LAS VEGAS — With 400 exhibitors and 5,000 expected attendees — both up from recent years — the National Automatic Merchandising Association’s annual convention, being held May 7-9 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the biggest event dedicated to the unattended convenience services industry. Founded in 1936, NAMA is the association representing this $34.9 billion industry, which includes vending, micro markets, office coffee service, and foodservice management. It’s an industry that is evolving as both labor costs and consumer demand for 24/7 access to grab-and-go food continue to increase.
Restaurants and foodservice providers are adding smart vending machines and micro-markets to expand their reach, hotels are using vending to offer 24/7 access for guests, travelers are turning to micro-markets and vending machines at airports, and consumers have grown accustomed to using apps and self-checkout for on-demand access to food.
These are the trends reflected in this week’s education and show-floor conversations, said Kristen Griffith, NAMA Vice President of Programs & Services. “Innovation and adaptability continue to lead industry conversations — whether it’s supply chain resilience, tech adoption or shifting consumer expectations. We’re excited to see those discussions happening on the show floor and reflected in the new products and partnerships being unveiled this week.”
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Show highlights include Imagination Way, where attendees can explore fully functioning prototype environments showcasing the future of convenience services, and a New Product Zone featuring up-and-coming products and new equipment hitting the market. Pre-conference food and operations tours on May 6 took attendees on site to Allegiant Stadium and Caesars Palace, and there was also a Pepsi Equipment Certification Center tour. Educational sessions are focused on topics ranging from trending technologies to sustainability.
The current climate of economic uncertainty and a 1.6% first-quarter drop in convention-goers coming to Las Vegas (according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority) has had little impact on the show’s numbers. “We’re seeing healthy participation, with more than 400 exhibitors committed — up from prior years — and the largest number of attendees in recent years,” Griffith said. “If anything, this reinforces the importance of events like this as places for industry dialog and direction. Our community clearly values the opportunity to connect in person.”
Reach Kristen Griffith at (571) 349-0149
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