NEWS | Industry Updates


James continued: “Our latest validators use spectral technology, which combines proprietary sensing with algorithms designed in-house to deliver the highest possible level of security. High-resolution imaging and advanced spectral sensors capture the complete banknote and analyse its authenticity in real time. Operators can also keep their machines


ECB approval for ITL’s Note Validator Range


Innovative Technology Ltd (ITL) has achieved independent approval from the European Central Bank (ECB) for their note validator (NV) range. The ECB authenticate validators that can successfully recognise the difference between genuine and counterfeit Euro banknotes. James Beswick, customer support manager, commented on the results: “We are proud to have passed the ECB’s


strict testing process again this year. Testing took place at De Nederlandsche Bank at the end of July, where our NV9 Spectral, NV200 Spectral and NV10 USB all achieved a 100% pass rate — as did our legacy NV9USB+ and NV200ST validators. These independent results confirm that our full range, current and legacy, reliably identifies genuine euro banknotes and rejects counterfeits.”


up to date with our free firmware and global currency datasets. We develop these continuously, adding new issue notes and known frauds so that our acceptance rates stay ahead of the market, and our technical support team responds quickly to any reports of suspected counterfeits.” James concluded: “Meeting the ECB’s testing criteria gives our customers real assurance that they are investing in highly secure banknote validation equipment.” The test results are published to help customers choose the banknote counterfeit detection equipment most suitable for their needs. The full listing of the test results can be found at https://www.ecb.europa.eu/ paym/cashprof/cashhand/devices/html/ results.en.html


Kepak launches new guide to unlocking growth in automated retail


Kepak has launched an updated guide to help vending operators make informed decisions about adding fresh food to their ranges and growing sales in automated retail. The six-page guide, Feeding the Future 2026: Unlocking Growth


in Automated Retail, combines current category and market insight with practical advice on introducing food. The guide in conjunction with the AVA, examines consumer habits, food to go trends, opportunities and challenges for operators, and the food safety requirements involved in selling chilled products. The guide reports that the UK food to go market is worth £27.2bn,


with growth of 7.9%.* It also draws on the latest AVA census, which puts vending revenue at £3.13bn in 2025, up 7% on 2024, while food accounts for 8% of total vending revenue.** It highlights opportunities in workplaces, hospitals and travel


hubs, where consumers want convenient food throughout the day. Lunch is gaining share of vending occasions, rising from 12% in July 2025 to 21% in July 2026 in the research presented in the guide. Alongside growth opportunities, it addresses the challenges of short shelf life, forecasting and waste. Emma Greenow, Senior Category Manager, Kepak Foods Divison,


said: “We created this guide to give operators access to the latest category and market insight, which has not always been easy to find in one place. In a challenging market, they need a clear view of what is driving growth, where the opportunities are and what it takes to add fresh food successfully. Alongside the AVA we have offered our expert insight together with practical guidance, to help operators make confident decisions that are right for their businesses.” The guide also covers allergen information, food business


registration, storage and transport, temperature checks, record keeping, staff training and food safety management plans. It also includes testimonials from operators on the benefits of adding fresh food and extending food provision beyond normal catering hours.


10 To download a digital copy of the guide visit: https://www.


kepakfoodservice.com/automated-retail-guide/ * Lumina Intelligence Food To Go Report 2026 and Eating & Drinking Out Panel, 52 weeks ending 10 May 2026. ** AVA Census 2025.


| vendinginternational-online.com


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