SCA Certified Commercial Equipment Program

Professional-grade technology, on stage and behind the bar.

The SCA Certified Commercial Equipment Program currently includes testing for SCA Certified Espresso Machines, which meet the high-quality standards for professional-grade espresso machines, set by the World Coffee Championships’ rules and regulations.

The SCA Certified Espresso Machine mark is awarded to machines designed and engineered to give baristas quality and precision control over their brewing, whether they're on the competition stage or behind the bar serving customers. All SCA Certified Espresso Machines have met requirements based on proper temperature and pressure specifications, filter basket consistency, and standards for repeatability and reliability.

The Certified Commercial Equipment Program derives from World Coffee Events (WCE) Qualified Testing, a qualification for equipment used on our competition stages.

SCA Certified Espresso Machines

Dozens of machines are submitted for testing every year, but only those that bear the SCA Certified Espresso Machine mark have met our rigorous testing standards.

We’re delighted to share and celebrate the innovation of manufacturers of SCA Certified Espresso Machines, whether they appear behind a bar in a café or on a competition stage.

2022-2024 SCA Certified Espresso Machines

2018-2021 SCA Certified Espresso Machines

Equipment Testing Process

Manufacturers are invited to apply for testing in any of the categories listed below and are welcome to submit multiple models. Each submission receives a full test report regardless of its passing status. For more information on the testing program, please use the contact form below.

Manufacturers can now register their interest in the next cycle of Qualified Espresso Machine Sponsorship for the 2026-2029 World Barista Championship (WBC). Qualified Testing for Espresso Machines will commence in early January through to March, with Espresso Machines that pass testing gaining eligibility to submit bids for the Qualified Sponsorship of the 2026-2029 WBC and also have the option to participate in the SCA Certified Espresso Machine Program. Eligible manufacturers can learn more and register interest at wcc.coffee/latest-news.

History of the Certification

The SCA Commercial Equipment Certification Program evolved from the work of volunteers of the World Barista Championship, who, around 2004, began setting the testing standards and qualification process for espresso machines that could withstand the fast-paced environment of the competition stage. In 2011, the test became the standard for all events hosted by World Coffee Events, the SCA’s event management organization. Since creating these standards, and as the specialty coffee industry evolves, manufacturers have continued to push the envelope on equipment functionality and quality.

Get in Touch

Questions about the SCA Certified Commercial Equipment program? We're here to help. Get in touch with our team by submitting a message below.