Meet the 2025 40 Under 40: Honoring the future of convenience services

Stephanie Beerman is the western regional sales manager for Barcel USA and has spent the past 14 years in the industry building a reputation as a results-driven leader with a passion for driving growth. With experience in CPG and unattended retail, Stephanie combines sharp, strategic insight with a collaborative spirit, consistently delivering value for both her teams and partners. Navigating a field rich with experienced professionals, she approaches this recognition with humility and gratitude for the mentors who have helped shape her journey. Known for her relentless drive and forward-thinking approach, Stephanie is committed to pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and creating a meaningful and measurable impact. This honor not only reflects her dedication and accomplishments but also strengthens her resolve to continue growing, innovating and leading with purpose in every step ahead in an industry she loves.

Jared Black

Jared Black is the lead engineer at Everest Ice and Water Systems, where he oversees all aspects of product design and manufacturing innovation. Jared is the architect behind Everest’s most advanced vending models, including the Avalanche and Ascent machines, each designed for improved efficiency, durability and customer usability. His work introduced patented features, such as automatic bagging and Clean Vault UV technology, which helped Everest machines last longer, use fewer materials and reduce operating costs. Jared has also led efforts to standardize internal systems, documentation and service manuals, improving training and installation consistency across Everest’s growing network. His engineering innovations support Everest’s rapid expansion into convenience retail and C-store partnerships. Jared works closely with service, marketing and onboarding to ensure that what’s built in the plant can be easily understood and supported in the field. His focus on sustainable design and smart manufacturing continues to push Everest forward in the vending and micro market industries.

Mac Bolak

Mac Bolak has been starting companies in the artificial intelligence space since he was a teenager, including a venture capital-backed company that used AI to edit basketball footage autonomously for basketball coaches. In 2019, he founded Panoptyc, a leading micro market theft detection and security company. In 2022, Panoptyc was a recipient of Automatic Merchandiser’s Readers’ Choice Products of the Year Awards in the technology category, and in 2025, its Sentry A-powered walkout detection solution earned top honors in the Readers’ Choice Products of the Year Awards in the security category. Panoptyc works with industry leaders and is in more than 6,000 micro markets across the United States, Canada and Europe. Panoptyc uses AI software and smart cameras to decrease theft in micro markets and save operators time reviewing footage. As a young and determined visionary, Bolak knows the industry inside and out and is continuously looking to improve Panoptyc’s services while also exploring new opportunities within the industry.

McKnight Carr

McKnight Carr is the president of MCM Vending in Muscle Shoals, Ala. Growing up, his father worked in the manufactured housing industry. He understood the value of vending, but most importantly, great service. At 16, McKnight’s father purchased 15 vending machines from an online ad as a hands-on way to teach his son about sales, customer service and money management. After a few years working under his father’s guidance, McKnight was able to save $10,000 and, on October 1, 2014, purchased the machines himself. He operated the business from his parents’ garage, driven by a “can-do” attitude and a passion for serving others. Over the years, McKnight and his team have grown MCM into one of Alabama’s largest independent vending companies. Today, MCM operates as a full-line vending service, providing snacks, beverages, water and coffee services to approximately 20,000 people daily in manufacturing facilities across Alabama and Mississippi.

Bradley Charles

Bradley Charles is a dynamic leader in the convenience industry, distinguished by his unwavering customer-first mindset and passion for operational excellence, serving as an enterprise account manager at 365 Retail Markets. Brad has a proven track record of driving performance through hands-on leadership, empowering teams and fostering collaboration to ensure a seamless customer experience at every touchpoint. Brad's strategic vision and proactive approach enable him to anticipate market trends, implement innovative solutions and elevate service standards. Deeply committed to team development and customer satisfaction, he inspires a culture of accountability, adaptability and continuous improvement. Brad's influential leadership and dedication make him a trusted and forward-thinking figure in the fast-paced unattended convenience environment. Brad lives in Michigan with his wife, Christine, and daughter, Molly, and enjoys spending time with family, golfing and enjoying the outdoors in his free time.

