As workplace dynamics continue to evolve, attention is increasingly turning toward employee wellbeing and the quality of the working environment. Among the most appreciated and requested perks, a high-quality coffee machine for the office stands out. According to recent research, 2 in 5 UK employees would like to have an on-site coffee solution—offering not only a daily ritual, but also a moment for social connection and mental recharge.
In this article, we explore why offering premium coffee in the office matters more than ever—and how it can become a strategic asset for forward-thinking organisations.
Table of contents:
- Coffee machine for office as a strategic lever
- Aligning office coffee with employee expectations
- The tangible benefits of a coffee machine for office
- How to choose the right coffee machine for your workplace
- Elevate your workplace experience with illy
Coffee machine for office: a strategic lever for motivation, retention and productivity
Coffee plays a central role in workplace dynamics as a tool to enhance employee satisfaction, encourage informal interaction, and support focus. Data from illy’s 2024 UK workplace survey highlights just how impactful it can be:
- 83% of employees say high-quality coffee helps them stay focused and be more productive
- 86% feel more valued when their company provides good coffee
- 70% believe that coffee enhances connection and teamwork in the office
In this context, investing in an office coffee machine is a strategic choice that supports staff engagement, company culture and performance.
Aligning office coffee with employee expectations
Coffee is deeply embedded in UK culture. In 2023, for the first time, coffee surpassed tea in household penetration, with 76% of UK adults drinking coffee, and 68% doing so daily. At home, 72% of households brew beans or ground coffee, which raises the bar for what employees expect when they return to the office.
Yet, 30% of employees say they are dissatisfied with the quality of the coffee at their workplace, and 2 out of 5 say they don’t have a coffee offer at all, but would like one.
The tangible benefits of a coffee machine for office
From boosting employee satisfaction and focus to enhancing social interaction and retention, an in-office coffee offering delivers measurable value across the workday.
Here are the key reasons why more companies are rethinking their approach to workplace coffee—and how aligning with rising employee expectations can generate real returns.
- Increased productivity and time spent onsite
Providing a premium coffee experience can increase employees’ time in the office by up to one hour more per week. This simple addition supports stronger routines and more consistent attendance, especially in hybrid work environments.
- Strengthening employer branding
Quality coffee is also perceived as a sign of care and professionalism. 82% of employees say that a well-designed coffee offering contributes to a company’s image as a great place to work. It's a meaningful component of employer branding, especially when competing for top talent.
- Enhancing collaboration and wellbeing
Shared coffee moments foster informal conversations and cross-functional collaboration. In this way, a coffee machine for office becomes a catalyst for engagement, creativity, and team spirit—contributing to a healthier company culture.
How to choose the right coffee machine for your workplace
Today’s office coffee solutions have evolved well beyond basic vending machines. Modern systems are designed to meet higher expectations in terms of both quality and convenience, offering features that reflect the habits and preferences of today’s workforce.
Among the most requested functionalities are:
- fresh bean-to-cup preparation, for an authentic coffee experience
- personalised drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, latte and americano
- touchscreen interfaces, allowing users to customise their beverage to taste
- automated cleaning systems, reducing maintenance and saving time
Whether you're equipping a small office or a large corporate environment, the ideal coffee machine should strike a balance between quality, efficiency and sustainability—enhancing daily routines while supporting a positive workplace culture.
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Discover how illy can elevate your workplace experience
With decades of expertise and a strong focus on sustainability, illy offers tailored coffee solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces.
From compact machines for small offices to high-capacity systems for busy corporate hubs, illy combines exceptional coffee quality with user-friendly technology and elegant design. Beyond the cup, illy supports companies in creating a more engaging, caring and collaborative environment—where every coffee break becomes a moment of value.
Explore illy’s professional solutions and discover how the right coffee experience can make a real difference in your workplace.
Request a free trial now!
