illy, Italy’s premium coffee brand, has partnered with Connect Vending to introduce a new workplace micro-market solution to the UK, designed to meet evolving employee expectations and changing workplace dynamics.
The collaboration brings together illy’s signature 100% Arabica blend—renowned for its smooth, velvety flavour—with Connect Vending’s expertise in delivering fully managed refreshment solutions across the UK and Ireland.
A new standard for workplace refreshments
The micro-market concept combines a premium bean-to-cup coffee offering with a self-service retail space, providing employees with round-the-clock access to barista-style drinks, snacks and fresh food.
At the heart of the solution is a bean-to-cup system delivering a full café-style menu—including lattes, cappuccinos and flat whites—using fresh milk or high-quality plant-based alternatives. The system is designed to offer a premium coffee experience within the workplace, with minimal operational input required from employers.
Alongside coffee, the micro-market includes a curated range of chilled food, snacks and beverages, creating a convenient, all-day refreshment hub for busy professionals.
Responding to evolving workplace needs
The launch comes as UK workplaces continue to adapt to hybrid working patterns, with fluctuating footfall and increased demand for flexible, self-service solutions.
Employers are now tasked with delivering refreshment offerings that not only accommodate variable attendance but also meet higher expectations around quality, convenience and employee experience.
The fully managed service from illy and Connect Vending is designed to address these challenges, providing a scalable and hassle-free solution that supports employee wellbeing, productivity and retention.
Expertise in coffee and workplace delivery with sustainability at the core
illy brings decades of global coffee expertise, with a focus on quality, consistency and ethically sourced beans. The brand is widely recognised across the UK hospitality sector, with its coffee served in more than 2,000 premium venues nationwide.
Connect Vending contributes extensive experience in micro-market design, installation and servicing, ensuring reliable operation and maximum uptime. The solution includes touchscreen interfaces and contactless payment options, as well as the ability to operate on a free-vend basis for employer-funded sites.
Sustainability is a key focus for both partners. illy is a certified B Corp, with a fully traceable supply chain and long-standing commitment to responsible sourcing.
The micro-market concept has been developed with sustainability in mind, incorporating design elements aimed at reducing waste and increasing the use of recycled materials. 85% of coffee cups are recycled, coffee and water filters are recycled and waste coffee grounds are used in gardens and composting.
Growing demand for premium coffee at work
Research conducted by illy[i] highlights the growing importance of high-quality coffee in the workplace:
- 83% of employees say quality coffee improves focus and productivity
- 82% believe a premium coffee offering enhances their perception of their employer
- 70% say it supports collaboration, creativity and teamwork
These findings reinforce the role of workplace refreshments as a driver of both performance and employee satisfaction.
Marcello Canetti, managing director UK & Ireland at illy, said: “Working habits have evolved significantly, and this micro-market solution combines practicality with a premium experience that supports wellbeing and productivity. It can play a meaningful role in enhancing employee experience and retention.
Our research demonstrates the importance of quality coffee in shaping both productivity and company perception. The illy brand guarantees barista-level quality, alongside a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.”
Elyas Coutts, chief executive at Connect Vending, added: “Workplace refreshments have evolved rapidly over the past decade, with employees now expecting a café-quality experience that supports both productivity and morale. While office attendance may be less consistent, expectations are higher than ever when people are on-site.
Our partnership with illy enables us to deliver a premium micro-market solution that meets those expectations—combining quality, convenience and reliability in a format that works for modern workplaces.”
The new micro-market solution is expected to achieve double-digit growth across the UK over the next three years, as demand for premium, flexible workplace refreshment continues to grow.
