Espresso machine, coffee vending machine, or drip brewer? We compare three ways to serve office coffee: upkeep, drink choice, cleaning, and team fit.
The best option depends on headcount, break patterns, and who will look after the equipment. A small team often does fine with a simple espresso machine, while a larger office with several shifts usually looks for a unit that does not need daily upkeep from employees.
Drip Brewers and Moka Pots
The simplest and cheapest to buy. They do require someone to brew regularly, wash the carafe, and keep supplies stocked. They work well for small teams that drink similar coffee at similar times.
Espresso Machine
Offers more drink options but needs descaling, milk-system cleaning, and bean refills. Agree on who is responsible before the machine lands in the kitchen.
Coffee Vending Machine
Prepares a drink after a selection on the panel, often with several coffee styles, tea, and hot chocolate. Upkeep, cleaning, and restocking are usually handled by an operator, so employees simply use it. A coffee vending machine works well where breaks are spread throughout the day.
FAQ
Which option requires the least work from the team? Usually an operator-serviced vending machine, since cleaning and restocking do not fall on employees.
Can you combine options? Yes. Some companies have a vending machine in a shared area and a simple brewer in the conference room.