The winners of this year’s Vendies were announced at a glittering gala luncheon in London yesterday. Hosted by film director, actor and presenter Ryan Philpott, over 150 members of the vending and water industries gathered at the 5* Chelsea Harbour Hotel to celebrate the success of the past 12 months. The event also raised money for Demelza House Hospice Care for Children.
In the Vending categories, Best Hot Beverage went to Lavazza Coffee and Best Soft Drink, Berrywhite Organic Drinks. Best Machine Innovation (sponsored by Lavazza), went to Coffetek for its Button Barista App, while Nayax picked up the award for Best Payment System (sponsored by Siemens Financial Services), for its VPOS Card reader with telemetry and management system.
Burts Potato Chips had a successful night picking up two awards: Best Health & Well Being Product (Lentil Waves Thai Sweet Chilli) and Best New Product (sponsored by Suzohapp) for its Hobgoblin Spit Roast Steak. Best Snack/Confectionery Product went to Kettle Chips for its Handy Packs, while Benders Paper Cups scooped Best Vending Cup. Siemens Financial Services was awarded Best Ancillary Service to the Industry.
In the water categories, the Best Environmental Initiative Project went to Brita Professional for its ongoing 
commitment to the environment, while 4 Aces Single Cup Dispenser was named Best Product Innovation.
Vending International’s Jenny Thompson heads up sponsorship for the Awards. She said: “It’s been a fantastic year for entries and voting, so congratulations to all of our winners. A big ‘thank you’ must go to our lead sponsor So Pure, together with our category sponsors, Suzohapp, Lavazza and Siemens and of course our good bag sponsors, who made sure there were plenty of snacks for the journey home!”
Features editor, Bryony Andrews said: “We had a really high standard of entries for the Vendies 2016. It was a great opportunity for companies both large and small to shout about their achievements and innovations from the past twelve months. We are already beginning to work on the plans for next year’s event – bring on The Vendies 2017!”
When The Vendies returns next year, it will include categories for operators, individuals, manufacturers and suppliers, as well as the prestigious Vending Industry Lifetime Achievement Award. Visit www.thevendies.co.uk to find out more.
