Although Cologne is probably most famous for its gothic cathedral, for the vending world it is known as the home of biannual trade show Eu‘Vend. The 2015 event, taking place from 24 to 26 September at Koelnmesse (Cologne Trade Fair Center), provided vending industry professionals with a way to share ideas and explore new business opportunities on an international scale. 186 exhibitors from 25 countries showcased their latest products, services and innovations, encompassing machines, hot drinks, payment systems, software and more.
An international influence
With 5000 trade visitors from 59 different countries, Eu’Vend & coffeena proved itself a truly international trade fair. Just over 40% of trade visitors came from countries outside Germany. Conversations in multiple languages could be identified as throughout the hall as exhibitors connected with an engaged and relevant visitor base, which included a higher number of purchasers from Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland and Switzerland than in previous years. An independent survey of trade visitors conducted on-site during the show found that 67% of those surveyed were involved or decisively involved in the purchasing decision-making process.
Katharina C. Hamma, chief operating officer of Koelnmesse, said: “Eu’Vend & coffeena has succeeded in presenting all of the relevant vending machine manufacturers on one platform. The strong attendance of international trade visitors has honoured the unique range of exhibitors.”
The German Vending Association (or bdv) is the industry sponsor of Eu’Vend & coffeena 2015. Praising the quality of the show, bdv board spokesperson Karl-Heinz Blum commented: “The industry is very satisfied with Eu’Vend & coffeena. The trade fair is an important source of inspiration. The many ideas and concepts will have a positive influence on the development of the industry over the coming months.”
Satisfied visitors
Show attendees expressed themselves pleased with the quality of the exhibitors, in particular the range of products on show. 81% of trade visitors interviewed were satisfied or very satisfied. In addition to the latest machines, refill products and innovations, a key focus was digitalisation. Trends visible throughout the hall included large touchscreens and a surprising number of specialist vending apps and software. Sustainability was also a key consideration.
Special features of the show included the display of the ‘Vending Star’ innovation award nominees in the ‘Vending Innovation Area’. The award is conferred by bdv and Koelnmesse – click here to see the winners. Lectures and discussions on ‘the Red Sofa’ included: the potential for vending within large-scale catering operations; the importance of sustainability in coffee ingredients sourcing, and opportunities created by multimedia in vending. The international roundtable of experts ‘Visions of Vending’ discussed a number of topics vital to the vending industry, and the ‘Water Works’ section was a display exploring the opportunities and advantages for operators of implementing water coolers.
Stay tuned for the full review in the November issue of Vending International magazine! Visit www.vendinginternational-online.com/subscribe to subscribe.
