Ethan King talks about using AI to take your business to the next level
As AI increasingly replaces traditional search as the starting point for decision-making, convenience services operators face a new challenge: visibility. In this Automatic Merchandiser's Vending & OCS Nation podcast, Ethan King explains how AI can eliminate busywork, strengthen retention and help operators show up where customers are now looking first.
Especially for those who did not attend the CTW Show in Miami and hear Ethan King's keynote address, the first part of this two-episode interview with King — our December 16 podcast — was impactful. Host Bob Tullio said he heard from several listeners who wanted to learn more.
During the first part of our interview with King, he explained how AI can eliminate busywork and help convenience services operators focus on growth, relationships and greater productivity.
Tullio and King noted that AI is a productivity multiplier, not a replacement for people. Used correctly, it automates repetitive tasks so teams can spend more time on higher-priority work. King also stressed that speed and connectivity with clients and prospects are more important than ever. AI can help operators respond to leads, service issues and customer questions faster — a critical advantage in today’s on-demand environment.
Best of all, you don’t need a technical background. King was an art major. If your team can type, copy and paste, or talk into a microphone, they can start using AI tools effectively.
Today’s episode is part two, where operators can learn about competitive advantages and take their businesses to the next level.
King explains why visibility in AI-driven search now depends on showing up consistently across media, social platforms and content sources, not just a company website. The episode details practical uses of AI to automate follow-ups, prevent service issues before they escalate and scale marketing through storytelling. King also offers advice on how operators can balance automation with authentic human connection, why AI training is essential and how early investment can deliver compounding productivity gains in 2026.
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About the Author
Bob Tullio
Bob Tullio is a content specialist, speaker, sales trainer, consultant and contributing editor of Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com. He advises entrepreneurs on how to build a successful business from the ground up. He specializes in helping suppliers connect with operators in the convenience services industry — coffee service, vending, micro markets and pantry service specifically. He can be reached at 818-261-1758 and [email protected]. Tullio welcomes your feedback.
Subscribe to Automatic Merchandiser’s new podcast, Vending & OCS Nation, which Tullio hosts. Each episode is designed to make your business more profitable.