Success in the South
Jay and Sherri Holstein have built Global Vending Service into a thriving operation in Florida. Their secret? Grit, innovation and a personal touch.
Automatic Merchandiser is proud to present the 2025 Most Influential Women in Convenience Services Awards. We recognize these individuals who have made a positive impact on the convenience services industry or their organization. This award is a celebration of their achievements and spotlights influential women who are shaping the future of the industry. Congratulations to the 2025 award winners!
Turn to page 14.
Tarryn Gorre
365 Retail Markets
Tiffany Harrison NAYAX
Nicole Sprenger
365 Retail Markets
Haley Eggum Hormel Foods Corporation
10
Coffee badging creates an opportunity for OCS operators
OCS operators need to think about how to keep workers around for that second cup and, hopefully, a visit to the pantry service or the micro market for lunch.
14 Automatic Merchandiser’s 2025 Most Influential Women in Convenience Services Awards
We celebrate the remarkable contributions of leaders who have shaped the industry through innovation, resilience and dedication.
24 Coffee culture preferences spark innovation, alternative channel growth
With Gen Z and Millennials driving demand for organic, functional and coldbrew options, brands are innovating to keep up. Discover how coffee culture is changing.
30 Avoid costly sales tax surprises when buying or selling a business
When buying or selling a business, most owners focus on valuations, contracts and negotiations — but what about sales tax?
Overlooking key sales tax obligations can lead to unexpected liabilities, derailed deals and even legal headaches.
ONLINE EXCLUSIVES
Visit vendingmarketwatch.com for more on hot topics in vending, micro markets and office coffee service
Interviews, Expert Insight & Tips
OCS Operator
Three business development strategies that ensure success in 2025
WANT TO STAY AHEAD IN 2025? DISCOVER THREE powerful business development strategies that drive growth and keep you competitive in the ever-evolving convenience services industry. From customer-centric approaches to innovative technology, these strategies are your key to long-term success. VendingMarketWatch.com/55262744
Management | How technology and recurring revenue are redefining M&A opportunities
Podcast | Driven by his work ethic, Matthew Marsh is at the top of his game
Adopting the right tools and practices can significantly enhance an operation’s market value for those operators considering selling their businesses. VendingMarketWatch. com/55249549 Management | Tools, training and connection can be found in new online community
How did First Class Vending grow from two employees to more than 300? Success is all about work ethics, says owner and operator Matthew Marsh. “It’s about when you go to work, and what you do when you get there,” he said.
VendingMarketWatch. com/55247026
Cantaloupe Community, a new online forum launched by Cantaloupe Inc., offers vending operators an online meeting place where operators can connect, network and learn from each other. VendingMarketWatch.com/55266914
Events | Special showcase at NAMA Show puts new tech front and center
Imagination Way returns to The NAMA Show as a showcase destination for innovation in self-service convenience and unattended retail. VendingMarketWatch.com/55261879
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Bob Tullio
Editorial Advisory Board
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Joe Hessling 365 Retail Markets
Josh Rosenberg Automated Retail Technologies
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Evan Jarecki Gimme
Michael Miller Mondelēz International
Paresh Patel PayRange
Jeff Deitchler Prairie Fire Coffee
Celebrate success and look ahead
WITH THIS ISSUE, WE KICK OFF 2025 AND LOOK FORWARD to fresh opportunities. I hope everyone’s year is off to a great start.
In this issue, I’m proud to share the honorees of our fourth annual Most Influential Women in Convenience Services awards. Each of these women is making a difference in their organization and, through their work, in the industry at large.
With our operation profile, we turn the spotlight on Jay and Sherri Holstein, who own and operate Global Vending Service in Lake Worth, Fla. With decades of experience in the vending industry, Jay started young, learning from his father’s vending business in Baltimore. After running and selling several vending operations in Maryland, he and Sherri relocated to Florida, where they built Global Vending Service from scratch. The company has grown to 25 employees, seven vending routes, two micro market routes and more than 800 vending machines.
