FILLING A GAP IN THE MARKET MICRO MARKETS


Nebrak – Paul Howard, maNagiNg director aNd tom Howard, oPeratioNs director


sb software – simoN black, maNagiNg director “Micro-markets are a subject dear to our hearts at SB Software. Long before we supported clients on the very first pilots in this country, we were keeping a watching brief on developments elsewhere. North America was the pioneering environment for the technology, so


we engaged most there to understand the opportunities – and the real-life risks/pitfalls at stake. For some time now, micro markets have been billed as “the next big


thing” in our sector. But now that is not just an opinion, it is fact-based insight. And the post Covid economy/environment will only increase both the speed and the scale of implementations ahead. The key point from the above, whether you are setting out on your very


first micro market initiative, or scaling up, is that it is essential to work together with people who already have relevant experience. Nobody needs to repeat mistakes that others have already learnt to


avoid. Make sure that you: • run trials, pilots, and commercial evaluations: maybe micro markets are not for you (or your client-base), and if so, it’s better to understand that sooner rather than later • remember micro markets are not just big vending machines where the door has been left open for all-comers • always follow industry/technical standards fully (compliance both ensures inter-operability and increases efficiency by enabling maximum integration). You’ll find that success in micro markets requires everything essential in


vending, especially powerful merchandising, tight stock control and insightful reporting, but on steroids. Why? Because clients and end-users require/deserve it for the solution to be effective. And especially because there’s nothing quite like a photo posted and tagged online by a disgruntled consumer of a lonely banana browning on a sparse shelf to get you attention - in all the wrong ways.”


How does vending capitalise on the micro market boom? “Listen to the wants and needs of the end-user Sounds simple but meeting the needs of the end-user is paramount to a successful revenue enhancing installation. Everything from learning the dietary desires of employees to understanding working patterns can increase the number of visits. Availability of hot, fresh food and drink 24/7 keeps employees on-site and encourages additional spend. Integrating a freezer unit into your design and meal options increase exponentially (as does shelf- life). Add non-food items and revenue potential is further increased.


Modular system The beauty of a micro market is that it is modular. The configuration of machines, payment systems, and shelving is totally flexible. For organisations transitioning from a managed canteen or looking to streamline facilities, the micro market offers a scalable solution that adapts to location and demand. Micro markets can best serve 100- 500 employees providing a trade up from vending and a trade down from manned canteens – effectively filling a gap in the market. Their flexibility means that there is a micro market solution to suit all budgets, demand and environments.


Maximise space Micro markets maximise space making them an attractive solution for retail operators. This results in a greater number and variety of SKUs. From a design perspective where there was once a traditional canteen, space can be re-purposed allowing for additional seating, company break out areas, recycling hubs and workspace.


Convenience Contactless payment systems and smart fridge technologies are now readily available and provide a super-fast enjoyable transaction experience and above all, convenience, – consumers love convenience.


Refreshment destination We have been collaborating with a number of operators, retail, tech and payment system providers to provide what we are referring to as ‘Refreshment Destinations’. By adapting the offer to suit demand and site but remaining on-brand has facilitated entry into new markets for leading F&B brands and provided leverage for operators. That’s basically, giving the customer what they want.


Turnkey solutions Nebrak provides full turnkey solutions saving time, money and the sometimes-arduous task of project management. We have been experts in vending and catering interiors for over 30 years. We know what works. We understand the aims and listen to the objectives of each of the stakeholders to realise a micro market solution that results in a win- win for all.”


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