Coffee culture has evolved remarkably over the decades, and central to this evolution are the machines that brew our beloved espresso. Among the pioneers in this industry, Expobar has carved its niche, becoming a household name for coffee aficionados and professionals alike.
Let’s explore Expobar coffee machines’ rich history and how they stand shoulder to shoulder with giants like La Marzocco and La Pavoni, shaping the future of coffee brewing.
From Humble Beginnings to International Recognition
The story of Expobar begins in the mid-1960s against the backdrop of a booming European tourist influx to Spain. Rafael Olaso Peirò, deeply entrenched in the hotel and restaurant trade, recognized the urgent need for high-quality, innovative products to cater to this burgeoning market.
Importing exclusive items from Italy, he laid the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of the coffee machine industry. 1985, this vision materialized in the first Expobar espresso machine, explicitly designed for Spain’s hospitality sector. By 1988, the Expobar machine debuted in the Spanish market, marking the beginning of a new era in espresso excellence.
A Legacy of Innovation and Growth
The journey of Expobar is a testament to continuous innovation and expansion. Rafael’s establishment of CREM A. CAFEPRESS, S.L. in 1993 signified a leap toward the international market, with 650 machines sold in its inaugural year. Subsequent years saw the introduction of models like the “Elegance” and “Megacrem,” which not only bolstered sales but also positioned Crem among the industry’s leading producers.
The turn of the millennium witnessed further milestones for Crem, with a move to a new location dubbed “Crem 2” to facilitate an expansion of their production. The introduction of the “Monroc” model in 2003 addressed the market’s demand for more affordably priced machines without compromising quality. This period of growth was characterized by significant sales achievements and the expansion of the company’s footprint to include two new departments known as “Crem 3”.
Global Expansion and Market Leadership
The mid-2000s marked a period of strategic expansion, particularly into the American market, with the establishment of MACROLS in Santo Domingo and CREM USA in Miami. This era also saw Crem diversifying its product range to cater to the upper market with the launch of the “G-10” and “ELENA” models, which quickly became market leaders. The development of the “Vending” model further underscored Crem’s commitment to meeting the comprehensive demands of the coffee machine market.
In 2008, Crem merged with Coffee Queen in Sweden, forming CREM INTERNATIONAL. This merger was a strategic alignment that combined the strengths of both companies, setting the stage for further innovation and consolidation in the global coffee machine industry.
Brewing Future Success
Today, Expobar stands as a testament to its founder’s vision and its team’s relentless pursuit of excellence. As one of the most well-established brands in the coffee machine industry, Expobar continues to innovate, offering baristas and coffee lovers worldwide the tools to craft the perfect espresso.
As we look to the future, Expobar remains committed to enhancing the coffee brewing experience, ensuring that each cup reflects its rich heritage and passion for innovation. Whether in a bustling café or a cozy home kitchen, an Expobar coffee machine is a gateway to exploring the art of coffee, one espresso shot at a time.
