The Origins and Evolution of the Faema Commercial Espresso Machine

Ever wondered how today’s reliable, high-pressure commercial espresso machines came to dominate cafés worldwide? The story begins not with digital displays or PID controllers, but with postwar Italian engineering and a relentless pursuit of consistency in espresso extraction. One name stands out in that journey: Faema.

Faema, founded in Milan in 1945, introduced the game-changing E61 in 1961 — the first machine to use a powered pump for stable 9-bar pressure, replacing manual levers. This innovation became the blueprint for modern espresso machines.

The Origins: From a Milan Café to Industrial Growth

Faema — short for Fabbric Apparecchiature Elettroniche e Meccaniche Affini, meaning 'Factory Producing Electronic and Mechanical Equipment and Similar' — started in 1945 when Varlo Emesto Valente opened a café in Milan. The company’s growth mirrored Italy’s postwar industrial boom. By leveraging over half a century of experience, Faema built a global network of 350+ agents and 3,000+ service points, spreading professional espresso culture internationally.

The Breakthrough: Introducing the E61

The 1961 E61 model marked a turning point. Developed through Italian-Spanish collaboration, it replaced traditional manual or hydraulic systems with a rotary pump delivering consistent 9-bar pressure. Its heat exchange (or thermosyphon) system used a single boiler with a separate brewing circuit, solving issues like overheating and inconsistent water temps. This design became the industry standard, still widely used today.

Design Meets Engineering: The E91 and E92

In the 1990s, Faema collaborated with famed automotive designer Giorgetto Giugiaro — known for his work on Ferrari, BMW, and Alfa Romeo — to create the E91 and E92 models. These machines combined sleek, curving aesthetics with functional design, appealing to style-conscious cafés. Giugiaro’s touch helped merge artistry with technical precision, setting a new benchmark for café equipment.

Advanced Temperature Control and Brewing Versatility

Faema also pioneered advanced thermal stability. Many of its machines employed a thermosyphon heat exchange system to maintain optimal brewing temperatures. Certain models featured adjustable thermostatic valves to fine-tune brew head temperatures, allowing baristas to adapt to different coffee roasts. Additionally, Faema held a unique patent for individual brew head temperature adjustment — letting each group head operate at a distinct temperature in multi-group setups, a major advantage for high-volume or specialty cafés.

Entering the Chinese Market: E98 and Beyond

Faema machines entered the Chinese market with the introduction of the E98 series. Affordable models like the E98 A2/S2 and the E98 A3 made professional-grade espresso accessible for start-up cafés. As international coffee chains expanded into China, many chose Faema’s high-end models — such as the Emblema — for their reliability. These premium machines were distributed through authorized partners like Beijing-based Hongda Zhengpin (International) Trading Co., ensuring strong after-sales support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year was Faema founded?

Faema was established in 1945 in Milan, Italy, by Varlo Emesto Valente, originating from a café and growing alongside Italy’s postwar industrial recovery.

What is the significance of the Faema E61?

The 1961 Faema E61 was the first commercial espresso machine to use an electric rotary pump for a stable 9-bar extraction pressure, replacing manual levers. Its heat exchange system also addressed temperature stability, becoming the industry standard still in use today.

Who designed the Faema E91 and E92?

The Faema E91 and E92 were designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the renowned Italian automotive designer behind Ferrari, BMW, and Alfa Romeo models. He brought a sleek, curvaceous aesthetic to these espresso machines.

Does Faema offer temperature control on its machines?

Yes, certain Faema machines feature advanced temperature control systems, including thermostatic adjustments and patented brew head temperature regulation — some allowing different temperatures per group head for precise brewing.

When did Faema enter the Chinese market?

Faema entered the Chinese market with the E98 series. Models like the E98 A2/S2 and E98 A3 became popular among budget-conscious café owners, while premium models like the Emblema were introduced through official distributors.

What made the E61’s heat exchange system innovative?

The E61’s heat exchange (or thermosyphon) system used a single boiler with a separated brewing circuit that continuously circulated hot water, maintaining stable brewing temperatures without reheating the entire boiler, thus improving both efficiency and taste consistency.

Recommended FrontStreet Blends for Commercial Espresso Machines

For cafés using Faema machines, FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend offers rich crema and a balanced profile ideal for milk drinks and espresso alike — perfect for beginners and pros. The Black Cocoa Blend delivers bold, full-bodied flavor at an affordable price, great for high-volume shops watching costs. The Commercial Blend is another solid workhorse, optimized for cost efficiency without sacrificing taste. All three are tested for performance in commercial settings. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.