Stockport businessman Rob Little, whose company Vendman provides data management systems to 80% of the UK’s vending operators, has launched what he hopes will be ‘an industry-wide campaign’ aimed at the well-known broadcaster James May.

In his new book ‘The Man Lab’, Mr. May, who is best known as a presenter of the hit BBC TV show ‘Top Gear’, offers his readers advice in the event of a vending machine failing to deliver the goods.

Steve Reynolds, National Business Development Manager

I have been involved in the Vending Business for the past twenty years in some way from actually filling machines to operation management and of course sales and sales management over the past five years I have been very impressed with the Vendman Operation and having spent 16 years with Britvic and Tayto respectively an opportunity was presented to me at Vendman which I became very excited about.

Westomatic Vending Services Ltd has a new addition to its UK sales team with the appointment of Tony Greensill as our Vending Sales Manager for the North. Tony has over 20 years of valuable experience ranging from technical support to account management for a number of leading vending brands, most recently with Brita Water Filters.

Seaga , a full-service, global supplier of vending machines and the North American Master Distributor of Saeco coffee machines, has announced the appointment of David Llewellyn as General Manager of Seaga UK Ltd and Seaga Caffè.

Vendex North returned to Old Trafford (home to none other than Manchester United) on 15th November, offering the perfect platform for vending manufacturers and suppliers in a variety of sectors. Vending International reports...

Vendex 2011 proved once again to be an exciting and successful show, with a good variety of sectors represented. Showcasing its ability to supply all parts to all vending industries, Abbeychart enjoyed good footfall throughout the day with Sales & Marketing Manager, Linzi Sahota-Moore, commenting; “Vendex allowed us to speak to a number of customers and potential new leads whilst also being able to follow up on some current projects. Basically, a good show!”

There is no doubt that pre-prepared meals are convenient. The ‘stab, stab, ping, ping’ approach to cooking is common in households and offices across theUK. In this age of austerity eating out is a luxury we can ill afford which is why the gourmet style ready meal, with the promise of using only the freshest ingredients, is a much more cost effective option…

Concerns about rising obesity levels and other dietary related diseases make healthy eating a constant cause for concern. While much of the focus is often on food in schools, being able to eat healthily outside of the home is an ongoing issue for the consumer.

Vending International investigates…

As recently as five years ago, there was a common perception amongst consumers that vended coffee was sub-standard compared to what was offered on the high street. As cafes popped up across the country, vending lost out and operators suffered from decreasing sales and plummeting profits.

Paul Freeman, Marketing Director at Douwe Egberts Coffee Systems UK, explains how the vending sector has been grabbing back a share of the Out-of-Home hot beverage market.

On Wednesday 23 November 2011, as part of his last tour as Executive Chairman of AVS, Brian Tustain visited the new Barry Callebaut Vending UK Ltd premises in Lea Green St Helens.

The association between Fekade Zewde and Brian - pictured - is one stretching back to the earliest days of the AVS Group of companies.

The European Vending Association (EVA) recently welcomed its newest member: the Romanian Vending Association (PRIV), tallying its National Association membership to 21.

The Romanian Employers’ Association of the Vending Industry (PRIV) was established by some of the pioneers working in the Romanian vending sector. The idea of establishing a national vending association grew from adverse issues that Romanian vending machine operators were facing in the absence of a legislative framework.

Christmas is just around the corner and we’re very much looking forward to celebrating the year’s successes with you at the AVA Christmas Lunch on 8th December! We’ve secured an amazing venue – LSO St Luke’s, home to the world famous London Symphony Orchestra – so if you’ve not already booked your ticket, please contact Bridget as soon as possible. There are just 2 tables left! Mark Pawsey MP has kindly accepted our invitation and will be joining us for lunch and sharing a few words with us after we’ve all eaten. We’ve even got a top secret act to entertain us too!

Three years ago Hard Rock Cafe Europe were looking to improve their coffee experience and establish a corporate partner that was Pan European; Lavazza was the perfect fit. Three years on and Lavazza coffee is now served in the majority of Hard Rock’s EU Corporate Cafes.

Lavazza participates in the active training of Hard Rock staff in the countries it partners. Both parties feel that this is vital to the success of the partnership as Hard Rock and Lavazza both place a lot of value on training and service and so invest heavily in training practices and procedures.

Dairy Crest sees H1 2011 revenue increase 2% to £796.2m and pre-tax profit grow 9% to £39.2m, with strong performances in Cheese and Spreads divisions offsetting lower Dairies division profits.

The European Commission formally approves the use of steviol glycosides in food and beverages across the EU’s 27 member states.

Robert Wiseman Dairies posts a 42% decline in pre-tax profit to £11.8m for the six months ended 1 October 2011, driven by input price inflation and continuing tough economic conditions.

Huhtamaki has worked alongside one of its newest customers, Bolling Coffee, to develop a unique cup design that incorporates innovative technology to help educate and inform customers.

Aqua Cure has launched a new sanitiser containing Byotrol, the breakthrough anti microbial technology.

Brulines Group plc (AIM:BRU), the leading provider of real time monitoring systems and data management services for the leisure and forecourt solutions sectors, is pleased to announce that its subsidiary Vianet has secured a contract with Visa Europe to provide contactless payment technology for the vending machines located at its European headquarters in Paddington and its offices in Reading and Basingstoke.

SedaUKis to sponsor the London Coffee Festival for a second time. Following the successful launch of the event this year, SedaUKwill again sponsor the London Coffee Festival which takes place 27-29 April 2012 at the Old Truman Brewery,Brick Lane.

The Board of Directors of N&W Global Vending S.p.a. is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrea Zocchi as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1st January 2012. He succeeds Antonio Cavo, who - in a planned succession process - will remain as Chairman ensuring a smooth transition and management continuity.

In theUK, Danone Dairies launches its probiotic drinking yogurt Actimel in a new recyclable sugar cane-derived plastic bottle.

British dairy cooperative Milk Link reports a 10.2% rise in H1 2011/12 turnover to £311.8m, with EBITDA up 6.9% to £20.1m.

Irish food and ingredients firm Kerry Group sees sales revenue grow 7.9% for the first nine months of 2011, with ingredients & flavours division volume up 3.9% and consumer foods volume up 1.6%.

Lucozade, theUK’s biggest sports and energy brand  is introducing its first ever cola flavoured variant to the Lucozade Energy range. New Lucozade Energy Cola is set to revolutionise sports & energy which is already the fastest growing segment in the soft drinks category .

Cola is the nation’s favourite soft drinks flavour  and the latest offering from the makers of Lucozade will debut on shelf in a ‘black edition’ bottle for a limited time. The sleek, distinctive black bottle design will grab consumers’ attention by creating maximum stand out on shelf and in turn generate incremental sales for retailers.

Abbeychart Ltd, suppliers to the vending, pure water, soft drinks and catering industries, is now available through multimedia and social networks. Follow them now on Twitter to see all the news, daily special offers, updates and product information live as they happen.

The appointment of Rob Cowley, former UK Head of Vending for Kraft/Cadbury, as the new Chief Executive of members owned vending consortia, Associated Vending Services Ltd was formally confirmed at a recent meeting of members held on the 3rd November 2011 at the Hilton Hotel, NEC,Birmingham.

Rob wowed the membership on only his second day in the position with a brief outline of what will be a radically different and even more beneficial and purposeful Association in due course.

Founder of Becktech and UK vending industry pioneer, Tom Beckett has passed away aged 95. Tom's career in vending spanned eight decades, during which time he was responsible for the development of the first hot beverage machines to offer tea, coffee and hot chocolate and the development of the first four-coin electronic coin validator.

On Wednesday 23 November 2011, as part of his last tour as Executive Chairman of Associated Vending Services, Brian Tustain visited the new Barry-Callebaut Vending UK Ltd premises in Lea Green St Helens. The association between Fekade Zewde and Brian - pictured - is one stretching back to the earliest days of the AVS Group of companies.

Vending consultancy Apogee International Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Graham Crowhurst as Customer Support Director. Graham has over twenty years experience within the public service sector and will be leaving his current position of Contract Manager to join Apogee in December.

Katharina C. Hamma (45) has been appointed to the Koelnmesse management team. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO), she will be responsible for the operations of the entire trade fair programme in Cologne, as well as for the company's sales, communications and services. About half of Koelnmesse’s approximately 500 employees work in these areas.

Lavazza has united 12 masters of photography to celebrate the twentieth edition of its calendar which, this year, is entitled ‘The Lavazzers’. The 12 contributors are: Annie Leibovitz, Miles Aldridge, David LaChapelle, Mark Seliger, Elliott Erwitt, Finlay MacKay, Ellen von Unwerth Erwin Olaf, Thierry Le Gouès, Marino Parisotto, Eugenio Recuenco, and Albert Watson

Each year, over 100,000 people of working age are diagnosed with cancer in the UK and many of the UK's six million carers are looking after a friend or relative with cancer. Cancer is becoming a significant issue in the workplace, with greater numbers of people at work or returning to work after a cancer diagnosis. That’s why Macmillan Cancer Support has produced The Essential Work and Cancer Toolkit, to help employers support people with cancer, and their carers, in the workplace.

Sielaff, leading German manufacturer of beverage vending machines and merchandisers has launched the CVS+, a modernised version of its best-selling bean-to-cup beverage vendor, the CVS. The new machine uses state-of-the-art touch screen controls and is available with optional accessory vendor and card module. It may be specified as a vending line alongside the Company’s new merchandiser, the Combimat.

NESCAFÉ® GOLD BLEND® has just got even better. With a new richer aroma, fans of the instant coffee will love its new improved recipe, which has been specially designed to stimulate the senses! The new recipe has been developed to retain all the much loved attributes of NESCAFÉ® GOLD BLEND® while providing consumers with an even richer coffee flavour.

Mars Drinks has announced the exciting launch of new coffee and tea brands, set to take the nation’s workplaces by storm. A flagship collection from ALTERRA COFFEE ROASTERS™ gives you good quality coffee for all, with distinctive roasts and big flavours. THE BRIGHT TEA CO.™ has been created by tea enthusiasts and experts at Mars Drinks and offers perfectly balanced, full-flavoured teas that are refreshed for the demands of today.

