These are the launches that captured industry attention throughout the year.

Representatives from the Automatic Vending Association (AVA), the European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA), the Water Dispenser & Hydration Association (WHA) and Zenith Global offer their insights into how technology, consumer behaviour and legislation will shape the future of automated retail and hydration.

Refreshment's Bryony Andrews spoke with several industry experts to explore how the latest water filtration technologies can improve coffee quality for both consumers and professional users.

Italian coffee company Lavazza has opened a new 'Training Center' in Dallas, Texas, expanding its network of coffee education facilities in North America.

Barista Tech has introduced what it says is the market’s first grind-by-weight (GbW) espresso grinder, the Mahlkönig E65S GbW, manufactured by German grinder specialist Mahlkönig.

TÜV Rheinland Hong Kong hosted its first Coffee Machines & Appliances Summit on 28 November, highlighting rising safety, regulatory, and cybersecurity challenges in modern household appliances.

Ecozy has introduced the Brezzano Elite, a new four-in-one touchscreen espresso machine designed to offer barista-style coffee making at home.

Italian coffee machine manufacturer, Rancilio Group, has appointed Massimo Giussani as CEO of its Coffee Division within Ali Group.

Pret A Manger will withdraw its Pret Express self-service coffee machines from the retail sector as the company ends its trial and shifts focus back to expanding its UK shop estate.

Oatly has launched Oatly Baristamatic, a newly developed oat drink created specifically for automated coffee machines.

Mahlkönig, the German manufacturer known for its professional coffee grinders, has entered the home espresso market with the relaunch of the Xenia machine following its acquisition of Xenia Espresso.

Kismile has released its new Precision Drip Coffee Maker, designed to deliver café-style coffee at home through advanced temperature control and user-friendly features.