Branding is more than a logo or color palette. It’s the emotional connection you build with customers. It’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room—and it influences whether they return, refer, or forget you entirely.

According to studies by the Hospitality Global Group and Forbes, over 60% of small food and beverage businesses fail within their first 12–18 months. The good news? These failures aren’t random. They’re the result of predictable, preventable mistakes. In this article, we break down the data-driven reasons cafés collapse—and how you can beat the odds with strategy, not just passion.

In this guide, we’ve handpicked the top 5 espresso machines for small cafés, focusing on:

• Performance

• Durability

• Ease of use

• Value for money