Following 365 Retail Markets’ acquisition of Cantaloupe, the combined business is bringing together payments, telemetry and connected-device capabilities with self-checkout, smart-store and retail management technology. The deal comes as unattended retail expands beyond traditional vending into micro markets, smart fridges, grab-and-go stores and other flexible formats across workplaces, hotels, healthcare facilities and transport hubs.

Jeff Dumbrell, chief revenue officer at 365 Retail Markets, speaks to Refreshment about the rationale behind the acquisition, the priorities for integration and how data, AI and automation could shape the next phase of the sector.

What was the strategic rationale behind 365 Retail Markets' acquisition of Cantaloupe, and why was this the right time to bring the two businesses together?

The unattended retail market is changing quickly. Across Europe, operators are expanding beyond traditional vending into micro markets, smart stores, self-checkout and other flexible retail formats. Consumers expect convenient, frictionless shopping wherever they are, whether that's at work, in a hotel, on campus or in a transport hub.

Operators need technology that gives them the flexibility to serve all of those environments. That's what bringing 365 Retail Markets and Cantaloupe together is all about.

365 has built strong expertise in self-service retail and software, while Cantaloupe brings leading payments, connected devices and telemetry capabilities. Together, we're giving operators a more robust set of tools that helps them grow, adapt and choose the right solution for each location.

What are the immediate priorities as Cantaloupe is integrated into 365 Retail Markets?

First and foremost, it's about our customers. They rely on our technology every day, so maintaining the reliability of our products and support is our top priority.

At the same time, we're listening closely to customers to understand where we can create the most value by bringing the strengths of both companies together.

This isn't about making big changes overnight. It's about combining the best of both businesses in a way that makes life easier for our customers.

The acquisition combines Cantaloupe's payments, telemetry and device network with 365's self-checkout, smart-store and software capabilities. What new opportunities does this create for operators?

Operators want more flexibility than ever before. They're serving a wider range of locations, and one retail format doesn't fit every environment anymore.

A vending operator might be adding micro markets or smart coolers. A hotel may want 24/7 self-service for guests, while warehouses, hospitals and universities all have different needs.

By bringing together payments, connected devices, software and self-service technology, operators get a much clearer view of their business. They can make better decisions around merchandising, replenishment and expansion based on real-time data.

We're seeing that shift across Europe too. According to the European Vending & Coffee Service Association, micro markets grew by 38% last year and nearly 78% of vending machines now support cashless payments. That's a clear sign the market is moving towards more connected, digital retail experiences.

How is the unattended retail market evolving beyond traditional vending and workplace micro markets?

I think the biggest change is that unattended retail is no longer just about vending.

Operators are using different formats depending on the location – from smart fridges in hotels to grab-and-go retail in hospitals, universities and transport hubs, or secure stores in manufacturing and logistics facilities.

Consumers expect convenience wherever they are, while operators are looking for ways to overcome labour challenges and extend service without adding complexity.

The conversation has shifted from 'which machine do I need?' to 'what's the right retail experience for this location?'. That's a much more exciting place for the industry to be.

Which emerging locations or sectors present the strongest growth opportunities?

Anywhere there's strong footfall and a need for convenient access to food, drinks or everyday essentials.

Hotels, logistics centres and manufacturing sites are all growing because they often operate around the clock. Universities, healthcare, transport hubs and sports venues also present great opportunities to improve convenience and reduce queues.

For me, it's less about the sector and more about solving a real operational challenge. If unattended retail makes life easier for consumers and operators, there's a good opportunity.

What role will artificial intelligence and automation play in the combined company's technology strategy?

AI has huge potential, but only if it solves real problems.

Whether it's helping operators optimise stock, predict maintenance issues or improve product recognition in smart stores, AI should make running a business easier – not more complicated.

The real opportunity is turning data into practical insights that help operators make faster, better decisions every day.

As the business expands its payments, software and connected-device capabilities, how are you approaching cybersecurity and customer data protection?

Security has to be built into everything we do.

Our customers trust us with their businesses and payment transactions, so we're continuing to invest in secure platforms, payment technology, device management and strong data governance, while supporting compliance with requirements like GDPR.

As unattended retail becomes more connected, maintaining that trust only becomes more important.

What innovations or developments can operators expect from the combined business over the next 12 to 24 months?

Our focus is on practical innovation that helps operators grow.

Customers can expect better integration across payments, software, connected devices and self-service technologies, making it easier to manage their business and serve more locations by choosing the solutions that make the most sense for their operating model.

I believe unattended retail is entering its next phase. Operators are serving more types of locations than ever before, and they need technology that's flexible enough to keep up. Our goal is to give them a connected platform that helps them grow with confidence, whatever comes next.

Learn more about 365 Retail Markets here.