The Vendies are back for 2026, and the industry’s most anticipated celebration of excellence is officially open for entries. This year’s awards will take place on 3 June 2026 at the iconic Grand Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden, London—a fitting backdrop for a night dedicated to honouring the very best in vending and automated retail.
Continuing a proud tradition, The Vendies will once again shine a spotlight on the companies, teams and individuals who have pushed boundaries, delivered outstanding service and driven the sector forward over the past year.
For 2026, we’re excited to introduce a selection of fresh new categories alongside the return of last year’s most popular awards, offering even more opportunities to showcase your achievements.
Entries are now open, and we look forward to receiving your submissions. Be sure to get them in by the closing date of 27 February 2026. Let’s make this a year to remember!
New categories for suppliers include:
BEST WATER BRAND
Open to water and flavoured water brands performing strongly in automated retail and vending.
New categories for operators include:
TRAINING & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD
Recognises operators that invest in the growth and skills of their people.
New categories for suppliers & operators include:
SALES CHAMPION
For individuals achieving outstanding sales success – either operators or suppliers.
BEST VENDING DOUBLE ACT
Celebrates two individuals (from a single or separate businesses/organisations) whose teamwork delivers exceptional results.
DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARD
Recognises outstanding design in vending, micromarkets, autonomous retail units, or automated retail environments — where aesthetics, user experience and functionality come together to create a standout solution.
For more details and criteria go to https://thevendies.co.uk/categories/
As for the rest of the categories, many of last year’s contenders are still available to enter, so make your choice at https://thevendies.co.uk/categories/
HOW TO ENTER
To enter or nominate it couldn’t be any easier just follow our three simple steps:
1) Pick your category.
2) Put together a short statement explaining why you or the company/individual you are nominating deserve to win.
3) Submit your entry using our easy online portal.
So, don’t waste time GO TO https://thevendies.co.uk/enter/ TO ENTER.
SPONSORSHIP
If you would like to sponsor the event, please contact:
Natalie Harman
NHarman@datateam.co.uk
Vendies Awards 2025 @ Grand Connaught Rooms for DataTeam Media