The catering and hospitality industry is only just beginning to get to grips with new mandatory responsibilities for operators of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, following the implementation of the F-Gas Regulation. The legislation came into force on July 4, 2011, and is part of a European-wide push to reduce emissions of HFCs, potent Global Warming gases in widespread use as refrigerants in commercial refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.

Coldpress 100% juices retain the pure taste, nutrition and antioxidants of fresh fruit by using High Pressure Processing (HPP), the Braeburn Apple Juice tastes like Braeburn Apples and the same with Golden Delicious Apple Juice and the Pink Lady.

Around 300 guests from the coffee industry – and beyond – have joined leading private label coffee roaster and packer Masteroast to celebrate an impressive 30 successful years in business. VIPs from all over the world descended on the company’s HQ in Peterborough on Friday 30 September to attend the Masteroast ‘Bean Bash’ – a special party held to mark the milestone anniversary of the establishment of the business by Les Mills and his wife Eve, three decades previously on 5th October 1981.

Excalibur has been refurbishing machines for many years and in line with their plans to expand the business they will be exhibiting at Old Trafford. Already known to many vending operators, Richard Gilbert MD & Owner, explained “our refurbishing service ticks all the boxes in terms of cost, quality and environmental credentials. Operators can concentrate on what they do best whilst we work on their machines and deliver them back like new.”

Finlays Beverages are launching two new products into the vending sector, these are 100% Rainforest Alliance Kenya Tea, 100% Rainforest Alliance Freshbrew Coffee. Nigel Weston, Business Manager for Finlays says ‘there is a big gap for choice especially within the freshbrew tea and is delighted to offer an alternative choice to operators’.

Masteroast, the UK’s leading private label coffee roaster, is gearing up to hold the party of a lifetime to celebrate an incredible 30 successful years in business.  The company is to stage a ‘Bean Bash’ at Plantation House, its Peterborough HQ, on 30 September to mark the milestone anniversary of its establishment exactly three decades previously on 1 October 1981.

Nestlé has announced the launch of its 2011 ‘Get Set, Go Free’ promotion, which offers consumers the opportunity to try out a range of activities free of charge throughout the summer holidays, and for the first time ever Nestlé Professional will be taking part.

Masteroast, the private label coffee roaster and packer, teed off its annual Golf Day to raise money for forces charity Help for Heroes. Customers and suppliers joined Masteroast for a great day’s sport over 18 holes at the Greetham Valley Golf Club in Rutland.

Vivreau, the world’s leading innovator and manufacturer of mains fed purified drinking systems was the proud sponsor of the Green Champion Award at this year’s Considerate Hoteliers Award event. The award, which was won by The Savoy’s Green Team Chairman, Debra Patterson, recognises a person, who through sheer dedication and determination, has inspired others to raise the green standard. Nominated by people from within the industry, the winner is seen as a true green champion.

Trebor is launching an innovative new product, Trebor Mint Pot. The new pack will include 50 peppermint Softmints in a pot, with the usual eye catching pack design. With its larger format, the new pot has been created to allow consumers to easily access the mints, making it perfect for sharing and for enjoying at work.

Benders has taken delivery of a new high-speed cup forming machine as part of the company's continued investment in the growth of the business. This new high-speed machine will not only build upon Benders’ reputation for quality, engineered products but is also part of the company’s longer term strategy to invest back into the business.

Leading disposable packaging manufacturer, Huhtamaki, has responded to customer demand for larger beverages by introducing a new 20oz size to its premium range of double wall paper hot cups. Perfect for premium beverages such as frothy cappuccinos, creamy lattes and gourmet hot chocolates, the new 20oz size reflects the trend by consumers seeking larger beverages that they can enjoy on the go.

The UK’s largest water cooler trade association, the EDWCA, has issued a warning against the use of unregulated and unaccredited water cooler suppliers. The European Drinking Water Cooler Association warns that drinking water quality and hygiene is being compromised by unregulated and untrained distributors.

Andi Redwood is the latest foodservice expert to sign up to the Nestlé Professional “Chef Club” ambassador programme. The club has been designed to support gifted chefs by providing inspiration and collaboration along with access to offers, promotions, industry events and masterclasses.

The team at RPC Tedeco - Gizeh have chosen Macmillan Cancer Support as their charity partner for 2011. Speaking at this year's AVEX exhibition at the NEC Birmingham, David Lowe General Manager commented, “We have a very positive employee forum team at our site in Kenfig South Wales and they agreed unanimously that Macmillan would be our charity partner for 2011."

AVS, the largest vending buying group in the UK, has extended its contract for paper vending and hot cups to Benders Paper Cup Company for a further 2 years.

Leading British equipment manufacturer DarenthMJS has launched its very latest equipment offering - The Roma Bean to Cup. Enhancing its already extensive range, the Roma Bean to cup combines a stylish matt black and highly polished stainless steel cabinet design, accentuated with neon-effect backlighting available in a range of colours.

For those of you who visited AVEX, you’ll probably be aware that we re-launched our hugely successful Training Programme at the exhibition! The Training Programme, which is needed for the AVA Quality Programme, is an extremely valuable tool and allows you to continue to provide a quality service to your customers.

No Fear Extreme Energy is the fastest growing, large format can in the UK energy market and on a recent AVA industry golf day in Coventry, the drink proved that it also contains the secret to hitting a hole-in-one.

Emmi has announced a new member of its Caffe Latte iced coffee range - Extra Shot. As its name suggests, the new beverage contains an extra shot of real espresso to deliver a great, natural pick me up at any time of the day.

The Paper Cup Company’s Green Paper Cup was originally produced for customers who wanted to be more environmentally friendly by recycling cups. The New Green Paper Cup takes things further by helping customers reduce their carbon footprint. For every 1000 cups sold the Green Earth Appeal will plant one tree - enough to offset the carbon and replace the wood used in the manufacturing of the cups.

Pack Tunch has launched three new flavoured health bars – apple & cinnamon, pineapple & coconut and lemon & lime, all of which contain California Raisins. The bars can be found in a range of health and wholefood shops, gyms and sports facilities across the UK and retail at 99p per 45g bar.

Pepsi is offering its UK consumers the opportunity to be ‘The World’s Best Mate’ by giving them the chance to win wild experiences for themselves and their friends every hour for eight weeks from July. Lead by Pepsi Max, the on-pack promotion will feature across the range of pack sizes including 500ml, 600ml, 1litre and 2litre PET bottles as well as the 330ml can.

The EVA has announced that the registration website is now open for the EVA's AGM and Workshop 2011, which will take place on 12 and 13 December, in Brussels. The topic of this edition is: "European Vending - Understanding current market issues & trends - across Europe".

All you need for crisps and snacks from one great supplier. Golden Wonder, resurgent over the past year, is continuing to grow through its comprehensive offering of Crisps and Snacks and has everything you need to satisfy your consumers’ requirements all under one roof.

Siemens Financial Services understands the needs of businesses in a way few others can, which is why 90 of the current FTSE 100 companies and more than 50% of NHS trusts and local authorities have entrusted us to arrange financing for them. In the vending sector, our approach to building long-term service oriented relationships is well recognised through the NIVO Service Supplier of the Year accolade, which we received for the second year in succession.

Nestlé Fawdon has announced the development of a butterfly meadow, set in its factory grounds, designed to encourage indigenous wildlife back to the area. The butterfly sanctuary, situated at Nestlé’s Newcastle site, was created with the assistance of its employees and their families.

Visiting AVEX? Make sure you pop along and see AVA on stand D46! You can meet the team, technical committee, and find out more about the Association. There’ll also be a great offer for anyone taking out membership whilst at the exhibition – yes, we’re waiving the joining fee! We think you’ll agree that this is a fantastic deal, so for those of you who’ve recommended the Association to others, make sure you tell them about the show exclusive and encourage them to visit the show!

Mars Drinks UK has rewarded cup supplier RPC Tedeco-Gizeh UK with a ‘Golden Supplier Award’ for business achievement in 2010. The award recognises the professional approach taken by RPC Tedeco-Gizeh, towards meeting the needs of its customer, Mars Drinks UK.

illy issimo, the ready-to-drink coffee-based beverage developed by a collaboration between illycaffè and The Coca-Cola Company, launched into the UK at the recent Caffè Culture event at London Olympia. The chilled coffee range is all-natural and made with illy’s unique 100% Arabica coffee blend and no added preservatives, artificial colours, aromas or flavours.

Following detailed negotiations and consultation with its membership; Associated Vending Services Ltd (AVS), the UK’s leading vending operators consortia, has awarded a two year extension to the sole supply contract for plastic vending cups to RPC Tedeco-Gizeh, the principal supplier of plastic vending and drinking cups to the UK and European markets.

International Paper Foodservice Europe Ltd. has announced that Patricia Ashton, (29), has been promoted to the role of Customer Service Executive less than 12 months after joining the company as a member of its Customer Service Administration team.

EurOps, the European Conference for Operators, organised by the EVA, took place on the 14 and 15 April, in Estoril, Portugal and enjoyed a high turnout with 110 participants, representing all segments of the industry. Around 60% of those attending were operators, 32% were suppliers (ingredient suppliers, machine manufacturers, payment system manufacturers, etc).

Rexam, one of the world’s largest beverage can makers, has won an award for Quality Design at the Italian Oscar dell'Imballaggio 2011 (an annual national contest promoted by the Italian Institute of Packaging in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Design).

Leading British equipment manufacturer DarenthMJS have proudly launched their very latest equipment offering - The Roma Bean to Cup.

Enhancing yet further their already extensive product range, the Roma Bean to cup combines a stylish matt black and highly polished stainless steel cabinet design, which is superbly accentuated with neon-effect backlighting available in a range of stunning colours.

No Fear Extreme Energy has made an exciting addition to its events calendar by signing up as the official energy drink of the Gumball 3000.

