Today, coffee in the office is a central part of workplace culture and employee wellbeing. As companies look for ways to enhance the employee experience, particularly in the return-to-office era, many are considering an office coffee machine subscription. But is it truly worth the investment?
This article explores the real value of a subscription model for office coffee machines, looking at quality, employee expectations, operational benefits and return on investment.
Typically, the offer includes:
It’s a plug-and-play approach that removes the need for ad hoc purchasing and technical maintenance, while elevating the in-office coffee experience.
Including your coffee machine into your monthly subscription, the coffee machine can be effectively dialled in to the right setting to produce the perfect illy coffee, the tailored approach can allow for the best quality serve every time.
While the machine itself is important, the value of a subscription lies in the ecosystem that supports it. A good plan provides:
Top-tier subscriptions also include machines with programmable drink menus and intuitive interfaces, allowing employees to personalise their experience — a subtle but powerful workplace benefit.
Coffee is part of the daily routine for millions in the UK: 76% of adults drink coffee, and 83% of office workers say it helps improve focus and productivity.
Recent surveys show that:
In this light, a office coffee subscription becomes more than a utility — it’s an investment in workplace satisfaction, social connection, and employer branding.
Investing in office coffee machines may seem like an additional expense at first glance — but when assessed holistically, it reveals a compelling value proposition. Beyond the fixed costs, the benefits extend to employee wellbeing, operational efficiency, and even brand perception.
The following table offers a clear overview of the direct costs involved and the wider advantages that can impact workplace culture, productivity, and long-term retention.
| Direct costs of an office coffee machine subscription | Tangible & intangible benefits for the workplace |
|---|---|
| Monthly or annual subscription fee | Reduces external coffee runs → saves time & budget |
| Coffee supply (beans, capsules, ground coffee) | Increases employee satisfaction and daily motivation |
| Water and electricity usage | Helps attract and retain talent through better workplace experience |
| Encourages social interaction and collaboration | |
| Enhances perception of office space for clients & guests |
For organisations with a medium to large headcount, especially those offering hybrid or full-time in-office roles, the return becomes clear over time.
While not every business needs a subscription model, it becomes a smart solution when:
Sectors like consulting, finance, tech, and creative industries often benefit the most, where both performance and hospitality matter.
Before committing to a provider, assess the following:
Also consider how the machine and drinks interface will integrate with your overall workplace design — from user experience to aesthetics.
An office coffee machine subscription reflects the growing importance of workplace wellbeing, culture and employee experience.
With hybrid work reshaping office life, many companies are rethinking what makes the workplace appealing — and quality coffee plays an unexpectedly central role. It's a daily ritual, a moment of connection, and a small luxury that can make a big impact.
When implemented with care, a subscription model can:
For companies seeking to enhance their office environment, partnering with a high-quality coffee provider can deliver measurable returns — both in performance and perception.
illy, with its tailored solutions for medium and large enterprises, offers a curated experience that combines premium coffee, cutting-edge equipment and full-service support.
Discover how premium coffee can elevate your workplace.
Request your free trial today.