Italy’s premium coffee brand, Illy, is rolling out its new self-service concept – Illy On The Go – targeting retail, foodservice, leisure, education and convenience sectors amid rising demand for automated coffee formats.

The bean-to-cup machines, made from 95% recycled materials, including 30% coffee grounds, serve Illy’s 100% Arabica blend, known for its smooth, velvety flavour. The company aims to install 1,000 units over the next five years.

The global self-serve coffee bars market was valued at nearly £4.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to approach £7 billion by 2029. Consumers increasingly seek premium, espresso-style drinks without compromising on quality, particularly younger and professional demographics.

The UK will be the first market for Illy On The Go. The machines will be introduced in partnership with Beanology, combining Illy’s coffee expertise with Beanology’s automated solutions.

Retailers and foodservice operators will benefit from full installation, servicing and brand support.

Marcello Canetti, managing director at UK&I at Illy, said: “We know a growing number of consumers are looking for convenience in their coffee. However, consumers simply aren’t willing to compromise on taste or ethics."

"At Illy, we’ve spent decades perfecting our premium blend of 100% Arabica beans, and we’re proud to bring our signature taste to a self-serve machine. The Illy name will give both consumers – and our retail and foodservice partners – confidence that their coffee will always be of a barista-level quality, whatever the format.”

The machines also reflect sustainability priorities, aiming to minimise waste while offering an ethical coffee option. Kerry Burvill, founder of Beanology, added: “Demand for on-the-go coffee has evolved rapidly, with customers now expecting café-quality drinks delivered through reliable, automated formats. Beanology was developed to meet that need with innovative machine solutions."

"Our partnership with Illy brings a clear point of difference to a market that now expects a higher standard.”