Case Study - Craven Cooling: From Repair Specialists to Retail Leaders
Based in South Wales, this family-run enterprise has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a dedicated refrigeration repair service has blossomed into an impressive sales-driven business, boasting a sophisticated digital presence and a state-of-the-art showroom. We caught up with Lisa Craven to discuss how the business has evolved and the vital role their partnership with TEFCOLD plays in their ongoing success.
26 August 2026
Based in South Wales, this family-run enterprise has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a dedicated refrigeration repair service has blossomed into an impressive sales-driven business, boasting a sophisticated digital presence and a state-of-the-art showroom. We caught up with Lisa Craven to discuss how the business has evolved and the vital role their partnership with TEFCOLD plays in their ongoing success.
Craven Cooling is a commercial refrigeration specialist operating across retail and catering sectors. Their portfolio is diverse, covering everything from local convenience stores, butchers, and bakeries to high-end hotels and educational facilities. Currently, retail clients are gravitating toward TEFCOLD’s PC multidecks and LGF freezers, while the Galaxy range continues to be a top-tier choice for consistent performance, a favourite amongst their customers.
More Than Just Sales
With a foundation built on technical repair, Craven Cooling differentiates itself through its in-depth engineering knowledge and hands-on expertise. Their team don’t just focus on selling units; they understand both the features and mechanics behind them intimately.
The opening of their physical showroom in August 2025 marks a key turning point. By allowing customers to interact with the equipment first-hand, the company has seen a 60% increase in sales conversions from walk-in traffic.
“I think it's just having that trust, seeing somebody, viewing the products they know you've got. You're not just a box shifter, you've got more knowledge and experience in the industry, and they can come to you and rely on you if there is a problem”, Lisa explains.
This emphasis on reliability is why the eight-year (and counting) partnership between Craven Cooling and TEFCOLD thrives. Lisa notes that TEFCOLD’s transparent access to stock availability is a game-changer; being able to confirm availability instantly via the web shop allows them to provide immediate answers to their clients. Additionally, easy access to technical diagrams and spec sheets ensures their team is always prepared.
“I think it's just being armed with the information about availability, delivery dates, dimensions, the temperature range, and answers to the frequent general questions that the customers come to you with.”
Humble Beginnings
It all started with a conversation about the ironing board in the living room
The journey to their current success wasn't without its hurdles. During the Covid-19 lockdown era, when the hospitality and education sectors came to a standstill, the business - then consisting primarily of repairs handled by Darren Craven - had to pivot.
To reach a broader market, they decided to build a digital presence. The "headquarters" for this ambitious move was modest, to say the least.
“I just went from a home office with just me initially started up on the ironing board one day in the living room and Darren came home from work and asked, what are you doing? And I replied with “I need a desk.”
Following on from that initial ironing board discussion, their vision rapidly expanded, outgrowing the family kitchen. As demand surged, the need for professional premises became undeniable, leading to the creation of their current office and showroom hub. Today, Craven Cooling is busier than ever before, recently celebrating the launch of their brand-new website designed to further enhance the customer experience.
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