The world famous car rally has joined forces with the UK’s fastest selling energy drink to keep the 120 entrants going on the 3,000 mile trip, which will begin in London on 25^th May.

As part of the deal, No Fear Extreme Energy will have a fully branded Ferrari 430 which will take part in the mammoth eight day rock and roll rally which will visit eight different countries around Europe including London, Paris, Barcelona, Monaco, Venice and Belgrade, before finishing in Istanbul on 1^st June.

Aimia Foods has announced further investment in its plant facilities – based at Haydock, UK – following the success of its £1m continuous agglomeration facility which was installed 12 months ago.

To further widen its expertise and attract new brand owners seeking production solutions, Aimia has announced the installation of a brand new pouch packing line, which it expects will be fully operational by June.

The EVA's Technical Committee has updated its EVA EMP – Energy Measurement Protocol. The main difference in the new version, EMP 3.0., is that the document is divided into two parts: chilled, frozen & ambient machines (EMP 3.0a), and hot & cold drinks machines (EMP 3.0b).

Furthermore, the EVA Technical Committee will submit its EMP 3.0b protocol to CENELEC, which is the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization. The process could take one to three years, and the use of the protocol as a standard will remain voluntary, as it is now.

Want to know more about vending? Looking to discover how vending can benefit your business? Interested to learn about the very latest offerings in the vending world, including new technologies and innovations? If you’ve answered ‘yes’, then a visit to AVEX (15th–16th June 2011, NEC) – the UK’s largest vending and water show – is a must!

The Cooler Recycling Group who are exhibiting at the forthcoming AVEX, have announced the completion of the first stage of the installation of Europe’s first fully compliant commercial fridge recycling plant at its new site near Rugby. The facility will accept ‘end of life’ commercial refrigeration equipment and panels containing blown insulation, for treatment and disposal.

As part of its ongoing brand and product renovation, Nestlé Professional® has announced the launch of NESCAFÉ® Gold Blend the ‘nation’s favourite premium coffee1’ branded 9oz paper cups for vending.

Matt Lane, Nestlé Professional® Category Lead for Vending, said: “NESCAFÉ® is recognised as the UK’s most trusted coffee both in home2 and out of home3. And we see this as a big opportunity for NESCAFÉ® Gold Blend operators to increase the drink price they are receiving per cup.

Nestlé Professional® announces a further waste reduction – by reducing the packaging used for NESCAFÉ® Latte, NESCAFÉ® Cappuccino and AERO® sachet outer packaging.

The packaging now uses 36.3% less material and creates an annual saving of 15.3 tonnes. However, customers can rest assured the amount of product in each serving remains the same!

Over 7,585 natural and organic industry professionals were out in force at the beginning of April, as London Olympia’s spectacular Grand Hall was transformed into a vibrant showcase of the very best in natural and organic products at the 15th Natural & Organic Products Europe.

Lucozade Sport’s new advertising campaign starring Brit award winning rapper Tinie Tempah, world renowned drummer Travis Barker and Irish World Champion boxer Katie Taylor will launch Lucozade’s new YES campaign - a celebration of energy in inspirational and infectious forms which represents a repositioning of the sport and energy drinks brand.

Italian espresso machine manufacturer La Cimbali’s Magnum On Demand grinder has helped to break the world record set at the 2011 London Coffee Festival for ‘the number of espressos made in an hour’, grinding coffee used to make 1,500 espressos on the La Cimbali stand.

The University of Canberra will become the first Australian campus to ban the sale of bottled water the Sydney Morning Herald reports. It's believed to be the largest ban of its kind in Australia and the first across a university. Organisers say the ban will stop 140,000 PET plastic bottles from being sold annually.

Fairtrade tea and coffee brand Clipper has appointed Masteroast as its channel partner for the foodservice market.

Masteroast will now be responsible for supplying Clipper’s complete selection of teas and infusions – and its new range of espresso and filter coffees – to the hundreds of third party companies that distribute tea and coffee directly to independent cafés and coffee shops.

All the entries for the 2011 Healthy Schools’ Caterer competition have now been judged and Cater Link has been chosen from the many entries as the overall winner in the Primary Schools section of the competition.

California Raisins has been running this competition for 6 years and since the competition began, hundreds of caterers from across the UK have entered. We have witnessed first-hand the superb work that has been put into schools catering and healthy eating.

Bunzl Vending Services is celebrating charitable success at its Merrill Lynch sites, after Services Manager, Robert Johnston sold over 400 cases of Thirsty Planet Water to fund the installation of a water pump in Malawi. In agreement with Merrill Lynch, Thirsty Planet was stocked in vending machines across multiple locations.

Nestlé Professional® introduces the first ‘CHEF® CLUB’ ambassador as Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge of the Hand and Flowers (Marlow).

Kerridge, undoubtedly one of the industries brightest stars is a stalwart supporter of initiatives designed to give something back to developing talent, and showcasing the UK’s cheffing skills.

Abbeychart, based in Faringdon, Oxfordshire, is celebrating 20 years serving customers in the vending, pure water, soft drinks and catering industries.

Peter Best founded Abbeychart in 1991 with a small component sourcing and supply company serving the beverage industry, assisted by Peter's partner, Anthea Beszant, using the garden shed as a store and the kitchen as a workshop. From the very start Abbeychart set out its stall as a customer-focused, reliable and quality supplier of parts. The company now operates from purpose-built offices and large distribution centre at Faringdon.

Already the recipient of an award from the Society of Food Hygiene and Technology, Byotrol has a unique formulation that enables it to remain effective after it has dried making it much, much longer lasting than bleach, hydrogen peroxide and alcohol based sanitisers.

Bunzl Vending Services recently held product sampling events of Sun Valley’s Nature Snacks focused on London’s square mile, reaching over 12,000 consumers in four of Bunzl’s largest sites across a four day period.

In the ten years since the launch of Boost functional drinks, the company has increased sales year-on-year to become the UK's 3rd largest energy drinks brand in Impulse*!

To celebrate Boost are giving away lots of prizes by running competitions and promotions, and have a few surprises up their sleeves to get the celebrations going. Keep your eyes peeled for details!

Selecta has teamed up with Cadbury to support the next stage of the ‘Spots v Stripes’ challenge - a series of nine challenges to find people who can perform everyday tasks against the clock, and giving everyone in the UK a fighting chance of winning a World Record!

Danish ingredients firm Chr Hansen reports a 23% increase in H1 2010/11 revenue to €315m, with operating profit also climbing 23% to €71m.

In Chile, Nestlé and Fonterra-owned dairy company Soprole withdraw their joint venture proposal following opposition from local antitrust authorities.

Suntory-owned Frucor Beverages announces that Managing Director Mark Cowsill is to step down, with his successor yet to be named.

Bunzl Vending Services has re–launched its website to clearly define its business offering. Visitors are guided through seven easy to navigate sections which include one entirely devoted to its commitment to ethical and sustainable vending solutions.

Sunkist has stepped its marketing campaign up a gear with the launch of a new website and Facebook page.

On the new website (www.sunkist.co.uk) the brand’s heritage of Californian surf, sea and sand has been translated to the screen to feature information on Sunkist as well as fun interactive elements. It also has a link to the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sunkistuk) which has updated news on the brand as well as regular high-value prize competitions.

Lavazza has become the Official Coffee of The Championships, Wimbledon for a three year period from 2011. The deal will see the Italian coffee brand being supplied across 60 service points at The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, including 13 public cafés and restaurants, all hospitality areas and the media centre, as well as serving all officials and players.

Caffè Culture 2011 (18 & 19 May, Olympia, London) brings together a unique blend of exhibitors, leading industry professionals, practical workshops, seminars and clinics to give café bar owners and managers all the inspiration and business support needed for the year ahead.

Astrosys International Ltd specialises in the design, manufacture and distribution of currency handling products, under the following brands: Microcoin electronic multi-coin acceptor, and Global Bill Acceptors bank-note validator.

The EVA signs a partnership agreement with the biggest UK vending exhibition with a view to promote each other’s events

AVEX is the premier showcase for vending and water, attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the world. The EVA has a long tradition in attending this well reputed trade fair with its own stand, which has become a focal meeting point for the association’s members, and also for potential members. This year, the event will take place on 15 and 16 June, at the NEC in Birmingham.

The website’s being revamped to offer an easy-to-use service which conveniently houses all the information you could possibly need, and will be promoted as the first port-of-call for anyone looking for the latest news, information and issues relating to the vending industry.

Drink equipment service giant GVS Assist and leading espresso and premium coffee equipment maintenance specialist ‐ Coffeetech, are joining forces in a move described by Coffeetech’s Managing Director, Duncan Gaffney, as “highly strategic”.

Lucozade Energy is teaming up with the world’s fastest growing music service, Spotify, for a world-first on pack promotion. The “Unlimited music with Spotify” promotion will give consumers the chance to win one of thousands of Spotify Premium accounts offering them unlimited music anytime, anywhere.

Taking place at London’s Olympia on 3-4 April, Natural & Organic Products Europe has built a reputation for being the best place in the UK to source the widest choice of Fairtrade products from producers all around the world.

Bio Green Dairy, a boutique producer of a wide range of yogurt drinks for the past 25 years, has launched a brand new product – Good Heavens! premium adult drinking yogurt.

In an initial range of 5 non-Organic and 4 Organic flavours, the drinks contain nothing artificial, are packed with real fruit and contain over 25% of an adult’s calcium RDA.

A Rochester-based vending machine business is set to further its commitment to providing school children with healthy snacks after securing a £50,000 factoring facility from Lloyds TSB Commercial Finance.

Established in 1995, Eagle Vending supplies, distributes and stocks vending machines. The firm is the UK’s sole distributor of fair trade vending machines and serves schools, universities and businesses in the South East with healthy food and drink.

‘Taste of Toque’, the mini spin-off culinary challenge from the highly regarded premier college catering competition - Nestlé® Toque d’Or - was launched at the Hotel and Catering Show, for one day only (15th March) when college students came together in teams of two to battle it out to impress the seasoned judges, with Worcester College stealing the show and winning ‘Taste of Toque’.

