How to Choose A Coffee Machine for Your Business
From big, bulky vending machines that remove any annoying queues to traditional bean-to-cup machines, there’s plenty of options to satisfy your employees’ coffee needs. If you’re unsure which option suits you best, our guide on how to choose the perfect coffee machine will teach you the main considerations so you can make the best choice.
The 3 Types Of Commercial Coffee Machines
So, now that you know what options are available, how do you choose the best office coffee machine for your workplace? Well, there are a few factors that go into making that decision, such as:
Hot Drinks Vending Machines
Coffee has become a staple of British work culture, with many people having their first brew as early as 9 AM. Now, imagine starting your day having to wait in a queue to get your daily fix of energy - it’s a small but impactful annoyance which can make or break someone’s momentum during a slow morning.
With a hot drink vending machine that preps each brew quickly, you can easily skip the long lines and make sure everyone gets their cup just in time to get to work with a smile on their face. Installed in high-traffic areas like office break rooms, coffee machines can also be great social glue, as coworkers will happily head over for a coffee break and a fun chat.
A vending machine is a sizeable purchase, so it will work best in bigger offices, where it doesn’t cramp up the space. Due to the size, coffee vending machines will also offer a wide selection of beverages, from fresh espressos to frothy cappuccinos and lattes.
Tabletop Coffee Machines
If your office doesn’t have as much usable space, or you’re simply looking for a more compact option, a tabletop coffee machine will be the perfect choice. Tabletop machines are convenient and efficient and usually come with a sleek design that complements any modern workspace. If you've got the counter space, then this choice is a no-brainer.
This compact machine will be great for producing premium-quality coffee with just the touch of a button. While it may seem like a small perk, office coffee is often cited as one of the biggest indicators of a positive work culture, making it a must in any office business.
A vending machine is a sizeable purchase, so it will work best in bigger offices, where it doesn’t cramp up the space. Due to the size, coffee vending machines will also offer a wide selection of beverages, from fresh espressos to frothy cappuccinos and lattes.
Traditional Coffee Machines
If you want to give your employees an authentic cafe experience right in the office, go for a traditional coffee machine. You’ll add a touch of sophistication to your workplace, preserving the timeless art of bean-to-cup coffee brewing. Not only that, but a fresh cup of coffee also provides enhanced flavours and aromas that satisfy even the most particular tastes.
What To Consider When Choosing A Commercial Coffee Machine
So, now that you know what options are available, how do you choose the best office coffee machine for your workplace? Well, there are a few factors that go into making that decision, such as:
Available Space
The size difference between a vending machine and a tabletop coffee machine is considerable. You should consider adding a vending machine only if your office has lots of usable space, otherwise, you’re risking cramping the office which can affect general mood and even productivity. If your space is limited, a tabletop instant coffee machine will be more than enough.
Coffee Demands
Is your workplace bustling with chatty teams working together? Are you looking for coffee options for a small, low-personnel office? The demand will be a deciding factor in which type of coffee machine to use.
A vending machine will be the best choice if you want to avoid long queues and frustrated employees, but if the demand for coffee isn't as big then a smaller machine will do the job just fine.
Customisation Options
If you want to offer your employees a truly satisfying coffee experience, consider machines with added customisation options. We're not just talking about whether they can choose between a cappuccino or a mocha - we're talking about the truly extra options fit for coffee connoisseurs such as:
Milk frothers
Programmable settings
Hot water dispensers (for tea and other hot beverages)
Auto-steam wands
Different coffee machines will come with various dose settings, grind settings, and more, so choose something that will let everyone from casual coffee drinkers to coffee enthusiasts get their favourite drink. You should also consider whether you want fresh milk or powdered milk and should make sure to have an option available for your vegan employees as well.
Ease of Maintenance
Not all machines work the same, but you will need to run regular maintenance to keep the machine running as smoothly as possible. Make sure to choose a machine that is easy to clean, and that your machine supplier provides the right level of training and support for ongoing maintenance.
Budget
You should consider your budget carefully, and see if purchasing or hiring a coffee machine would be more beneficial for your goals. While the initial costs are definitely a big factor, don't forget about maintenance and upgrading costs as well, as well as supply costs such as beans or pods, milk, and cleaning supplies.
Sustainability
Having a green office is more than just a box to tick in the list of perks - it’s something that can make a difference in the world while positioning your business as one that truly cares. You can foster a more environmentally friendly culture in your office by choosing sustainable coffee machines like the ones provided by Exquisite Refreshments. Our machines are delivered using eco-friendly delivery vans and use only locally sourced ingredients, supporting the local economy.
Get in touch with us today and let’s explore all the coffee-making possibilities for your business!