Coffee - Great Expectations

A pub sector study by Nestlé FoodServices has shown that more than 80% of consumers said coffee played a part in the overall enjoyment of the eating-out experience.

However, the study also found that almost two-thirds of consumers surveyed believed that the coffee served by pubs isn't up to scratch.

Katy Hilditch, beverages category lead for Nestlé FoodServices says: "When it comes to serving coffee, quality control and consistency are the all-important factors, just as they are in the kitchen."

Developing your coffee menu is as important as compiling a wine list. Like the grape, coffee comes into its own when blended with other varieties. Pub chefs and their staff should familiarise themselves with the different options available and develop a hot beverage menu that complements the food on offer.

"There is a good margin to be made on coffee but licensees have to know how to make the most of it.

"By explaining the origin of the coffee and the flavour profile of each type, staff can help customers find a beverage that meets their individual preferences and also help distinguish a premium offering from a regular cup of coffee.

"It doesn't take much, just a short comment highlighting the differences between the intensely-rich flavour of a dark roast, such as Alta Rica, which is made from Arabica beans

sourced from exotic locations like Costa Rica, or a smoother, more delicate blend like Cap Colombie, with beans sourced from Colombia and surrounding countries."

Nescafé offers a range of speciality coffees, including cappuccino, latte and mocha.

The new Great Nescafé £10,000 Giveaway has just launched and offers pubs the opportunity to win £10,000 as well as the chance to win one of a thousand £10 cash prizes.

Notification of the big cash prize is waiting to be found hidden inside one tin of Gold Blend or Original.

For more information on the Nescafé products call 0800 745845 or visit www.nestlefoodservices.co.uk