Nayax has acquired Inepro Pay, a Netherlands-based payment service provider. Inepro Pay, a subsidiary of the Inepro Group, has acted as Nayax’s distributor in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg since 2015. The company provides cashless payment solutions and supports unattended retail businesses, such as vending and self-service kiosks. The acquisition gives Nayax direct control over its operations in the Benelux region, allowing it to to improve customer support, eliminate duplicate processes and drive growth in a region that accounted for roughly 36% of Nayax’s global revenues in 2024. Yair Nechmad, CEO and chairman of Nayax, said: “Our goal at Nayax has always been to simplify commerce and deepen customer loyalty for merchants worldwide. Inepro Pay has cultivated an unparalleled understanding of our products and customers as our distributor since 2015 in the Benelux region, and we’re confident that integrating their team and back-end operations will produce remarkable outcomes for businesses across Europe.” Jeroen Pynenburg, CEO of Inepro Group, added: “Our customers frequently tell us Nayax is the engine behind their success, unifying payments, operations and loyalty into a powerful yet flexible retail solution which spares them the hassle of managing multiple vendors". "It has been a privilege to build-up the Benelux Nayax representation in the last ten years, and it is a natural moment for the team joining Nayax now. This will give the enhanced resources, sales tools and operational backbone necessary to connect more merchants with a single, unified commerce platform.” Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Top image: © Inepro Group

Lavazza Group has introduced a preview of the Tablì system, a new solution designed to offer a '100% coffee experience'. Developed over five years research with more than 15 patents, Tablì aims to innovate the single-serve coffee market by providing a high-quality, practical option for home coffee consumption. The system consists of an all-coffee 'tab' and a specially designed machine that delivers a new coffee experience, focusing on enhancing aroma, flavour and color. According to the company, Tablì is the first product of its kind to offer a 100% coffee tab. Carlo Colpo, Lavazza's marketing communication and brand home director, said: “Constant challenges and the quest for innovation have always driven the group in its continuous improvement of the product offering, as a way to stand out in an increasingly competitive market and meet people’s ever-changing needs. Tablì is an important milestone for us, the result of a five-year journey involving over 15 patents that today represents the future of single-serve coffee." "We’ve decided to unveil this new development against the backdrop of Milan Design Week, with an immersive installation that features an appealing and original aesthetic where everything revolves around coffee. We worked together with renowned designer and architect Juliana L. Vasconcellos to transport visitors into the experience of 100% coffee in a completely new way.” Juliana added: "As a Brazilian, coffee is an integral part of my daily life, it is more than just a beverage; it is a ritual, a source of energy, a moment of pleasure. With this idea in mind, I wanted to create an installation that would encapsulate these sensations, a space that invites introspection, pleasure and discovery." "In designing this journey, we sought to preserve the purity of the materials, the colours and the aesthetic integrity. The design adopts a simple yet profound shape – the circle – symbolising introspection, the sacred, order and a subliminal sense of wholeness, with a central force that uplifts and draws the spirit upward. This space unfolds in three distinct stages: first, an immersive tunnel that envelops the senses; second, a room with a fountain that celebrates the source of pleasure, life, the coffee; and third, the Coffee Experience, where the essence of Tablì comes to life.”

Coffee prices declined on Thursday following president Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on US imports – a development that has raised significant concerns across the coffee industry. As reported by Reuters , the US will apply a baseline 10% tariff on all imports, with rates reaching as high as 46% for some countries. This move introduces the first US tariffs on coffee imports since the colonial era. Major exporting countries have been directly impacted: Vietnam and Indonesia, leading suppliers of robusta coffee, will face tariffs of 46% and 32%, respectively, while Brazil – the world’s largest producer of arabica coffee—will see a 10% tariff imposed on its goods. Industry stakeholders warn that these tariffs will increase costs and add complexity for US importers and roasters, many of whom are already navigating historically high coffee prices. "We don't know the [full] impact right now [but] there are no winners," a Europe-based coffee trader told Reuters . "This is bad for everyone. For the US, its inflationary while others lose access to the US, a huge market." Futures markets responded promptly. Arabica coffee futures on the ICE exchange declined by 0.9% to $3.8525 per pound, after an earlier drop of nearly 3%. Robusta futures fell 0.2% to $5,388 per ton, following an intraday decline of up to 2.5%. The tariff announcement also reverberated through other soft commodity markets. London cocoa futures fell by 1.4% to £6,683 per ton, while New York cocoa prices rose 3.6% to $9,291 per ton, buoyed by a weaker .S dollar that made American-priced commodities more attractive to foreign buyers. Sugar prices also declined. Raw sugar settled 2.5% lower at 19.11 cents per pound, and white sugar dropped 1.6% to $543.80 per ton. As global markets adjust to these protectionist measures, uncertainty surrounds the future of international trade and the pricing of key agricultural commodities.

