The truth about our cocktail machines: 7 preconceptions exposed!

Cocktail machines are becoming increasingly popular these days, especially in view of the widespread shortage of staff in the catering industry. They offer a convenient and efficient way to mix cocktails without having to be an experienced bartender. These innovative devices are not only an answer to the challenge of finding qualified staff, but also a solution to make operations smoother and increase customer satisfaction. Nevertheless, there are some preconceptions and misconceptions about cocktail machines that I would like to dispel in this article.

What are cocktail machines?

Cocktail machines are automated devices designed for the quick and precise mixing of cocktails and drinks of all kinds. They can produce different types of cocktails or even carbonated mixed drinks such as cola, homemade lemonades, wine or Aperol Spritz, for example. There are different models and designs to find the perfect machine for every application.

1. cocktail makers are too impersonal

A common prejudice against cocktail makers is that they are too impersonal and that you can't interact with a real bartender.

But who says that technology and Personalised service cannot go hand in hand?

By relieving staff of routine tasks, they create space for what really counts: genuine interaction with guests. After all, less stressed employees mean a more relaxed, personalised experience for guests and a service that is characterised by attentiveness and warmth.

2. the quality of the cocktails is worse than those mixed by hand

A widespread misconception that we are happy to combat.

Cocktail machines from The Cocktailmaker are masters of precision and are able to mix every drink exactly according to the recipe - every time. The quality of the ingredients? That's up to you. Whether fine spirits or fresh juices, our machines ensure that every sip is a pleasure. Numerous restaurateurs and their guests confirm this: the quality of our cocktails is in no way inferior to handmade cocktails.

3. drinks from a machine do not taste good.

In connection with the prejudice that cocktails from vending machines, for example, are not of good quality and therefore do not taste good, we suspect that this prejudice is often based on the belief that these are pre-made cocktails. However, this is a fallacy. The true value of an excellent drink lies not in the hands that prepare it, but in the freshness and quality of the ingredients - and it is precisely these that can be individually selected in our cocktail maker. Because we know that it's the quality of the ingredients that counts, we work together with RAUCH fruit juices, for example.

4. cocktail machines take away jobs.

A common misconception about cocktail machines is that they make jobs in bars and restaurants redundant. However, in an industry struggling with staff shortages, our machines are a welcome solution, not a problem. Customers today are looking for places that offer them a complete experience - from morning coffee to dinner and the final cocktail. Hardly anyone wants to change locations after a meal. Caterers are therefore faced with the challenge of having to offer a wide range of options in order to remain competitive. While cocktail-only bars and specialised restaurants have their place and will continue to exist, experience shows that they are unfortunately becoming the exception rather than the rule.

This is where our cocktail machines come into play: they not only save time, but also give the bartender the freedom to be creative. With the time gained, they can devote themselves to creating their own signature drinks, polish them to perfection and thus create a unique drinking experience that guests won't find anywhere else. Our machines are designed to support the staff, relieving them of time-consuming tasks so that they can devote themselves more intensively to service and guest care, making the business more efficient overall. Instead of cutting jobs, our cocktail machines help to improve the customer experience - which often leads to higher demand and therefore more jobs.

5. a cocktail maker cannot fulfil my wishes.

A key advantage of our machines is the ability to save each recipe individually. This not only gives caterers the opportunity to create and offer their own house recipes, but also to spontaneously respond to special customer requests. Whether a particular ingredient is to be added or omitted - customisation is straightforward and can be carried out directly before the cocktail is prepared.

This flexibility enables every bar and restaurant to add unique and distinctive drinks to their range.

In addition, the ability to save and customise recipes helps restaurateurs experiment with seasonal ingredients and create limited-time specials. This not only encourages creativity in drinks preparation, but also allows the menu to be kept dynamic and interesting, which in turn piques guests' curiosity and encourages them to keep coming back to try new creations.

6 Cocktail machines are only suitable for certain cocktails.

Depending on the model and equipment, 14 to 64 ingredients can be connected to our cocktail maker, for example. The variety that this opens up goes far beyond classic cocktails. From refreshing wines, sparkling mixed drinks and homemade lemonades to the popular Aperol Spritz, there are no limits to creativity. But that's not all. In principle, it is of course also possible to equip all 64 connections with a selection of pure cocktail ingredients, which opens up a universe of possibilities.

No wish should remain unfulfilled.

7 Cocktail machines are difficult to clean and require frequent maintenance.

Our cocktail machines are not only easy to use, but also a true model of efficiency when it comes to maintenance. For comparison: Similar to a professional catering coffee machine, which needs to be cleaned regularly for daily operation, the maintenance of our cocktail machines is extremely simple and can be completed in less than five minutes using the cleaning set supplied.

To keep the machine in top condition, we recommend semi-annual maintenance - which we offer directly, of course! This ensures that the cocktail machine is not only ready for use every day, but that it also performs reliably in the long term - cleanly, quickly and efficiently.

Advantages of cocktail machines

The use of cocktail machines offers many advantages. They can increase efficiency by mixing cocktails quickly and precisely. They can also increase profitability as less time is spent mixing drinks.

You remain competitive even in times of staff shortages.
You don't need to worry about losing your beer.
You can offer great drinks no matter who is behind your counter.
You have a precise overview of your bar, e.g. for audits.
Direct connection to all common POS systems
You have more time to concentrate on your guests and your signature drinks.

Which cocktail machine is right for me?

With the Choosing a cocktail machine there are a few factors to consider. These include the available space, as well as the desired functions and capacities.

Since the personal contact we would like to find out together with you which machine suits your needs or your restaurant best.
From handy table machines to fully mobile counters to fully integrated cocktail machines in your bar, everything is possible.

Conclusion

To summarise, cocktail machines are an innovative solution to many of the challenges facing restaurateurs today - from staff shortages to the desire for efficiency and consistency. Not only do they enable the quick and precise preparation of a variety of drinks, but they also disprove common preconceptions through their flexibility, quality and ease of use.

Cocktail machines are not at odds with personalised service or creative drinks design. On the contrary: they offer the freedom to focus even more on the guest experience, take individual wishes into account and explore new, creative ways of preparing drinks. By taking over routine tasks, they create space for innovation and personal interaction, which ultimately leads to more satisfied guests and a flourishing business.

The technological developments behind these machines offer solutions to current problems in the industry while creating new opportunities for caterers to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Concerns about personality, quality, versatility, workstations, maintenance and cleaning can be allayed by facts and positive practical experience.

Ultimately, cocktail machines are an asset to the catering industry, making it possible to meet the demands of modern customers without compromising on quality or experience. They are an example of how technology can be used to enhance - not replace - the human experience. With the right attitude and application, cocktail machines can therefore make an important contribution to success in the catering industry.