If you are really pressed for time you should definitely mention this to the barista at the till before ordering. The barista can only give an estimate based upon existing orders and the drink to be made, not to mention a reasonable period of time to state your order and make payment. Sometimes we will get it wrong and the easiest way is to get there earlier.

What has become a widespread issue is people so unaware that ordering taking longer means the longer it will take to get the drink. You are in a rush, you didn't fore plan your need for this drink and we could maybe help... this is not the time to be asking several questions, indecisive about what cup size, can't find the cash or unable to get your payment app up on your phone.

When someone says they have four minutes, as long as it isn't a sophisticated frappe with cold foam on top, we are pretty confident the drink can be made. You will be disappointed if you have stalled the process by taking longer than 10 seconds to complete the order for one drink.

This happens so frequently now, if the request is a drink in 2-3 minutes (even if that is a flat white, americano or tea), they are conversational rather than abrupt and they haven't got a bank note or debit card in hand... I decline the order... the last 30 seconds of that timeframe is hell.