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Arbeitsunterlagen und Kaffeetasse auf einem Tisch, Hände einer schreibenden Frau

The perfect cup for the office: buy, rent or lease a coffee machine?

For many employees, the coffee break in the office is an indispensable moment to recharge their batteries and refresh their minds. A high-quality coffee machine is therefore a necessary investment in many offices. But the question often arises: buy, rent or lease? Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we take a look at the various aspects that should be considered when making a decision.

The office coffee moment

At least since the Corona pandemic, we have come to appreciate the moments we spend together with colleagues in the office and we realise that time spent together at work is more than just ‘working time’. It's about consciously coming together, personal interaction, in short, about the ‘social’ that characterises us humans as social beings. Offices today are therefore places that consciously focus on community and communication. And what supports dialogue more than a good cup of coffee? That's right, perhaps a hot chocolate or a flavoured tea - in short, a hot drink makes a break the best break. And we believe that everyone deserves the perfect break.

And then the agony of choice

And we're not talking about cappuccino or caffè latte here. Decision-makers are often faced with the challenge of reconciling the different requirements for the right hot beverage solution and, of course, the cost factor. Then you quickly end up with the basic decision to buy, rent or lease. We have summarised the most important pros and cons of the different models here:

Buying a coffee machine:

Pro:

  • Long-term investment: Buying a coffee machine is often the most cost-effective option in the long term, as there are no monthly rental or leasing fees.
  • Full control: As the owner, you have full control over the machine, its maintenance and use.
  • Customisation to needs: You can choose a coffee machine that exactly fits the needs and preferences of your employees.

Contra: 

  • High initial investment: The purchase price of a high-quality coffee machine can be quite high at the beginning, which can have an impact on the budget.
  • Maintenance costs: You are solely responsible for repairs and maintenance, which can mean additional costs and time.
  • No flexibility: If requirements change or a more modern machine becomes available, you could be tied to outdated technology.

Renting a coffee machine:

Pro:

  • Lower initial costs: The monthly rental costs are often lower than the purchase price, which eases the financial burden.
  • Maintenance included: In most cases, maintenance and repairs are included in the rental agreement, which can save time and money.
  • Updated technology: You can regularly upgrade to newer coffee machine models to keep up with the latest features.

Contra:

  • Long-term costs: Over time, the monthly rental costs could be higher than the purchase price of a comparable machine.
  • Limited control: You have less control over the machine as it remains the property of the landlord.
  • Contractual commitment: Rental agreements can be long-term commitments, which can be problematic as needs change

Leasing a coffee machine:

Pro:

  • Low initial costs: Leasing often requires little or no down payment, minimising the initial outlay.
  • Maintenance included: Maintenance and repairs are often included in leasing contracts, similar to rental.
  • Option to buy: In many cases, you have the option to buy the machine at the end of the leasing period.

Contra:

  • Long-term commitment: Leasing contracts are long-term and premature termination can be expensive.
  • Total cost: The total cost over the lease term could be higher than the value of the machine purchased.
  • Restrictions: There could be restrictions on usage and maintenance.

The decision whether to buy, rent or lease a coffee machine depends on your financial means, long-term goals and individual needs. Carefully weighing up the pros and cons of each option is essential.

You can find more information about our supply models here


For more details and customised advice for your office, we are at your disposal. Contact us today to find the best coffee solution for your business.