Choosing a coffee machine
Choosing the machine article
Coffee is such an important part of Finnish work culture, celebrations and everyday life that many would rather have the office photocopier or any other device break down than the coffee machine. That is why companies seem almost obliged to provide some kind of coffee solution for the workplace. Instead of settling for any black coffee with caffeine, it is worth considering whether it would be worth investing in quality coffee. By offering quality coffee, the employer can show that they value their employees.
When a company realizes that the current device's contract period is ending, the premises are changing, or the current solution simply does not meet current wishes or needs, it is a suitable time to consider purchasing a new device. This article raises thoughts and tells what things to consider when choosing a new solution.

Start here
Unfortunately, workplaces often encounter coffee solutions where the device does not fit the purpose. The same coffee maker may have been used for years, and no one has been tasked with exploring what else is available or what the work community would need.
Coffee is not just coffee, Finnish taste buds have developed since the war years. Because Finns drink an average of 3-5 cups of coffee a day, it is not wise to choose a coffee machine based solely on price. The best device for a company reflects the current corporate culture, or on the other hand, it can also help shape culture and practices in the desired way.
Many surely prefer to enjoy their coffee during the coffee break rather than waiting for it. With a properly chosen coffee machine, the coffee break does not need to be spent waiting in line, but it can be used for socializing and informal exchange of ideas while holding a cup of coffee.

Taste preferences
Taste preferences change: what was acceptable for your staff a few years ago may not taste the same today. The best understanding of your own work community's taste preferences can be obtained by asking directly.
You can start exploring the matter with a simple survey, for example: would employees prefer light roast or dark roast? Do the majority crave specialty coffees? And would employees prefer oat milk or regular milk in their coffee, or would they need a machine that provides both?
Also, remember that 20% of Finns prefer tea - that's why Paulig PRO also offers a quality selection of Bradley's organic teas that won't leave tea lovers cold. You can also consider whether it would be worth getting a water dispenser alongside the coffee machine. Our selection includes water dispensers that provide cold and fresh water, both carbonated and non-carbonated.
And remember, if there is no clear winner through surveying, Paulig PRO's coffee machines offer a couple of bean options, and the beans can also be changed from time to time. In addition, for larger groups, it is worth getting several machines. In this case, we recommend that different machines provide, for example, different roasts of coffee.

Price
The most expensive device is the one that remains unused. A constantly malfunctioning machine or a device that simply brews low-quality or bad-tasting coffee is a poor investment, no matter how low-priced it may be.
The total cost of workplace coffee is also affected by the amount of coffee wasted. A coffee machine is an excellent solution to the problem of repeatedly brewing too much coffee and pouring it down the drain.
When comparing prices, it is also worth considering the time it takes to brew coffee: traditional filter coffee makers are slow to brew a pot, and even then, it may only be enough for the ten fastest drinkers. Therefore, they are often not the best option for companies with more than 20 employees.
The price of Paulig PRO's coffee solution is also greatly influenced by the type of service tailored around the device. Do you want to outsource everything, or is there a party within the company that is responsible for maintaining the coffee machine?

Practicalities
Although taste is perhaps the most important criterion, practical aspects should also be considered when choosing a device. Coffee practices are unique in every workplace. In some places, the same person repeatedly sacrifices work time to brew coffee. In some workplaces, there is either always a shortage of coffee or too much is brewed. In both cases, a coffee machine could be a good solution to the problem. Paulig PRO has devices for every need. When choosing the right machine for your workplace, you should start by considering at least the following practical aspects:
How many people drink coffee, how many cups per day?
How many users are there at each workplace coffee point?
Do all want coffee at the same time, i.e., how quickly should the coffee be available?
Who replenishes the current coffee and milk supplies? Would this party like to relinquish responsibility, creating a need for full replenishment and maintenance services?
What kind of space is the coffee machine being purchased for?
Are there any restrictions in the space, is there a drain available?

Space
The space where the coffee machine is being purchased can turn out to be a surprisingly important element when making the choice. It certainly matters whether a small machine is purchased to be placed in a corner of the office, or whether the idea is to purchase a higher quality machine in a more central location. With Paulig PRO's coffee machines, a cozy break room can be created where people can exchange ideas and news.
The space may also impose certain restrictions: some machines require more space or, for example, drainage to operate.

What to avoid
