Vending

PopShop Local to convert unused space into contactless shops for small businesses

Image courtesy of PopCom.

February 18, 2021

PopCom, a provider of vending and kiosk solutions, has launched PopShop Local, a program that helps small businesses sell products in hotels, airports and convention centers, according to a press release.

PopCom will place its PopShop, a smart vending machine that also displays ads and measures customer engagement, in the common areas of participating hotels across the U.S. Local brands can apply for placement in one of these machines, which would give them an opportunity to have a physical retail shop without the costs of maintaining a brick and mortar store.

Hotels use the contactless machines as a gift shop for their guests and receive a percentage of all sales from each machine. PopShop Local has pilots with AC Hotel and JW Marriott, and is in process of securing a pilot with Virgin Hotel.

PopCom takes applications from local brands in each city and presents those brands to the hotel to select which products they want to upsell in their contactless gift shop.

PopShop Local is now accepting applications from small businesses interested in selling their products in hotels, airports, or convention centers.

"Our PopShop Local machines highlight the best products in the city at any given time, while providing information about different local events, attractions and announcements," Natasia Malaihollo, who leads business development for PopCom, said in the release.