The Vending & Automatic Retail Association (AVA) is urging its members to contact their MPs and respond to the government’s consultation on banning the sale of energy drinks from vending machines, warning that the proposed policy would have a severe and growing financial impact on the industry.
The government is proposing a blanket ban on energy drink sales from all vending machines, regardless of the age of the purchaser, as part of its commitment to prevent under-16s from accessing these products.
The AVA said: “We have been engaging with the Department of Health and Social Care for months on this matter, where we have repeatedly explained that over 80% of vending machines are in closed environments – areas where under 16s are unable to access. As referenced in the consultation, the government has expressed a clear preference to implement a blanket ban through vending machines for ease of enforcement, ignoring the significant impact this would have on our industry.”
Based on the latest information submitted by members, the AVA now estimates that the annual financial loss to the sector would be approximately £43 million – significantly higher than earlier predictions. Given that energy drinks remain the fastest-growing market in the soft drinks sector, the AVA warns this figure will only continue to rise.
“We are still deeply concerned about the consultation’s focus on a complete ban of these drinks across all vending machines and automated or unattended retail points,” the association added.
The consultation closes on 26 November 2025, and the AVA confirmed it will be submitting a full response ahead of the deadline.
In the meantime, the association has prepared a template letter to help members make their own submissions, either as individuals or on behalf of their businesses. It is calling for as many submissions as possible to ensure the industry’s voice is heard.
Members can access the template and guidance via the AVA website. Follow the guide HERE