Nestlé has appointed Stefano Bolognese as the new managing director for Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages UK. He succeeds Grant McKenzie, who has been named head of Northern Europe for Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages. In his new role, Bolognese will oversee the UK Waters and Premium Beverages business, which includes brands such as Princes Gate, Buxton, Nestlé Pure Life, S. Pellegrino, and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks. He will also join the leadership team for Nestlé UK & Ireland. Bolognese, who joined Nestlé in 2000, brings experience in sales, marketing and business development across Italy's waters and food categories. He most recently led the Sanpellegrino's international business unit, helping expand the portfolios of Acqua Panna, S. Pellegrino and Sanpellegrino Beverages globally. Bolognese said: “I am honoured to step into the role of managing director for Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages UK at such an exciting time for the business. My focus will be on nurturing the truly remarkable brands we have here, including Buxton and Princes Gate." "I can see that I'm joining a fantastic team and I'll be looking to create an environment where they can excel even further and continue the great work they're already doing, like the latest innovative water capture project in Pembrokeshire.”

Bosch and Lavazza have announced a partnership aimed at enhancing the home coffee experience through a combination of premium coffee and advanced espresso machine technology. The collaboration pairs Bosch’s fully automatic espresso machines – featuring up to 35 drink options and one-touch functionality – with Lavazza’s range of coffee blends. Together, the brands aim to bring barista-style coffee into consumers' home. Lavazza, which sources beans from Brazil, Colombia, the US and other regions, brings more than a century of coffee expertise to the partnership. Bosch highlights its machines’ ease of use and customisation features as a key element in delivering café-style beverages at home. Daniele Foti, VP of marketing at Lavazza, said: “This collaboration is a celebration of two brands dedicated to quality and innovation. We’re excited to combine our premium coffee with Bosch’s expertly crafted machines to create unforgettable coffee moments at home.”

As the hospitality industry braces for a challenging year, businesses face rising operational costs due to the 2024 budget changes, putting pressure on already tight margins. Callum Quirk, hospitality solutions expert at Vita Mojo, explores how technology can help hospitality businesses navigate these financial pressures, improve efficiency and drive sustainable growth. The hospitality industry is approaching a tough and uncertain time. In April, the changes announced in the autumn 2024 budget come into play, including an increase in the minimum wage, higher national insurance contributions and business rate adjustments. For many hospitality business owners, these rising operational costs, combined with an expected decline in discretionary spending, create a perfect storm. After a challenging few years, businesses must find innovative ways to drive efficiencies and protect their margins. This is where technology can be a game-changer. To mitigate these tough financial pressures, it looks like hospitality businesses are going to need to move beyond traditional cost-cutting strategies. Some operators are opting for a 12-15% price increase across the board to recover lost profit margins. While this strategy may have short-term benefits, there is a concern that passing this on to customers will mean a loss of loyalty, and that customers seek out cheaper options. Brands need to strike a balance between looking after their customer base and protecting their bottom line.   