Vending

COVID-19 losses ease up for European vending industry

Image courtesy of European Vending Association.

January 12, 2021

COVID-19 continues to undermine vending sales in Europe, but the losses in September were less than in April, indicating some improvement, according to the most recent report by the European Vending Association.

The report is based on survey responses from both vending operators and suppliers (such as manufacturers, ingredient suppliers and payment solution providers) in 15 European countries on a range of business-related questions in relation to the latest restrictions in place from July to October. It contrasts current impact to experiences during the Spring lockdowns, according to a press release.

The report is published as a combined European report of all the responses, as well as seven individual country reports — Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Romania, Spain and the U.K. The full report is available for free to EVA members.

The latest report findings show how the COVID-19 restrictions continue to cast a dark shadow over the industry, but there are some slight improvements to conditions. Findings include:

• 48% of operators saw a reduction in turnover in September of between 21%-40%, a significant change compared to the April losses when the majority (58%) saw turnover losses of between 61%-99%.
• People working from home was the main reason for a loss of sales during both reporting periods.
• During the Autumn period more operators (43%) planned investments based on sales performance compared to the Spring (33%).
• Despite this, in April 2021, only 14% of suppliers expect similar sales to 2019.

The report also identifies the biggest threats and opportunities for suppliers and operators, with more employees working from home considered a major threat. In terms of opportunities, some operators see good potential for the industry to replace larger company cafeterias.

For an update on how the coronavirus pandemic has affected convenience services, click here.