As you prepare your coffee shop for its grand opening, you have taken all the major steps. You hired employees, created a business plan, bought or rented the space, figured out what you’ll name it, and ordered the supplies you’ll need to keep it running. However, you may have missed one important component: an espresso machine. It’s one of the most important purchases you’ll make, and you want to pick the best machine for your business and it should be industrial quality. How do you know which one is the right one? Luckily, I’ve come up with six factors you should look for in an espresso machine.
Type of Machine
The first factor you want to consider with an espresso machine is the type. For example, manual, semi-automatic, or super-automatic. There are more machine types out there, but these are the most used types, most widely available, and come with high reviews. You may choose to go with a different machine if it fits your needs.
Manually controlled machines aren’t used as much as they were in the past, but you may want one if you’re going for a vintage look for your shop. These machines require more maintenance to work and a highly skilled barista to operate them.
Semi-automatic machines still require a skilled barista, but you won’t need to have them undergo maintenance as frequently. A bonus with this type is it produces the highest quality drinks.
Super-automatic machines are the most “user-friendly” of the types. It comes with two options of a one-step or two-step choice. The one-step option doesn’t require any skill as it involves the barista pulling a level and the machine espresso shots and milk froths without intervention. The two-step option pulls the espresso for the barista, but they’ll need to froth the milk. Some shops even let customers self-serve with this machine. The super-automatic machines usually produce lower quality drinks but have higher consistency, less time needed to make the drink, and ease of use.
Volumetric/Automatic machines are the most popular machines on the market. They have several options that automatically brew the coffee, dispense a set dose of water, and measure the weight of your coffee and calculate the water needed to brew it. These machines give high consistency and allow for your barista to multitask while it makes the espresso for them.
Type of Shop You’re Opening
The second factor you want to think about is the type of shop you’re opening. For example, if you’re running a coffee shop that doesn’t sell anything but coffee, then you’ll want to choose a semi-automatic machine. Those that want to run a café will sell both food and drinks. In this case, either a semi-automatic or super-automatic will suit it.
Service
The third factor you want to consider is the service you’ll offer in your shop. You want a machine that will work with employees and in some cases, the customers. If you plan to have a table or counter service, then you’ll want a machine that does take more skill like a semi-automatic or manual machine. However, if you want customers to have the option to serve themselves too, then a super-automatic will work best.
Volume
The fourth factor you want to consider is volume. Most shops will choose a location that has a large population or need for the product. You would have studied the patterns for customer peak time and have a general idea of how many customers your shop will serve each day. Remember, this step doesn’t involve the type of machine we discussed above. Each machine is different and will have it listed and if it doesn’t, ask before you buy. The last thing you want is to buy a machine and it can’t keep up with how many customers you get.
Your Budget
The fifth factor to think about is the cost of the machine. Naturally, some machines will cost more than others. Some may require more maintenance, which adds to the cost over time too. You may not have the budget to purchase a machine that grinds the beans for you or adds syrup. You might have to settle for one without all the added features.
Skills of Your Staff
The sixth factor you’ll want to consider is your staff’s skills. Now, if you’re just hiring anyone that comes with a good set of customer service skills and no barista skills, then a one-step super-automatic machine will work best. If you’re hiring baristas that have the necessary skills, it might not be a bad idea to get a two-step super-automatic or semi-automatic. You don’t want to pay for their skill, but the machine you have doesn’t require them to use it.
Final Thoughts
The journey to opening your shop can be a daunting task with all the tasks you must have prepared before opening day. There are many options available when it comes to equipment for espresso making. You can choose to get a machine that showcases your baristas’ skills, has added features, or makes it easier for your baristas to multitask. Whichever machine you choose, make sure it best fits the needs of your coffee shop.