Instead of reducing staffing levels, which can mean losing the heart of the customer experience, operators can look at how technology might simplify operations making things more efficient and ultimately help drive sustainable growth. Vita Mojo has recently produced a report examining how tech can support hospitality business owners navigate the current challenging landscape. The key takeaway? The right technology, paired with a strong strategic approach, can even turn these industry-wide challenges into opportunities for growth. Tech solutions: The key to 'operational efficiency' One of the most effective ways technology can support hospitality businesses is by improving operational efficiency. With payroll costs set to rise by an estimated 12-14%, reducing reliance on manual processes and making repetitive tasks automatic can offer significant savings. Some of the ways our customers use technology to enhance efficiency include implementing self-ordering kiosks, reducing reliance on staff while increasing transaction speed and average transaction value. Research shows customers tend to spend more at kiosks thanks to intuitive basket and bundle recommendations. Having a staff member present to greet customers and offer assistance means you don’t lose the personality side when switching to kiosk. Another way in which technology can improve operational efficiency is by introducing Pay-at-Table functionality, particularly in the QSR and fast casual space where a full on service isn’t expected. Digital menus and self-payment options not only improve table turnover times but also cater to a younger demographic – 95% of Gen Z prefer digital ordering over traditional methods. Giving customers choice around how they interact with your brand will build customer sentiment and profit. Finally, adding a service like Click & Collect (C&C) can help expand ordering channels by improving customer convenience for operators in high-footfall locations. It also enhances engagement, C&C can be incentivised with loyalty to give customers a reason to order this way, and ensure customers are engaging with your brand. Finally, it supports revenue growth. By using automation, businesses can optimise scheduling, streamline inventory management and reduce food waste. These are key areas that contribute to cost efficiency but also appeal to customers looking for businesses with green credentials.  Building tech-driven resilience As businesses are braced for increased costs, prioritising long-term, sustainable growth over rapid expansion is critical. Many operators conduct thorough tech reviews to identify where things could be more streamlined. The goal is not only to weather the financial storm but also to position themselves for future success. Instead of pulling back entirely, forward-thinking brands use technology to refine and strengthen their existing operations, ensuring they remain competitive despite rising costs.  However, adding digital order channels should be cautiously approached if you plan to use different providers for each service. This can mean headaches from a data gathering and menu management point of view. Operationally, streamlining everything with one tech partner can help you future proof, especially when you have multiple sites.  Technology shouldn’t just be about tools; it is also about partnerships. Businesses that treat their technology providers as strategic partners rather than simply someone selling a service will be better positioned to thrive. A tech partner can then evolve alongside a business, offering customised solutions, as they learn the company's unique challenges and growth goals.  A staggering 87% of large hospitality businesses report frustrations with their current point-of-sale (POS) systems. Ensuring that a technology solution is efficient and scalable is crucial for businesses seeking resilience amid financial pressures. The hospitality industry is facing one of its most challenging periods. While cost pressures are unavoidable, businesses embracing technology will be better equipped to survive and thrive. By leveraging digital solutions to improve efficiency, investing in sustainable growth strategies and forming strong tech partnerships, operators can safeguard their bottom line and future-proof their businesses. In today’s hospitality landscape, tech-driven efficiency isn’t just an advantage, it’s more of a necessity. The brands that recognise and act on this reality now will be the ones that emerge stronger on the other side of the storm.

