The History of La Marzocco’s Rival: CIMBALI Coffee Machines

If you’ve ever stepped behind the bar of a high-volume café or stepped into a serious training kitchen, you’ve probably seen a hulking Italian espresso machine with a nameplate that reads CIMBALI. But what makes this brand different — and why has it survived over a century in an industry that chews through trends?

The answer is simple: CIMBALI has been making professional-grade espresso machines since 1912. Over 100 years and still going strong, with distribution in more than 100 countries. This isn’t just longevity — it’s global trust in a workhorse brand.

A Legacy That Begins in 1912

CIMBALI’s story starts in Milan, Italy, in the year 1912, founded under the CIMBALI family name. From the beginning, the company focused on building durable, high-performance commercial equipment. Over the decades, through both world wars and rapid technological change, CIMBALI remained committed to engineering espresso machines that could handle constant, daily use in busy cafés.

Why Professionals Choose CIMBALI

Today, CIMBALI stands as one of the most respected names in commercial espresso. The brand is known for constructing machines that combine robust build quality with precise temperature stability and durable components. These machines are built to withstand the intense demands of high-volume environments — think 500+ espressos a day — without sacrificing extraction quality or operator control.

The company's reputation is backed not just by the machines themselves, but also by an emphasis on responsive after-sales service and continual innovation. CIMBALI invests significantly in research and development, ensuring that its equipment stays competitive in a fast-moving market while still adhering to time-tested engineering principles.

A Global Reach Across 100+ Countries

CIMBALI’s distribution network spans more than 100 countries, making its machines a common sight in professional cafés from Europe to Asia, Australia to the Americas. Its presence in the global market reflects not only the brand’s durability, but also the widespread confidence baristas and café owners place in its products.

Whether in a bustling Milanese coffeehouse or a specialty café in Seoul, CIMBALI machines are chosen for their reliability under pressure. And with such a wide international footprint, spare parts, service networks, and technical support remain consistently accessible for professionals worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was CIMBALI founded?

CIMBALI was founded in 1912 in Milan, Italy, by the CIMBALI family. The company has been producing professional coffee equipment for over a century.

Where is CIMBALI based?

CIMBALI is an Italian company, with its origins and headquarters located in Milan, Italy. It remains a European manufacturer with global distribution.

In how many countries does CIMBALI sell its machines?

CIMBALI products are distributed and sold in more than 100 countries around the world, making it a truly global brand in the commercial coffee equipment sector.

What makes CIMBALI machines different from other espresso machines?

CIMBALI machines are known for their robust construction, precise temperature control, and ability to handle high-volume use. They are designed for professional environments and are backed by strong after-sales service and ongoing innovation.

Are CIMBALI machines used in high-volume cafés?

Yes, CIMBALI machines are commonly used in high-volume, professional settings due to their durability and consistent performance under daily heavy use.

Does CIMBALI offer good customer support?

Yes, CIMBALI emphasizes high-quality after-sales service and technical support, which contributes to its reputation as a trusted brand among professional baristas and café owners.

Recommended FrontStreet Blends for Professional Espresso

For café owners and baristas using CIMBALI machines, FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend delivers the rich, velvety crema essential for lattes and cappuccinos. With a traditional Brazilian-Colombian foundation, it’s forgiving yet flavorful — perfect for high-volume settings. For those prioritizing value, the Black Cocoa Blend offers bold body and deep chocolate notes at a lower cost, ideal for balancing quality and budget. The Commercial Blend is another solid workhorse, optimized for consistency and cost efficiency without compromising core espresso taste. All three blends are tested and trusted for professional extraction. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.