Assisted Choices
Eco
Vending
The traditional vending machine models adapts to prioritize sustainability.
Trend
What is the Eco Vending trend?
Eco Vending: Vending machines that offer environmentally friendly products are on the rise, with everything from package-free items to eco-friendly materials being offered in these machines. This shift comes as brands in the quick-serve space aim to better adapt to the steady growth of conscious consumerism.
Insight
The consumer insight behind the Eco Vending trend
Consumers are increasingly concerned about the impact of consumption habits on the environment. Due to this, they’re starting to shift away from disposable products when possible to reduce their own impact on the environment, and are thus seeking out more eco-conscious options for when they are on-the-go.
Trend themes
Themes within the Eco Vending trend
Three behaviours holding the trend togetherEco-friendly vending machines
As consumers become more conscious about the impact of consumption habits on the environment, vending machines that offer eco-friendly products are on the rise.
Convenient and healthy food options
Consumers, especially busy professionals, are seeking more nutritious and convenient packaged food options, which presents opportunities for startups like Portions and Choice Mini-Mart.
Package-free products
As part of the effort to reduce waste, brands are introducing package-free options like Dasani's PureFill vending machines that require customers to bring their own bottles.
Industry implications
What the Eco Vending trend means for industry
Where the trend changes the playbookFood and beverage
The rise of eco-friendly vending machines and healthy packaged food options affects the food and beverage industry, especially in the quick-serve space.
Sustainability and environmental solutions
With consumers becoming more eco-conscious, there is an opportunity for businesses to provide sustainable solutions, such as refurbished vending machines and package-free options.
Technology and payment systems
The implementation of RFID and smartphone payment systems in vending machines presents opportunities for innovation in the technology and payment systems industries.
Workshop question
How could your brand better adapt to the rise of conscious consumerism?
Trend signals
Trend signals for Eco Vending
Trend score 6.4 out of 10, from popularity 94%, activity 91%, freshness 8%.
- Gen Alpha
- Gen Z
- Millennial
- Gen X
- Boomer (not a primary audience)
Evidence
Examples of the Eco Vending trend
4 featured examples from Apr 17, 2018 to Aug 14, 2019Raw Salad Vending Machines
Montreal Startup Portions Specializes in Healthy, Jarred Salad Meals
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Rethink traditional food packaging methods and explore sustainable alternatives, such as glass containers, for improved freshness and eco-consci…
Smartphone Payment Vending Machines
The Stora Enso New Retail e-Kiosk Has RFID for Transactions
The rise of smartphone-centric purchasing calls for innovative mobile payment services to facilitate seamless transactions between consumers and vending machines.
Package-Free Vending Machines
Dasani's PureFill Dispensers Require People to Bring a Bottle
The beverage industry is experiencing disruptive innovation with package-free vending machines and waste-reducing packaging, leading to more sustainable and convenient hydration o…
Fresh Snack Vending Machines
Choice Mini-Mart Stocks Fruit, Salads, Sandwiches, Jerky & More
Vending machine companies can tap into the market for fresh, high-quality snacks and meals.