NEWS | Industry Updates


AVA Live: On-the-Road at Scobie McIntosh


Earlier this month, Scobie McIntosh hosted the AVA Live event which featured engaging discussions led by industry luminaries. The sessions explored pivotal themes, including strategies for bridging the technological gap in machinery and maximising the potential of legacy equipment through innovative integration solutions. One of the compelling inquiries posed was, “How smart are


smart machines?” The consensus was that the intelligence of these machines hinges on the sophistication of their integrated systems and technologies. This underscores the possibility of integrating legacy equipment with smart capabilities. For a deeper exploration of your system’s potential, the AVA strongly recommends connecting with your dedicated account manager. Another debate centred around the question, “Is cash dead?” Contrary to speculations, the resounding answer is no. Cash transactions continue to comprise over 17% of all vending transactions in the UK, a testament to its relevance. With 2.6 million UK citizens relying solely on cash and only 10% of equipment operating entirely cashless, the vitality of physical currency remains evident.


During the insightful panel discussions featuring industry experts such as Lewis Zimbler (Nayax), Mark Parry (Vianet), Angus Burrell (Paycomplete), Mark Stevens (Scobie McIntosh), Robin Turver (SB Software), and David Bamford (AVA), key insights were shared. Notably, the integration of cashless systems has not only boosted  average transaction value. Today, over 70% of vending machines offer cashless payment options, demonstrating a remarkable 38% increase in sales and an impressive 55% rise in average transaction value.


New Scottish consultation to ‘restrict the promotion of HFSS foods’


The Scottish Government has released a consultation (accepting submissions until 21st May) proposing regulations to curtail the promotion of HFSS foods in public retail and out-of-home settings. 


Vending and Automated Retail Association (AVA) is committed to providing a response. 


regulations aimed at limiting the promotion of foods high in fat, sugar, or salt in public settings. With a closing date of 21 May 2024, this consultation is an extension of Scotland’s diet


and health weight delivery plan, accessible here. Notably, the consultation highlights that two-thirds of adults in Scotland are grappling with obesity, underscoring the urgency of the proposed measures. The AVA Commodities Committee will convene to deliberate on the consultation and formulate the AVA’s response and is strongly encouraging all its Scottish members to reach out with any queries or concerns and also to participate in submitting responses by the 21 May deadline. https://consult.gov.scot/population-health/restriction-promotion- of-food-and-drink-proposed/


 validated by Science Based Targets Initiative


  as the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validates its near-term 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets and its  “We are proud to have SBTi approve our 2030 targets and our 2050 Net Zero target as it further strengthens our commitment to more sustainable snacking,” said Christine Montenegro McGrath, chief impact and  “We are on our way toward our Net Zero ambition and helping make sustainability a reality. Our ESG approach is designed to enable us to deliver lasting change at scale by prioritizing where we can have the


greatest impact, focusing on innovative and measurable solutions, and collaborating to drive sector-wide transformation,” said Chairman and chief executive Dirk van de Put. “We’ve taken an end-to-end approach in our aim to reach our Net Zero emissions goal by focusing efforts across key areas and delivering against existing goals.” 


progress against these goals in 2023, including: • Reducing end-to-end CO2e emissions by (3.7)%, on track for 35% reduction end-to- end by 2030 (from a 2018 base year) • In 2023, 48% of the electricity used in manufacturing sites was renewable, compared to 40% in 2022


• In 2023, 96% of packaging was designed to be recyclable


• The company is on track for cocoa, palm, soy and paper materials to be deforestation free by the end of this year in the EU and by the end of 2025 globally These efforts support the company’s


Vision 2030 long-term growth strategy, which includes Sustainability as a critical pillar.


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