Resource management is a key area of concern for schools - governed by strict budgets catering managers are under constant pressure to keep costs down. Vending machines represent an ideal solution for time pressured staff, struggling to feed large numbers of pupils in buildings that are often not fit for purpose. Vending International investigates…

As of September 2007, the new standards for food in schools other than lunches became compulsory. Including vending machines, foods must now contribute to a child’s nutrition. Despite conflicting reports in the media, it is understood that the new government poses no threat to the standards, which are enshrined in law and compel schools not to offer foods high in fat, salt or sugar. An article that appeared in The Guardian back in June explained: “Sarah Teather is soon to examine school meals policy, but the standards will not be scrapped or diluted.”

The healthy eating revolution that has taken the nation by storm in the last decade has left no stone unturned, no food or beverage company escaping the changing tide in consumer demand. Vending manufacturers and the schools that house them have been quick to turn these changes into a profitable advantage.

When purchasing coffee, consumers are increasingly looking for higher quality. Taste remains vital, but there is now a growing interest in the conditions in which the coffee was made. Over the coming years, educational institutions must be aware that they will be serving a generation of ethical consumers, adding another factor into a school, college or university’s choice of coffee blend and brand.

SUSO, one of the best selling soft drinks in secondary schools nationwide, is launching a new Sparkling Apple flavour to kick-start the 2010 Spring Term.

The innovative Sparkling Apple variant is entirely focused on the wants and needs of teenagers and will build on the sales momentum of the existing SUSO range, driving market share growth during a key back-to-school period.