Elsewhere in this issue, we look at coffee product trends. Forecasts predict a surge from $138 billion in 2025 to $174 billion by 2030, fueled by innovative trends in premium brews, wellnessfocused options and cold-beverage demand. Discover how emerging consumer preferences — from artisanal flavor explorations to ready-to-drink innovations — are reshaping how people consume coffee.
Also, when preparing to buy or sell a business, an operator may do due diligence but forget to consider the sales tax implications. From asset sales to stock transfers, an article from the TACS LLC team explores the sales tax issues sellers and buyers need to consider. Learn how to avoid costly surprises, protect yourself from successor liability and ensure you’re meeting state requirements when making business transactions.
Looking ahead, we are seeking nominations for our 2025 honorees for 40 Under 40 until April 5. Be sure to nominate someone you know who is deserving of this prestigious award by visiting https://bit.ly/40under402025. The winners will be featured in the June/July issue.
In addition, we’ve opened our State of the Vending and Micro Market industry survey for our annual report, which will also be released in the June/July issue. We invite vending, micro market and office coffee service operators to submit market data anonymously, and we will use that data to analyze and measure the industry’s overall performance in 2024. To participate, visit https://bit.ly/SoVMM2025. The deadline for completing the survey is May 6.
Look for our Products of the Year winners in April!
company/2233840 instagram.com/ vendingmarketwatch
TOP NEWS
Sodexo predicts campus snack, dining trends
[ PRODUCTS ]
SODEXO HAS IDENTIFIED FIVE KEY DINING TRENDS SET to shape college campus food experiences in 2025, focusing on bold flavors, cultural fusion and social engagement. Chef Jennifer DiFrancesco, director of culinary innovation for Sodexo Campus, says that students seek food experiences that foster connections and excitement.
The trends include showstopper desserts and indulgent yet health-conscious treats designed for social media appeal, with “freakshakes” becoming a campus favorite. “Rebellious” tacos push boundaries with multicultural ingredients like barbecue cornbread crumble and kung pao crispy chicken. Chili crunch, a sweet and spicy Chinese chili oil, will enhance various dishes from noodle bowls to ice cream. “Curry Everywhere” brings global spice blends to the forefront, with dishes like Thai red curry polenta and curry meatballs gaining popularity. Lastly, functional foods emphasize holistic dining, integrating nutrient-rich meals that promote wellbeing and foster community.
Sodexo’s insights reflect the growing student demand for diverse and health-conscious dining options. These evolving food trends aim to enhance the overall campus experience, providing students with innovative meals that satisfy their cravings for bold flavors while encouraging engagement through shared dining moments. VendingMarketWatch.com/55250654
On-demand webinar explores trending technologies
An on-demand webinar on “How Technology Is Driving Micro Markets and Vending” explores the impact of cutting-edge technology, including AI, on vending and micro market industries. It covers key areas like warehouse management, smart markets, theft mitigation and routing. During the onehour event, experts discuss how operators can use technology to drive growth, improve profitability and make informed choices to stay competitive.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55236839
Sodexo to launch 100 communityoriented C-stores
Sodexo plans to launch more than 100 “Food Hive” campus convenience stores, with approximately 30 already operating at institutions like Morehouse College and the University of Illinois Chicago. These micro markets emphasize community engagement by partnering with local, minorityand women-owned businesses. According to the company, they cater to Gen Z’s preference for convenient, diverse, and healthful options and include cashless payments and frictionless checkout.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55253457
when great meetings are powere by great coffee.
Employees with bean-to-cup coffee machines are 61% more satisfie with their workplace coffee.* Do you currently offer a coffee experience that employees look forwar to each ay? If not, upgra ing to a bean-to-cup coffee machine coul significantly enhance employee satisfaction an pro uctivity, especially as more employees return to the workplace.
The A300 Fresh Brew is our newest compact, low-voltage coffee machine perfect for offices with limite space. It serves hot an ice coffee, offers two bean types, an two programme water options for tea an hot water. With its flexible configuration options, 110V connection an automate cleaning system, it’s easy to install an maintain in any space. I eal for self-service formats, micro markets, offices, an anywhere great coffee is serve
Discover more at us.coffee.franke.com
A300 Fresh Brew
Kiosk enables cashless vending at correctional facilities
Microtronic US’s detention kiosk enables cashless vending in correctional facilities by allowing Smart Card holders to add funds via cash, credit card or PayPal. Family and friends can transfer funds online, which inmates can access and manage securely. Designed to eliminate physical currency, the system’s smart card readers serve as the primary payment method on vending machines.