Shaun Dayton

Shaun Dayton is a third-generation vending operator at Canteen of Northern California, which was founded in 1970 and is currently the oldest operating Canteen franchise in the United States. Shaun grew up immersed in the family business — sweeping the warehouse, assisting with deliveries and running routes during the summer. Nine years ago, Shaun took on a more formal role within the company. Since then, he has led key modernization initiatives, including upgrading routes to tablets, installing credit card readers, implementing a new VMS and, most recently, integrating Smart Stores into the operation. Known for his hands-on approach and innovative mindset, Shaun enjoys being a “guinea pig” for new equipment and technologies. He actively participates in beta programs, offering valuable feedback from an operator’s perspective. Shaun has made a significant impact on every aspect of the business and is committed to continuing the family legacy, alongside his cousin, for decades to come.

Thomas Denardo

Thomas Denardo serves as the national service manager at Everest Ice and Water Systems, where he oversees the company’s service operations and nationwide support infrastructure. With a background in technical service leadership, Thomas has built Everest’s service department into a high performing, technician-led team responsible for maintaining the company’s customer satisfaction. Under his direction, Everest achieved a 99% customer favorability rating and successfully scaled its support efforts to match growth in the micro market and convenience retail space. He led the seamless rollout of service support for major accounts such as Wawa and helped onboard national service providers, including PepsiCo, Newco and Tech24. Thomas also partners cross-functionally to standardize training manuals and video content, ensuring a smooth owner experience from install through ongoing service. His dedication to operational excellence and problem-solving continues to elevate Everest’s reputation in the vending and C-store industries.

Justin Eppinger

His peers nominated Justin Eppinger for his role at A&M Equipment Sales, a provider of used, refurbished and new vending machines.

Daniel Fox

Daniel Fox is a partner at Cumberland Convenience Services, a family-owned company providing breakroom refreshments to the Greater Nashville area. He got his start in the industry in 2018, when he and his father purchased a vending route from a local operator. Since joining the company full-time in 2020, Daniel has helped grow the operation to over 250 machines, 30 markets, and more than 20 OCS stations. While providing exceptional customer service will always be the company’s primary focus, Daniel has led the push into new technologies that have helped position Cumberland Convenience Services as an industry leader.

Lucas Goodenough

Lucas Goodenough is the head of sales and operations at &Back Coffee, a women-owned, B-Corporation, purpose-driven coffee company committed to sustainability and impact. A founding team member, Lucas has played a pivotal role in growing &Back Coffee’s footprint, leading the company’s expansion into more than 500 locations across North America, including major convenience and gas chains. The company is dedicated to empowering women through responsible sourcing while helping businesses achieve their sustainability, inclusion and employee engagement goals through coffee. Lucas has spearheaded strategic partnerships and led the creation of &Back Coffee’s ImpactQRC platform, an innovative tool that connects customers directly to the farmers and impacts behind their cup. A proud member of the LGBTQ2S+ community, he advocates for inclusive representation and is deeply engaged with women coffee farmers at origin. Lucas continues to drive innovation in the office coffee service space.

Bobby Hites

Bobby Hites is a driving force in the convenience services industry, leading innovation and growth as national director of business development at Naturals2Go. Based in Savannah, Ga., Bobby brings sharp strategy and operational expertise to healthy vending and unattended retail, helping expand the company’s reach and influence. His journey began hands-on as he built one of Pennsylvania’s largest unattended retail businesses, gaining deep insight into what it takes to scale in this competitive space. Before joining Naturals2Go, Bobby honed his business development skills at Dean Natural Vending, earning a reputation for turning opportunity into action. Known for his collaborative leadership and vision, Bobby continues to shape the future of unattended retail through forward-thinking strategies and a commitment to healthier, more sustainable solutions.

Jaime Ibanez

Jaime Ibanez is the founder of Vending Bites, a family-owned vending and coffee service company based in Dallas-Fort Worth. He started his business at just 18 years old with a single vending machine and a goal to build something of his own. Over the past six years, Jaime has grown Vending Bites into a full-service operation offering snacks, drinks, office coffee and micro market solutions to businesses across the metroplex. Along the way, he began documenting his journey on YouTube, where he shares the real, unfiltered experiences of running a vending business — from machine deliveries and warehouse upgrades to setbacks like equipment failures or price increases. His content has reached millions of viewers, offering a behind-the-scenes look at an industry often overlooked. Whether it’s a 24/7 distribution center or a corporate office building, Jaime’s mission is simple: make refreshments better.

