Nayax and Seco have announced a strategic partnership aimed at embedding Nayax’s payment platform into Seco’s Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The collaboration is expected to provide original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with integrated payment solutions, advanced telematics and AI-driven insights, enhancing the capabilities of automated self-service retail. The two companies have signed an MoU with the goal of establishing a long-term relationship. The first product to emerge from this partnership is a payment-enabled smart screen designed for next-generation vending machines, micro markets, smart coolers and other automated retail solutions. This integration will allow businesses to offer "seamless and secure" transactions while leveraging IoT capabilities for remote machine management and data-driven insights. By embedding Nayax’s payment infrastructure within Seco's devices, OEMs will benefit from cost-effective hardware that merges SECO’s expertise in IoT with Nayax’s payment technology. The partnership also enables businesses to manage payment flows and self-service points of sale through Clea, SECO’s IoT-AI software platform. Clea collects and analyses real-time data from connected devices, providing intelligent automation and cross-functional business insights. According to the company, integrating Nayax’s payment infrastructure into Seco's products will enable businesses to manage payment flows and automated self-service points of sale through Clea, which is Seco's end-to-end IoT-AI software platform. Clea securely collects, analyses and manages connected device data in real-time, facilitating intelligent automation and cross-functional business insights. Together, Nayax and Seco will offer lower operational costs, advanced telematics and seamless integrated payments designed for effortless OEMs integration across product lineups. Oren Tepper, chief commercial officer of Nayax, said: “Our partnership with Seco propels Nayax toward new frontiers in automated self-service retail, harnessing Seco's extensive OEM network to extend our commercial reach into high-demand markets worldwide and accelerate broader adoption of our embedded payment platform. We’re proud to work with Seco to offer game-changing, fully embedded payment solutions that unify telematics, analytics and frictionless transactions under one umbrella.” Fausto Di Segni, head of IoT and AI Europe at Seco, added: “Partnering with Nayax allows Seco to embed a versatile and powerful global payment platform directly into our connected screens and devices, bolstering our competitive position and delivering exceptional value for our OEM customers across key verticals like vending, coffee and electric vehicle supply equipment. We will unite robust IoT management, engaging displays and embedded payments to streamline deployment and cut costs for OEMs and their end-customers.”

Vendon, a provider of telemetry, IoT and payment solutions for the coffee and vending industry, has introduced an IoT-based monitoring system for traditional espresso machines. The technology provides real-time insights into coffee quality, machine performance and operational efficiency. The system aims to address common challenges in the coffee industry, including maintaining consistency across multiple locations, tracking consumption and sales and managing machine maintenance. It is designed for roasters, manufacturers, HoReCa managers and operators seeking to streamline operations and enforce quality standards. Raivis Vaitekuns, global partnerships manager and resident coffee expert at Vendon, said: “We know how frustrating it can be to keep track of multiple machines and ensure consistent quality. That’s why we’ve designed a solution that not only tracks performance but helps operators optimize their day-to-day operations. It’s about making their lives easier and their coffee better." Vendon’s telemetry solution is compatible with all traditional espresso machines. It includes the vBox hardware device and the newly developed BaristaBox, which connect to machines and transmit data to Vendon Cloud. This platform allows operators to monitor entire machine fleets from a single interface, regardless of brand. The technology enables businesses to track brewing processes, maintain quality control and optimise resource usage. It also supports sustainability by reducing waste and ensuring proactive maintenance to prevent equipment failures.

