Choosing the right post-mix solution for your business

A post-mix solution isn’t just the drinks and machine; it’s everything that comes with it—equipment (dispensers, chillers, CO₂ systems), the type and brand of syrups used, the installation and maintenance, and any support or supply agreements.

The ‘right’ solution for your business depends on what’s important to you. There’s no ‘one size fits all’. Ask yourself what matters most; is it maximising profit, increasing the speed of service, sustainability, keeping operations smooth and affordable, or all the above?

It’s likely that several of these will matter to you, if not all of them, so let’s take a look at them in more detail to help you decide on the right post-mix drinks solution for your business.

Upfront costs vs. long-term gain

Profit margins are a top priority for most businesses, and when it comes to post-mix solutions, the costs at first might seem steep, but the long-term savings are undeniable, resulting in significantly higher margins.

Consider how much you are currently spending on bottled or canned drinks over how much you’re selling. The return on investment is one of the main reasons businesses make the switch to a post-mix drinks solution.

Scalability and flexibility come into the financial consideration as well. If you’re anticipating demand to change over time, make sure that the post-mix solution can adapt as and when business needs evolve.

The right solution will factor in ongoing support from a supplier, helping to prevent disruption and saving potential losses from occurring due to downtime.

Finally, look out for any hidden fees or restrictive commitments within the contract terms before deciding. Balancing these considerations will help you choose the right solution.

The right post-mix system increases the speed of service

All post-mix systems aim to boost speed. The right solution delivers it consistently in your specific environment.

Consider the number of lines or drinks available at once. A 2-line dispenser isn't as fast or flexible as an 8-line system. Factor in how quickly syrup boxes, CO₂, and water filters can be replaced or replenished. A system that’s easy to restock with minimal disruption helps maintain service flow, particularly in fast-paced environments.

The right post-mix system will be easy to clean, which can also be a factor in the overall speed, as dispensers can clog.

Speed of service isn’t just about equipment; it’s how quickly issues can be resolved to keep you running if something does go wrong. Consider response times when deciding on a supplier for your post-mix solution.

Sustainability and post-mix drinks

Climate change, pollution, and plastic waste have made sustainability a top priority in businesses. Some are major contributors to these issues, which is why there has been an increase in awareness. This has created a level of responsibility.

With a post-mix drinks system, single-use plastic bottles and aluminium cans are no longer required, translating to less waste and a reduction in carbon emissions, as they no longer need to be transported to the site.

Not only is this beneficial for the environment, but the business. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, and this can influence their decisions on where to spend money. Key insights from YouGov data regarding British attitudes towards sustainability in 2024 found that 21% of Brits are willing to invest more in products that favour sustainability.

The efficiency of post-mix solutions

Finally, consider how well a post-mix solution will integrate into your daily operations. A smooth post-mix setup means easy installation, simple operation, and minimal downtime.

If the equipment is user-friendly and reliable, staff can serve customers quickly without interruptions, boosting efficiency and overall satisfaction. Complex or glitch-prone systems can slow service, frustrate staff, and increase maintenance costs.

By considering all the above, you can confidently choose the post-mix supplier that best fits your operational needs, budget, and customer expectations.