Mike Jamison

Mike Jamison is the founder and CEO of NewAge Refreshments, a rapidly growing company based in Middle Tennessee, specializing in micro markets, pantry services, office coffee and modern vending solutions. Since launching in 2024, Mike has transformed NewAge from a small operation into a full-service unattended retail partner trusted by Class A offices, co-working spaces and commercial real estate groups. With a focus on clean design, seamless technology and unmatched service, NewAge is redefining what workplace refreshment can look like. Mike also serves on the NAMA Emerging Leaders Network Steering Committee, contributing to the future of the industry at a national level. His mission is clear: to upgrade the breakroom experience across Middle Tennessee, replacing outdated setups with fresh, modern amenities that employees actually enjoy.

Blake Johnson

Blake Johnson has been with Pot O' Gold Coffee for nine years, starting as a driver and working his way up to managing the drivers, routes and customer experience. His hands-on knowledge and understanding across multiple roles have allowed him to develop a deeper understanding of operations across multiple departments. Blake specializes in route optimization and operational efficiency, ensuring the team consistently delivers top-quality service. His leadership is driven by a strong commitment to doing the job right and maintaining the customer-focused values that define Pot O' Gold Coffee Service.

Kayin Kelly

Kayin “Pepper” Kelly is the founder of Vendture Group, a dynamic force in the vending, micro market and office coffee service (OCS) space. With a sharp eye for innovation and a passion for operational excellence, Kayin has helped scale Vendture Group into a thriving enterprise, emphasizing data-driven decision-making and customer-first service models. He is also the co-founder and co-host of The Vendtelligence Podcast, a platform that spotlights emerging trends, technologies and voices in unattended retail. Through this podcast, Kayin has fostered community and thought leadership across the industry. His entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking approach have positioned him as a rising leader shaping the way operators think about automation, analytics and the future of vending. With a background that blends strategic consulting and tech-forward execution, Kayin continues to guide the conversation and direction of the industry, one episode and one vending solution at a time.

Michelle Lopez-McKay

Michelle Lopez-McKay is a senior project manager at 365 Retail Markets, where she guides projects from intake through development, pilot and release. She works across departments to seamlessly transition initiatives from concept to launch, supporting teams at every stage. She played a key role in launching the MM6, part of 365’s popular micro market product line, helping bring the next wave of innovation to market. Today, she leads large, high profile projects with major customers in the vending and micro market industries. Michelle is known for her steady leadership and ability to deliver results that matter to stakeholders and customers. She earned her degree in economics from Oakland University and, drawn to the creative side of technology, transitioned into development before finding her passion in project management. Michelle lives in Michigan with her husband, three young children, two cats, one dog and one snake, balancing a busy family life with her professional pursuits.

John Malley

John Malley is a dynamic technology leader and software engineer with a proven track record of innovation, security and strategic growth in the unattended retail and technology sectors. As the technology lead manager at ProWatch Solutions, John plays a pivotal role in developing and optimizing ProWatch’s Automated Retail Management System (ARMS), a cutting-edge platform designed to revolutionize loss prevention and security monitoring in micro markets. With expertise in full-stack development, AWS infrastructure management, AI and cybersecurity, John has successfully designed, implemented and scaled digital solutions that drive efficiency and enhance customer security. His leadership extends beyond technology, mentoring teams, improving operational processes and aligning technical advancements with business objectives. John’s impact on the industry is evident in his commitment to leveraging AI, automation, and cloud solutions to enhance security in unattended retail environments. His work at ProWatch Solutions is helping businesses protect assets, optimize theft prevention, and streamline operations.

Billy Mandile

Billy Mandile is the co-founder and CEO of MarcheNYC, a company focused on redefining micro market and OCS experiences. Billy grew up working in his father’s traditional vending business, where he developed a deep understanding of the industry and watched it evolve, especially with the growth of office coffee services (OCS). When his father sold the business, Billy and his brother saw an opportunity to build something new. They combined their experience and passion to create MarcheNYC. At MarcheNYC, Billy prioritizes innovation, convenience and exceptional service to provide businesses with modern breakroom solutions. He’s committed to ensuring every client gets a tailored experience that enhances workplace satisfaction. Leading this journey has been an incredible experience, he says, and he is proud to help shape the future of the industry.