UAE-based food and beverage company, Agthia Group, has acquired a 100% stake in bottled water business Riviere Mineral Water Desalination & Filling Factory. The acquisition is said to triple Agthia’s household customer base, bolster its market leadership and enhance operational capabilities. The deal expands Agthia’s Water & Food Segment, increasing its revenue by around 6.5% and providing entry into the mainstream bottled water segment. Riviere’s strong presence in the UAE, particularly across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai and Sharjah, supports Agthia’s growth plans by enhancing production capacity and ensuring broader service coverage. Riviere, established in 2003, operates three bottling facilities in Abu Dhabi and Dubai and a fleet of over 160 delivery trucks. The company employs over 780 people across production, logistics and customer service. Its existing management team will oversee a smooth transition, ensuring business continuity and realising synergies during integration. Agthia’s acquisition of Riviere is expected to provide both short- and long-term value through cost synergies, improved operational efficiencies and expanded manufacturing and distribution capabilities. Alan Smith, CEO of Agthia, commented: “Following strong growth in our water category in FY 2024, this acquisition of Riviere further strengthens our leadership in the UAE’s water sector, expanding our footprint and accelerating growth in the home and office services business". "Entering the mainstream segment allows us to serve a broader customer base while driving operational efficiencies across our network. With our deep expertise and a proven track record of strategic execution, we are confident this move will unlock long-term value for our customers, stakeholders, and the broader market.” Ali Moideen Kankayel, co-owner of Riviere, added: “For over two decades, Riviere has built a strong reputation in the UAE’s home water services sector, driven by our commitment to quality, service excellence, and customer trust. As we transition the business, we are confident that Agthia is the right partner to uphold this legacy and drive future growth." "With Agthia’s leadership, scale, and operational expertise, Riviere is well-positioned to enhance customer offerings, accelerate growth, and strengthen its market presence. We look forward to working closely with Agthia during the transition period to ensure a seamless integration and continue delivering the trusted service Riviere’s customers rely on.” The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Foodservice Equipment Marketing (FEM) has introduced the Ugolini range of frozen drink machines in the UK, offering two new models designed to meet the demands of operators seeking to diversify their beverage offerings. The Ugolini machines come in two formats: the compact Icon 3 and the larger NG Easy models. The new models can be used to make frozen drinks, cold creams, frozen desserts and cocktails. The Icon 3 is available in single, double and triple dispensing options, with a 2.8-litre capacity in the single-bowl version. Its compact design (180mm wide by 440mm deep and 490mm high) makes it ideal for smaller operations, while its shockproof construction and quiet operation suit busy bars. The Icon 6 model, available on request, provides a 6-litre capacity for larger quantities, ideal for making cold creams, sorbets, smoothies and frozen drinks. For higher-volume needs, the NG Easy models come in six sizes, with capacities ranging from 6 to 30 litres. These units are designed for easy maintenance, featuring removable panels for cleaning, shockproof polycarbonate containers and a secure bowl fixing system. The smallest model in this range, the NG 6/1 Easy, has a 6-litre capacity and measures 200mm wide by 480mm deep and 620mm high. Both the Icon and NG Easy models incorporate Ugolini's patented RecoverEnergy system, which features double-walled bowls for energy efficiency and anti-condensation.

The UK Water Dispenser & Hydration Association (WHA) Conference and Trade Show took place in Nottingham, UK, on Thursday 20 March 2025. Nottingham, perhaps best known as the home of Robin Hood, is also celebrated as the 'Queen of the Midlands' for its charming parks and spacious streets. And despite being landlocked, it provides the perfect backdrop for an event focused on the future of hydration. The event took place at The Nottingham Belfry, a four-star hotel that balances comfort and sophistication. The Nottingham Belfry offered a contemporary, comfortable and accessible venue for the event. With a strong focus on sustainability and guest wellness, it was an ideal setting for a gathering centred on hydration and health. Morning conferences The day began with a series of insightful keynote speeches from industry leaders, business experts and innovators, covering a range of topics from market intelligence to workplace wellbeing and cutting-edge AI applications. Roger Black Roger Black, a former athlete with 15 major championship medals, including an Olympic 400m silver and World Championship gold, shared his journey from athletics to business success, revealing the mindset and strategies that helped him overcome challenges and achieve excellence. His insights into resilience, adaptability and performance resonated deeply with the audience, offering lessons for professionals navigating their own careers. Building on themes of resilience and adaptability, Zenith Global's consulting director, Akos Petri, provided valuable market intelligence, shedding light on the water dispenser industry performance and key trends. He noted