Nominations open for 2026 Automated Retail & Kiosk Innovation Awards

by Richard Slawsky — Editor, Connect Media

The organizers of the Automated Retail & Kiosk Innovation (ARKI) Show are accepting nominations for the 2026 ARKI Awards, recognizing the companies, products, deployments and technologies driving innovation across the automated retail, kiosk, vending and self-service industries.

Does cash still matter?

by Richard Slawsky — Editor, Connect Media

For many operators, accepting bills and coins remains a strategic business decision. While cash transactions continue to decline, eliminating them entirely could mean turning away customers, particularly in certain markets and demographic groups.

What 2 studies reveal about self-service success

by Richard Slawsky — Editor, Connect Media

Two academic studies suggest the most effective self-service deployments balance automation with accessibility and user-centered design. Although the research examined very different settings, both papers offer practical guidance for kiosk manufacturers, software developers and organizations deploying self-service technology.

AMERIKIOSKS

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NAMA opens nominations for 2026 Coffee Legend Award

The National Automatic Merchandising Association is accepting nominations for its 2026 Coffee Legend of the Year Award, which honors individuals who have…

Foodservice

Foodservice is the “backbone” for many convenience services operators. The operator provides meals at a client location, usually preparing most of the food onsite. Convenience services operators often supplement this service with vending machines at the location.