Brandon Mandile

Brandon Mandile is the co-founder and COO of MarcheNYC. Growing up in the vending industry, Brandon has been immersed in the business my entire life, learning its nuances and watching it evolve. His journey began in his family’s traditional vending business, where he developed a strong foundation in operations and customer service. Outside of work, Brandon has always been passionate about sports and health, which naturally influenced his vision for MarcheNYC. He wanted to introduce a health-conscious perspective to their micro market and office coffee service (OCS) solutions, offering options that prioritize wellness without compromising convenience or quality. As COO, Brandon focuses on ensuring seamless operations while curating products that align with his clients’ needs and values. By blending industry expertise with his dedication to health and innovation, he is proud to help transform workplaces with better refreshment solutions. With his brother, Brandon is setting new standards for the industry.

Kelly Meadows

Kelly Meadows is a seasoned sales leader in the office coffee service (OCS) industry, currently serving as the director of national accounts for OCS at Lavazza Group. With more than 15 years of experience in national account management, Kelly has held key roles at Lavazza and Mars Drinks, where he led strategic growth initiatives across the United States. Kelly is actively involved in industry leadership as a member of the Industry Advisory Board for the Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management (SHFM), reflecting his commitment to advancing workplace amenities and foodservice innovation. A graduate of Virginia Tech’s Pamplin College of Business, Kelly is known for his client-first approach, collaborative leadership, and ability to drive sustainable growth in the OCS and workplace beverage sectors.

McCants Plymel

McCants Plymel is a third-generation vendor who grew up seeing his dad run the family business. Before his dad took the reins, his grandad, after serving in the military, returned to his hometown of Moultrie, Ga., where he took over Variety Vending and expanded it from a jukebox and cigarette vending company to a full-service snack, drink, food and coffee vending company. He also operated catering and coffee trucks throughout the region. McCants helped out at Variety Vending while growing up and in high school, but it was not until college that he had a real responsibility for the family business. His father offered him a free college education under one condition: McCants had to work for the family business three days a week. McCants drove back and forth from Valdosta State University to the Moultrie branch, where he counted route collections and managed the collection and money room. After graduating, he was groomed to assume more leadership responsibilities and expand the business. To better capitalize on the emerging presence of micro markets, regional growth, and the impact of the coffee and tea portfolio, McCants rebranded the company as Variety Companies, implementing a new look and website. Over a five-year span, McCants directly sold and facilitated approximately 65 market conversions and new installations. The company currently operates around 90 micro markets and more than 500 vending machines, and it serves around 500 coffee and tea customers, including large hospitality, restaurants, industrial facilities, offices, C-stores, distribution centers, schools, college campuses, food facilities and churches. In addition to rebranding and growing the business, McCants also facilitated warehouse changes for efficiency, rearranged the customer service schedule and route fleet to maximum efficiency, facilitated and executed aggressive pricing objectives during and post COVID, launched and direct the loss prevention program (which cut shrink by more than 50 percent), optimized the company’s fresh food menu and offerings, assisted the team with launching hot food caterings, and launched a giveaway and product promotion program seen on monitors within all of the company’s micro markets. McCants notes that his success with Variety Companies could not have been achieved without the leadership, groundwork and hard work instilled in him from the foundation provided by his father and grandfather.

Natali Pupovac-Peters

Natali Pupovac-Peters has built a career on breaking barriers in male-dominated industries, from trucking to financial services. In 2017, she transitioned into franchise consulting, quickly establishing herself as a leader in Canada’s vending industry. At Naturals2Go, Natali thrived in a historically male-led environment, growing the account management team and championing inclusivity. In 2024, she took on one of her biggest challenges yet, leading both the locating and account management teams. Under her leadership, the teams tripled in size, processes were streamlined and efficiency soared, increasing output by 50%. Natali’s success is fueled by her ability to earn trust, build strong relationships and deliver results-driven solutions. A dedicated mentor and advocate for women in business, she continues to inspire others while balancing a thriving career and family life. Her impact on the vending industry and Naturals2Go undeniably shapes its future with innovation and leadership.

David Prince

David and Natalie Prince are the co-founders of VendTastic, Northern Michigan’s fast-growing vending company, redefining convenience. In less than two years, they have expanded VendTastic to more than 60 locations, demonstrating that innovation and determination drive success in the industry. With the bold slogan “Crave. Vend. Repeat.” VendTastic delivers seamless, satisfying vending experiences tailored to modern consumer needs. Their leadership and strategic vision continue to propel VendTastic forward, making them standout entrepreneurs in the vending space.

