Showcasing the latest in machine technology, healthy snacking, coffee innovation and more, AVEX is a must for anyone in the vending, coffee and water industries. VI reports on the 2015 edition of the biennial show…
AVEX 2015 venue Manchester Central was a hive of activity when the VI team arrived on Monday 29 June, as exhibitors commenced construction of some truly impressive stands. Representatives from some of the world’s biggest businesses arrived at the city to display their latest products and services to visitors at the two day event, which ran from 31 June – 1 July 2015.
Tony Smith, chairman of AVEX, commented on behalf of the AVA: “The centre of Manchester proved to be an ideal location – it offered hotel accommodation to suit a range of personal needs and budgets compared to Birmingham. The event was also in close proximity to transport networks and also provided every style of restaurant within walking distance – something missing from the past few exhibitions.”
He continued: “Having an upbeat sporting personality such as Kriss Akabusi to open the show as our Key Note Speaker really set the tone for a lively and engaging exhibition with lots of networking opportunities. Speakers Corner also gave industry experts an opportunity to open discussions on the issues that are pertinent to our industry, such as emerging technologies and cashless payment options.”
Firsts for ‘15
New for 2015 was the Healthy & Well-Being Zone, which featured a number of up-and-coming businesses including Healthy Nibbles, winner of the Best Newcomer award at The Vendies 2015 and Emily Fruit Crisps, who
you can read more about in the July/August issue’s VI Voice. A fitting addition to the show, the new area highlighted the array of healthier options now available for vending in the UK
and demonstrated the industry’s commitment to improving public perception of vending.
Another new concept for AVEX 2015 was Barista Street, which allowed visitors to see and taste the latest innovations in Bean to Cup coffee machines – ideal for facilities and office managers looking to upgrade their current machines. The array of machines and technologies on offer reflected the current trend towards premiumisation and increased consumer demand for high quality coffee.
Micromarkets, a relatively recent concept for the UK, were demonstrated at the show by SV365 and Kelloggs, allowing visitors to scope out the potential of this new type of automated retail outlet. Distributors, operators and suppliers from the water industry showcased the latest innovations on ‘Hydration Highway.’
Speakers Corner
Industry experts shared unique insights on the issues that are most pertinent to the vending industry through a series of informative seminars throughout the show. Nick Adams from Ingenico discussed the potential of the contactless proposition, and Nestlé’s Steve Norris and David Forber talked about the evolution of the coffee vending market. “Consumers are becoming increasingly intelligent about the coffee they drink – it’s the new wine,” said David. Simon Turnock of IVTS discussed the company’s software and hardware upgrades for traditional vending solutions.
Visitors to the show included facilities managers, vending operators and other major decision makers. Exhibitors reported strong interest and valuable leads despite the hottest weather of the year so far, with some even completing deals during the show. Day Two saw the energetic ‘Business Doctors with Kevin Cook & Simon Monaghan’ session, which offered guidance on how to grow your business. Nestle’s David Forber continued the conversations of Day One around premium vended coffee, citing that its growing popularity is not just due to its excellent quality, it’s also down to the theatre that touch screen technology can now provide for consumers. He also stated that the future of premium vended coffee also looks strong as consumers are more likely to choose location over brand when it comes to getting their caffeine fix.
Rosie Mills, AVEX manager, commented: “After two years of planning AVEX 2015, it was brilliant to finally bring the industry together at the event and see the best that the vending industry has to offer under one roof to buy, sell and network. We had over 120 leading exhibitors from across the globe and visitor numbers were yet again impressive over the two days. AVEX’s new show zones proved very popular with visitors and were filled with an array of new product innovations that really got people talking, sampling and buying.”
Check out the July/August issue of Vending International HERE for the full review, including comments from exhibitors!
