For any commercial enterprise like a coffee shop, the espresso machine is the star of the show. It likely occupies prime real estate, impressing customers before they even have a reason to be truly impressed: those first-class shots and beverages. No matter what size your operation might be, choosing the right commercial espresso machine is key to successfully catering to your customers. Let’s look at some of the questions you should be asking:
What is your budget?
The good news is that there are espresso machines for every budget. In fact, many budget-friendly machines come with a range of features. That said, even if more expensive at the outset, the right machine may save you money down the road. At the end of the day, it’s just as important to select a machine that can meet your demands, and this needs to be as big a consideration as price.
How experienced are your employees?
There is a vast range of commercial espresso machines on the market. From automatic (or volumetric) espresso machines – to semiautomatic machines – to automatic espresso machines with manual dosing options – to pour-over and direct-connect machines, this stage of your deliberation can be downright overwhelming. If you’re a high-end shop with seasoned employees, a semi-automatic espresso machine – that allows for a high degree of drink customization – might be the right fit. On the other hand, if your employee turnover is high and beverage consistency is one of your concerns, an automatic espresso machine will deliver the results needed to keep customers coming back.
Who is your customer?
Another consideration will be the number of espresso sales related to your overall operations. If they are a small part of your business, you might find that the relative inconvenience of using a pour-over machine is minimal on a day-to-day basis, considering its lower price tag. In the same vein, additional features and extras that come with some commercial espresso machines are something you’ll want to pay attention to. If you’re running a boutique coffee shop with an extensive menu, these features will be an integral component of your ability to attract a discerning coffee clientele. If you’re a smaller business focusing on the more mainstream caffeinated beverages, many of these advanced features will be unnecessary and impractical.
Do you have a “brand” to consider?
For some shops, form must match function and it will be important to consider how this appliance will contribute to the overall aesthetic of your operation. Some commercial espresso machines are both beautiful to behold and efficient – elevating a shop from a grab-and-go to an impressive and artistic-looking space.
Having established some of the important criteria to consider when making this critical decision, where do you find the perfect espresso machine for your commercial needs? Quality Coffee Systems, established in 1998 and based out of Burnaby BC, is one of the leading Canadian distributors of high-quality coffee solutions for both residential and commercial use. We are the official service provider for the cutting-edge Swiss brand Jura, and represent some of the world’s finest coffee appliances including Schaerer, Zumex, Bunn, Conti, and Macap.
Founded as a father-and-son partnership, QCS operates to this day on the same family-oriented principles in that we consider a sale to be the beginning of a strong, ongoing relationship with our clients. Our ability to offer technologically-advanced, feature-rich products from the finest European brands, coupled with our commitment to support your buying journey with highly trained staff and unparalleled after-sales support, makes QCS the right partner for this important investment.
For starters, it makes sense to source out an espresso coffee machine supplier that has deep roots and extensive background in the coffee appliance industry. While there are many newer outlets throughout the city, there are only a handful of truly established suppliers. Located in Burnaby, Quality Coffee Systems is one such outlet. Established in 1998 as a father-son partnership, we deal in high-quality Swiss, French and German brands that deliver advanced features, European technology, and a range of appealing aesthetics.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or drop by our Burnaby showroom to see what we mean.