Unwrapped: Why Advances in IoT Will Change Vending and Foodservice Forever

 

Internet-connected devices have changed almost every industry, but their influence has been slow to reach vending and foodservice.

That’s changing now, with the vending industry deploying many IoT devices and changing the future of vending forever.

“I look at it as the connection between man and machine and what we do with it to enhance efficiency or enhance the consumer experience – how we use it to enhance safety,” said Mike Weisser, President and CEO of SandenVendo. “That ability is what IoT means to me in how we utilize that and deploy it throughout the equipment we manufacture in order to make other companies more efficient or enhance their customers’ experience when they make a purchase.”

That experience is changing now that IoT technology is becoming more prevalent. Vending machines in the United States have looked very similar over the last four decades, but with touchscreens and other technologies becoming more prevalent, consumers are being reached in a way they never have been before.

“With IoT, we are looking at cashless and are taking it one step farther. We’re talking about contactless. With this current technology, we’re able to utilize near-field communication. Before you approach, the vending machine – through the interaction of NFC – is able to communicate with your cell phone if you allow it,” said Paul Yang, General Manager of Aaeon Electronics, “In this case, the machine would know you’re approaching. Then you select your products through a touchscreen or with the app on your cell phone.”

There also may be a scenario in which a user approaches the vending machine and yawns, triggering suggestions for a caffeinated beverage like a soda or an energy drink, or is sweating after a run, and the machine serves up its rehydrating options.

Some of those advancements may seem far from the current reality, but there are smaller tweaks, as well – things like making suggestions that aren’t in the machine but could be delivered to the customer’s house the next day, or simply serving a relevant advertisement based on selection.

Your 3 p.m. snack break may never look the same.

For the latest news, videos, and podcasts in the Food & Beverage Industry, be sure to subscribe to our industry publication.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!

Twitter – @MarketScale
Facebook – facebook.com/marketscale
LinkedIn – linkedin.com/company/marketscale

Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!

Image

Latest

DJI Matrice M30 Series: Unveiling a New Era in Public Safety & Inspections
December 22, 2024

Dive into the latest episode of Drone Dispatch with Connor Smith from Exertis Almo as he unveils DJI’s formidable Matrice M30 series. This video peels back the layers on the M30 series’ upgraded features, its practical applications in public safety and infrastructure inspection, and offers essential tips for dealers. Witness how this weatherproof workhorse outperforms…

Read More
drone technology
Cutting-Edge Drone Technology Unfolded in New Video
December 22, 2024

Curious about how expert-guided drone solutions can revolutionize your operations? Tune into our latest video where we unpack the power of full-solution drone distribution. From handpicking the finest products to seamless deployment and unwavering support, we cover it all. Witness how pivotal industries like public safety and energy are gaining mileage with our customized solutions.

Read More
Direct View LEDs, Milk Holidays, and Gaming Chair Woes: AV Antics Unplugged
December 22, 2024

Curious about the latest in AV technology and industry insights? In Episode 4 of the AV Antics Podcast, we dive into the buzz (or lack thereof) from InfoComm, with a focus on the rise of Direct View LED technology and its impact on the market. Along the way, we explore the challenges of innovation, reminisce…

Read More
Unlocking Business Synergy: The Role of Category Managers
December 22, 2024

Dive in and explore the influential role of category managers in shaping successful business development strategies. Witness how they seamlessly coordinate with diverse suppliers — from audio and video companies to LED manufacturers — embodying the ‘quarterbacks’ of industry advancement. Their unique role is not only multifaceted but also a powerful symbol of value addition….

Read More