The Task
The EK Omnia has big shoes to fill: as the modern successor to the legendary EK43, it harmonises tradition and innovation. Developed with real life in mind - thanks to extensive UX research directly in cafés and roasteries. Because what counts is not just technology, but how it feels in everyday life.
The Solution
The EK Omnia is a digital powerhouse - made for professionals who need speed, precision and throughput. Smart automation supports advanced users in their everyday work. At the same time, the classic rotary element with red marker and scale provides familiar orientation - and builds a stylish bridge to the analogue world.
industrial design &
mechanical engineering
The HMI sits perfectly in the mechanical control knob – with just the right turning feel. This is how digital precision merges with analogue control. And because real workhorses should last a long time, the EK Omnia is built to last: with an aluminium housing and robust brass and steel inner workings – plus spare parts for easy repairs and smart upgrades.
Easy Access
Cleanliness made easy: The spout is removable, the head can be opened - so you can access the grinding chamber quickly and easily. And thanks to the integrated spotlight, no coffee grain is left in the dark.
ux testing
A real highlight in the development process: the continuous UX test with some of the world's best baristas in Zurich - professionals we had already interviewed in earlier project phases. They were able to put our interactive prototype through its paces on site. The direct feedback clearly showed that our solution meets the real needs of everyday barista life. Tasks became easier, the UI enabled new workflows - and the whole thing generated real enthusiasm at the machine.
»The Gold Award goes to EK Omnia for a coffee grinder showcasing top-tier qualities: consistent design, automation, a user-focused approach and development based on thorough research. The different modes that can be remotely controlled are clearly targeted at people according to their level of knowledge, solving service quality problems caused by staff shortages and lack of knowledge sharing. The combination of a physical ring and a digital touchscreen allows logical interaction and skillfully bridges the gap between software and hardware components. Noteworthy for its meticulous and clean product design, high-end material quality, and intuitive user guidance, this excellent product not only leverages connectivity and automation to improve efficiency and effectiveness, but also addresses repairability and waste reduction, adding to its holistic appeal.«
Annika Rupp and Tim Richter, UX-Design Awards Jurors
The cleverly positioned cooling fins on the rear ensure efficient heat dissipation - without the need for a loud high-speed fan. This not only reduces the background noise in the café, but also contributes to the durable, low-maintenance design of the EK Omnia. Quiet and reliable.
