Technology took center stage at the 2026 NAMA Show as suppliers highlighted the AI, analytics, digital media and support solutions helping operators reduce theft, improve efficiency and grow micro market sales.
The 2026 NAMA Show was all about AI-driven smart markets. At every turn on the convention floor, there was another smart market to see, each promising better security, improved user experience and smarter data. For operators who are considering a sale soon or a few years down the road, there is an important lesson to be learned. Consider who the M&A players are before you choose a smart market.
Automatic Merchandiser’s annual operator survey is back, with new emphasis on smart markets and evolving retail formats. Share your data to help benchmark 2025 performance and industry direction.
Automatic Merchandiser’s Vending & OCS Nation podcast host Bob Tullio did so many interviews from the convention floor at the 2026 NAMA Show in Los Angeles that he will be dedicating three episodes to the event. This first part focuses on the show’s clear theme: smart markets.
Bevi is rolling out a brand refresh and new products that push its platform beyond water, including a better-for-you soda and a new countertop machine.
Count Guard leverages advanced video analytics, AI algorithms and ProWatch’s proprietary ARMS technology to bring unprecedented accuracy and accountability to micro market transactions.
