A steady evolution
The vending and coffee industries, much like other sectors, continue to evolve at a steady pace. These changes aren’t dramatic but are shaped by gradual shifts in customer expectations, technological progress, and the need for operators to optimize their business. At Coges, with nearly five decades of experience, we’ve seen these evolutions firsthand. By staying connected with our customers and understanding their day-to-day challenges, we’ve developed a grounded perspective on the current trends and the practical solutions that can help operators thrive.
What’s behind these changes
The forces driving change in vending and coffee aren’t revolutionary but are rooted in familiar challenges: managing costs, meeting customer demands, and staying competitive. Many operators are focusing on extending the life of their current machines rather than investing in new ones, finding smarter ways to enhance what they already have. Customer preferences are also shifting toward higher quality, convenience, and sustainability. Meanwhile, operational efficiency is becoming more critical as businesses look to reduce expenses and streamline processes. These drivers are neither new nor surprising—they’re natural responses to an industry adapting to economic realities and evolving consumer needs.
The practical trends operators need to know
One significant trend is the focus on upgrading rather than replacing machines. Operators are refurbishing their vending equipment with IoT features and interactive screens to modernize their fleets cost-effectively. This allows them to stay competitive while enhancing the customer experience. Another trend is the growing demand for premium coffee and fresh, healthy vending options. Consumers value quality more than ever, and tools like telemetry make it easier to maintain high standards by tracking cleaning schedules, monitoring stock, and optimizing product offerings. Sustainability is another area where operators are making strides. By leveraging IoT technology, they can reduce energy use, minimize waste, and operate more efficiently, meeting both environmental goals and customer expectations.
Looking ahead with realistic solutions
The changes in the vending and coffee industries may not be groundbreaking, but they are meaningful. Operators are finding smarter, more efficient ways to adapt, and at Coges, we’re proud to play a role in supporting that evolution. As Daniele Ioriatti, Head of Sales at Coges, explains, “Our goal has always been to provide practical solutions that help operators run their businesses effectively, without overcomplicating things.” By focusing on thoughtful upgrades, operational efficiency, and sustainability, the industry is moving forward in a way that benefits everyone—from operators to their customers. At Coges, we’ll continue to listen, adapt, and provide tools that make this progress possible.