Together with existing Satro products MOKA NOISETTE and MOKA VANILLA, Satro's new flavour variation, MOKA IRISH CREAM, is suitable for the use in vending machines. This fast soluble product has a smooth coffee flavour, refined with Irish Cream, which gives a unique touch to the final drink.

Levi Roots is unveiling his own exotic blend of Caribbean flavours for the soft drinks market.

The Levi Roots range of fruit juice and fizzy drinks features a selection of delicious fruit flavour blends that have been given that extra Levi ‘twist’ to create unique products that set it apart from the rest of the market.

Refreshment Systems has announced that Macmillan Cancer has been chosen as the company’s charity partner for 2011. It’s the first time the vending and coffee company has elected to focus its charitable endeavours on a single good cause.

Cover Group comprises of 18 independent vending operators covering the whole of the UK. Hot and cold drinks vending is an integral part of the Cover Group operation and Nupik-Flo UK was invited to tender for the supply of the plastic vending cups. After a rigorous selection process, they were successful in securing the contract to supply vending cups and consumables up until 2012.

Automatic Vendors Ltd, the USI (Wittern Group) vending machine distributor has launched advanced ergonomic options across its USI vending machine ranges.

This Spring sees all vendors available with optional silver door and new metallic grey moulded interface panels bringing softer, elegant styling to any location. Latest 2011 LED lighting also enhances product presentation and reduces servicing.

In the UK, Coca-Cola Enterprises partners with ECO Plastics to establish a £15m PET bottle recycling facility in Lincolnshire, boosting annual production of recycled plastic in the UK from 35,000 to 75,000 tonnes.

US organic beverage manufacturer Honest Tea announces plans to launch a new drink brewed from cocoa beans called CocoaNova.

Coffee chain Starbucks announces the global roll out of a new line of handcrafted beverage and food products as well as a new in-store look to emphasise the company's new logo.

California Raisins have launched a new consumer advertising campaign throughout the UK to help consumers understand that despite recent retail price increases, California Raisins still represent incredible value when compared with some other dried and fresh fruit.

Fashion Vending presents their unique set of vending machines that allow your patrons to purchase fixative and style their hair conveniently. These bilingual, stainless steel vending machines accept coins and bills, are equipped with counters and can fit into most suitable locations ready for operation.

The European Vending Association will hold its bi-annual conference, EurOps, on 14 and 15 April in Lisbon, Portugal.

To open the EVA’s 2011 edition of its flagship conference, participants will be invited, on 14 April, to an ice-breaking cocktail, at the Hotel Palacio in Estoril, where the conference will be held. A one-day conference, themed: “Getting More From Less, Opportunities To Raise The Profitability of Vending Operating” is being organised, the following day, on the 15 April.

Online registration is now open for AVEX 2011, the premier vending and water exhibition, June 15 & 16 at the NEC Birmingham.

Attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the world, AVEX is absolute must for anyone involved in providing a vending and water service.

Erwin Wetzel joined the European Vending Association (EVA) mid-February. Both an Austrian and French national, he speaks German and French at native speaker level and is also fluent in English, with conversational level Spanish. He studied law at the University of Nancy and holds two Master Degrees, one in Political Science from the University of Innsbruck, and a Masters of Arts in European Political and Administrative Studies from the prestigious College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium.

The AVA has been informed by Justine Greening, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, that the implementation of the new 5p and 10p coins will be delayed until 1st January 2012.

This successful lobbying of the Government is fantastic news for the vending and coin machine industries because it allows them more time to update coin mechanisms, providing a saving of £16.8m to the vending industry – a real help in the current economic climate.

Are you making use of your AVA member benefits? Being a member of the AVA gives you the right to participate in regional meetings – an informal opportunity to network with fellow members and discuss the issues affecting the vending industry over dinner! AVA regional meetings are your opportunity to get involved with issues relating to your Association.

UK water cooler company, Isis Total Office Hydration, is relocating its head office, to a new high tech purpose built warehouse in Poole, Dorset.

The impressive new site will provide a fitting home for the enlarged organisation, which has seen an impressive year on year growth in demand for its mains fed water & bottled water systems, In Cup drinks, bottling and public sector hydration contracts - offering an endless supply of high quality, Pure Dorset Water.

Walkers is supporting Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day and driving some serious crisp sales with its ‘Clash of the Comics’ campaign. This engaging new flavour promotion is seeing four of Britain’s best loved comedians: Stephen Fry, Jimmy Carr, Al Murray and Frank Skinner going head to head in a hilarious battle to make their own limited edition Walkers flavour the bestseller, while aiming to raise over £1 million for Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day.

Nestlé Toque d’Or®, the UK’s premier student catering competition – announces the FIVE talented and successful colleges to have WON a once in a lifetime opportunity to compete at the 2011 Grand Final; University College Birmingham, Blackpool & The Fylde College, Belfast Metropolitan College, Grimsby Institute of Further Education, and Colchester Institute.

NESCAFÉ® Gold Blend’s ‘Workplace of the Month’ competition encourages workplaces to ‘Get Together and WIN’ in 2011.

Building on the success of 2010’s ‘Employee of the Month’ competition, employees are urged to make their case as to why their workplace deserves the chance to win BIG. Monthly winners can enjoy a whole host of rewards such as: 20 sets of group tickets for 10 people to the UK’s top attractions, or a VIP experience at the O2 Arena for the winner and up to 17 of their colleagues.

Nestlé Professional® Confectionery’s iconic brand KIT KAT® is expanding into the hugely successful sharing bag category, with the launch of new KIT KAT POP CHOC®.

The SNICKERS® brand has built on its successful Mr T. campaign with the launch of the brand new limited edition SNICKERS® MAXIMUS.

A variant of the bestselling SNICKERS® bar, SNICKERS® MAXIMUS comes without the nougat, leaving even more room for the maximum serving of nuts and caramel.

MALTESERS® has partnered with Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day in a bid to raise £1 million for charity. MALTESERS® are challenging members of the public to share videos and pictures of themselves suspending or raising their MALTESERS® on www.maltesers.co.uk for the once in a lifetime chance to see their entry appear in TV ads for the campaign.

Nestlé Professional® Confectionery is refreshing its highly successful chocolate sharing bag range. Two more popular Nestlé® brands, Rolo and Milkybar, will be launched in a bite-sized sharing format alongside the intro­duction of new resealable packaging, which will feature ‘love to share’ branding across the full range.

United Biscuits (UBUK) has launched a new Hula Hoops integrated campaign featuring brand new TV advertising and on pack promotion to support its partnership with one of the nation’s favourite TV shows, Britain’s Got Talent.

Running across the entire Hula Hoops range, the promotion offers consumers a free talent lesson with every purchase by simply entering the last four digits of the code featured on the pack at www.hulahoops.com.

In the US, PepsiCo is to launch Diet Pepsi in new slimline cans to boost appeal with the brand’s core female market.

In North America, companies including Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, Dr Pepper Snapple Group and Nestlé Waters North America sign up to the Clear on Calories initiative to display calorie information on the front of beverages.

Kraft Foods posts a 30% increase in Q4 2010 net revenues to US$13.8bn, with operating income up 2.2% to US$1.2bn, boosted by the acquisition of Cadbury.

Aimia Foods has been awarded A* certification by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). Aimia Foods is one of only 53 companies globally, and the only beverage business in the UK, to hold A* certification, making this an outstanding achievement for the company.

Cavendish Maine recently celebrated 20 years of successful recruitment at their Leigh Court offices. Opened in February 1991 as a Sales specialist Cavendish Maine have enjoyed continuous development adding, Finance, Insurance, Accountancy, Human Resources and Energy to their offer, building a broad range of clients from SMEs to global brands in the process.

The Automatic Vending Association (AVA) has been informed by Justine Greening, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, that the implementation of the new 5p and 10p coins will be delayed until 1st January 2012.

This successful lobbying of the Government is fantastic news for the vending and coin machine industries because it allows them more time to update coin mechanisms, providing a saving of £16.8m to the vending industry – a real help in the current economic climate.

The recent world financial market crisis and consequent economic downturn in the UK has made things difficult for vending operators. Even though the economy seems to have stabilised, the availability of normal lines of credit for SMEs has remained tight. As a result, sales financing has come under the spotlight, along with the willingness of financiers to appraise customer credit risk sensibly and maintain an appetite for the business.

NESCAFÉ® Gold Blend launches its brand new ‘Workplace of the Month’ competition this March, to encourage workplaces to ‘Get Together and WIN’ in 2011.

Building on the success of 2010’s ‘Employee of the Month’ competition, it encourages employees to make their case as to why their workplace deserves the chance to win BIG. Monthly winners can enjoy a whole host of rewards such as: 20 sets of group tickets for 10 people to the UK’s top attractions, or a VIP experience at the O2 Arena for the winner, and up to 17 of their colleagues.

Falling in Love in Italy, the official title of the 19th Lavazza Calendar, a statement that Lavazza has been proudly promoting for years, thanks to a succession of international photographers asked to give their personal, unique interpretations of the “Belpaese”.

Following on the great values of Italy depicted in Annie Leibovitz’ edition in 2009, and the theme of famous Italian songs interpreted by Miles Aldridge in 2010, it is Mark Seliger, the famous American celebrity photographer, who has been asked to immortalise the essence of Italianess.

The global market for beauty drinks is niche but growing, with demand being driven by a greater appreciation of the role that nutrition plays in beauty.

A study by Zenith International estimates that global sales of ready-to-drink beauty drinks reached 144m litres in 2010, a 2.9% increase on 2009 and 29% up on 2006, taking overall global market value to €1.1bn.

In a world of virtual communication, this premier exhibition offers a unique opportunity to meet customers and prospects face to face. Research shows that prospects are twice as likely to become new customers with a face to face meeting.

Vending operator Selecta has achieved the top environmental accreditation ISO14001 across its entire estate in the UK and Eire.

