When you serve coffee as part of your business, the right machine can make all the difference. It affects not only the quality of the drinks but also how quickly and efficiently you can serve your customers.
Before you choose a commercial coffee machine, there are a few key features and factors to consider.
Manual, Semi-Automatic or Automatic
Coffee machines come in a few different types, each offering different levels of control.
Manual machines are best suited to skilled baristas who want complete control over the brewing process. They allow for creativity and fine adjustments, but they also take more time and experience to use properly.
Semi-automatic machines are a popular middle ground. They automate parts of the process while still giving the user some control, such as when to stop the shot. These are a good choice if you want consistency but still want to tailor the drink slightly.
Automatic machines do most of the work for you at the touch of a button. These are ideal when you need to serve drinks quickly, especially if your staff are not trained baristas. They save time and can help deliver consistent results, which is essential when serving a high volume of customers.
Capacity and Output
Capacity is a major consideration when choosing a coffee machine. Think about how many cups of coffee you need to produce during your busiest periods. A machine with a low output may struggle during peak times, leading to longer wait times and customer frustration.
High-output machines are better suited for busy cafés or restaurants where coffee is in constant demand. Look at the number of group heads, boiler capacity, and whether the machine can brew multiple drinks at once. Planning for your busiest times will help avoid delays and keep your service running smoothly.
Drink Options and Flexibility
Customers today enjoy a wide variety of coffee drinks. A good commercial coffee machine should support more than just basic espresso. Look for machines that offer flexible settings or drink programmes, allowing you to prepare lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and more.
Some machines even let you save drink preferences, which can be helpful in busy environments. The more options you can provide, the more likely customers are to return. If you want to offer non-dairy options or cold drinks as well, be sure the machine can accommodate those preferences.
Built-In Grinder or Separate?
Using freshly ground beans is one of the easiest ways to improve the flavour of your coffee. Some machines come with a built-in grinder, which simplifies the process and helps ensure consistency. These can be a great time-saver, especially in fast-paced settings.
However, separate grinders may offer more control and are often preferred by coffee specialists who want to fine-tune the grind size. If you plan to use different types of beans or offer a premium selection, a separate grinder could give you better flexibility.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the taste of your coffee and the performance of your machine. Some commercial machines come with automatic cleaning functions, which can save your staff a lot of time. Others may require manual cleaning of parts like steam wands, group heads, and drip trays.
Maintenance should also be a factor in your decision. Choose a machine known for reliability and ease of access for repairs or servicing. Long-term, this can reduce downtime and repair costs, helping you provide consistent service to your customers without unexpected delays.
Looking for trusted coffee shop suppliers in Glasgow? Discover our commercial coffee machines and beans designed to enhance every cup and keep your customers coming back for more.
