Over the past few months, several members of the Vending & Automated Retail Association (AVA) have welcomed their local MPs for a behind-the-scenes look at the vending industry. Visits have included Adam Jogee MP to Options Management, Jerome Mayhew MP to Norfolk Vending and Catering Services, Mike Reader MP to Carbon Neutral Vending, and Sir Alec Shelbrooke MP to AVA.
These visits gave operators the opportunity to showcase their businesses and demonstrate the vital role vending plays in providing convenient food and drink options across a variety of workplaces and other settings. They also allowed MPs to gain a first-hand understanding of the challenges facing the industry.
A key topic of discussion during each visit was the Government’s proposed ban on high-caffeine energy drinks in vending machines. Members were able to explain the practical implications of the proposal and the concerns it raises. Encouragingly, MPs have responded positively, expressing sympathy with the industry’s position and, in several cases, writing directly to Government ministers to raise our concerns.
The AVA said: “This is exactly the kind of engagement our industry needs. The more MPs understand how vending businesses operate and the impact proposed policies could have, the more likely they are to ensure our voice is heard during the decision-making process.”
If you would like to invite your local MP to visit your business, Scott Sherlock, AVA’s Public Affairs Manager, can help make it happen. The first step is to write to your MP about the proposed high-caffeine energy drink ban. Scott can provide a template letter and support you throughout the process. To request a copy, email scott.sherlock@the-ava.com.
“Every MP visit is another opportunity to put vending firmly on the political agenda and ensure policymakers understand the value our industry delivers every day,” the Association stressed.