The accreditation is an important milestone in Selecta’s ongoing commitment to providing a sustainable approach to vending. To achieve ISO14001 from the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Selecta had to satisfy a number of strict policies for its Environmental Management System, demonstrating it has identified and controlled the environmental impact of its activities, products and services, implementing and achieving environmental policies and targets, as well as continuing to improve its environmental performance.

Beverage specialist Krogab has launched the next generation of juice systems, by introducing state of the art LCD screens to their dispensers - the first of their kind in the UK.

Krogab’s juice systems can now be customised with a 10” LCD screen, allowing operators to personalise their machines with their own corporate brand. This helps to drive profits through high impact video marketing and advertising the latest promotions, news and events.

Nestlé Professional®’s ‘CHEF® CLUB’ is designed exclusively for chefs to provide inspiration and collaboration, whilst enabling exclusive access to Club offers and promotions, industry events and masterclasses.

Selecta, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading vending services providers, is celebrating another year of charitable giving through its Selecta in the Community scheme which has provided a helping hand for a host of good causes in 2010.

The community-based scheme was set up in 2007 and provides financial support for projects, initiatives and charities with a personal connection to Selecta’s employees in the UK, has supported 12 projects this year.

Do environmental issues fall at the heart of your business’ ethos? Would you like to reward your contributions to sustainability and environmental excellence with industry-wide recognition, and show your customers, competitors and fellow industry colleagues that you take sustainability seriously? Well what are you waiting for – enter the “Footprint Awards 2011” today!

The new ‘Say it with Cadbury’ range is hitting the shelves as part of Cadbury’s spring occasions 2011. The range includes two heart shaped gift boxes and flower shaped gift box of yummy Cadbury chocolates.

On 1st January 2011 GVS Assist became the only approved service provider for Scanomat UK’s premium quality beverage solutions.

Simon Bracken, Managing Director, Scanomat UK commented: “With our commitment to delivering product quality, design and versatility being critical, we understood the choice of service provider was equally important. Opting to join forces with an industry respected company such as GVS Assist was an easy decision. In terms of quality, reliability and service they offer an unrivalled operation and together, we look forward to bringing a total beverage solution service to our customers in the UK.”

As a result of a major collaboration between well known coffee industry figures in the UK and the owner of Danish manufacturer Scanomat AS – Scanomat UK Limited was formed in November 2010, and is firmly positioned to deliver the prestigious Scanomat brand of beverage systems direct to the British market.

Danone’s US subsidiary Dannon settles Federal Trade Commission charges of deceptive advertising and will remove claims that dairy product Activia relieves bowel irregularity and DanActive boosts immunity from colds.

The international market for dairy snacks, such as cheese strings and yogurt tubes, grew by 7% in 2009 and is heading for a 6% rise this year. The first major study on this sector, by Zenith International, estimates total volume at 217,000 tonnes in 2010 across 26 countries in North America, Latin America, West Europe, East Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia Pacific.

NIVO, the National Independent Vending Operators’ association with over 280 vending members, has awarded Siemens Financial Services Ltd the NIVO Service Supplier of the Year accolade for the second time running. With over 30 years of track record in servicing the vending industry, Siemens Financial Services Ltd (SFS) has been working with NIVO’s members since the association’s foundation in 1988.

Huhtamaki has launched its new UK website featuring UK specific news and product ranges, as well as information about sustainability and Huhtamaki’s environmentally friendly BioWare range. The site is linked to the Huhtamaki Group website so that users can keep up-to-date with information and initiatives from throughout the Company.

A life-saver for mothers and probably unique is the new Nappy-Vend from Bower Products. Providing a very essential handy pack of nappy, wipes and disposal bag, this compact and slimline dual column vending machine can fit neatly in those small spaces unsuitable for larger machines.

Aimia Foods, one of the UK’s leading hot and cold drink specialists, has announced that it has been awarded A* certification by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). Aimia Foods is one of only 53 companies globally, and the only beverage business in the UK, to hold A* certification, making this an outstanding achievement for the company.

This winter, Cadbury has redesigned two of its classic chocolate bars, Cadbury Picnic and Cadbury Starbar, giving their packs a modern update.

The newly designed bars are available now, in time for retailers to make the most of Christmas sales.

The team at Tyrrells have really ploughed everything they know into producing their new Furrows range, available in stores this November. The delicious hand-cooked potato chips have been skilfully cut and perfectly formed to replicate the furrowed potato fields surrounding the farm in Herefordshire – the Society of Ploughmen would be proud of their efforts!

Myrtle Coffee based in Fife, Scotland have become the latest business to invest in the Vendman software system. Recognising the growing needs of customers and management alike Myrtle have introduced Vendman as the management tool to help control all aspects of their ever changing business.

Back in 2005 Beautiful Vending made their mark on the UK vending scene with the invention of the Hair Straightener Vending Machine. Since then the company have enjoyed high profile media coverage in international publications and have earned a long list of awards.

Beautiful Vending stylers can be found in every corner of the UK and in a total of 29 countries around the world.

With sugar prices on the increase due to the drought and flood damage brought about by the Niña weather event, the subsequent heavier rain in parts of Asia and drier weather to Argentina and Brazil are about to take their toll and impact on the export of sugar from countries like Australia.

Queensland Sugar, Australia’s largest shipper, cut its shipment forecast on the wet weather, saying nationwide exports may slump by as much as 20 percent.

The technical committee is an integral part of the AVA and is run by volunteers from the membership with support from the quality auditors and the AVA technical consultant, Mike Saltmarsh. Under the stewardship of Chris Skipper, the current chairman, it represents all sectors of the membership; operators, commodities, ingredients and machine manufacturers.

Hurley and Stefan Searle agree: “Glaxo SmithKline and Cool Assist have agreed a deal that just didn’t exist in the marketplace until we invented it.”

To appreciate the puzzle Stefan Searle had been challenged to solve in his role as Glaxo SmithKline’s (GSK’s) Equipment Team Manager, picture a Rubik’s Cube, as viewed through a kaleidoscope.

It is essential for the safe operation of traditional espresso and B2C coffee machines that everyone understands their responsibilities under the often confusing regulations regarding maintenance of the pressure vessels they have to generate steam.

In the UK, the European Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23/EC is interpreted and presented in the form of Pressure Equipment Regulations.

Leading beverage equipment innovator and manufacturer, Marco Beverage Systems, has finalised its Ecoboiler range of eco-friendly water boilers, which now comprises three different models. The original Ecoboiler, launched three years ago, has become the benchmark in the industry for environmentally aware and costconscious caterers. Originally available in pushbutton and tap models, it has since been joined by a wall-mounted version and most recently, by the Ecosmart, a variable temperature boiler for brewing speciality teas and coffees at the correct temperature. The energy efficient features that made the Ecoboiler so popular in the first place are now also to be found in these other two models.

Nestlé Professional® has announced its new reduced packaging on its NESCAFÉ® single-serve stick packs, which will save 22.4 tonnes of material waste every year – that’s the equivalent weight of two and a half double-decker buses.

United Biscuits UK (UBUK) is announcing that it is improving the nutritional content of another of its brands by slashing the saturated fat content of its go ahead! Fruit Bakes range by 50%!

What does LTT Vending have in common with BBC Television Centre, Beatles and the Mini? They were all founded 50 years ago.

LTT Vending is proudly celebrating 50 years of business this year rewarding all employees with a fifty pound note. Over the course of five decades, this refreshment focused business has a deep business legacy to celebrate.

Dairy UK calls for stricter legislation on cheese origin labelling, claiming that at present customers can be mislead about the place of manufacture.

In the UK, US grape juice manufacturer Welch’s adds a new variant, 100% Purple Grape and Raspberry, to its range of chilled juices.

Tate & Lyle posts a 3.9% rise in sales for the six months ended 30 September to £1.35bn, with profit climbing 58.7% to £73m.

Huhtamaki is delighted to announce John Dickman from Leicester College as the winner of its ‘Capture The Cup’ Photographic Competition 2010! Judges were impressed with John’s entry – an image which they felt captured the Competition’s ‘beverages-to-go’ brief perfectly!

Footprint Awards 2011, the UK foodservice industry’s first-ever Awards programme exclusively dedicated to rewarding contributions to sustainability and environ mental excellence, is now open for entries.

PHS Waterlogic is celebrating its 10th anniversary during October. Part of the PHS Group, PHS Waterlogic was established in October 2000, since when the company has grown to be Europe’s leading supplier, offering a full range of watercoolers, high volume water dispensers, hot water boilers and consumables.

Cranberry Group, manufacturer and retailer of dried and roasted nuts and fruit snack foods, has added a new variety, sliced chunked mango, to its convenient Grab Bag range of snacks.

European vending operator Selecta has raised €23,300 for UNICEF’s water project WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) to help 25,000 inhabitants of Gambia’s Upper River Region gain access to clean water. The cooperation started in summer 2009, with Selecta pledging to donate €20 to UNICEF for every one of their exclusive Seattle Water coolers sold in the UK and across Europe.

Aimia Foods is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Cryer to the position of Vending Sector Controller. Paul joined Aimia 18 months ago as National Account Manager, bringing with him a wealth of experience in vending from 13 years with Britvic Soft Drinks.

The strategic expansion of the GVS Assist group has meant that the organisation continues to grow at a phenomenal rate, despite the current economic conditions. From November 2010 GVS Assist will be providing a direct service to Southern Ireland.

The EVA has the pleasure of welcoming Susanne as the new Regulatory and Marketing Affairs Officer. Originally from Germany, Susanne Döring has been working in the Trade Association environment of Brussels for more than 18 years.

One of the UK’s oldest and most iconic brands, Kit Kat, celebrated its 75th Anniversary on 12 October.

Launched in 1935 in York under the brand name ‘Rowntree’s Chocolate Crisp’, the name changed to Kit Kat in 1937 and today more than one billion Kit Kat products are eaten every year in the UK.

Selecta has teamed up with Mars for an exclusive ‘text to win’ promotion to celebrate the launch of new Twix fino®, the new and lighter version of the original Twix® with just 94 calories per piece..

