Coca-Cola has revealed a sweeping overhaul of its operational leadership, including the creation of a new chief digital officer role, as the soft drinks giant moves to accelerate technology adoption and sharpen execution across fast-growing emerging markets.

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.

Vox AI, a conversational voice AI platform designed for drive-thru and operational automation in quick-service restaurants (QSRs), has raised $8.7 million in seed funding.

HelloFresh is investing $70 million in a major overhaul of its meal kit offerings, aiming to harness AI to drive customer retention and boost in-home dining, according to a report by Bloomberg.

Admiral Vending Systems has introduced a new artificial intelligence-powered instant quoting tool designed to simplify and modernise the procurement process for office coffee equipment.

Starbucks has introduced a generative AI-powered tool designed to support baristas during their shifts, as part of its latest move to streamline operations and enhance in-store efficiency.

InstaChef Pro has launched Singapore’s first full-stack AI food solution, the K Series, at the FHA-Food & Beverage 2025 event, held in April.

Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) have installed four AI-powered recycling bins to improve waste management and sustainability at the airport.

Refreshment spoke to Aslak de Silva, CEO of Selfly Store, about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the vending industry.

Nayax and Seco have announced a strategic partnership aimed at embedding Nayax’s payment platform into Seco’s Internet of Things devices.