that 2024 marked a year of "resilience and value-led growth," explaining that while total unit numbers dipped, the sector adapted through higher-value offerings and strategic pricing, resulting in solid revenue performance. Petri highlighted that the latest UK Water Dispense Market Report from Zenith revealed that unit placements fell below 785,000 in 2024, reflecting a decline in the number of water dispensers in operation. According to the report, this decrease indicates a maturing market, influenced by factors such as hybrid working trends and an unusually rainy summer that slowed sales momentum. However, despite this decline, industry revenue rose by 8.5% to £191.9 million, driven by higher pricing in bulk bottled water supply and a growing demand for integrated tap systems (ITS). This data underscored the industry's ability to adapt and innovate in response to evolving market conditions. L-R: Akos Petri, Ben McGannan (from Wellbeing People), Phillipa Clow, Alastair Banks (from Optix Solutions), Roger Black and Carin Söderberg (from Wellbeing People) Phillipa Clow, general manager of WHA, also shared her remarkable experience visiting nine boreholes in Zambia, a life-changing project sponsored by the BWCA and WHA. Accompanied by Alice Mellor from water charity Just a Drop, Phillipa spoke about the transformative impact of providing clean water to communities, underscoring the essential role water plays not only in businesses but also in improving lives across the globe. Watch my interview with Phillipa and WHA's deputy chair Matt Stimpson below: Afternoon trade show The afternoon’s trade show featured over 30 stands showcasing of cutting-edge hydration solutions, emphasising innovation and sustainability. Water dispensers and filtration solutions Italian water dispenser manufacturer, Blupura, presented its Rebel water cooler, available in 30- and 60-litre-per-hour models. Designed for both hospitality and office spaces, this unit features an ice pack cooling system for enhanced performance. The hot water version includes an integrated boiler, delivering temperatures of up to 98°C, perfect for tea and hot beverages. Complementing this, Blupura’s Blutron filtration system stood out for its customisable purification options. Additionally, the company showcased its T. Flow mechanical tap, built for durability and efficiency. With a flow reducer and self-closing spring system, this stainless steel fixture is coated with a double layer of impact-resistant paint, making it ideal for high-traffic environments. Watch our interview with Debora Screpanti, marketing manager at Blupura, below: Shifting to outdoor hydration solutions, Oasis displayed its Outdoor Bottle Fillers, which feature manual activation and a vandal-resistant design perfect for public spaces. These bottle fillers are equipped with an integrated filtration system to provide safe drinking water in high-traffic outdoor locations. The company also introduced the AquaPointe Hydration Station, a sensor-activated hydration unit offering touch-free operation and an energy-efficient refrigeration system, ensuring hygienic and sustainable hydration solutions in public environments. Sustainable packaging and beverage solutions In the world of sustainable packaging, Go-Pak Group presented its FSC-certified, compostable aqueous-coated paper cups, a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic-lined cups. Using water-based polymer coatings, these cups are leak-resistant, home-compostable and ideal for eco-conscious businesses. Further expanding on the theme of multi-functional hydration technology, Coffeetek showcased its Neo Q coffee machine and water fountain, a dual-function system designed to reduce waste and promote sustainability. By combining high-quality filtered water and premium coffee in a single unit, it encourages the use of reusable bottles and cups, minimising environmental impact. Its advanced filtration system removes impurities, ensuring fresh, odour-free drinking water, while an optional UV purification kit further enhances safety. The double-bean system allows for a diverse range of coffee recipes, catering to a wide audience. Another innovation was Marco Beverage Systems' MilkPal precision milk dispenser, an innovative solution designed for high-volume coffee service. By delivering hot, cold and foamed milk with exact consistency, it reduces waste and ensures superior beverage quality. Also on display was Marco Beverage's Friia, an undercounter water dispensing system offering hot, cold, and sparkling water on demand, ideal for cafés, offices and hospitality settings. Another product was Pour'd, a beverage dispenser that streamlines the preparation of hot and cold coffee from concentrate, improving efficiency while minimising waste. Evening industry dinner After a day filled with innovation and knowledge-sharing, the event concluded with a relaxed and enjoyable industry dinner. The evening was not only a chance to unwind but also an opportunity to network with peers and celebrate the industry’s collective achievements. With entertainment from mindreader Alex Crow, a lively casino night and a silent auction benefiting Just a Drop, the dinner provided a fun and engaging way to close the event, reinforcing the industry's commitment to global water access initiatives. WHA 2025 was a success, offering a comprehensive blend of knowledge, networking and product innovation. The event highlighted the latest advancements in hydration technology, sustainability initiatives and business strategies, providing attendees with valuable insights and opportunities for growth. Here's to the 2027 event!

