As the quality of vended beverages continues to improve, consumers are increasingly recognising the value of such coffee products in relation to similar products from coffee shops. Despite this, the espresso-based drinks category remains an underdeveloped sector in the vending market, with the majority of machines in operation continuing to offer a fairly basic cup. To help vending operators challenge the high street, Douwe Egberts has introduced Espresso Bar – the industry’s first gourmet vending option fully endorsed by a major branded coffee roaster.

The company believes that its new Espresso Bar gourmet vending solution, which was launched at Vendex South, will offer much-improved margin opportunities to operators. From a basic margin generated by a vended instant coffee in a brown plastic cup, Douwe Egberts says that vendors will be able increase price per cup to the range of £1 - £1.20, generating a much improved cash margin and return per cup, up to 90%.

Olivier Kutz, Brand Manager of Douwe Egberts Coffee Systems, commented: “The hot beverages sector is still one of the biggest opportunities for operators in vending, provided the margins can be maximised to their full potential. By introducing Espresso Bar we are shaping the future of the vending industry. According the Allegra Strategies, roast and ground and espresso coffee accounts for more than 20% of consumer purchases in the Out Of Home market, which equates to around 240 million cups of coffee a year.

“However, at present consumers are still choosing the high street over vending when it comes to café style drinks, mainly due to a perceived lack of quality. In order to compete with coffee bars and cafés, operators need to add value to their offering and improve the quality of ingredients, use intelligent branding and introduce premium cups,” added Olivier.

To help operators meet consumer demands, the company will support them with Espresso Bar branding in conjunction with Douwe Egberts Extra Dark roast beans. Additionally, operators can also purchase matching 9oz or 12oz high quality branded paper cups to complement the concept, adding even more value to the end delivery.

Olivier concluded: “The response by the industry has been extremely positive so far. The Coffetek Espresso Bar branded unit showcased at Vendex South was sold before the show had even opened its doors, which shows operators see the value of a branded gourmet offering. I have no doubt that this is a key part of the future of the vending market.”

Douwe Egberts Espresso Bar branding is available for any type of bean to cup machine, in conjunction with the Douwe Egberts Espresso beans’ range and matching paper cups.

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