Vending

Strawberry vending machines gain popularity in Belgium

Photo: Adobe Stock

May 9, 2024

Geerts Strawberries, a nursery in Verrebroek, Belgium, has launched three strawberry vending machines, according to a Fresh Plaza report.

The vending machines are intended to increase access to the fruit when traditional markets may not be open or available. "You're not dependent on closing times, but still have access to fresh strawberries every day," Marc Geerts of Geerts Strawberries told the news outlet.

Geerts told the news outlet that COVID-19 contributed to the rise in vending machine popularity, and that consumers have maintained their interest since.

"I think since COVID-19, the popularity of the vending machines really exploded…it has continued to rise in the years that followed" he told the news outlet. "I think this has to do with the busy lives of today's consumers, making it not always easy to get your fruit within certain opening hours. Then, stopping by a vending machine in the evening or on Sunday is a nice alternative for fresh quality."

Geerts currently operates three strawberry vending machines throughout the area.