MILAN, Italy – Espresso is a sacred tradition in Italy where the cost is one of the cheapest in Europe with an average of ÂŁ1,30 per cup. A shot of espresso can be found for even less, with espresso available for just a euro in many Italian coffee bars. This contrasts sharply with the UK, where, according to research firm Finder, a standard coffee costs an average of ÂŁ3.70, with some reaching over ÂŁ5.
But despite an immovable culture in which affordable access to caffeine is enshrined, Italians’ espresso is under threat explains the article pubished by The Telegraph written by Josh Kirby.
So how has Italy managed to resist global inflationary pressures and coffee bean shortages to keep its espresso so cheap – and are these days almost over?
Somebody who wants to set up a cafe in the UK faces vast start-up costs, such as equipment and furniture, which they must recoup in their coffee sales.
In Italy, the majority of bar owners need not concern themselves with these costs, explains Andrea Pettinari, who owns and runs Caffe dell’Arte in Cagliari with his partner.
“Roasting companies will offer to cover start-up costs for bars – they will pay for espresso machines, cups, napkins, you name it,” he says as reported by The Telegraph.