VendingMarketWatch. com/55250043
Registration opens for the NAMA Show
Registration is now open for the 2025 NAMA Show, scheduled for May 7-9 in Las Vegas. This event will bring together professionals from the vending, micro market, office coffee service and unattended retail industries to explore trends, technologies and products shaping the future of self-service retail. Attendees can connect with more than 300 exhibiting companies, participate in educational sessions, and visit Imagination Way, a gallery showcasing innovative convenience services.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55250780
KDP makes changes on beverages leadership team
Keurig Dr Pepper has restructured its U.S. Beverages executive team, promoting Eric Gorli to president of U.S. Refreshment Beverages, Sean Cronican to chief customer officer, and Drew Panayiotou to chief marketing officer. Additionally, Justin Whitmore has been appointed president of KDP Energy, overseeing the company’s energy brand portfolio.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55261307
Pepsi completes Siete Foods acquisition
PepsiCo has completed its $1.2 billion acquisition of Siete Foods, a Mexican-American brand known for grain-free tortillas and snacks. This acquisition enhances PepsiCo’s multicultural portfolio and aligns with its strategy to expand betterfor-you snack options. Miguel Garza, CEO and co-founder of Siete Foods, expressed commitment to preserving the brand’s unique attributes while broadening its reach.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55266278
Flowers Foods launches organic snack bites
Dave’s Killer Bread has introduced six flavors of Organic Snack Bites, made from organic nuts, seeds and grains, designed for convenient snacking or as toppings for soups
and salads. The flavors include cinnamon roll, peanut butter and chocolate, honey nut, toasted garlic and buffalo. These whole-grain bites offer a balance of nutrition, crunch and bold flavors, says the company.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55260962
Smuckers to sell Cloverhill and Big Texas
J.M. Smucker has announced the sale of its Cloverhill and Big Texas brands to JTM Foods for $40 million. The transaction includes trademarks, licenses and a manufacturing facility in Chicago. This move is part of Smucker’s strategy to focus resources on its Hostess brand and optimize its manufacturing network. The deal is expected to close in Q4 of fiscal year 2025.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55265907
Generational snacking trends explored in Mondelēz report
Mondelēz International’s new report highlights generational shifts in snacking preferences, with 66% of consumers considering anything a snack. Gen Z is particularly eager to try new flavors, with 41% embracing limited-time offerings. Packaged salty snacks and sweet indulgences like cookies remain popular across age groups. Gen Z also tends to snack as a treat while older generations snack to satisfy cravings, the study found.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55266303
Five Star acquires Integrity Vending
Five Star Breaktime Solutions has acquired Integrity Vending, increasing its presence and service capabilities in greater Atlanta. Integrity Vending, founded in 1998 by Jamie McWilliams, was known for its commitment to excellent service. With the acquisition, Five Star will add 50 customer locations and
integrate Integrity’s infrastructure, aiming to optimize service delivery and introduce new offerings over time. During the transition, the team will focus on service and assess for future improvements to meet customer needs.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55248366
Executive changes at PFG
Scott McPherson, a 30-year Core-Mark veteran, has been promoted to president and COO, overseeing PFG’s food service, convenience and Vistar segments. He will report to CEO George Holm. Craig Hoskins, previously president and COO, transitions to executive vice president and chief development officer, leading the integration of recent acquisitions Cheney Brothers Inc. and Jose Santiago Inc. CEO Holm emphasized leadership development as key to driving innovation and growth.
