Esther Broglia is a dispenser of goodness. After graduating in Herbal Sciences and Technologies at the University of Modena, she began working at the shop as an employee and then, when the shop was put up for sale, she took it over.

"At the time I was pregnant and we were in the middle of a pandemic." Not the best time to take a big step, but despite her young age (28 years), with the help of her partner, Andrea Berni - a degree in international marketing and a master's in Food Quality - what could have seemed like a gamble turned out to be a winning choice.

Bottega caffè e tè is an oasis of good taste, for the palate and for the eyes

"From infusions to tea, from coffee to objects, I focus on niche products that can enhance the quality of raw materials and create the right combinations between drinks and objects on display in the store. This work satisfies me and also allows me to put my studies into practice."

The purchasing experience does not end with the delivery of the item. Broglia is a tea sommelier, she spends a long time with customers to explain the organoleptic characteristics of the products present in the shop and suggests which objects to choose to finalize a purchase that can combine pleasantness and aesthetics.

Who is the typical customer of Bottega Caffè e Tè?

Among teapots, infusers, glasses, filters, teapots, cups, and blends of coffee and tea, the choice is as wide as it is selected.

“It’s a sophisticated clientele, mostly aged 40 and over, with a presence of younger people, especially during holidays. I have a loyal clientele who, from the very first months after opening, have given me trust. Through quality and competence, it has been easier to establish a climate of mutual esteem. I try to make my customers feel like protagonists, I promote events, breakfasts outside the store. They are real tastings appreciated by those who participate and important to perceive the customer's satisfaction in terms of quality and price offered. Many ask me to organize courses: there are many requests and they mainly concern the preparation of the beverage, how to recognize the various blends, how to make the perfect cup.”

What goals do you intend to achieve in the short term?

“There are more than one, in truth. Among these, it certainly includes the goal of expanding the customer base by increasing the presence of the younger segment. On the business side, there is still a lot to do. Today I don't have an e-commerce, I make shipments but it is clear that I need to structure myself to create a suitable platform to intercept the requests of a wider market. The Instagram channel is recording excellent results but I can and must do more.”

What is your relationship with suppliers?

“With them, I try to establish a relationship similar to the one I have with my customers. The supplier is not just the one who delivers the item to me, I must grasp the preparation and passion for what they do. Not just a mere executor, therefore, but a person able to support those who showcase their brands. And it's not so easy to find them..."

Quality and originality are the distinctive features that, together with listening to the customer, make the difference

What do the products you sell in your Bottega tell?

“Personal taste emerges in the store's proposals, I am very demanding of myself and as a result, I am even more so when I think that I have to satisfy those who turn to my shop for purchases. The offer is articulated and oriented towards a panel of proposals that are difficult to replicate in other stores. I don't want to compete with realities close to me and that operate in the area. Quality and originality are the distinctive features that, together with listening to the customer, make the difference."

What did you like about the first edition of Milano Home and what would you like to find again in the 2025 appointment?

“I appreciated the many niche realities present in the pavilions, a more accessible fair capable of arousing great interest. I was satisfied. In January, I expect innovative ideas and projects, original packaging, new companies, both Italian and foreign.”