Lifetime achievement honour for Hugh O
ne of the most memorable moments at The Vendies 2026 came as Hugh Millson, of Millsons Vending was presented with The Vendies’ highest accolade – the
Lifetime Achievement Award. Welcomed to the stage with a heartfelt standing ovation, Hugh
was presented with the award by the 2025 Lifetime Achievement winner and good friend, Richard Brinsley, of Westomatic Vending Services. With a career spanning more than four decades that has left
an indelible mark on the UK vending industry, Hugh’s influence has extended far beyond his own business, earning him the admiration and respect of colleagues, competitors and customers alike. He joined his family company in 1979, just as it expanded from
its dairy roots into vending. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in transforming the business into one of the UK’s most respected independent vending operators. Under his leadership, the business has consistently embraced
innovation, adopting technologies including cashless payment systems, smart telemetry, Vendmanager integration and CRM platforms. The award citation revealed that it is not only his business achievements that have defined his career. He has built a reputation for fairness, collaboration and generosity, mentoring others within the sector and supporting both the wider vending community and local causes. Reflecting on the award, Hugh said: “This recognition means
far more than a personal milestone. It reflects the dedication, resilience, and passion of an incredible team that has stood beside me throughout this journey. “To my team – this award belongs to all of us. Your commitment,
creativity, and belief in our shared vision have made every achievement possible. Thank you for your hard work and unwavering support.
Good friends Richard Brinsley and Hugh Millson, the 2025 and 2026 Lifetime Achievement winners
“For our business, this award is a reminder that staying true to
our values, putting people first, and striving for excellence can create a lasting impact. It motivates us to continue innovating, serving our clients with integrity, and raising the bar for what we can achieve together. “Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years – our clients, partners, mentors, friends, and family. Your trust and encouragement have been invaluable. “This is not the end of the journey; it’s inspiration for the next chapter. Here’s to continuing to grow, lead, and make a positive difference together.” But there is also a lighter side of Hugh’s character revealed to guests on the day. Affectionately known by colleagues as the “
Lastminute.com project manager”, Hugh has a reputation for unveiling urgent projects with little warning—much to the amusement, and occasional frustration, of his long-suffering team. Guests also learned of perhaps his most unusual claim to fame:
Hugh and his twin brother were once officially recorded as the heaviest twins ever born in the UK—a headline-grabbing beginning to a life and career that has certainly proved to be worth its weight in gold. The standing ovation that greeted Hugh’s acceptance was
a fitting tribute to a man whose leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment have helped shape the UK vending industry for generations.
Hugh Millson, winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Vendies 2026
vendinginternational-online.com |
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