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C ON V E N T I ON P R E V I E W
"Innovations In Intelligent Vend-
ing" by Intel Corp.'s director retail segment marketing, Chris O'Malley, will share a non-technical background of computing developments. This leads to Intel's vision for intelligent vending — a securely managed, seamlessly connected network of vending machines, remote monitoring, electronic payments, digital signage, consumer analytics and a host of new applications designed to signifi cantly alter the vending landscape. Other education programs include:
• Developing a focused growth strategy: a blueprint for driving profi table growth.
• Cold beverage trends and strate- gic insights.
• Self checkout: how to capitalize on the new trend.
• Understanding technology's impact on your business.
• Identifying and hiring ideal route drivers: what are the com- mon traits.
Coffee, tea and water symposium For coffee, tea and water service providers, the Coffee & Water Ser- vice Operator Symposium will help address issues unique to this market segment. The two-part symposium will begin with roundtable break- outs, tailored to company size and tenure, to ensure that resources match individual needs. The second half features a panel of industry experts who will share fi rst-hand insights to help attendees benefi t from their experience and share in the secrets of their success. Prior to the show, preliminary
events on Tuesday, April 24 include the Quality Coffee Certifi cation Pro- gram from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Super- visor Development Program from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and a special coach- ing seminar from business author Jeb Blount from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will also be a NAMA
Gratitude Tour at the University 26
45-minute customized OneShow performance. Day two for the Quality Coffee
Certifi cation Program, the Supervi- sor Development Program and the coaching for improved sales perfor- mance also will be on Wednesday. Wednesday education sessions
include: leveraging technology in vending operations by Michigan State University Prof. Michael Kasavana; coffee and water ser- vice operator symposium chaired by Jeff Deitchler, general manager of Prairie Fire Coffee Roasters in Wichita, Kan.; federal legislation updates; Vending/Coffee Service 101 by Vic Pemberton, owner of The Pepi Companies in Dothan, Ga.; innovations in intelligent vending by Intel Corp.'s Chris O'Malley; cold beverage trends and strategic insights by Ross Colbert, global beverage strategist for Rabobank International; consumer engage- ment through social media by Dan Avenick; and developing a focused growth strategy by business author Mark Frigo, Ph.D., who returns following his standing-room-only seminar presentation last year.
Automatic Merchandiser VendingMarketWatch.com April 2012 Thursday also features two
operator perspectives panels and a self checkout micro market panel.
Exhibitor show specials The trade show fl oor will feature specials designated by "Show Special" decals and signs from exhibitors that can help offset the out-of-pocket expenses. New operators can take advan- tage of NAMA's new "ambassador" program to ensure they get the most from their experience. NAMA is arranging for an "ambassador" to meet new attendees at the show, answer questions, introduce them to peers, and offer ideas on how to interact with exhibitors. For information, call 312-346- 0370 or visit www.vending.org.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR LyNae Schleyer, NCE, CMP is the senior director of the OneShow and education. She can be reached at (312) 346-0370, ext. 240
or via email: lschleyer@vending.org.
of Las Vegas student union from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday. The show offi cially begins
Wednesday, April 25. First, NAMA's new president and CEO, Carla Bal- akgie, who is fresh off an industry "listening tour," will share her vision for the industry. She will also be meeting OneShow attendees right on the show fl oor to continue her "listening tour." Also on Wednesday, the "Blue Man Group" will present their
Finally for Wednesday, the NAMA industry awards will be pre- sented during the opening session. The awards recognize the top fi ve luminaries in the industry who have reached the pinnacle of success. Thursday kicks off with NAMA Chairman Brad Ellis, president of Crane Merchandising Systems, who will chair the annual meeting and deliver a keynote address. Ellis will share his insights based on his role as NAMA chairman.
THE show fl oor will feature designated 'Show Special' decals.
