BETTER-FOR-YOU VENDING


New space for indulgence without compromise T


he definition of “better for you” is changing. In vending, it no longer simply means choosing the lowest-calorie snack or sacrificing indulgence in pursuit of health. Today’s consumers


are looking for products that balance great taste and enjoyment with broader considerations around ingredients, dietary choices and inclusivity. Nitesh Mahtani, foodservice sales director at Doughlicious says that creates an exciting opportunity for vending operators. The traditional divide between a “healthy snack” and an “indulgent


treat” is becoming increasingly blurred, opening up a new space for products that deliver the enjoyment consumers expect from a treat while also fitting a wider range of lifestyles. “At Doughlicious, we call this permissible indulgence. Our Grab &


Go cookie range was developed around exactly that principle. The cookies are generously sized, soft-baked and indulgent, but they are also vegan approved, certified gluten-free and Halal certified. This means operators can offer a product with broad appeal without asking consumers following particular dietary preferences to compromise on the experience. Our Salted Caramel and New York Style Chocolate Chip cookies are both individually wrapped in an 82g format, making them ideally suited to vending and on-the-go occasions. “The response we have seen from the vending industry suggests


that this proposition is resonating. Our Salted Caramel Cookie was recently recognised as Best Snack Product at the AVS Awards, following Doughlicious’ expansion into the vending channel during 2026. For us, that recognition demonstrates that innovation within “Better for You” doesn’t necessarily have to remove the indulgence that makes people choose a snack in the first place.”


Nitesh believes flavour remains fundamental explaining that Doughlicious Salted Caramel combines caramel pieces and caramel sauce with a touch of miso, while the company’s New York Style Chocolate Chip Cookie uses dark chocolate to deliver a rich, classic cookie experience. “For operators, this evolution offers an opportunity to broaden


the appeal of the vending machine. Rather than viewing wellness purely through the lens of restriction, a more diverse fixture can accommodate different needs and occasions: from functional and nutritionally focused choices through to more considered treats.”


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28