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INDUSTRY OUTLOOK 3. Micro Markets As the fastest growing segment of the vending industry today, micro market placements will continue to increase in 2013. According to Automatic Merchandiser research, 5 percent of operators added micro markets in 2011. Out of those who do not operate micro markets, 16 percent planned to add them in 2013. Although increasing in popularity, micro markets will not replace vending all together, but instead serve as an enhancement for the industry. "I am very optimistic about the future of micro markets," said Paul Schlossberg, an industry consultant and president of D/FW Consulting. "Micro markets offer a much better shopping environment for consumers, due to the fact that we can offer a much wider range of product categories and package sizes. Sales results have been very positive for operators, as the investment is much less and the payback is much faster. I would recommend that operators carefully assess their locations to see where this alternative can be deployed." One of the driving factors behind the growth of micro markets is the variety of products they hold, meeting a spectrum of consumer needs. "Micro markets are a great opportunity. The customer satisfaction is incredible," said Randy Parks, president and founder of ProStar Services in Carrollton, Texas. "There is also so much room for growth here, it's crazy. It's the best thing to happen to the industry since glass-front venders." 4. Machine Upgrades Customers are no longer satisfied with the traditional vending machines. Much like all other technologies and industries, everything has become bigger and better with more bells and whistles. And the vending industry must keep up. "Consumers have a choice, and our industry is competing everyday with other retail channels," said Brad Ellis, president of Crane Merchandising Systems and NAMA chairmen emeritus. "Convenience stores have transformed themselves over the past decade; while the average vending machine is 12-plus years old. You can take an old machine, clean it up, paint it, add new plastic front panels and sell it to locations as like new, but that's not changing the 10 Automatic Merchandiser consumer experience. Today, technology advancements have become much more cost effective and reliable, including cashless, touch screens, wireless technology and brand promotion, and are truly changing the consumer vending experience." Although it may require investment, this advancement in technology will help the vending industry differentiate itself, catch the consumers' eye, improve the experience and drive more sales. VendingMarketWatch.com February 2013 5. Coffee How would the world survive without coffee? The customer will definitely want to continue receiving their morning fix in 2013. Recent NAMA-sponsored research about the coffee trends among consumers reveals that only 41 percent of consumers have access to coffee at work. Only 22 percent of those locations have gourmet or specialty coffee, which is the most highly consumed and preferred coffee drink. There's certainly opportunity for growth in the coffee service segment. OCS remains strong segment "We expect to grow 25 percent this coming year," said Scott Guardino, vice president and general manager for Paramount Companies, a coffee service provider. "This will hopefully result from expanding our geographies, sales force and product offerings, as well as forging into more micro markets and foodservice locations, such as restaurants and hotels." Knowing what to change and what to keep while running a business is the key to succeeding. In 2013, customers will want more healthy products, additional payment options, better coffee and technologically advanced equipment, including micro markets. Operators can expect a good price and continued profits for meeting these needs. Laura DiGiulio is an experienced writer on various topics. She earned a BA in Journalism from The Ohio State University. She may be reached at digiulio.3@gmail.com.