The Automatic Vending Associations Scottish Regional Meeting, held on April 19 at AG Barr in Cumbernauld, welcomed 32 attendees including a record 19 from operating companies.
Just some of the meeting attendees outside the AG Barr factory
Those who attended had the opportunity to find out more about the AG Barr brands of Rubicon, Strathmore Water and IRN BRU. Attendees also had an opportunity to see how IRN BRU is made, explore a museum showcasing the development of the Barrs Company, and take part in a factory tour.
Members were then treated to a lively session which included a presentation by John MacDonald (Excel Vending) on the Zero Waste Scotland progress toward a Deposit Recycling Scheme for Scotland.
The meeting closed after some insight from Muneeb Gill of BTO Solicitors into the impending GDPR regulations in May.
John MacDonald demonstrates one of the DRS machine options
Thomas Smith from Abercromby Vending said: “We found the meeting very informative especially the presentation on recycling. This is a challenge for us all in the industry.”
Alan & Kath Crawford from the Yellow Vending Company said: “A very useful meeting and an interesting tour of the Barrs facility.
Of particular significance was the discussion around the forthcoming deposit return scheme. The presentation and subsequent discussion was both illuminating and concerning, with informative views expressed by many participants. This issue has the potential to be a significant financial and operational burden, as well as – perhaps – an opportunity.
The prospect of a different scheme being rolled out in Scotland relative to England is extremely worrying, and utterly unnecessary.”