These changes aim to strengthen PFG’s market position and enhance operational efficiency.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55251282
Bevi Expands to Europe
Bevi, the U.S.-based company known for its smart water dispensers, has expanded into Europe, launching in the United Kingdom and Ireland. This marks Bevi’s first move beyond
North America. Bevi’s Smart Water Coolers allow users to personalize their drinks via a touch screen, choosing from a variety of flavors and functional enhancements like vitamins and electrolytes. To cater to European tastes, the company has introduced six new flavors: black currant, strawberry mint, lemonlime, cucumber, orange-mango, and pear.
Early adopters in commercial spaces such as offices and hotels have embraced the technology. Kate Hance, senior manager of workplace experience and real estate for EMEA at AlphaSights, praised the product’s impact. “We absolutely love having the Bevi water cooler in our office! The variety of flavors is a huge hit, and the ability to add vitamins or electrolytes makes it even better. It’s a great way to keep our team hydrated and energized throughout the day,” she said.
VendingMarketWatch.com/ 55261121
Coffee badging creates an opportunity for OCS operators
Coffee badging arose in 2023, and with increasing calls for workers to return to the office, it is a still-growing office trend. OCS operators need to think about how to keep workers around for that second cup and, hopefully, a visit to the pantry service or the micro market for lunch.
By Bob Tullio
ONCE AGAIN, COFFEE SERVICE has emerged as the epicenter of the workplace experience. Coffee badging is on the rise again as a testy hybrid worker response to company initiatives that require employees to return to the office on a more frequent schedule.
SWIPE, DRINK AND GO
According to a January article in Yahoo Finance, coffee badging occurs when employees visit the office just long enough to prove their presence. After saying hello to some coworkers, getting a coffee and swiping their badge, they
return home to finish work. Coffee badging gives workers the freedom to work remotely while adhering to the rules — somewhat.
Yahoo Finance identified who the coffee badgers are. “A report from Owl Labs found that 58% of hybrid workers have coffee badged at least once. The report also showed that men are more likely to coffee badge than women, with 62% of coffee badgers being men. This could be because men might feel more comfortable bending workplace rules.”
MILLENNIALS LEAD THE WAY
The article points to “Millennials as the biggest group of coffee badgers. They’re used to hybrid work and want more flexible options. Gen Z workers, who are just starting their careers, might not feel as confident doing the same. Older generations are also less likely to coffee badge as they are more familiar with traditional office routines.”
For operators, coffee badging is good news. It should represent a nice increase in sales, especially if we can take steps to keep those reluctant
Dispenses
Make
11
11
Ice-maker
Ice-maker
Refrigerated
Refrigerated
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employees around through lunch. It is important to understand what workplace surveys are telling us about how to motivate people to come into the office and stick around.
Tracy Brower, Ph.D., is an expert on happiness in the workplace. In a recent Forbes article, she wrote that “when people are forced to do something, they experience plummeting motivation as well as the perception of significant obstacles to achieving it, compared with when they want to take action based on their own volition. This is based on a study published in the Journal of Research in Personality.”
This resistance-oriented attitude is certainly a contributor to the whole concept of coffee badging.
FREE FOOD WORKS
“And this is why offering great food, afternoon snacks or even free meals is such a great idea,” noted Brower. “For example, offer free snacks at break time each day so that people can get away from their desks and enjoy a quick bite with colleagues each day. Or offer [discounted or free] meals on certain days of the week to facilitate the lunches mentors can set up with mentees or teammates can schedule with each other to stay in touch.”
We need to turn "coffee badging" into … coffee, snack and lunch badging!
SELL THE BENEFITS
In the current office environment, with hybrid happy employees seeking to find a way to circumvent the requirement of being in the office, there is an opportunity for operators to sell the concept of using free or subsidized breakfasts and lunches to keep the coffee-badging crowd in the office longer. This issue is a monumental challenge for office managers who are trying to balance return-to-work mandates with employees who just want to work at home. It is important for operators to promote our value as providers who can ease the pain by offering so many enticing offerings, especially if our clients are willing to help pay for it.
So, how can you leverage food to bring people back to the office and serve up engagement, well-being and a thriving office culture? Brower
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• Follow-up: It is often the difference maker that defines elite sales pros
• Use this proven follow-up strategy to elevate your sales success
• With a slow recovery underway, now is the time to ramp up the OCS sales effort
offers this strategy — all of which can be delivered by operators. It is something to talk about with your clients.
