Coffee Machines Workplace Guides

Education Spaces: The Ultimate Guide to Supplying Coffee & Refreshments for Students and Teachers

A diverse range of students and office workers on laptops at a table

Introduction
5 Key Considerations
Our Recommendations
Summary

In schools and universities, where long hours and sustained productivity are essential, coffee and refreshments are more than just a luxury, they’re a necessity. With 25% of people in the UK enjoying coffee while working or studying (Balance Coffee, 2024), it’s clear that this daily ritual is important to many. A well-timed cup or snack can make the difference between an afternoon slump and peak performance. This guide will explain the key areas to consider and our hand-picked machine recommendations for a thriving educational environment.

How do I choose the best commercial coffee machine?

When setting up a coffee and refreshment station in an educational environment, it’s crucial to address several key factors to meet the diverse needs of both students and teachers.

5 key considerations

Quality coffee and ingredients

High-quality coffee made from fresh, ethically sourced beans will enhance both the taste and reduce the environmental impact, contributing to a more satisfying refreshment experience. For teachers and students needing a boost, this ensures that every cup is both enjoyable and responsible.

Variety of options

50% of Gen X and Baby Boomers drink coffee multiple times a day, while many Gen Z students prefer alternatives like tea or hot chocolate (Statista, 2022). Offering a variety of options, including decaf, herbal teas, and non-caffeinated beverages, ensures you cater to everyone and encourage regular refreshment breaks to encourage continued productivity levels.

Dietary restrictions and preferences

Accommodating various dietary needs is essential. Include lactose-free, vegan, and gluten-free options. With oat milk being the most popular alternative in the UK, followed by almond and soy (Statista, 2021), offering these and other allergen-friendly options shows a commitment to inclusivity and supports the recent rise of healthier vending options.

Location and setup

Choosing the right location for your refreshment stations is key. Consider convenience, accessibility, and how the station compliments the break-out area. A well-placed station can enhance the experience of taking a break and re-energising between study sessions.

Hygiene and maintenance

Regular maintenance of your machines is vital to ensure they remain efficient and safe for use by both staff and students. Establish a routine for cleaning and upkeep to maintain the quality and safety of your refreshment offerings.

Creating the perfect coffee & refreshment station

Our team of experts have created a set of recommendations to help you create a coffee and refreshment station that both teachers and students will appreciate:

Franke A600 Bean to Cup Coffee Machine With Milk Fridge

Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine: Franke A600

The Franke A600 is an all-around performer, designed to handle large quantities while delivering a range of premium beverages. Its 8-inch touch screen makes operation easy, and the dual powder system offers luxurious hot chocolates and other hot drinks to suit a variety of tastes.

Find out more or email us at sales@vendingsense.co.uk

Coffetek Neo Q – Water Fountain & Coffee Vending Machine Right Side

Coffee & Water Vending Machine: Coffetek Neo Q

The Neo Q by Coffetek is a versatile vending machine that caters to freshly ground coffee and filtered water in a single unit, ideal for large groups. Its interactive interface is user-friendly, and it supports sustainable practices by encouraging the use of reusable bottles and cups.

Find out more or email us at sales@vendingsense.co.uk

Healthy Snack Vending Machine: Necta Vivace

The Necta Vivace is perfect for offering a selection of nourishing snacks and refreshing drinks. Its simple selection feature ensures snacks are distributed instantly and safely, supporting productivity within educational spaces.

Find out more or email us at sales@vendingsense.co.uk

Aquablue Refill+ Commercial Water Dispenser

Vitamin-Enriched Water: Aquablu Refill+

The Aquablu Refill+ offers a healthier alternative to fizzy drinks with four natural flavours packed with electrolytes and vitamins. This machine encourages sustainable practices with reusable bottles and impact reports, keeping students conscious of their responsibility.

Find out more or email us at sales@vendingsense.co.uk

Aquablu Refill+ coloured vitamin based drinks next to the dispenser

Providing access to drinking water gives students a healthy alternative to sugar-sweetened beverages. It helps to increase students’ overall water consumption, maintain hydration, and may improve cognitive function.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Summary

Supplying quality coffee and refreshments in educational spaces is not just about convenience, it’s an investment in the well-being and productivity of students and teachers.

By focusing on factors like quality, variety, dietary needs, location, and maintenance, you can create a refreshment station that enhances the learning environment and supports everyone’s needs. Implementing these strategies will help to ensure that your educational environment stays energised, focused, and motivated throughout the day.