Fresh coffee remains a key prospect for convenience stores, driving up their foodservice sales and revenues. According to data from the National Association of Convenience Stores, dispensed hot beverages were the second-largest category for foodservice, accounting for 14% of the sales. The State of The Industry Report showed that coffee leads the space with a 58% share, followed by a cappuccino at 18.5%.
A well-run coffee program for your store may require the right equipment and branding. After finding the right espresso machine or coffee maker, the next step would be to carry out the proper installation. The placement of the professional coffee machine can break or make your business, affecting your consumer engagement, aesthetics, and staff workflow.
Here are a few pointers to help you get the espresso machine installation right.
1. Choose the Appropriate Spot
Installing your new espresso machine isn’t just a simple order and plug-in process. You may have to think about your convenience store layout and design. The location can affect workflow, aesthetics, and ergonomics. It is worth the effort of trying to find the best spot to place the Nio coffee machine.
Placing the espresso machine in the front bar can help you better interact with the customers. Additionally, you may need to find enough space on the countertop to get your grinder in place. Measure the dimensions of the space to get enough space for your staff to maneuver around.
A 36-42” height is comfortable for staff to work with without having to bend, twist, or overly reach as they serve your coffee enthusiasts. Professional installers can inspect the site, identify floorspace issues and liaise with your contractors to ensure you avoid costly mistakes. Laying out the cabinetry and other components can optimize your work and traffic flow.
2. Figure Out Your Wiring and Plumbing
A critical factor to consider when installing a commercial espresso machine is the water and electrical source. Coffee machines for convenience stores have specific limits on the quality of water and the power that the manufacturers recommend for use. These conditions may affect your warranty claims, and it is vital to keep them within the specified limits.
The first step ought to be testing the water to determine its hardness. It’s important to prevent scale accumulation due to hard water. Low pH or excess chloride may also lead to corrosion. You may need to plumb in a drain before getting the cabinetry in.
Manufacturers have different input voltage tolerances. You may need to ensure that your voltage matches the specified limits. A buck-boost transformer can help you attain a middle-range indicated in the espresso machine spec sheet. Investing in a surge protector can also protect your equipment from damage during a power surge.
3. Bring It All Together
You may need to ensure that you have all preparations in order at the site before calling in the installers. Consulting them before on the dimensions, holes needed, plumbing, and wiring requirements can reduce scheduling conflicts.
Installing an espresso machine may require proper planning and execution to streamline workflow while protecting your warranty. Bring in your coffee machine dealer’s technician early enough to ensure all requirements are factored in during the design phase. For more information on the installation of a Javabar espresso machine, reach out to us today.