Air Up, a hydration brand known for its scent-based water flavouring system, has expanded its flavour range with the launch of Dragonfruit-Lychee pods.

GrubMarket, an AI technology and digital platform company in the US food supply chain field, has raised approximately $50 million in Series H financing, valuing the company at a pre-money valuation of $4.5 billion.

The UK Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO) has unveiled Exchange for Change as its new trading name, marking a key step in preparations for the launch of the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme.

Five Star Breaktime Solutions has acquired a Chattanooga, Tennessee-based vending and micro market business, Jordan Distributing, expanding its footprint across Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia.

Sweet Robo has launched ChocoPrint, its first 3D chocolate printing system, extending its automated retail platform into on-demand, personalised confectionery.

Dutch scale-up Aquablu has launched Aquablu Bold, a new connected, stand-alone water dispenser designed to deliver personalised flavoured and functional hydration.

Today’s consumers expect speed, convenience and flexibility in every transaction. But with bricks-and-mortar retail stepping up its game, can progressive payment technology help vending operators to stay competitive? Refreshment's Bryony Andrews explores.

Here’s a look back at the news that defined 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.

Akos Petri, managing director of Zenith Global Commercial, explores how challenger brands, functional hydration and strong digital reputation strategies are shaping the industry’s future.

As the UK intensifies its focus on reducing high-sugar beverages, Air Up is stepping into the spotlight with its new Shaky Shakes flavour range.