Refreshment brings you monthly updates on the latest news and insights from our member associations in the vending, coffee and water sectors. Featuring insights from industry leaders, this round-up highlights key developments, events and initiatives shaping the future of these industries, providing essential information on emerging trends and regulatory changes. Vending and coffee updates The vending, automated retail and coffee sectors are rapidly evolving, with new initiatives, industry events and regulatory developments shaping its future. Here’s what’s happening in this sector this month: The Vending & Automated Retail Association (AVA): Final call for input on vending hygiene guidelines The revised Food Industry Guide to Good Hygiene Practice: Vending & Dispense is nearing its official registration. Industry professionals, including vending operators, suppliers, facilities managers and environmental health officers, have a final opportunity to submit feedback before the guidelines are formalised. The updated guide aligns with Directive 93/43 EEC and will be recognised by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS). Networking event at The Crystal Maze A networking event for vending and automated retail professionals will take place at The Crystal Maze Live Experience in Manchester, UK, on 14 May 2025. Designed to foster collaboration and problem-solving, the event offers attendees a fun and engaging way to connect with peers. The event also includes breakfast, lunch, drinks and prizes. Date:  14 May 2025 Location:  The Crystal Maze, Manchester Cost:  £120 + VAT Booking:   kennedy.warwick@the-ava.com Celebrating emerging talent in catering industry   The 2025 Contract Catering Awards, which took place on Monday 3 March at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London, showcased the growing role of vending in the catering industry, with the Rising Star Award celebrating outstanding new talent. With vending technology continuing to advance, businesses across various sectors – including workplaces, healthcare and hospitality – are discovering how automated retail solutions can enhance convenience, efficiency and the consumer experience. European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA): FrieslandCampina and Fresh at Work join the EVA Two major players in the food and beverage industry, FrieslandCampina and Fresh at Work, have officially joined the European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA) as supportive members. The move reflects both companies' ambitions to strengthen their market presence and foster collaboration within the vending and coffee service sector. FrieslandCampina, an international dairy company with over 150 years of cooperative history, supplies a wide range of consumer products and food industry ingredients. The company, which has branches in 30 countries and export to over 100 countries worldwide, sees its EVA membership as an opportunity to promote further its products to foodservice professionals, in particular its Lattiz milk foaming technology for foodservice. The business also expect to increase knowledge on vending industry applications, as Lattiz could be a good solution for drinks in the vending industry. EVA director general, Erwin Wetzel, highlighted: “I welcome FrieslandCampina to EVA. There are of course many synergies between a large, well-known global supplier of dairy products and coffee machine professionals in our sector, so for me the EVA can provide the perfect platform for networking and a greater understanding of the market developments." "As the self-serve coffee market continues its march towards exceptional quality, fresh milk provision is one of increasingly demanded ingredients for a quality coffee in the workplace; also demonstrated through statistics in the annual EVA market report.” Fresh at Work, part of the Melitta Group since 2018, provides comprehensive coffee and water solutions for workplaces, including coffee beans, milk and chocolate powder, coffee machines and regular maintenance services. Chief growth officer Lars Finke stated: “We are delighted to become a member of EVA to connect with industry leaders and stay ahead of market trends. EVA offers a strong platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange and advocacy within the vending and coffee service sector." "We look forward to leveraging this network, participating in key events like EVEX, and contributing to the industry’s growth. Our membership will support our commitment to innovation and help us deliver even greater value to our customers.” Wetzel added: “I am pleased to see another high-quality machine operator join EVA. Whether it is on coffee or water related trends and preferences in the German market, or finding common solutions to policy challenges, I’m convinced that the contribution by Fresh at Work to the EVA will be valuable. At the same time, the company can now benefit from the wide EVA network, our unique and widely sought-after industry knowledge and becoming part of the wider European family of vending professionals.” Water updates The water sector continues to evolve with innovative technologies, sustainability initiatives and industry events driving progress. From watercoolers to hydration solutions, here’s what’s happening in this space: Water Dispenser & Hydration Association (WHA): UK water market shrinks in units but grows in value The latest UK Water Dispense Market report from Zenith Global Commercial reveals that unit