Pret a Manger is set to make its debut in Africa, located in Johannesburg, South Africa. This marks Pret’s 20th international market outside the UK. The expansion is part of Pret’s international growth strategy. According to Pret, international expansion and franchise partnerships have contributed to Pret’s recent sales growth, with worldwide system sales reaching £1.1 billion in 2023, a 22% increase from 2022. Pret is partnering with South African franchise operator Millat Group to enter the market. Pano Christou, CEO of Pret, said: “This opening is an important step in Pret’s global journey. South Africa’s dynamic food culture and vibrant community made Johannesburg the perfect location for our first shop on the continent. We’re thrilled to bring a touch of Pret to this incredible city while incorporating South African flavours into our menu.” The Melrose Arch shop will feature a menu blending Pret classics with South African-inspired items, including the soutvleis sandwich and the braaibroodjie toastie. The menu will also include freshly made sandwiches, salads, wraps, breakfast options, barista-prepared organic coffees, organic juices, health shots, teas, smoothies and iced drinks. Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group, added: “We are incredibly excited to bring Pret A Manger to South Africa. This is not just about opening new shops; it’s about introducing an entirely new café culture, one that revolves around freshly handmade food and commitment to quality”.

Walmart Canada has announced a CAD 6.5 billion (approx. $4.5 billion) investment over the next five years to accelerate its growth in the country. The company plans to open multiple new stores, starting with five 'supercentres' in Ontario and Alberta by 2027. A new supercentre in Port Credit, Mississauga, Ontario, will open in summer 2025. This store will offer Walmart’s full product range at low prices. Another supercentre, at Oakville's Hopedale Mall, will open in late 2025, featuring a full selection of groceries and general merchandise, along with pharmacy services. By 2027, Walmart Canada will also open three more supercentres in Calgary, Edmonton and Fort McMurray. In addition, the Vaughan Distribution Centre, Walmart Canada’s most advanced facility, will open in spring 2025 as part of the company’s efforts to modernise its distribution network. Gui Loureiro, regional CEO of Walmart Canada, Chile, Mexico and Central America, said: “This CAD 6.5 billion investment is the largest we’ve made in Canada towards expanding our footprint since we first arrived here 30 years ago. And as Gonzalo Gebara finishes his last few weeks as president and CEO of Walmart Canada, before returning home to Argentina, I want to thank him for his strong leadership and vision in driving these growth plans.” To support its growth, Walmart Canada has also partnered with Canada Cartage, the country's largest provider of fleet services, which will acquire the supermarket's Canadian fleet business. Matt Kelly, VP of supply chain for Walmart Canada, added: “Canada Cartage has deep expertise in providing dedicated fleet services and has been serving Canadian businesses for more than 110 years. Through Canada Cartage we can serve customers even better and more flexibly and provide fleet employees with exciting growth opportunities at one of Canada’s largest and most trusted supply chain service providers.” This announcement follows Walmart Canada's completion of its previous CAD 3.5 billion (approx. $2.4 billion) investment plan, which included modernizing 180 stores, opening new locations in Victoria, British Columbia, and Montreal, Québec, and investing over CAD 800 million (approx.   $549 million) in new distribution centers. Joe Schrauder, chief operations officer of Walmart Canada, commented: “Across the country we’re making strategic investments in our online and in-store offerings to be more relevant to more customers than ever before. From newcomers and urbanites to higher-income Canadians, more customers are choosing Walmart for their shopping needs."Walmart Canada has announced a CAD 6.5bn (approx. $4.5bn) investment over the next five years to accelerate its growth in the country.

Nestlé USA has opened a new beverage factory and distribution centre in Glendale, Arizona, with an investment of $675 million. The 630,000-square-foot facility will produce creamers for brands such as Coffee Mate, Natural Bliss and Starbucks, with potential to expand to other beverages in the future. The new facility is part of Nestlé’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the US and meet the growing demand for coffee creamers, as more consumers incorporate them into their daily routines. According to Nestlé, with more than 70% of coffee drinkers using creamers, the company is poised to capitalise on this trend. The facility is designed to be flexible, enabling Nestlé to adjust production based on evolving consumer preferences, seasonal shifts and emerging trends. The Glendale plant is Nestlé’s 20th food and beverage facility in the US, contributing to the company’s more than $3 billion investment in US manufacturing in recent years. The facility will create 300 jobs and bring Nestlé closer to its West Coast retail customers. The factory features sustainability initiatives, including water management systems that recycle up to 75% of treated water and the use of recyclable, food-grade plastic bottles. It also operates as a zero-waste facility and runs on renewable electricity. Daniel Jhung, president of coffee and beverage for Nestlé USA, said: "Coffee culture is booming across the US as consumers seek more options for customisation and experimentation when it comes to their coffee at home. As the definitive leader in the refrigerated creamers space, we are focused on delivering on those consumer needs to drive the growth of our business and the category." "This new facility was built with the flexibility needed to support innovation, and will play a key role in helping us deliver for our customers and consumers now, and in the future."

