Lavazza brews up a new approach to coffee packaging

Lavazza has launched its Tablì coffee system in the UK, introducing a single-serve machine that brews espresso using compressed coffee tablets instead of traditional capsules.

The tablets are made entirely from ground coffee, with no plastic capsule, individual wrapping, coating or binding agents. The technology is designed to hold the coffee grounds together while allowing consumers to prepare single or double espresso and lungo drinks at home.

Developed over five years, Tablì aims to combine the convenience of pod-based coffee machines with an alternative that reduces packaging waste. The launch follows growing interest in capsule-free formats, including CoffeeB’s compressed coffee balls and Keurig’s planned AltaRounds system.

However, the wider shift towards more sustainable single-serve coffee formats still faces challenges, including inconsistent recycling and composting infrastructure and varying consumer participation.

Tablì’s UK launch adds another option to a market exploring how to deliver convenient coffee while reducing reliance on conventional single-use packaging.