Good coffee is now widely available: in hospitals and offices, and even at supermarket snack bars. However, not everyone can access this increasing availability of high-quality coffee. This is despite the fact that a suitable machine is available. Since the menus and controls are often located at the top of the machines on high countertops, access is often difficult, if not impossible, for wheelchair users. To address this issue, Schaerer has developed the Easy Access module, which features easily accessible control buttons.
Making a big difference with minimal resources
Thanks to the Easy Access concept, drinks can be selected using the additional buttons located on the drip tray of the Schaerer Coffee Soul. These buttons can be used to control the touch display and select and personalise the coffee specialities on offer. The Easy Access module works in a similar way to the arrow keys on a computer keyboard. You can use them to navigate left and right through the beverage selection menu, start beverage preparation or cancel the process. Easy Access is designed for use with the Schaerer Coffee Soul 10 and 12 models, which operate in self-service mode. This enables wheelchair users to easily prepare their own beverages whenever and wherever they want. Schaerer has already introduced Easy Access to great success in the USA. Global Product Manager Xiaoya Tan was responsible for developing the new module.
“To my knowledge, there is currently no other operating concept on the market comparable to Easy Access. We have offered this feature as an option for the Schaerer Coffee Soul in the USA since 2023, so it is not a new concept. What has already been well-received by our customers in the US is now available worldwide.”
“We love it your way” for everyone
Easy Access is undergoing extensive testing in Europe at the moment, and Schaerer is achieving excellent results. The Schaerer office is also affected by this, as there are wheelchair users among the office's workforce.
«We have a whole range of features that we want to implement in our machines, but this one takes priority. Because our slogan “We love it your way” cannot apply to just a privileged few; it must include everyone.»
Licia Mussinelli works on the reception desk at Schaerer and is also a successful racing wheelchair athlete. She lives by the values of reliability, discipline and openness at work, as well as in sport. Coffee plays a significant role in her life, both in relation to her employer and in terms of her independence in everyday life. For Licia, accessibility is not a minor issue, but a basic requirement.
“In everyday life, I am extremely dependent on accessibility, whether at train stations, in shops or buildings.I am always happy when I can get around without help or complications.”
Accessbility means independence
It is precisely this independence that enables her to use the Easy Access operating concept on the coffee machine. The new module positions the control buttons right at the front of the drip tray, where they are easily accessible for Licia. She tested the function for the first time in the Schaerer social area and was immediately convinced. For Schaerer, Easy Access is more than just a technical innovation; it is a step towards greater equality in everyday life. Licia also views it as more than just a practical solution; it is a tangible demonstration of inclusion in action.
“The coffee machine is very simple and easy to use thanks to the Easy Access feature. For people with severe paralysis, it's definitely a game changer.”
