What’s always exciting about our How to… guide is that the independent café sector is as vibrant as ever. With an estimated 12,000-plus sites fighting the good fight  for community connection, versatile menus and eye-catching food & drink, we believe Vol 9 is an essential advisory tool. 

As you can see from our contents key, we cover seven different topics – but it’s the depth of expertise and insight that I’m really proud of. We are so grateful to all of our contributors, both in terms of editorial  and advertorial. 

So, if you are on the verge of diving into the café melting pot, we wish you the very best  of luck – and just keep this copy to hand. I promise, there’s something for everyone. 

Enjoy and see you next year.

Alex Bell – Editor

Contents

TOUBLESHOOTING

4 Consultant Michele Young can troubleshoot with the best

REFURBISHMENT

6 A refurb delivers valuable insight – so we spoke to Lewisford Group

COFFEE MACHINES

8 Fracino’s commercial espresso expertise is second to none
12 Navigate automation, while retaining the personal touch with Cimbali

CUSTOMER CARE

16 Volcano Coffee Works explores the realities facing new independents

ENVIRONMENTAL & PACKAGING

20 Sabert’s packaging expertise can ensure a pathway to success
22 Hitting sustainability goals and labelling essentials, Planglow style!

EQUIPMENT & SHOPFITTING

26 Start smart with the right gear – Merrychef always delivers
28 Commercial Oven Store is all over performance at busy times
30 Skipper illustrates there are no barriers to outdoor excellence
32 Space-saving, dayparts and global flavours with Panasonic

MATCHA

34 Matcha Wholesale elaborates on a menu essential