ensure that their power generation solutions comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and ensure the safety and quality of their products. Seek out an industry partner with certification experience, such as Marathon®, to ensure compliance and availability.

Conclusion: The Imperative of Reliable Power

In the world of supermarket operation, where the stakes are incredibly high, having a reliable generator is not just an option—it's a necessity. By investing in robust power solutions, including Marathon® industrial alternators, supermarket managers can safeguard their operations against power failures. This not only ensures the freshness and safety of their products, but also aligns with broader sustainability goals by reducing food waste.

For those responsible for the safe and efficient operation of supermarkets, understanding and implementing effective power solutions is a critical step toward operational excellence and maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.

Chat with one of our expert sales professionals and discover how our solutions can help take your business to the next level!.