Why trusted coffee suppliers matter for the success of your venue

In the hospitality industry, coffee is a signal of quality, care, and consistency. Whether it’s served at breakfast in a hotel or after a meal in a restaurant, it plays a vital role in shaping the guest experience. Choosing trusted coffee suppliers is therefore a strategic decision that can impact satisfaction, reputation, and repeat business.

Let’s talk about this topic in the following article!

Reliable coffee suppliers with a strong supply chain: strategic partners for restaurants, hotels and cafés

Operators who view coffee as part of their core offer understand the value of working with reliable partners. From bean to cup, trustworthy coffee suppliers deliver not only product quality, but also operational support, insight into consumer trends, and the ability to help venues stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

Consistency builds trust and reputation

Delivering a great coffee every time reinforces guest satisfaction and loyalty.

In today’s experience-driven dining culture, consistency is key. Over half of casual dining customers (53%) believe that high-quality coffee enhances the overall dining experience, with 1 in 5 stating it drives their loyalty to the venue (illy Casual Dining Survey, Jan 2025). In hotels, 75% of guests say that coffee quality directly impacts their satisfaction with breakfast (illy Hotels Survey, Mar 2025) —highlighting how even small details contribute to overall perception.

However, consistency remains a challenge. One in three diners report not being fully satisfied with the coffee they were served during recent casual dining visits (illy Casual Dining Survey, Jan 2025). A trusted supplier can help close this quality gap across teams, shifts and locations. 

Operational support that goes beyond the bean

Working with a professional supplier brings expertise that benefits every part of the operation.

Trusted coffee brands provide more than product—they offer integrated support: from staff training to machine maintenance and menu consultation. This added value is critical for hospitality venues where time, quality, and customer expectations intersect. Suppliers who offer structured, proactive service help maintain high standards and reduce downtime, ensuring that coffee service is consistently excellent across all shifts and staff.

Premium coffee creates competitive differentiation

In a price-sensitive market, experience and quality make the difference.

Amid inflation and changing spending habits, guests are seeking value—not necessarily low prices, but memorable experiences that feel worth the spend. A high-quality coffee offer enhances the perceived value of the meal and helps venues differentiate themselves from competitors. Details matter: 27% of diners would consume more coffee if it were presented better (illy Casual Dining Survey, Jan 2025) —through latte art, elegant crockery, or improved ambiance.

Coffee that meets evolving expectations

Consumer preferences are shifting—suppliers must help venues keep pace.

Coffee occasions are no longer limited to morning hours. Brunch, dessert and early-evening service are all growing segments where coffee plays a key role. At the same time, consumers are demanding more: from plant-based options and seasonal drinks to ethically sourced and sustainable products. Trusted suppliers help venues stay ahead with innovation, flexibility, and offerings that reflect new consumption habits.

Brand reputation influences guest behaviour

Customers notice and prefer recognised names associated with quality.

Serving a reputable coffee brand doesn’t just improve flavour—it elevates perception. In fact, 69% of hotel guests say they prefer a recognisable, high-quality brand over an unbranded option (illy Hotels Survey, Mar 2025). This is especially true for international travellers and premium audiences.

Even in casual dining settings, 50% of consumers are more likely to order coffee if the brand is known and trusted (illy Casual Dining Survey, Jan 2025). Working with a reputable supplier helps build consumer confidence—and can become a valuable part of your venue’s brand equity.

Well-executed coffee drives revenue growth 

Beyond satisfaction, quality coffee opens up new consumption occasions.

Coffee can significantly boost revenue when well integrated into the menu. Offering mini-desserts or sweet pairings encourages customers to prolong their stay and increase ticket spend. Additionally, 38% of diners say they would drink more coffee if more options were available—such as cold coffees, origin-based blends, or seasonal specials (illy Casual Dining Survey, Jan 2025).

These offers are not just indulgent—they respond to the rising “treat culture” and the role of coffee in social occasions (Lumina – Evolving Coffee Landscape, Apr 2023). A trusted supplier will provide the tools and ideas to help operators capitalise on this opportunity.

Coffee suppliers are more than vendors—they’re growth enablers

In hospitality, coffee is often the last thing guests consume—and the final impression they take away. There is nothing worse than a bad coffee after an exceptional lunch or experience. Trusted coffee suppliers help ensure that this last moment is memorable, consistent, and aligned with your brand values. By delivering excellence not just in product but in partnership, they enable venues to exceed expectations, build loyalty, and unlock new revenue opportunities.

Among the most appreciated suppliers in the sector, illy has been recognised by hospitality operators for its commitment to sustainable quality, consistency of taste, and operational support tailored to restaurants and hotels. With a heritage of over 90 years and a blend composed of only the top 1% of Arabica beans, illy is synonymous with precision, reliability, and elevated service standards—before, during and after the cup.

If you're considering a partner that goes beyond the bean, illy offers a free trial for hospitality venues looking to experience the impact of premium coffee on guest satisfaction, brand perception and operational excellence.

Request your free trial now!