The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) recently praised NBC-TV and its show "Parenthood" for exploring issues related to vending in recent episodes. Last week, the series opened its fourth season with Max, a main character, upset that his school’s parent teacher association removed vending machines from the campus.
Max’s mother, Kristina, is worried about her son, who suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome. She wonders if there’s anything she can do to get the vending machines back in the school. When she learns that Max’s fellow students are now purchasing food and drinks from a convenience store, she approaches the PTA about putting the machines back. Kristina says the school should keep the money in the fold; eventually, the vending machines are returned to school, and include healthy options.
“We applaud the creators and writers of “Parenthood” and NBC-TV for featuring a real-life view of vending,” said Roni Moore, NAMA vice president, marketing and communications. “As an industry, we are committed to offering the right snack and beverage choices in our vending machines, especially those placed in schools. Our members understand the important role we have working with students, and take that role very seriously,” she continued.
