The Nespresso story began more than 30 years ago with a simple idea: enable anyone to create the perfect cup of espresso coffee – just like a skilled barista.

From its beginning in 1986, Nespresso has redefined and revolutionised the way millions of people enjoy their espresso coffee and shaped the global coffee culture.

Building on the earlier work of Luiggi Bezzera, who first invented the espresso machine in the early 1900s, a new system was developed that would allow anybody to craft, and enjoy, a perfect Italian espresso: the world’s first portioned coffee system.

What followed were the company’s most pivotal years, filled with radical experimentation and many trials and errors.

Finally, in 1986, there was a big breakthrough and Nespresso was born along with the first C-100 coffee machine and four signature portioned coffee blends: Capriccio, Cosi, Bolero (now Volluto) and Decaffeinato.​

Recycling

Nestlé Nespresso is the pioneer and reference for highest-quality portioned coffee.  The company works with more than 110,000 farmers in 14 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes.

Launched in 2003 in collaboration with The Rainforest Alliance, the program helps to improve the yield and quality of harvests, ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee and improving livelihoods of farmers and their communities.

Headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, Nespresso operates in 84 countries and has 14,250 employees. In 2019, it operated a global retail network of 810 boutiques. In 2019, it operated a global retail network of 810 boutiques. The brand currently has more than 100’000 points to collect its used capsules globally, enabling 91% of its consumers to recycle.

Exploring The World With Nespresso

The new “World Explorations” range aims to take coffee lovers on a tour of different coffee cultures around the world – at home, with the touch of a button. Cape Town is one of 6 cities included in this journey. 

Beyond Cape Town, the range celebrates traditional coffee moments from around the world, inviting consumers on a journey that will enhance their tastes and enrich their coffee knowledge. This includes the Viennese coffee house culture, where coffee becomes part of a special trip and is enjoyed idly from morning ‘til night, and Argentina’s Merienda coffee break, observed late in the afternoon alongside sweet and savoury snacks.