Don't forget: ARKI Awards nomination deadline is Sept. 4

Time is running out to submit nominations for the 2026 Automated Retail & Kiosk Innovation Awards. The Sept. 4 deadline is approaching for companies…

How vending machines can help reduce plastic, other waste

by Richard Slawsky — Editor, Connect Media

Vending machines are commonly associated with disposable bottles, wrappers and cups, but the same automated infrastructure could help move consumers away from single-use packaging. The concept has already taken root in Europe and could potentially offer benefits to the United States as well.

The fresh food frontier, part 2: Fresh vs. frozen is an operating decision

by Ben Wheeler — Dir. of Business Dev. - Automated Retail, T-ROC

Once an operator decides to offer meals through automated retail, another question appears quickly: Fresh or frozen?

Mini art vending machines showcase Des Moines artists

A new public art program has placed miniature art vending machines at five locations in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, according to a press release. Operation…

Coffee Service

Coffee service is a service that many convenience services providers offer. The operator typically places a coffee brewer free of charge to the customer location, then stocks the coffee station regularly and charges the account for the products.