ROCAM ATHENA SAL 3 AL Neutral Buffet Module with Upper Shelves, Doors and Drawers

A neutral buffet module organises self-service lines without imposing a brand or theme. The ROCAM Athena SAL 3 AL provides a stable worktop at standard counter height, enclosed storage below, and open shelving above. Laminated wood panels form the body, while stainless steel details reinforce corners and edges. The unit stands on five castors, two with brakes, so it can be positioned, locked in place, and moved again when the layout changes.

The module is built to hold trays, plates, cutlery and condiments at a comfortable reach. An upper shelf runs the full width, adjustable in height to clear taller items. Below, two hinged doors open to a compartment fitted with a single adjustable shelf; the remaining space is a single drawer or a plate rack, depending on the chosen configuration. Both doors and drawers close on cushioned stops that silence the impact in a busy dining area.

Assembly begins by positioning the module on its castors. The operator unlocks the brakes, rolls the unit into place, and locks the brakes again. The upper shelf is set at the desired height using the pre-drilled slots in the side panels. If the optional dish-holders or tray slides are fitted, they are unfolded or clipped into position. Trays, plates and service items are loaded onto the shelves, racks or slides. During service, staff replenish from the front, while customers help themselves from the opposite side. After service, the module is cleared, the shelves wiped, and the doors and drawers left closed to protect the contents.

The frame is laminated wood, chosen for its balance of weight, rigidity and cost. Stainless steel is used for the hinges, handles, castor plates and any optional tray slides or dish-holders. The worktop is available in laminated wood, Formica or stainless steel, each offering a different level of durability and ease of cleaning. The doors and drawer fronts are finished in the same laminated wood as the body, with a choice of twenty-four colours to match the kitchen's scheme.

Controls are limited to the castor brakes: a pedal on each of the two braked castors locks the wheel. The cushioned door and drawer closures operate automatically when the door or drawer is pushed home.

A footprint of 1501 × 746 mm fits within a standard work aisle, while a height of 1412 mm places the worktop at counter level. The 168 kg weight ensures stability under load but still allows the unit to be moved by two people when the brakes are released. The packing size of 155 × 92 × 185 cm indicates the space required for delivery and storage before assembly.

Cleaning is straightforward: the laminated wood surfaces are wiped with a damp cloth and mild detergent, while the stainless steel parts can be cleaned with a stainless steel cleaner to prevent streaking. The adjustable shelf and any optional dish-holders or tray slides are removed for thorough cleaning. The castors are checked periodically for debris that could impede movement.

The module is customisable with a range of optional accessories: foldable dish-holders in wood or stainless steel, removable tray slides in laminated wood or stainless steel, a full lower closure with doors, a removable display grid, and reinforced 125 mm castors. The short side can be cut at 45° to accommodate optional accessories 6, 7 or 8. Custom adhesive stickers and a UK plug surcharge are also available.

The ROCAM Athena SAL 3 AL is catalogued under neutral buffet modules for self-service lines.