placements fell below 785,000 in 2024, reflecting a decline in the number of water dispensers in operation. The report says that the decline shows the market's maturity, the ongoing impact of hybrid working and the effect of an unusually rainy summer that slowed sales momentum. Despite this drop, industry revenue rose by 8.5% to £191.9 million, driven by higher pricing in bulk bottled water supply and growing demand for integrated tap systems (ITS). Zenith Global's consulting director, Akos Petri, said: “2024 marked a year of resilience and value-led growth. While total unit numbers dipped, revenue performance was solid thanks to the sector’s ability to adapt with higher-value offerings and strategic pricing." Key market insights Zenith Global’s report also revealed: Sustainability efforts:  The average bottled water throughput per dispenser reached 793 litres, reducing plastic waste by using returnable and refillable bottles. Growth in ITS:  ITS units have grown by 22% over the past five years. Home use on the rise:  Point-of-use (POU) dispensers for homes were the fastest-growing segment in 2024. Looking ahead, Zenith Global forecasts moderate growth over the next five years, with the total number of water dispensers expected to reach 803,000 by 2029. Watercoolers Europe (WE): WE unveils full programme for WE 2025 conference and trade fair in Milan Watercoolers Europe has released the full event programme for the WE 2025 conference and trade fair, set for 6-7 November 2025 at the Meliá Milano Hotel, Italy. The two-day event will bring together industry leaders, innovators and professionals to discuss key trends, regulatory updates, sustainability and technological advancements shaping the watercooler sector. Alongside expert-led discussions, interactive workshops will offer practical strategies for business growth in an evolving market. The WE International Trade Fair will showcase cutting-edge products and services, providing opportunities to strengthen industry connections and discover new suppliers. A highlight of the event will be the Aqua Awards & Gala Dinner, recognising excellence in the industry. The full event programme is available here . For full details on sessions, speakers and key highlights, visit the Watercoolers Europe website. International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) Bottled water professionals to gather in Las Vegas for 2025 IBWA conference and trade show Bottled water professionals from across the globe will gather in Las Vegas, US, this September for IBWA's 2025 annual business conference and trade show, held alongside the Pack Expo Las Vegas trade show. The event, scheduled for 29 September - 02 October, will feature networking events, educational sessions and a trade show showcasing the latest innovations to meet growing consumer demand for bottled water, the top packaged drink in the US. This gathering will offer valuable opportunities for industry professionals to celebrate successes, network, gain insights and discuss strategies on how to help bottled water keep its status as the leading packaged beverage in the country. Participants will also have the chance to forge new business relationships and strengthen existing connections. Registration for the event will open this spring. Updated microplastics statement: Bottled water industry calls for more research on microplastics in hydration products The bottled water industry is committed to providing high-quality, safe hydration options for consumers. While micro- and nanoplastics are increasingly found in the environment – present in the air, soil and water – research has shown that bottled water, like many other food and beverage products in plastic packaging, may also contain these particles. However, with no certified testing methods and a lack of scientific consensus on the potential health impacts of micro- and nanoplastics, the industry is calling for additional research to better understand this important issue. Although many studies on micro- and nanoparticles have used water samples (both tap and bottled), it is important to note that water is often chosen as a testing medium due to it being 'the least complex testing medium'. Current scientific evidence does not support the conclusion that drinking water is a major source of micro- and nanoplastics intake. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says: “It is not aware of scientific evidence that would support consumers being concerned about the potential level of microplastic or nanoplastic contamination in food, including bottled water. Several studies have found microplastics and nanoplastics in both tap and bottled water; however, at this time, the scientific evidence does not demonstrate that levels of microplastics or nanoplastics in water pose a risk to human health." After reviewing available studies, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that there is no evidence of adverse health effects from dietary exposure to micro- and nanoplastic particles smaller than 10 microns, citing the limited amount of scientific research. The WHO recommends further studies and the development of standardised methods for measuring and quantifying these particles. Alongside these health agencies, IBWA and the American Chemistry Council (ACC) are calling for more research on the matter. The ACC has pledged nearly $15 million in independent research funding and aims to make all US plastic packaging reusable, recyclable or recovered by 2040, committing billions to improve recycling infrastructure and advocating for policies that prevent plastic waste from polluting the environment. Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE): NMWE and Pilario launch LCA tool to help water sector tackle environmental impact Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) has partnered with Pilario to launch a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tool designed to help companies in the natural mineral and spring water sector measure their environmental footprint with precision. Built around the EU-promoted Environmental Footprint methods, the tool goes beyond carbon impact to address a broad spectrum of environmental concerns, including water use, resource depletion, land use change or eutrophication.   The tool stands out for its accessibility and functionality tailored to the sector’s specific needs. It draws on comprehensive data from the PET and glass supply chains, providing companies with a reliable and consistent framework for assessing their environmental impacts. The availability of a common system also presents valuable opportunities for benchmarking – companies can compare their results against anonymised sector averages, ensuring consistent and objective measurements.   This benchmarking aspect is a significant draw even for larger companies that may already have established LCA processes in place. By utilising the same tool as their competitors, companies can gain insights into their relative performance within the industry, identifying areas for improvement and refining their environmental strategies accordingly.   Pilario’s collaboration with other beverage sectors and packaging supplier sectors further enhances the tool’s appeal. Companies producing other product categories besides water can benefit from using the same interface as all their products. Moreover, they can seamlessly import specific data from suppliers using Pilario products, further simplifying the assessment process and enhancing accuracy.   NMWE currently offers basic access to the tool free of charge to its members, enabling them to evaluate their products’ environmental impacts without financial barriers. For companies seeking enhanced functionality, premium features are available on a paid basis, allowing for deeper analysis and customized reporting.   Though designed for NMWE members, the tool’s development reflects the association’s broader commitment to promoting sustainability across the sector. As more companies adopt the tool, the consistency of data generated can further contribute to collective progress toward environmental goals.   For more information about the tool or how to access it, companies are encouraged to contact NMWE directly. This initiative underscores NMWE’s proactive role in equipping the natural mineral and spring water sector with practical resources for sustainability and environmental stewardship. Stay tuned for more updates next month.

Lipton Teas and Infusions has announced Pierre Laubies as its new chief executive officer. © Linkedin Laubies has served as interim CEO for six months, succeeding Nathalie Roos , who stepped down in 2024 after two years for personal reasons. Before this, Laubies was chairman of the supervisory board since Lipton Teas and Infusions' establishment in 2022. Laubies brings extensive experience, having held roles at Mars and Campbell Soup before serving as CEO of Jacobs Douwe Egberts and Coty. He also remains a board member at Groupe Panzani. Lipton Teas and Infusions, the parent company of household names like Pukka and PG Tips, operates production sites across four continents and is present in over 100 countries. Top image: © Lipton Teas and Infusions

Rhea launched two new products at Vendex Midlands, one-day vending event based in the UK. The company launched the rhFS1, a freestanding machine for fresh leaf tea with induction heating technology, and the rhFS2.milk, a freestanding unit with an integrated fresh milk system. The rhFS1 machine is said to be the first freestanding unit for fresh leaf tea, utilising induction heating to ensure precise extraction while preserving the flavour and properties of tea. Rhea said that this technology ensures better in-cup quality and greater energy efficiency than traditional boiler-based systems. Rhea also unveiled the rhFS2.milk, which comes with an integrated fresh milk system, enabling a range of beverages with both fresh milk and plant-based alternatives. This machine features Varitherm induction technology for precise, indirect milk heating, ensuring optimal temperatures for layered drinks like latte macchiatos. The absence of a boiler reduces limescale build-up and offers 'significant energy savings'. Andrea Pozzolini, CEO of Rhea, said: "Our constant commitment to excellence leads us to develop solutions that enhance the quality of the coffee break, offering premium hospitality and a superior consumer experience. By integrating traditional recipes with new technologies, we ensure services that respects consumer habits while improving satisfaction through sustainable and efficient solutions." Steve Rossington, MD of Rheavendors, which is the UK subsidiary of Rhea, added: "The UK market is one of the most demanding and dynamic in Europe, with a strong focus on drink quality and technological innovation. The launch of these two machines perfectly meets the expectations of British consumers, who are increasingly oriented towards premium and sustainable consumption experiences."