Gilbert Ramirez Jr.

Gilbert Ramirez Jr. is the brand marketing manager for Everest Ice and Water Systems, leading strategic growth, creative direction and customer engagement for one of the fastest-growing companies in the vending industry. With a master’s degree in architecture, Gilbert brings a unique “master-planning” mindset to marketing, treating every campaign like a blueprint with clear intent and scalable impact. He played a lead role in launching Everest’s latest machine, the Avalanche, helping reshape the way ice vending is marketed and sold. Gilbert also built Everest University, a digital onboarding platform for new owners, and developed a testimonial program that showcases customer success in their own words. His efforts have helped Everest land on the Inc. 5000 list multiple times and elevated its national brand visibility. In 2025, Gilbert was honored with two 40 Under 40 awards — one from the Orlando Business Journal and one from Automatic Merchandiser — for his creative leadership and industry impact.

Russ Russell

Russ Russell serves as the regional sales director in the west at Cantaloupe Inc., where he helps fast-growing and enterprise-level vending, micro market and OCS operators discover growth opportunities through technology and operational enhancements. Joining Cantaloupe in December 2022 as a business development manager, he leveraged his background in sales, finance and customer service to make a swift transition into the vending and unattended retail sector. In a short time, Russ has expanded his industry network through conferences, trade shows and operator meetings. With a strong entrepreneurial mindset, he is dedicated to pushing boundaries and implementing innovative technologies that align with Cantaloupe’s vision of leading self-service commerce globally. Russ frequently shares his insights on the future of technology in the industry through talks and presentations at conferences. Russ was also recently recognized as one of Automatic Merchandiser’s 2024 Pros to Know. He holds a degree in entrepreneurial management and marketing from Texas Christian University.

Andrew Shelly

Born into the industry, Andrew Shelly began his career at an early age, working alongside his father and grandfather at Tremont Vending Inc. In 2011, he became vice president of sales and operations, where he led a major transformation. During his tenure, Andrew revitalized the company by managing a portfolio of over 400 accounts, spearheading key technology upgrades, implementing VMS and markets, leading two successful acquisitions, and crafting a strategic exit. In 2023, his leadership culminated in the successful sale of Tremont. Andrew then joined Just Baked, where he oversaw national sales for major industry partners and played a pivotal role in accelerating the company’s growth. Today, Andrew serves as senior manager, national OCS key accounts at Cimbali USA, where he is driving the expansion of the Cimbali portfolio across the U.S. and Canadian OCS markets. His leadership continues to shape the future of the industry with a focus on growth, innovation, and customer success.

Steven Small

As the IT and business systems manager at BostonbeaN Coffee Co., Steven Small leads technological initiatives to support and evolve workplace café and pantry services. His role combines technical oversight with strategic problem-solving. He manages the company’s infrastructure, optimizes business platforms and ensures that every system it uses contributes to smoother operations and improved client experiences. Steven has introduced solutions that reduce manual processes, enhance data security, and maintain reliable performance as a one-person IT department. Before stepping into this field, he spent nearly a decade as a middle-school science teacher, which taught Steven how to stay adaptable, communicate clearly and think critically under pressure. With a background in science and a passion for operational improvement, Steven is proud to help BostonbeaN stay ahead of the curve by leveraging smart, purposeful technology and cross-functional collaboration. Being recognized in the 40 Under 40 is a tremendous honor, he says, and a reminder of the impact smart systems can make.

Zachary Stomel

Zach Stomel serves as director of operations at a leading vending and office coffee service company, where he brings a data-driven mindset to daily operations and long-term strategy. With degrees in mathematics, statistics and economics, and a concentration in quantitative economics, Zach leverages analytical thinking to streamline logistics, optimize route efficiency and enhance customer experience. His approach blends operational excellence with innovation, helping modernize traditional vending through technology integration and service refinement. Zach’s leadership has played a key role in driving consistent growth, improving team performance and expanding service capabilities across multiple markets. Known for his attention to detail and deep understanding of both numbers and people, he builds systems that work and relationships that last. Whether implementing new technology or fine-tuning supply chains, Zach is focused on delivering consistent, high quality service while setting a new standard in the refreshment services industry.