Keebler has expanded its Fudge Stripes range with the launch of Keebler Fudge Stripes Double Fudge cookies, marking the brand’s first permanent flavour addition to the line. The new cookies feature a crisp, chocolate-flavoured base coated in fudge, aiming to offer a balance of texture and taste. Kim Thomas, brand manager for Keebler Fudge Stripes, highlighted the company’s focus on fudge-based products, stating that the new variant "doubles the magic and the fun." Keebler Fudge Stripes Double Fudge is available at US retailers nationwide for an SRP of $4.80.

Kelly Poon In the bustling UK leisure sector, vending machines are no longer just convenient snack dispensers; they are now key players in creating memorable customer experiences. As leisure venues adapt to meet evolving consumer demands, vending businesses are seizing opportunities to blend innovation, technology and sustainability, ensuring their place at the heart of this thriving industry. Kelly Poon, founder of Panda Fluff, a UK-based candy floss vending machine manufacturer, highlights the key trends shaping the industry in the leisure sector. Leisure environments such as theme parks, holiday resorts, cinemas and shopping centres, are ideal locations for vending machines. These high-footfall venues attract diverse demographics, from families and fitness enthusiasts to casual shoppers and holidaymakers, all seeking convenient and engaging experiences. Vending machines in these settings have moved beyond traditional offerings, embracing niche products and high-tech solutions. For example, machines in holiday parks, theme parks and shopping centres are offering personalised sweet treats, while gyms are now stocking protein shakes and energy snacks. By aligning with the unique needs of their audience, vending operators can significantly enhance the overall leisure experience. Evolving consumer demands Modern consumers expect more from vending machines than ever before. Here are some key trends shaping the industry: Health and wellbeing The demand for healthier, more ethical food choices has led to the rise of vending machines offering vegan, natural and allergen-free products. These options resonate with today’s health-conscious audiences, in leisure spaces like gyms and wellness retreats, but in other locations as well. Customers on the whole are becoming much more aware of the ingredients in their food. High-tech personalisation AI-driven vending machines are transforming customer interactions. Smart interfaces allow for tailored recommendations based on customer preferences, location or even real-time data such as weather. These advancements enhance the shopping experience and boost sales by catering to individual needs. Sustainability Sustainability has become a cornerstone of consumer expectations. Many vending operators now use recyclable packaging, energy-efficient machines and refillable product systems. Integrating features like in-machine recycling bins aligns vending solutions with the green initiatives of leisure venues. Interactive experiences Customers increasingly seek experiences, not just products. Vending machines are incorporating elements like gamified interactions, augmented reality and live demonstrations to create moments of delight that resonate with leisure audiences. Challenges in the leisure sector While the opportunities in the leisure sector are vast, operating in this space comes with its own set of challenges. Seasonality is a major factor, as visitor numbers fluctuate with holidays, weather and events, making consistent revenue streams difficult to maintain. Premium costs are another consideration, with high-profile venues often charging substantial fees for prime vending locations. Reliability is crucial, as machines must withstand high usage and require robust maintenance systems to minimise downtime. Customer expectations also play a key role, as leisure visitors are in a mindset of exploration and fun, meaning vending solutions must go beyond functionality to enhance the overall experience. Strategies for success To thrive in leisure spaces, vending operators should adopt a strategic approach that maximises technology, customer engagement and sustainability. Leveraging technology is essential, with smart features like AI-driven inventory management, touchscreen interfaces and cashless payment options improving both efficiency and user experience. Technologies that enable customer interaction or data collection can further enhance operations and satisfaction. Creating tailored experiences is equally important, requiring a deep understanding of the audience and aligning offerings with their expectations. Whether it’s healthy snacks for gym-goers, artisan products for museums or a fun treat like candy floss for children, relevance is key to driving sales and engagement. Panda Fluff's vending machine Building strategic partnerships with venue operators can ensure mutual benefits, such as revenue-sharing models or exclusive co-branded products that integrate vending machines into the overall leisure experience. Investing in sustainability is no longer optional. Incorporating green practices not only meets consumer expectations but also enhances brand reputation. Energy-efficient machines, biodegradable packaging and recycling initiatives are now essential for forward-thinking operators Finally, standing out with design can make a significant impact in a crowded leisure environment. Unique, eye-catching can attract more foot traffic and boost engagement. The future of vending The future of vending lies in creating seamless, memorable and sustainable experiences. Operators should anticipate significant advancements in AI and automation, with innovations such as voice-activated machines and predictive stocking transforming the industry. Experiential integration will also play a key role, with vending machines doubling as interactive installations or photo opportunities, particularly in entertainment venues. Digital ecosystems will become more sophisticated, linking vending machines to loyalty apps or social media platforms to enhance engagement and create new marketing opportunities. Sustainability will remain a crucial focus, as vending businesses must continue to lead in environmental innovation to meet growing consumer and regulatory demands. The UK leisure sector presents immense opportunities for vending businesses willing to innovate and adapt. By leveraging technology, focusing on creating customer experiences (not just transactions) and prioritising sustainability, operators can position themselves as indispensable to leisure venues.

