30 Apr Vending Industry Shines at Nama Show
Last week, leaders in Philadelphia’s vending industry joined their nationwide counterparts in attending the annual NAMA show in Las Vegas. Their goal was to explore new trends, technology, and products to bring back to their customers. The show is an annual tradition sponsored by the National Automatic Merchandising Association, a group representing the $25 billion convenience service industry in the United States.
Advancements in vending machines, coffee service, micro-markets, and pantry services were on display. Attendees took advantage of this opportunity to learn about them and to also connect with other industry members. Some of the world’s most popular brands were represented. They were complemented by new showings from fledgling entrepreneurs. Over 100 new exhibitors joined the show this year and overall over 360 exhibitors and 4,500 members attended.
A total of 125 new products premiered at the show and it’s clear that healthy snacks and beverages continue to be key growth categories. The show’s Better For You Pavilion featured a collection of healthier items. As a whole, healthy products occupied its largest space ever at the show. Bob Betz, the owner of Philadelphia’s One Source Refreshment, discovered new items that continue to increase the appeal of healthy food options. One Source Refreshment specializes in healthy snacks and beverages in addition to providing complete vending, office coffee, and micro-market services. “Gone are the days of sacrificing taste to eat healthy,” Bob says. “There are just too many great options out there.”
Advancements in technology were also on display at the show. New and easier ways of processing digital payments were featured to keep pace with consumer’s desire to purchase their vending items conveniently and securely without cash. New systems were also revealed that optimize up to the minute point-of-sale data. These improvements will continue to maximize delivery route efficiencies and minimize out of stocks.
The NAMA Show featured a large number of educational speakers who are experts in their fields. Speaker Neil Swindale discussed marketing strategies for thriving in our quickly evolving digital age. Neil is an expert in customer lead generation and engagement and the owner of VendCentral, a top marketing agency for the vending industry. Presenters like Neil provided attendees with valuable insight and inspiration.
Bob and his One Source Refreshment team enjoy a networking event at the NAMA Show.
Bob Betz recognizes that the vending industry is constantly changing and uses the NAMA show as a resource each year. Bob has made it a priority to stay on top of the latest products and innovations. This has helped make One Source Refreshment the largest independent vending services provider in the Philadelphia area. “We are always looking for the best new ideas to bring to our customers,” Bob says. “The NAMA Show is a great way to ensure that we are staying on top of the industry and providing the best offerings to our clients.”
One Source Refreshment offers complete vending services to clients in Philadelphia, its suburbs, New Jersey and Delaware. Contact them at 800-549-3190 for a free consultation and product tasting.