The National Automatic Merchandising Association’s National Expo at America’s Center in St. Louis, Mo. offered a glimpse of the industry’s future. Attendees spent three days exploring innovative equipment, products and technology. Innovations included more options for cashless, remote monitoring, energy efficiency, health and nutrition, and environmental sustainability. Examples include:
- New bill recylcers that allow customers to use bills larger than $1, dispensing change in bills as well as coins.
- An imbedded video screen that displays the back of packages to show customers nutritional information.
- A hydrogen powered vending machine that requires no external power source.
- A glassfront beverage dispenser that fills then dispenses pouches at the time of sale.
