NEWS | Industry Updates
Another EVA activity that was closely followed was the work on the new communication specification – entitled ‘SmartLink’ – which aims to replace current machine protocols with a new more connected and future-proof specification to help enable vending to be more efficient and connected in the coming years. A draft version of SmartLink is to be published by the end of this year, with a working demonstration to be showcased at next year’s Venditalia exhibition. The focus theme of the Conference
EVEX 2025 captivates in Croatia
A successful EVEX 2025 took place in the seaside city of Split (Croatia) from 9 – 12 September at the Le Méridien Lav. Since 2015, EVEX – the European
Vending Experience – has grown into one of the industry’s most anticipated annual gatherings, combining cutting- edge innovation, thought leadership, and powerful networking in Europe’s most vibrant destinations. After editions in cities like Rome, Bucharest, and Cannes, it was time to meet at the Adriatic. With a growing local industry as well as the recent formation of a Croatian Vending Association (CROVENA), there were plenty of new opportunities to tap into. With an attendence of 300 participants
from 34 countries – including around 100 vending operators – and 35 sponsors, the event proved attractive to players from all corners of Europe and further afield. During the EVA Annual General Assembly, elections to the new Executive Committee took place with several tightly
fought seats, for the new three-year mandate. After a few years’ absence, Paolo Ghidotti returns to the board and was elected as President. The full composition is as follows: • Paolo Ghidotti (Bianchi Industry) – EVA President
• Alberto Giavoni (Brita) – EVA Treasurer • Mihai Ungureanu (O’Fresh) – 1st Vice President
• Jürgen Göbel (Ingenico) – Vice President • Antonio Tartaro (IVS) – Vice President • Ariadni Skliri (CPI) • Michele Pellegrinelli (Evoca Group) • José Manuel Mendoza (ANEDA) • Aris Kaschefi (BDV) • Michele Adt (CONFIDA) • Christian Mengus (NAVSA) • Pascal Uffer (Boost Inc) •Peter van Griensven (Maas International)
As usual the latest market statistics were
presented for the first time, giving a new glimpse as to the developments in the sector.
Vendex North 2025 sells out, prompting organisers to expand the floorplan
Vendex North 2025 officially sold out with one month to go, marking another major milestone for the vending, OOH, and unattended retail trade show. Organisers said the overwhelming demand reflected the continued strength and innovation across the sector — and to meet that demand, they made available extra stands on the floorplan at Doncaster Racecourse. Taking place on Wednesday, 12 November
2025, this year’s event promises to be the biggest Vendex North yet, with a record number of exhibitors and visitors set to attend. Now in its 22nd year, Vendex North has become the essential meeting place for professionals in vending, unattended retail, and MicroMarkets — from global manufacturers to pioneering start-ups. Exhibitors will showcase the latest
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vending machines, self-service technologies, payment systems, and consumables, alongside exclusive product launches and live demonstrations. Visitors can expect to discover new innovations, test cutting-edge technology, and network with industry leaders in a larger, upgraded exhibition hall designed for better flow, interaction, and engagement.
Other highlights include: • A newly expanded floor plan to welcome even more exhibitors and brands.
• Dedicated focus on MicroMarkets and the evolution of unattended retail.
• Free visitor registration and free parking on site.
• Excellent transport links, with Doncaster just 90 minutes from London by train and close to major UK motorways.
programme this year was Artifical Intelligence (AI) in our sector, with each full day featuring a keynote speech on the subject by either Matthew Blakemore or Arnaud Llamas Bravo, and how it can help transform vending and automate processes. Attendees could also listen to some success stories of vending operators who dared to make drastic changes to their business to adapt to the rapidly changing consumer needs. A regular feature of the EVEX programme, a two-and-a-half day trade show featured the latest vending and coffee and unattended retail technologies. Attendees were able to vote for their favourites as part of the EVEX Highlight Awards, with the winners declared as follows:
EVEX Highlight – Jury Award Vendlive, by Boost Inc
EVEX Highlight – Attendees Award Necta Barista 600 Pro Touch, by Evoca Group
The 95- and 70-year anniversaries of the
UK (AVA) and French (NAVSA) vending associations were marked and celebrated during the event.
“Vendex North continues to grow year
after year,” said Matt Derry, director at Trade Events Ltd. “Selling out a month in advance shows the strength of the vending and unattended retail industry, as well as the trust exhibitors place in Vendex to deliver meaningful connections and opportunities.”
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