Ashilyn Sunderman

As the CEO of Smith Vending Canteen (SVC), Ashilyn Sunderman brings more than 16 years of experience in the vending industry, with the last four years dedicated to leading the company. Under her guidance, SVC has grown from a small operation with just 10 employees and five routes to a thriving business with 42 employees and 15 routes, all while fostering a strong company culture. A graduate of Northwest Missouri State University with a degree in business management, Ashilyn has also earned her NCE and CCE certifications and completed NAMA’s Executive Development Program. Her commitment to professional development and excellence is evident in her leadership style. Beyond her professional achievements, Ashilyn is a dedicated mother of two active children and a supportive farmer’s wife. She enjoys staying active and traveling whenever possible. Passionate about giving back to her community, she serves on several boards, including the Cardinal Fund, Clarinda Foundation, and CRHC PFAC. Ashilyn is grateful for the opportunity to continue her father’s legacy with SVC and proud of the remarkable growth and success the company has achieved over the years, thanks to the hard work of her incredible team.

Shane Swanson

Shane Swanson is a forward-thinking sales and customer service manager at Coley Canteen, specializing in micro markets and advanced vending technologies. With over ten years of industry experience, Shane bridges the gap between customer needs and cutting-edge self-service solutions, helping businesses modernize their break rooms and retail spaces. Shane has played a key role in driving the adoption of smart vending systems, mobile payments and customized micro market layouts for a range of clients, from corporate offices to manufacturing facilities. His deep understanding of consumer behavior and emerging retail tech enables him to design tailored solutions that improve user experience and boost client ROI. Dedicated to staying ahead of market trends and focusing on communication, Shane works closely with operations, technology partners and facility managers to ensure seamless execution and long-term customer satisfaction.

Brittany Tresemer

Brittany Tresemer is a dynamic leader, currently serving as the director of marketing and commercial excellence at Franke Coffee Systems. With more than 13 years in the foodservice industry, she drives growth through innovative category insights, customer marketing and product development. Her leadership has earned Franke seven prestigious industry awards in North America over the past four years. Brittany is dedicated to continuous learning and growth, aligning strategies with evolving consumer needs. A regular at major trade shows, conferences and networking events, she stays ahead of industry trends and is a trusted source, quoted in over 10 publications. Passionate about mentorship and team development, Brittany fosters a culture of inclusion and empowerment. Known for her collaborative spirit and servant leadership, she inspires trust and innovation across teams. Her commitment to excellence and vision for the future make her a standout leader, driving change and advancing the industry.

Pascal Uffer

As the CEO and co-founder of Boost Inc., Pascal Uffer is a visionary leader transforming the unattended retail industry through innovation and technology. He began his vending career in 2015 as Group COO of Selecta, Europe’s largest operator, where he led the acquisitions of Pelican Rouge, Argenta and Express Vending, and oversaw the rollout of telemetry and cashless payments across 200,000 machines. He also launched Foodie’s micro markets, pioneering unattended retail in Europe. In 2020, Pascal co-founded Boost Inc., where he now serves as CEO. He led the development of Vendlive, the first fully cloud-based, hardware-agnostic operating system for vending, empowering operators to manage their estates like e-commerce businesses. Under his leadership, Boost has expanded into over 10 countries, serving more than 400 customers and generating over €20 million in revenue. Pascal also founded Boostbar, Switzerland’s fastest-growing operator, and Hofmanns2Go, Europe’s largest frozen food vending network. He has earned major accolades, including the 2023 SEF Award and 2024 Vendies Award for Automated Retail.

Heather Ulich

Heather Ulich began her journey at Office Libations as a sales representative, quickly earning trust by listening closely to clients and effectively matching solutions to their needs. Over the years, she’s worn nearly every hat, leading sales, marketing, operations, onboarding and even stepping in to run delivery routes and warehouse shifts when needed. Her “no job is too small” mindset and high standards have shaped the culture and operational excellence of the entire company. As chief customer experience officer, Heather leads a team that solves client issues rapidly and empathetically, especially for our always-changing, high growth clients. Her upbeat, unflappable attitude is a constant source of calm and clarity, no matter the challenge. Office Libations’ survival — and post-pandemic growth — is a direct result of Heather’s tireless commitment to doing right by clients, her deep operational knowledge and her ability to lead with heart.