The promotion offers Selecta consumers the chance to win one of four ipads and £50 worth of itunes gift cards every week between October 2010 and January 2011, as part of the £1.3m Twix fino® campaign.

This new and improved Chilli Mix, now containing sweet apricot kernels, is for spicy food lovers and is available in 30g sachets (55p), 200g pots (£3.50) and 500g pots (£7).

These guys have a ‘nice kick’ (not too serious though), for a tasty handy snack, or try them in a tuna and mayo sandwich, or throw them on salads, stir-fries, and curries!

In August, we explained the plans that the Royal Mint had to change the 5p and 10p coins and we urged members to get behind the campaign to protect our industry by writing to David Cameron. This change in coinage will save the Royal Mint around £7.5 million but it will cost our industry an extra £42m.

As of 1st October 2010 Shilling Investments owns Save A Cup Recycling Company Limited.

This is one of the first transactions of its kind, where a Social Entrepreneur has bought a private company for the purpose of creating a Social Enterprise and generating Social Returns.

The AVA has released the following information on Save A Cup:

“The objective was to establish a recycling platform for the trade which was independent of subsidy by the trade, and run on a commercial basis funded by charges made to clients for the service.

“The issue that Save A Cup faces is that charges to clients currently do not cover operating costs because there are not enough clients. The AVA has sold their shares in the company for a nominal sum and have retained their ownership of the name and the domain names which they have leased to the new owners. This is to ensure that we have a measure of control in the way in which the company is marketed to the end users etc.

The EVA AGM 2010 and the conference on “The ins and outs of European lobbying: speaking up for vending in Brussels today” are taking place at the Radisson SAS Royal Hotel in Brussels on 8 and 9 December. As always, a mix of networking and entertainment will be part of the programme.

The EVA has re-launched its blog with a new image and focus, in accordance with the rebranding of the association. (http://www.vending-europe.eu/en/blog.html)

Initially online in 2009 its success was rapidly overshadowed by the EVA’s other digital initiative, the LinkedIn Vending Group which now comprises nearly 400 members.

PepsiCo UK and Ireland has published its first Sustainable Farming Report detailing how the company will be working in partnership with 350 British farmers to reach its aim of ’50 in 5’.

The parent company of Walkers, Quaker, Tropicana and Copella is the largest buyer of British potatoes since switching to 100% British potatoes in 2007 for Walkers crisps. The company is also one of the UK’s largest purchasers of British oats and apples, using 100% British produce in Copella English Apple juice, Quaker Oats, Oat So Simple and Scott’s Porridge.

Abbeychart of Faringdon, in conjunction with One Water have successfully improved the lives of 5000 people by installing a PlayPump® at Mmanga Primary School in Malawi.

The PlayPump is a playground roundabout fixed to an underground pump. When the children play, they pump water from deep down. The fresh, clean water is then fed into storage tanks. Water quality is constantly checked.

Marco Beverage Systems, has become the exclusive distributor in the UK and Ireland for iconic US-built coffee grinders, Baratza. As passionate about innovation and cup quality as Marco, Baratza manufactures a range of grinders for the domestic/ professional marketplace, with coffee quality and user experience as fundamental cornerstones.

Gilchrist, a Sun Branding Solutions business brand, has picked up a prestigious Silver Award in the Food and Beverages category of this year’s Starpack Awards, following its work with leading tea brand Twinings.

The global branding and design implementation specialist, based in Bradford, has worked with Twinings for 6 years and won the award for its artwork on the tea brand’s innovative new Click Lock packaging, currently produced for the North American market.

Selecta has raised over a £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, after organising a series of fun filled coffee mornings across the UK.

As part of the vending operator’s sustainable approach, 23 coffee mornings were held at Selecta offices and client sites to support Macmillan’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, helping the charity towards raising its £8 million target for people living with cancer.

USA Rice organised a seminar and interactive workshop earlier this month for Aramark chefs from across Scotland.

Aramark have approx 100 outlets in Scotland overseen by Mike Ball, Operations Director. More than 60 catering managers, chefs and head chefs attended the seminar held at Motherwell Catering College.

As part of Vendman’s march into Europe we were excited to exhibit at Vending Paris. The show is held in October every two years, at Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles. Exhibiting allowed us to introduce the benefits of the Vendman product to the European market and other suppliers in the international industry.

“Garden-County Vending Limited has always had an affinity with the Heart of Kent Hospice when years ago one of our young Service Engineers was diagnosed with liver cancer and spent his last days in the Hospice.

“More recently a good friend of ours Jayne Fisher died of cancer and spent time at the Hospice. It was felt we should do something in her memory and to say thanks to the Hospice, so we organised an event at the Maidstone River Festival. We asked people to make a donation to the Heart of Kent Hospice and then help themselves to a free soft drink or bottle of water.

The management team at Stoke-on-Trent based Crown Cup has been expanded with the arrival of Shaun Marriott – middle of Paul and Kathy’s sons.

Shaun brings with him a variety of prior experience and has thrown himself into a full Director Development Programme. He is particularly focused on sales activity and has already won several contracts in the face of local opposition.

Jofemar is celebrating the sale of the 500,000th unit of its best-selling J-2000, the world’s first change - giver for vending machines to include 5 return tubes.

The first prototypes of this model were created in 1997, when most of the coin mechanisms did not offer enough change flexibility for countries where coin payment was more usual than payment by bank - notes. The launch of the J2000, capable of handling the refund of up to five different coin values rapidly became the new benchmark in coin mechanisms.

The Vending industry is currently looking at how to manage the new coins that will be released in spring 2011. Due to intense R&D efforts NRI have already found a solution. Since August 1st every new NRI currenza c2 has been programmed ready for the new 5p and 10p coins, whilst field units can be updated via the HENRI service tool.

The AVA and its members have supported Macmillan Cancer Support since 1998 and having recently met Rachel Gascoigne from Macmillan, Jonathan Hilder is keen to maintain the enthusiasm for raising funds for this good cause.

In the past AVA Members have climbed mountains, walked many miles, trekked glaciers, played football, danced their socks off, drunk a lot of coffee and played hundreds of rounds of golf, to help raise an incredible £325,000 to help people living with cancer.

The European Vending Association is preparing its Annual General Assembly 2010.

Further to the success of last year’s workshop on the Image of Vending, the EVA has decided to recreate a “doubleevent”, adding a conference to the AGM, entitled; “The ins and outs of European lobbying: speaking up for vending in Brussels today”. Additionally, for the first time, they are organising a cocktail at the European Parliament, where you will be able to meet some of the MEPs of your country.

Every few years an innovation in Vending comes along that has the potential to revolutionise the way operators run their business. The latest of such innovations is the CashFlow® 8000 from MEI.

Building on the success of the CF7000, which is now installed in over 1,000,000 vending machines around the world, the CF8000 redefines the function of the payment system from being a device to manage change to playing a pivotal role at the centre of Vending operation management.

United Coffee and Pallas Foods have announced an exciting partnership that will see the foodservice distributor become the only one in Ireland to offer a premium total coffee solution, from award-winning equipment and coffee right through to after-care and training.

United Coffee is a specialist roaster and market leader in award-winning coffee solutions, supplying a full-range of leading edge bean-to-cup and traditional espresso equipment alongside ethically sourced premium coffee.

An innovative DVD rental kiosk operator has launched its movie vending business into the West Midlands and is offering retailers the opportunity to share in its success.

Featuring the latest computerised touch-screen system, this innovative concept for the DVD rental market is being piloted in the West Midlands, with the first movie machines making their debut at Wolverhampton Railway Station and Merryhill Shopping Centre.

One of the largest privately-owned vending operators in the South West is celebrating 70 years of successful trading since its foundation in 1940. V. H. Graddon & Sons Vending started as a small family business and now trades across the South West and South Wales through depots in Plymouth, Bristol and Cwmbran.

Vending Paris is the well-established French Vending Show that will take place from 27 to 29 October at Porte de Versailles in Paris. For the first time and in order to attract international visitors from the vending industry, Vending Paris will be launching an International Business Day on 29 October. A “business export programme”, with access to the VIP lounge, plus many other privileges will be available to visitors.

Krogab UK, a leading European beverage company, has a new addition to their Full Fruit juice brand with Classic Gold Orange Juice – the easy and economical way to serve high quality orange juice.

Used by quality establishments including many of the leading UK and European hotel chains, Full Fruit Classic Gold Orange Juice is fast becoming the juice system of choice for 4 and 5 star hotels, as well as leading operators across the foodservice industry. With over 150 Krogab customers already converted, Full Fruit Classic Gold Orange Juice is the hassle free and cost effective option that delivers the fresh juice taste consumers have come to expect.

On 27 August, Nestlé launched the Nescafé Plan in Mexico City, bringing under one umbrella Nestlé’s commitments on coffee farming, production and consumption. The Nescafé Plan contains a set of objectives which will help Nestlé further optimize its coffee supply chain. In addition to the CHF 200 million invested over the past ten years, Nestlé will invest CHF 500 million in coffee projects by 2020. This includes an investment of CHF 350 million for the Nescafé Plan and CHF 150 million for Nespresso. The Rainforest Alliance, an international non-governmental organization, will support Nestlé together with other partners of the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN) and the coffee association, 4C, in meeting the Nescafé Plan objectives related to farming.

Following the successful launch of the No Fear Extreme Energy drink earlier this year, Aimia Foods, the leading supplier of hot and cold drinks, is launching a new 250ml slim line can.

The smaller No Fear can format is being introduced on the back of strong sales of the 485ml can within the past six months, It will be available to the on trade and consumers to use as the ideal mixer or for an ‘on the go’ energy fix. Aimia Foods, which produces No Fear Extreme for the US-based, multimillion pound sportswear brand, No Fear, made history earlier this year when the new energy drink hit the shelves in the UK’s first ever re-sealable can.