Lavazza has partnered with luxury supercar brand Lamborghini to launch an exclusive coffee blend that combines elements of 'Italian craftsmanship, heritage and innovation'. The Lavazza x Lamborghini coffee blend is a dark roast with a full-bodied flavour and intense aroma, designed to reflect the bold performance of Lamborghini’s supercars. The launch builds on a partnership announced in June 2024, which made Lavazza the exclusive coffee partner for Lamborghini. As part of the deal, Lavazza coffee is now served at the Automobili Lamborghini Museum in Bologna and at Lamborghini events in Italy and abroad. The Lavazza x Lamborghini blend is available for purchase on Lavazza’s official website and Amazon.

Swedish oat milk company Oatly has teamed up with Nestlé-owned coffee giant Nespresso, to launch a limited-edition line of oat milk coffee capsules internationally. The capsules, made exclusively for Nespresso Vertuo coffee machines, contain a ‘creamy, biscuity and indulgent’ blend of roasted and ground coffee beans with Oatly’s Barista Edition oat drink. In a statement announcing the launch, the brands said the blend displays strong cereal and sweet aromatics, complemented by a smooth texture, low bitterness and light body. The partnership follows an increasing interest in alternatives to cow’s milk for taste, ethical, environmental and dietary reasons, with oat becoming one of the most popular dairy-free choices. Nespresso said the launch responds to research showing that one in two American and European consumers now use plant-based milks, as well as two-thirds of all consumers in the Asia-Pacific and Latin American region. Toby Weedon, barista development director at Oatly, said: “Thanks to its neutral taste, Oatly Barista Edition brings out the best flavour in coffee. It’s why it is used by professional baristas and embraced by coffee enthusiasts all over the world.” He added: “We’re delighted to have worked with the experts at Nespresso to finally bring to market a coffee capsule that was tried and tested, especially for the millions of oat drink lovers out there”. Nespresso’s Oatly Barista Edition coffee officially launches today (28 January 2025) in more than 15 countries including the UK, US, China and Australia. The blend is available through Nespresso’s official channels, online and in Nespresso boutiques around the world for a limited time.