1. Create a cadence
“People appreciate predictability, so offer food regularly. Create a cadence that people can use to plan their days in the office, meetings, lunches and connections with colleagues. Make it about a predictable routine where people come together over food.”
2. Create a draw
“Also be creative about what you offer. People appreciate bonding over shared or surprising experiences. Offer amazingly delicious Caesar salad every Wednesday, and people will have a starting point for the discussions about the
predictably long lines for the neverto-be-missed weekly highlight. Or offer make-your-own ice cream sundaes to surprise people and welcome spring. Make it about a shared experience that brings people together.”
3. Create events
“It is wise to use food as part of meaningful events. Sponsor iced tea and cheese gatherings for executives to mix with new employees. Or, a progressive late-afternoon tasting event for interns — so they can visit multiple departments and meet people in the field. We can make it about learning and networking with provisions.”
It takes effort and persuasion to get a client on board, but with the
challenges they are facing dealing with return-to-work initiatives — now more common than ever — operators offer an easy solution to turn coffee badging into “coffee, snack and lunch badging.” It’s a big win for employers and for operators as well. ■
About the author
Bob Tullio is a content specialist, speaker, sales trainer, consultant and contributing editor of Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com. He advises entrepreneurs on how to build a successful business from the ground up. He specializes in helping suppliers connect with operators in the convenience services industry — coffee service, vending, micro markets and pantry service specifically. He can be reached at 818-261-1758 and bob@tulliob2b.com.
TAutomatic Merchandiser’s 2025 Most Influential Women in Convenience Services
The winners represent excellence across vending, micro markets, pantry and office coffee services, and beyond. They lead with passion, driving innovation with a customer-first mindset, and inspire the next generation of industry leaders.
By Linda Becker
he recognition of influential women in convenience services celebrates the remarkable contributions of leaders who have shaped the industry through innovation, resilience and dedication. The 2025 Most Influential Women in Convenience Services Award winners exemplify the diverse impact of women across various sectors, from vending and coffee services to technology and operational management. Their stories illustrate how impactful female leadership fosters business growth, enhances customer experiences and nurtures communities. By celebrating these trailblazing women, we acknowledge the critical role women play in advancing the convenience services industry, inspiring innovation and resilience for years to come.
Congratulations to the following 2025 award winners!
CARLA
BALAKGIE, FASAE, CAE, National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) Carla Balakgie, a Fellow of the American Society of Association Executives, is the first woman to lead NAMA in its 90-year history. Carla joined NAMA in 2012 after serving for nine years as CEO of the Electronic Transactions Association. During her tenure, she directed the association through a unique period of growth and evolution. NAMA helped drive the rise of micro markets — now the fastest growing aspect of the convenience services industry — along with the expansion and integration of coffee, tea, water and pantry services that is fueling the industry’s $26.6B annual revenues. She’s credited with transforming the association’s government and external relations program, including relocating the NAMA headquarters from Chicago to Washington, D.C., in 2020, doubling organizational revenues, and reshaping the brand definition and context of convenience services among all stakeholders.
Carla Balakgie
TAYLOR BARTHOLOMEWBIBIKAN, Automated Retail Technology -
Just Baked
Taylor Bibikan-Bartholomew is a seasoned industry leader with a proven track record of driving success and fostering meaningful relationships. Her career began at Evergreen Refreshments, where she gained foundational experience alongside Jim Britton. This was followed by pivotal roles at Avanti Markets, Sodexo and Canteen One, where she expanded her expertise and built key industry connections. At Just Baked, Taylor spearheaded the implementation team, strategically scaling it to support the company’s rapid national growth. She later developed and led the customer success team, further solidifying her role as a strategic leader. Currently, as director of customer success and process improvement at Just Baked, she continues to drive innovation and operational excellence.
An active chair of the NAMA WIN Advisory Committee and member of Emerging Leaders, Taylor is shaping the future of the industry. Her unparalleled leadership, commitment and impact have made her name synonymous with success and earned her widespread respect.