Three Million Series 2000 Bill Validators and One Million CASHFLOW® 7000 Coin Managers Built MEI associates recently celebrated two record-setting events. The company manufactured its three millionth Series 2000 VN/AE bill validator and its one millionth CASHFLOW® 7000 coin manager in its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Queretaro, Mexico. Both product lines targeted for the vending and amusement industries have a heritage of innovation while being recognized as the industry standard for quality and reliability. CashFlow®, launched in 2003, was the first coin manager on the market and was quickly adopted by vending operators looking for the highest level of reliability, cash management and performance. Operators have embraced the CF7000 because it actively manages change funds to reduce the frequency of exact change situations, enabling a positive consumer experience and higher sales.

Coffee drinkers are being advised to choose where they get their caffeine fix carefully, following eye opening findings from industry experts The Paper Cup Company.

The Paper Cup Company, who conducted the research in a Manchester City Centre, prints and distributes disposable paper cups for coffees, cold drinks, vending, sampling, retail, food to go, portion containers, medical and industrial uses.

After nearly 15 years of traditional Conference Agendas, involving speakers from within and around the vending industry, members owned purchasing consortia Associated Vending Services Ltd (AVS) are changing the style and content of their Conference being held in Vilamoura, Portugal on Friday 24th September 2010.

Marco Beverage Systems, has improved its best-selling Filtro Shuttle bulk filter coffee brewer with a host of new features.

For those looking to enter an Awards scheme that focuses on what can be achieved beyond the foodservice industry, rather than dress codes and discos at the winner’s dinner, the Footprint Awards launched by the Footprint Media Group holds the answer!

Charlie Miers, Managing Director, Footprint Media Group: “Whilst many Awards create good recognition within their sectors, we want the Footprint Awards to demonstrate more widely what an industry can do when the companies and individuals that work within it decide to act to protect and sustain the environment.”

The new Schweppes TV spot, developed by Mother, the agency behind Coca-Cola’s ‘Open Happiness’ campaign, parodies a suburban, middle class couple blithely ignoring the chaos of their daily lives, secure in the knowledge that ‘At the end of the day, there's always a Schweppes’.

Options Management is one of the UK’s most innovative vending operators. MD Paul Ure’s mantra is ‘forward, upward, onward’ and the company’s relentless quest is to ‘add value to the offer’.

“Let’s face it,” Paul says, “a lot of our business is centred on the 20-30p vend. It’s in our interests to raise that bar. The number of coffee shop brands that have become household names in the past few years seems to indicate that customers appreciate that quality comes at a price, and that they are prepared to pay more for better coffee.”

Looking to bring yet another great tasting, indulgent treat to the public, Byron Bay Cookie Company, who was behind last years’ summer hit – Strawberries & Clotted Cream cookie; are pleased to announce the launch of the new Lemon & White Chocolate Cheesecake Cookie.

An independent study conducted by environmental consultancy Sustain has established that PHS Waterlogic’s WL2000 point-of-use water dispenser has a carbon footprint up to 72% smaller than bottled water coolers.

Speaking about the results, David Matthews, Managing Director of PHS Waterlogic said: “As companies and organisations look to reduce their carbon footprint, it is getting increasingly hard to identify the ways in which this can be achieved.

Seaga announces the addition of model VC730, a compact refreshment center, to their range of equipment. The VC730 includes Seaga’s new, sleek silver finish to capture attention and provide effective merchandising opportunities. The small footprint, requiring just over 6 square feet of floor space, makes the VC730 perfect for small to medium office locations. The VC730 accommodates bottles and cans in the seven cold beverage selections.

Sunkist burst into urban city centres in August to bring a wave of Californian summer, surf and sunshine to thousands of people as part of a major marketing drive for the brand.

Models in board shorts and bikinis handed out thousands of free cans of Sunkist over five days from 18th August in Manchester, Leeds, Bath, Oxford and Nottingham with the aim of reaching 60,000 of the Sunkist teen target market.

This summer, The Natural Confectionery Company (TNCC) – the brand based on a philosophy of great tasting, natural sweets – is launching an exciting new addition to its range, Ocean Minis single pack.

Ocean Minis features a range of fun marine-life shaped jelly sweets which, like the rest of the TNCC range, are free from artificial colours and flavours. The new line is being introduced to the impulse market in individual 29g packs, which each contain less than 100 calories.

Following ongoing campaigning concerning the proposal of new 5p and 10p coins by Jonathan Hilder, CEO of the Automatic Vending Association, an article has been published in the Daily Telegraph

Read this article and see the comments it has recieved by clicking HERE

You can read the response that Jonathan has also had from the Royal Mint by clicking more...

Quench your thirst with a Gatorade Sports drink from Selecta’s vending machines and you could be in with a chance to win a luxury sports holiday! Selecta, Europe’s leading vending operator has teamed up with Britvic, exclusive distributors of Gatorade Sports drinks to bring consumers the hottest vending promotion of the summer!

Maynards, most famous for Wine Gums, has launched a new £2million multi-platform campaign that includes new character, Maynard the Moose.

To launch, Maynards will overtake commuter hotspots in the UK through a series of digital advert take-overs, followed by the 5-week TV campaign in which Maynard the moose ambushes people using his vast array of hypnosis techniques to ensure they give into their chewing urges.

The Whittington Hospital NHS Trust has appointed Refreshment Systems as its sole provider of beverages and refreshment services to patients, visitors and staff. The contract, which will deliver around one million vends a year and will run for five years, is the largest contract the firm has ever won.

GVS Assist, a leading national supplier and maintainer of automated coffee, tea and snack machines, has opened up a new operations centre in Castleford.

Wilkes Group, the Yorkshire based family group of Companies, currently celebrating sixty-four years, are proud to announce they are now of loyal and humble service to His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

Photo-Me, the leading manufacturer of automated photo booths, is delighted to announce that The Photobook Maker is now available at 22 Asda stores nationwide. This innovative kiosk is the first of its kind to produce stylish photobooks in minutes.

Vimto has won a prestigious marketing award for its ‘Seriously Mixed Up Fruit’ campaign.

The leading soft drinks brand received top honours for the £5 million fully integrated campaign at the Marketing Society Northern Awards held on 30 June.

The Drury Tea & Coffee Company, leading London based tea blenders and coffee roasters, has announced the appointment of a new Barista Trainer, Christelle Langer.

Much of the legislation which either impacts or threatens the UK vending industry, comes from Brussels and therefore the work done by the European Vending Association (EVA) is essential to making sure that vending has its say at the highest level.

As the Welsh debate hit the headlines again, the news is the same and it still makes no sense. The AVA’s Jonathan Hilder, explained: “We met the leader of the opposition for the Welsh Assembly, Nick Bourne, recently to discuss the current guidelines and explain how the ban on vending is ludicrous and inconsistent with general policy.”

N&W has announced the departure from the company of former Sales and Marketing Director, Mike Kane, with immediate effect.

At the end of 2009 the AVA sprung into action when it heard that the UK vending industry may soon have to cope with the introduction of a new design £1 coin due to an increasing number of counterfeit £1 coins in circulation.

Installation has been completed on the first PHS Waterlogic sponsored PlayPump®, and is now providing free clean water to a school in southern Africa.

Powershot’s 330ml Organic Energy drinks offer natural organic goodness with their top quality, anti-oxidant blend of tea extracts, Panax Ginseng, fruit juices and high purity mineral water.

This August, as the Official Treat Provider of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Cadbury is kicking off a two year campaign which will see the nation split into two teams and immersed in game play in the lead up to London 2012.

This month, Nestlé Professional® launches ROWNTREE’S RANDOMS® sharing bags – the soft, jelly sweet confectionery that’s now perfect for sharing out-of-home. ROWNTREE’S RANDOMS® is the No.2 impulse sugar product in the UK (IRI, Fruit Sugar Singles, Total Market, w/e 27th March 2010) and the bigger 195g format allows catering operators to offer a higher value bag and grow profits.

This month sees Nestlé Professional® launch to the out-of-home market its new and mouth-watering MILKYBAR® Raisin and Biscuit bar.

HM Treasury recently approved a proposal to change the 5p and 10p coins from the current cupro-nickel alloy to nickel-plated steel. The new coins will be the same size and have a similar visual appearance to the existing 5p and 10p coins - but to electronic coin mechanisms they will be an entirely new coin, so recalibration will be necessary.

Crem International UK Ltd have just completed an excellent show at Caffè Culture, London, where they have launched the revolutionary Qubic Milk.

Marco Beverage Systems has launched a new generation of water boilers, called Ecosmart with variable temperature control to respond to the modern requirement for hot water at varying temperatures for brewing different speciality teas and coffees. Ecosmart is a development based on, and encompassing, all the energy efficient benefits of the company’s successful Ecoboilers range.

The European Vending Association (EVA) organised a conference themed: “Vending 2020, a glimpse into the future of vending”, from 10 to 11 June, in Madrid. Feedback from participants, post-conference, confirmed that the subject matter presented by the guest speakers was extremely relevant and could be useful for the strategic planning of their respective companies in the coming years.

United Biscuits (UBUK), is launching a new range of £1 sharing Price Marked Packs (PMPs) across some of its most-recognisable savoury snacks brands. Available to retailers from the beginning of July, the new selection of £1 sharing PMPs includes the top selling variants of McCoy’s (Flame Grilled Steak), Hula Hoops (BBQ Beef), Mini Cheddars (Original) and Phileas Fogg Crisps (Sea Salt & Indonesian Black Peppercorn) to help retailers grow sales this summer.

Having manufactured over 2.1 million pieces of equipment, more individuals now own vending machines manufactured and financed by Wittern Group companies than any other vending equipment manufacturer in the world.

Footprint Forum saw representatives from Huhtamaki, Unilever, Havi, Sodexo and Pret A Manger debate the packaging issues which affect foodservice today.

The European Vending market has suffered significant declines and is back at 2003 values with most of the decline resulting from a reduction in throughput.

* Datamonitor’s KPI Market Update 2009

The European Vending Association (EVA) and Datamonitor are pleased to be able to provide an update on the state of the vending market.

June 8 heralded a milestone in Jonathan Hilder’s diary as he achieved another one of his goals; that was to bring back the regional meetings. Having established a structure for all the 7 regions the first was held in the Potteries.

