This year’s Vendies were held at the 5* Chelsea Harbour Hotel in London on 28 June 2016. Members of the vending and water industries gathered for a fabulous gala luncheon to celebrate the achievements and success of the past 12 months.
The annual Vendies awards celebration is designed to recognise everything the vending and water industries have to offer. A morning of networking at the EDWCA Trade Show and AGM (see page 15 for more) was followed by a champagne and canapé reception, before guests
were invited into the ballroom for a delicious luncheon and wine. Hosted by film director, actor and presenter Ryan Philpott – whose off-the-cuff vending rap was well received – the event also raised a generous sum for Demelza House Hospice Care for Children. The party then moved to the hotel bar where guests continued to network into the evening. With music, entertainment, great food and the opportunity to catch up with industry friends old and new, it was truly a day to remember.
In the vending categories, Best Hot Beverage went to Lavazza Coffee, and Best Soft Drink to Berrywhite Organic Drinks. Best Machine Innovation (sponsored by Lavazza), went to Coffetek for its Button Barista App, whilst Nayax picked up the award for Best Payment System (sponsored by Siemens Financial Services), for its VPOS card reader with telemetry and management system. Burts Potato Chips had a successful night, picking up two awards: Best Health & Well Being Product (for its Lentil Waves Thai Sweet Chilli) and Best New Product (sponsored by SUZOHAPP) for its Hobgoblin Spit Roast Steak flavour crisps. Best Snack/Confectionery Product went to Kettle Chips’ Handy Packs, and Benders Paper Cups scooped Best Vending Cup. Siemens 
Financial Services was awarded Best Ancillary Service to the Industry.
In the water categories, the Best Environmental Initiative Project (sponsored by Coffetek) went to BRITA Professional for its on-going commitment to the environment. The 4 Aces Single Cup Dispenser was awarded Best Product Innovation.
Vending International’s Jenny Thompson heads up sponsorship for the awards. She commented: “It’s been a fantastic year for entries and voting, so congratulations to all of our winners. A big ‘thank you’ must go to our lead sponsor So Pure, together with our category sponsors, Coffetek, SUZOHAPP, Lavazza and Siemens and of course our goody bag sponsors, who made sure there were plenty of snacks for the journey home!”
Features editor Bryony Andrews said: “We had a really high standard of entries for the Vendies 2016. It was a great opportunity for companies both large and small to shout about their achievements and innovations from the past twelve months. We are already beginning work on the plans for next year’s event – bring on The Vendies 2017!”
Suky Matharu, managing director at main event sponsor So Pure, commented: “The Vendies are about recognising the best in our industry – businesses or individuals who are passionate in delivering quality. This 
is something I fully endorse, and it was good to meet like mind industry colleagues at the event. The Vendies is inspirational on a personal note, as it proves to me that we can make a difference and push boundaries within our industry. We congratulate everyone on their success and look forward to supporting The Vendies next year!”
When The Vendies returns for 2017, it will include categories for operators, individuals, manufacturers and suppliers, as well as the prestigious Vending Industry Lifetime Achievement Award.
