The National Automatic Merchandising Association leadership team, led by President and CEO Carla Balakgie, with the association board of directors, head to Washington D.C. this week for the first-ever Public Policy Conference.
Small groups will participate in working meetings over a two-day period with elected officials as well as federal agency representatives and their staffs to discuss relevant policy issues impacting vending and refreshment services.
Key areas of focus include: pending Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations on calorie disclosure requirements; the movement towards taxation on sugar-sweetened beverages and its negative impact on consumer choice and the resulting economic disadvantages; fees for the acceptance of electronic payments (debit) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance.
The goal for the trip, according to NAMA leadership, is to continue to build positive, productive relationships with government officials. This first-ever Public Policy Conference is an important part of that ongoing process.
