In January 2009, in response to restrictions imposed on vending in hospitals in Wales, the AVA brought together the Vending Choice Coalition (VCC); a group comprising of a number of key Food and Beverage trade associations and major Brand owners.
The group shared a concern that the restrictions in Wales might be extended to other parts of the UK and to other parts of the Government estate and that this would have serious implications for the vending industry. The goal of the Coalition is to ensure that consumers have freedom of choice to purchase a wide range of food and beverages through the vending channel.
Currently, the VCC is focused on Wales where the Health Minister (Edwina Hart) has implemented restrictive nutritional standards in Hospital vending machines that significantly reduced the range of products on sale to staff, visitors and patients.
The VCC has been actively lobbying in Wales, meeting key members of the major political parties, relevant Government Departments and the press. In addition, the VCC is completing research to quantify the economic impact of implementing nutritional guidelines for Hospitals, Vending Operators and Brand Owners.
The VCC is determined to find ways to ensure that vending remains a viable sales channel, offering a wide range of food and beverages to consumers, whilst supporting the Welsh Government’s efforts to drive healthy lifestyle messages and behaviours.
