In the bustling world of foodservice, success relies on consistency, efficiency, and quality.
One often-overlooked factor in this equation is the walk-in cooler or freezer—essential equipment that plays a central role in preserving food, optimizing operations, and ultimately driving profits.
Choosing the right refrigeration solution isn’t about finding the cheapest option; it’s about securing the best value.
Walk-in refrigeration units ensure food safety and freshness by maintaining consistent, reliable temperature control. Whether storing perishable produce, dairy, or frozen meats, these units minimize spoilage and waste, which directly impacts the bottom line.
“Reliable refrigeration is critical for any foodservice operation,” said Hakan Inan, CEO of Galaxy Group. “A well-chosen walk-in cooler or freezer not only protects food quality but also reduces energy consumption and operational costs over time.”
Astra’s Quick Ship solution stands out due to the technical expertise behind its design. Developed by graduate-level engineers, the system is built on a foundation of advanced engineering principles.
The result is a thoughtfully designed system of panels, optimized for size and efficiency, and kept in stock to allow for a wide range of configurations tailored to diverse needs.
The right walk-in design also supports kitchen efficiency. With customizable configurations and advanced layouts, foodservice staff can quickly locate and access ingredients, saving valuable time during peak hours.
Beyond functionality, energy-efficient systems and high-quality insulation help operators reduce utility costs while maintaining compliance with stringent health and safety standards.
Understanding the challenges and needs of modern foodservice operations, New Jersey-based Galaxy Group created the Astra series of walk-in coolers and freezers. This innovative line is built on a foundation of high-quality components sourced globally and assembled with precision to meet U.S. market demands.
“Our goal with the Astra series was to deliver unmatched value,” Inan added.
“We shopped the world for the best materials and developed a line that combines exceptional performance with cost-efficiency. This means equipment dealers, consultants, and end-users get the best return on their investment.”
The Astra series from Galaxy Group exemplifies the intersection of innovation and practicality, offering walk-in refrigeration solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of commercial kitchens, foodservice operations, and industrial facilities.
With three distinct product lines—Astra Quick Ship, Astra Custom, and Astra Warehouse—there’s a solution for every requirement.
When time is of the essence, the Astra Quick Ship line delivers. With over 300 pre-designed standard sizes and 2,000+ configurations (including door sizes, locations, and cooler/freezer combos), these units provide rapid access to high-quality refrigeration.
Available in cooler heights of 7’3” and freezer heights of 7’7”, Quick Ship units are equipped with all-cam-lock panels for easy assembly and superior insulation.
“These units are ideal for operators who need dependable refrigeration on short notice,” said Inan. “We’ve made it simple for dealers and consultants to meet their clients’ needs quickly.”
Refrigeration options include box-only models or systems with top-mount or remote cooling. Professional installation services further streamline the process, ensuring units are up and running efficiently. Easy Quoting & Specs are conveniently available in AutoQuotes to quote customers and access specifications with ease.
The Astra Custom line takes flexibility to the next level, allowing clients to design walk-ins that perfectly fit their space and operational requirements. With customizable heights up to 12 feet and various door styles—including swing and sliding options—these units cater to unique kitchen layouts and workflows.
“Our Custom line is all about personalization,” Inan explained. “We want operators to have refrigeration solutions that integrate seamlessly into their operations.”
Like the Quick Ship line, Astra Custom uses durable cam-lock panels with L-shaped brackets for added stability. Units ship within two to four business days, ensuring minimal disruption to busy schedules.
Add-ons like aluminum diamond plates, kick plates, and LED lighting further enhance functionality and aesthetics. “Every business has its own unique needs,” Inan explained.
“With Astra, we’ve created a product line that adapts to those needs, ensuring our dealers can provide tailored solutions to their clients.”
For large-scale applications, the Astra Warehouse line offers the ultimate in size and durability. These walk-ins feature heights up to 20 feet and are built with reinforced cam-lock panels and heavy-duty doors. Whether for food manufacturing or storage facilities, these units provide robust solutions capable of handling high-volume demands.
“The Warehouse line is designed for businesses that need industrial-grade performance,” Inan said. “It’s about reliability and scalability.” With shipping timelines of four to six business days, Astra Warehouse units are built to keep operations running smoothly.
Each Astra walk-in is certified by NSF, DOE, and UL, ensuring compliance with food safety and energy efficiency standards. The extensive inventory and modular design allow for quick delivery and hassle-free installation, making Astra solutions both cost-effective and user-friendly.
“Our products are designed to balance quality and affordability,” Inan noted. “We optimize every step of the process, from sourcing materials to final assembly, so our clients get the best value without compromising performance.”
Each line offers cam-lock panels for quick assembly, various door options, and top-mount or remote refrigeration. Professional installation is also available to ensure seamless setup.
Today’s foodservice operators face growing challenges, including labor shortages and rising food costs. Efficient refrigeration systems like the Astra series are more vital than ever in reducing waste and ensuring food safety.
“Inflation and labor issues are reshaping our industry,” Inan noted. “With our solutions, operators can trust that their food storage is secure, helping them manage resources better during uncertain times.”
By prioritizing reliable performance, energy efficiency, and thoughtful design, Galaxy Group has positioned the Astra line as a trusted partner for foodservice operations nationwide. For foodservice operators, equipment dealers, or consultants looking to upgrade their refrigeration solutions, Galaxy Group offers easy access to information and assistance.
“Our team is here to help,” Inan stated. “We work closely with clients to ensure they find the right solution for their needs.”
Galaxy Group recognized that a key to the success of the Astra program was selecting the perfect location for efficient logistics and accessibility. Establishing their 50,000-square-foot facility in Kearny, New Jersey, strategically positioned in the heart of Metro New York and the Mid-Atlantic region, was a deliberate choice.
This location allows for simple and hassle-free pickups, providing dealers and consultants with quick access to inventory. “We wanted to ensure our products were readily available to one of the busiest markets in the country,” Inan, concluded. “This facility streamlines operations and supports our Quick Ship promise.”
To learn more about the Astra Quick Ship, Custom, and Warehouse lines, visit the Galaxy Group to explore your options and schedule the design and pickup of your next walk-in cooler or freezer.