Kellanova-owned snack brand Pringles has announced the launch of a new flavour, Flame Grilled Steak, aimed specifically at the convenience store sector. This latest addition comes as part of the brand's strategy to diversify its offerings within a competitive snack market. The Flame Grilled Steak variant will be available exclusively in convenience channels, where Pringles has reported significant growth, currently valued at over £60 million. The introduction of price-marked packs in a 165g size, with a RRP of £2.99, is intended to facilitate impulse purchases and enhance on-the-go snacking options for consumers. Pricing will ultimately be at the discretion of retailers. This growth contrasts with a slight decline of 0.1% in the broader snack category. The introduction of price-marked packs is intended to facilitate impulse purchases and enhance on-the-go snacking options for consumers. Market analysis highlights a growing interest in steak-flavoured snacks, with competitors like McCoys and Walkers Max performing well in this segment. Despite steak flavours accounting for only 0.2% of total sales in the large sharing segment, the potential market for steak snacks in the away-from-home channel is estimated at nearly £20 million. The launch will be supported by point-of-sale materials aimed at increasing visibility and consumer trial, alongside activation packages for wholesalers. This approach reflects an effort to address consumer demand for bold flavours while navigating the challenges faced by the snack industry. Hannah Fearnley, head of route to market at Kellanova, said: "Steak is a massive flavour opportunity and one that’s proven to resonate so strongly amongst consumers. Given our growth in the Large Sharing sector, we are uniquely positioned to deliver this opportunity and reinvigorate the snacking aisle by giving consumers and retailers what they want." The new flavour will be available through wholesalers including Bestway, Dhamecha, Parfetts, Sugro and Unitas.

Snak Club has teamed up with First We Feast's popular YouTube talk show Hot Ones to launch a new honey roasted nuts line. The range features two new products: Honey Roasted Tangy Chili Peanuts and Honey Roasted Smoky Sweet Cashews, catering to the rising demand for sweet and spicy flavour combinations. The Honey Roasted Tangy Chili Peanuts combine mild heat with sweet honey. Meanwhile, the Honey Roasted Smoky Sweet Cashews deliver a medium heat level influenced by the Los Calientes Verde hot sauce, a signature of the Hot Ones show. Katie Lilly, chief marketing officer of Century Snacks, the parent company of Snak Club, said: "It's hard to ignore how big sweet and spicy are getting. Hot honey was the number one flavour trend in 2024 and continues to grow going into 2025. We just knew it would be perfect to blend that sweet heat with the Hot Ones hot sauces." Melanie Baker, director of Marketing at First We Feast, added: "We've been delivering spicy snacks to Hot Ones fans in partnership with Snak Club over the past year, and the demand continues to grow. The new hot honey roasted offerings are perfect for balancing the Hot Ones heat we're known for and craveable sweetness." Both products are available at select US retailers and online via Amazon. Packaging sizes include 2.75oz, 6oz and 14oz for the peanuts, and 2.5oz and 6oz for the cashews.

The UK’s Water Dispenser & Hydration Association (WHA) has announced that its 2025 WHA conference, trade show and industry dinner will be held on Thursday, 20 March, at the Nottingham Belfry in Nottingham, UK. The event will offer a day of industry insights, networking and presentations, featuring keynote speaker Roger Black, olympic 400 metres silver medalist, who will discuss his journey and business strategies. Alastair Banks from Optix Solutions will present on the impact of generative AI on the sector, while FoodBev Media's Akos Petri will share the latest 2024 industry statistics and trends. Ben McGannan and Carin Soderberg from The Wellbeing People will address employee wellness and productivity, and WHA's Phillipa Clow will discuss her work with Just a Drop in Zambia, highlighting the global impact of the organisation’s efforts. Following the talks, the Trade Show will showcase innovative products and services shaping the future of the hydration sector. The day will conclude with an industry dinner, including a performance by mindreader Alex Crow and a silent auction to raise funds for Just a Drop.