Antares Vargas

Antares Vargas is the founder and CEO of Keep That Vending, a modern vending and micro market company based in Los Angeles. Combining innovation, design and technology, Antares has built a new model for convenience services — one that creates economic opportunity while enhancing daily life. As Hollywood productions have slowed significantly, Antares has made it a mission to provide jobs for creatives affected by the entertainment industry’s downturn. Her team of vending operators consists entirely of artists, filmmakers and storytellers who maintain financial stability while continuing to pursue their passions. Under her leadership, Keep That Vending has experienced rapid growth, securing high profile partnerships, including multiple Greystar residential properties. The company has expanded into premium residential and commercial spaces across Southern California, offering luxury vending machines and custom-built micro markets. Antares approaches vending as a curated shopping experience, designing each location to serve tenants with thoughtful, accessible and design-forward self-service retail.

Alvaro Velasquez

Alvaro Velasquez is the creative engine behind Everest Ice and Water Systems’ digital presence, serving as the company’s digital media specialist. He leads all videography efforts across departments, encompassing social media content, product launches, technical training and testimonial storytelling. Alvaro’s creative direction has helped Everest achieve more than 1 million monthly views on YouTube, making it a highly followed channel in the industry with 300% more subscribers than competitors. His work has been instrumental in the success of Everest’s free machine contest, product marketing and educational video resources for owners and service teams. Alvaro excels at crafting visually engaging content that also educates and drives engagement, helping Everest stand out in the vending space. His growth as a cross-functional collaborator and his commitment to Everest’s core values of continuous improvement and storytelling excellence have made him a vital part of the company’s success in the micro market and vending industries.

Jason Vincent

As the chief product and technology officer as well as co-founder of Boost Inc., Jason Vincent is a technology entrepreneur with more than 15 years of experience leading innovation in unattended retail, vending and blockchain. As founder of Aeguana and now CPTO at Boost Inc., formed via a strategic merger with Boostbar AG, he has reshaped how operators manage vending, micro markets and self-serve coffee. He developed Vendlive, the industry’s first hardware-agnostic operating system, enabling real-time, cloud-based management and integrated e-commerce functionality. Jason has forged key OEM partnerships with global manufacturers, including CPI, SandenVendo, and Jofemar, to enhance machine capabilities and drive system-wide innovation. His work has earned multiple accolades, including the British Engineering Excellence Award and several Vendies Awards, including those for Sustainability Innovation, Covid Response and Best Product. Jason continues to shape the future of unattended retail through scalable, tech-driven solutions that blend hardware, software and customer experience.

Nakia White-Hazel

Nakia White-Hazel was nominated for her work as CEO of Life’s Sweet & Savory Vending, an operator providing breakroom solutions to the Low Country region of South Carolina.

James Ross Winston

Ross Winston is Panoptyc’s vice president of operations and serves as the senior connector between Panoptyc’s product, engineering, sales, finance and support organizations. Under his leadership, Panoptyc identifies hundreds of thousands of unattended retail thefts annually and deters countless more. Joining the team in 2023, Ross made an early and sizable impact and was the driving force behind Panoptyc’s theft deterrence solutions. Ross overhauled Panoptyc’s finance department, reducing invoicing and other finance errors that hyper-growth companies often experience. At Panoptyc, Ross has a primary focus: delivering unparalleled value to customers. An avid pilot, Ross enjoys traveling the country to visit clients and colleagues, logging 150 hours in the cockpit annually. Ross is an Eagle Scout and the former Blue Devil Mascot at Duke University. At Duke, Ross attained Dean’s List and managed three digital fabrication laboratories, a program he helped build from a dozen 3D printers in a closet.

Shane Wise

Alp Yorston is an equipment specialist at Everest Ice and Water Systems, where he has spent the past five years helping entrepreneurs and operators launch successful vending businesses. Known for his customer service and technical expertise, Alp consistently ranks as one of Everest’s highest-producing sales professionals. Beyond sales, he has been a key driver behind internal improvements, often integrating new software and technology tools to streamline operations company-wide. Alp played a central role in launching Everest’s BlueBox C-Store Programs and continues to serve as an informal IT and technology advisor, as well as a mentor to fellow sales team members. His collaborative spirit and results-driven mindset embody Everest’s core value of “Getting Things Done.” Alp’s contributions span far beyond individual deals — his strategic thinking and passion for innovation have directly supported Everest’s growth in the vending sector and its continued expansion into new verticals such as micro markets and convenience retail.