As with every industry, there's always something changing in vending or news stories worth sharing. New products, technology, and strategies are always being tried and tested. Here are five noteworthy stories from the vending industry.
Xenco Medical, a medical technology company based in San Diego, deployed the first interactive vending machines designed for spine surgery instruments and implants. The machines will "house, track and dispense its breakthrough, entirely disposable spine surgery implant and instrument systems, which are engineered from a highly durable composite polymer."
Coca-Cola's sustainability efforts are on full display at select universities to stay hydrated without dispensing packaged bottles. DASANI PureFill offers students access to free water, or--for a small fee--they can purchase zero-calorie flavors. First rolled out at the Georgia Institute of Technology campus in Atlanta, the machines are now available at Ohio State University and University of Central Florida, with other "schools, hospitals and at-work locations are eyeing rollouts in the coming months."
Are we entering the golden age of vending machines? It's quite possible. As this article from The Spoon points out, vending equipment is no longer the unsightly [fixture] dispensing drinks and snacks. Ramen, beer, and (as mentioned above) medical products, are sold through vending machines that are sleek and easier on the eyes.
Pepsi is also ramping up its sustainability efforts with a similar approach to Coca-Cola's. Pepsi's recent product launch--a beverage dispenser that prompts users to refill their own bottles--helps crack down on the use of disposable plastic bottles.
Vending operators looking to increase sales should consider adding cashless options to their equipment. According to this study, vending machines that sold less than $2,000 in a year increased sales by 110% by adding credit card readers or other cashless payment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vending Machines
What are some recent innovations in vending machines?
Recent innovations include interactive vending machines for spine surgery instruments by Xenco Medical and beverage dispensers that encourage refilling reusable bottles, as seen in Coca-Cola's and Pepsi's sustainability efforts.
How are vending machines contributing to sustainability?
Vending machines like Coca-Cola's DASANI PureFill and Pepsi's refill dispensers reduce the use of disposable plastic bottles by offering free water or flavored drinks and encouraging users to refill their own bottles.
Where have Coca-Cola's DASANI PureFill machines been deployed?
DASANI PureFill machines have been rolled out at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Ohio State University, and the University of Central Florida, with plans for expansion to other schools, hospitals, and workplaces.
What types of products are now being sold through vending machines beyond snacks and drinks?
Vending machines now sell a variety of products including ramen, beer, and specialized medical products like disposable spine surgery implants and instruments.
How can vending operators increase their sales according to recent studies?
Adding cashless payment options such as credit card readers can significantly increase sales, with one study showing a 110% sales increase for machines that previously sold less than $2,000 annually.
Why are vending machines considered to be entering a 'golden age'?
Vending machines are evolving from unsightly fixtures to sleek, visually appealing equipment that offers a wider range of products and improved technology, enhancing user experience.
What is the main benefit of adding cashless payment options to vending machines?
Cashless payment options make transactions easier and more convenient for customers, which can lead to increased sales and better performance of vending machines.
