Mid-market espresso machine sales polarise
The economic downturn has squeezed mid-market espresso machines as sales have polarised towards top-end or entry-level products, according to Italian supplier http://www.sanremouk.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">SanRemo.
UK managing director Andrew Tucker says that the middle market - traditionally the main focus of sales in the UK - has become "unusually quiet" over the past 18 months, while sales of its entry-level Capri and high-spec Verona TCS machines have thrived. The reason, he said, is that new entrants to the coffee business are seeking value-for-money and migrating to the lower end of the market.
Meanwhile, upscale machines are benefiting from the trend for cash-strapped consumers to treat themselves to a coffee rather than a proper lunch out.
As a result, said Tucker, experienced operators who need to replace their coffee machine are investing in more upmarket models with an eye to longer-term growth.