Goody Good Stuff, a new range of gummy sweets, made using only all natural ingredients and a revolutionary, plant derived bio-gum which alleviates the need for meat based gelatine, has launched in the UK.

What is the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning?

The World's Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan Cancer Support's flagship fundraising event. Over two million people will be putting a smile on their mug and taking part to raise over £8 million to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

On top of an already extensive list of activity aimed at inspiring and supporting young people in 2010, fast-rising soft drinks brand SUSO is proud to announce its title sponsorship of the SUSO Open Water Triathlon, alongside event partners Human Race and the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust.

Bioguard BIO 040 Descaler Powder now available in handy packs of single-use 50g sachets from Abbeychart is an effective food-safe product that simplifies removing scale deposits from water drinks dispenser boilers, pipes and components.

Huhtamaki’s double wall paper cups feature deeper embossed definition, making them the ideal choice for operators looking to improve the overall quality and appearance of their beverage service!

Autobar UK have announced the acquisition of Scottish based vending company Sanderson Vending. Established over 26 years ago Sanderson Vending are suppliers of hot and cold drinks, snacks and cigarettes.

Vending PARIS, the international vending show, will take place from 27 to 29 October 2010 at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre.

Jonathan Wadham, Communications & Training Manager, Rombouts Coffee GB Ltd. is now an SCAE Gold Cup Brewmaster, furthering his knowledge and enhancing the expertise for Rombouts within the beverage industry!

Coca-Cola Great Britain becomes a sponsor of the London 2012 Olympic torch relay.

In Sweden, PepsiCo launches an additive- and sweetener-free version of its Gatorade sports drink, initially available in blackcurrant, lemon and orange flavours.

Britvic completes the acquisition of French soft drinks company Fruité Enterprises.

Fast-rising soft drinks brand SUSO has created a distinctive, new character – the SUSO Master - to headline a new marketing campaign by inspiring teenagers to adopt a more positive attitude to life.

N&W Global Vending has announced its intention to move the production of Wittenborg machines from Odense, Denmark, to the company’s production facilities in Valbrembo, Italy. The aim is to strengthen Wittenborg’s position in the market, reduce fixed costs and align future production capacities with anticipated industry demand trends.

After thirty years in their Bishop Auckland headquarters Ebac move manufacturing to facilities in nearby Newton Aycliffe.

For the first time, Douwe Egberts Coffee Systems will be showcasing its wide variety of vending solutions to visitors attending the Vendex exhibition this year. Sharing a stand with leading in-cup provider Brupac, the company will be showcasing its new range of freeze-dried instant vending products, bean to cup branded concept including new vending paper cup designs at stand A20-22.

Abbeychart will be showing a number of new products which can be seen for the first time at BWCA including their ABC Value Range of in-line filters for cold and ambient water applications. The easy to change low-cost filters are ideal for vending, table-top, and POU water coolers to light commercial and under-sink installations, glass/dishwashers and small boilers. 

Packaging manufacturer Huhtamaki has won the prestigious Bunzl ‘Supplier of the Year 2009’ Award!

John Young, UK Foodservice Sales and Marketing Director, Huhtamaki Ltd said: “Huhtamaki is delighted to have won the title of Bunzl ‘Supplier of the Year 2009’ – an achievement we are very proud of! The Award is a result of Huhtamaki teamwork and the continual effort and support from every­  help service and supply Bunzl.”

Venditalia 2008 registered attendance figures of over 14,000 professional visitors, 49% of which were foreign visitors, and 269 exhibitors on a floor surface of 20,000 sqm, making Venditalia an ideal instrument for companies wishing to develop their business and approach the international Vending marketplace.

An N&W Sfera snack vending machine which takes Visa payWave contactless debit/credit cards plus also all contact chip cards (no pin) has been installed at the Visa Europe HQ by TouchGo Technology.

The Science Museum in London has launched a landmark exhibition highlighting the scientific heritage the world has inherited from Muslim civilisation. 1001 Inventions: Discover the Muslim Heritage in Our World, sponsored by the Jameel Foundation, traces the forgotten story of a thousand years of science from the Muslim world, from the 7th century onwards.

The European Vending Association is publishing its position paper on HFC gases. Following a regulation, which bans the use of these gases in the automobile industry, the vending industry has decided to take a step forward on this issue.

Kraft Foods prepares to launch more than 20 new food and beverage products in the first months of 2010, inspired by consumer trends for bold, adventurous tastes.

Florida orange yield falls due to cold weather and disease, which is expected to lead to global price increases, with the UK anticipating rises of 10-30%.

2010 is a milestone year for leading packaging manufacturer Huhtamaki, as the company celebrates its 90th anniversary!

Westomatic Vending Services Ltd has strengthened its UK sales team, with the appointment of Les Pearce as the new Vending Sales Manager for North England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

In Cup Plus, makers of the innovative Xen range of automatic drinks vending systems, launch their latest offering. Set to open a new, untapped market for businesses who would never have considered a drinks vending system before the introduction of the PODULE

Extra Overview

Wrigley’s Extra® is the No.1 Sugar Confectionery brand in the UK, currently worth over £152m in sales. Sales of Extra® chewing gum alone are worth over £141m claiming a 57% value share of the gum category and nearly 12% share of the sugar confectionery category. Extra’s® extensive range of sugarfree products includes Extra® gum, Extra Ice® and Extra® Mints.

New 88-page Abbeychart catalogue details over 10,000 ‘big name’ vending products under six broad categories for easy reference: vending components, water and soft drinks, fittings and accessories, refrigeration, hygiene and cleaning.  Abbeychart’s new ABC low-cost filters and Abbeytap faucets are detailed, as are its refurbishment services and its E-shop for fast and easy online ordering.

After 34 years of innovation, the company that introduced the Polyvend, BevMax and Fastcorp vending machines into Europe is delighted to mark the new decade by launching a brand new range of unrivalled, full line vending machines from USI. 

Few would argue that 2009 was a difficult year for the UK Automatic Vending industry but early signs suggest that the market is slowly emerging from the malaise of the last 2 years.

TradeCoolersDirect.com (TCD), a division of the successful UK based cooler company, Water Coolers Direct (WCD), has recently expanded its team with the appointment of Nigel Elwick and Andy Burns, in sales and technical roles respectively.

Nescafé® Gold Blend® launches its brand new ‘Employee of the Month’ competition this February designed to help boost sales throughout 2010. Businesses will not only profit from this high impact campaign and increased brand awareness with improved sales of Nescafé® Gold Blend® but employers can get involved and enter too! The campaign couldn’t be easier – it simply identifies and rewards someone outstanding in your workplace that deserves special recognition.

REAL, the popular hand cooked crisps and chips brand is adding a new product to its range - Real D’Lites. Aimed at the health conscious consumer, D’Lites, the tasty snacks made from the root vegetable Cassava and contains less fat than regular crisps and is also only 83 calories per pack.

Jonathan brings to the AVA an impressive, 20 or so years of commercial experience, a significant proportion of which is in the finance, leasing and vending markets. His first role in the vending industry came as a specialist with Anglo Leasing and subsequently with Schroder Leasing and Siemens Financial Services, where he managed sales teams that were responsible for funding in excess of £200m of machines into the vending sector over a number of years. More recently as consultant to a number of vending companies, he has specialised in working with small to medium sized businesses and large food brands, advising and mentoring, while introducing new technology into the vending market.

Kraft Foods will be featuring its latest innovations at Hotelympia 2010. From coffee to biscuits there will be lots of exciting news for operators and distributors, so a visit to stand S2036 will be essential!

Nestlé Waters UK replaces Vittel with Nestlé Pure Life for the sponsorship of the 2010 London Marathon.

Tetra Pak CEO Dennis Jönsson predicts liquid dairy product consumption to fall 1.2% in developed markets in the short term, but expects long term global growth.

A compact convenient easy vend solution tailor-made to provide Snacks and Beverages to the European small location vending (SLV) industry, the Twist machine fits neatly into any corner, table or counter-top in the office space.

Ensuring that delegates were refreshed with clean, purified drinking water from a truly sustainable source throughout the conference, the COP 15 chose to install Waterlogic water dispensers to provide drinking water for all 19,000 plus delegates for the Copenhagen event.

Westomatic Vending Services Ltd, a leading UK vending machine manufacturer is now a supplier member of NIVO, the National Independent Vending Operators group.

Graham Kingaby, Managing Director of NIVO comments: “We at NIVO are delighted that we have been able to forge a new relationship with Westomatic as one our Supply Partners.

In November 2008, the Welsh government restricted the products that can be sold through vending machines in Welsh Hospitals without any consultation with the Vending industry.

Fearing that this would be extended to other parts of the UK, the AVA formed the Vending Choice Coalition (a group comprising of key food and beverage associations, major brand manufacturers and operator companies) whose aim is to ensure that vending is able to continue to offer a wide range of products in hospitals.

The AVA has received the following sad news from Richard Brinsley of Westomatic:

“It is with deep regret that I am writing to tell you that Martyn Davies passed away on Friday 11 December.

To add a little warmth to the cold, Aimia Foods has announced that its Galaxy hot chocolate brand will be one of the official sponsors at three seasonal ice rinks – The Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.

From January 2010, the entire range of Kenco’s freeze dried coffees will be sourced from beans grown on Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farms. The move is line with Kenco’s previous announcements and highlights Kraft Foods’, parent company of the Kenco Coffee Company, continued focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing.

David Hoskin, Chairman of Save-a-Cup Recycling Ltd reports that 2009 has been a year of change for Save a Cup with some internal re-organisation to ensure they continue to offer the level of service their clients have come to expect and want.

Entries from Laura Webster (Food On-The-Move), James Chambers (Environmentally-Friendly BioWare) and Amarpreet Brar (Beverages-To-Go) – winners of the Huhtamaki Capture The Cup Photographic Competition.

Packaging manufacturer Huhtamaki is delighted to announce the winners of its very first “Capture The Cup Photographic Competition” – Laura Webster, James Chambers and Amarpreet Brar from Leicester College were the respected winners of the Competition’s three categories, each receiving a cash prize!