CHRISTI BOND, Independence Coffee Co.
Christi Bond is the CEO and co-founder of Independence Coffee Co. Christi has been leading her team of 30+ for 21 years. Under her leadership, the company has grown into a fully diversified coffee provider that roasts more than one million pounds of high grown Arabica coffee each year. ICC’s product portfolio includes 100% compostable, BPi certified Keurig, Nespresso and Newco brewing-system compatible single-serve pods. Christi feels that ICC’s long-running success in the OCS, food service and grocery sectors is based on ICC’s mission statement, which is to deliver exceptional coffee experiences while embracing the values of independence and family. ICC honors oldschool roasting methods, provides genuine customer service and fosters a community of integrity and collaboration. Through a dedication to quality and passion for the art of coffee, the company aims to make a positive impact on the lives of our team members, customers and communities.
SUZANNE BOYER, Treasure Valley Coffee
Suzanne Boyer is the president of Treasure Valley Coffee, a familyowned company she joined in 1999. Under her father’s leadership, the company established itself as a significant player in the coffee service industry, earning recognition as Idaho’s Small Business of the Year in 2000 while operating with fewer than 50 employees. Since its founding in 1984, Treasure Valley Coffee has evolved from an OCS provider to a comprehensive operation that includes coffee roasting, bottled water delivery and in-house bottling. Throughout her 25-year tenure, Suzanne has overseen eight strategic acquisitions, integrating four vending companies, two bottled water companies, and two OCS companies into the Treasure Valley Coffee family. A significant decision during her leadership was the divestment from the bottled water sector, allowing the company to concentrate on its core strengths in micro markets and vending services in southern Idaho. The wholesale coffee service now offers private-labeled coffee and supplies to distributors and TVC licensees across five states.
A pivotal moment for Suzanne and the company occurred in 2018 as they navigated the loss of founder Tom Boyer, her father, shortly after becoming a Canteen franchise. Under her guidance, Treasure Valley Coffee achieved record sales in 2019 and successfully adapted during the uncertain times of the global pandemic. Currently, her company’s sales have set a new all-time high.
CHARLOTTE CALLAHAN, Five Star Breaktime Solutions
Charlotte Callahan has harnessed her passion for excellence and innovation to excel in in refreshment and breakroom services industry for more than 15 years. Charlotte is a dynamic leader driven by a strong sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. Her exceptional communication skills and ability to inspire and motivate others enable her to unite teams toward a common vision and achieve ambitious goals. Charlotte began her career with The Family Vending Company and then Canteen Southeast. In her current role as vice president of refreshments for Five Star Breaktime, Charlotte focuses on fostering collaboration, enhancing
Taylor BartholomewBibikan
Christi Bond
Suzanne Boyer
Charlotte Callahan
employee engagement and driving strategic initiatives that deliver outstanding results. She is passionate about cultivating high performing teams and creating environments where individuals thrive, combining empathy with strategic thinking in her leadership style. Outside of work, she enjoys a fulfilling family life with her husband and three children. Whether it’s spending quality time at home, embarking on family adventures, or supporting her kids’ activities, Charlotte cherishes these moments deeply.
JOANNA CHOI, Bevi
Joanna Choi is the national account manager at Bevi, an on-demand sparkling water system, where she oversees distributor partnerships across the U.S. and Canada. A graduate of Cornell University, Joanna began her career at Aramark and quickly immersed herself in the office coffee service industry. She gained invaluable experience working national accounts through Filterfresh Coffee Service. Following its acquisition by Aramark, she returned to the company before transitioning into vendor relations roles with Peet’s Coffee, Irving Farm and Nespresso, where she supported OCS operators. With a deep knowledge of the industry and a passion for driving growth, Joanna excels at developing sales strategies that foster long-term success for her partners. Though this is her first non-coffee OCS role, she thrives on the daily challenges it presents and takes great pride in helping reduce plastic waste.
HALEY EGGUM, Hormel Foods Corp.
Haley Eggum is a brand manager at Hormel Foods Corp., responsible for leading household brands such as Skippy peanut butter, the Spam family of products, Columbus craft meats, Gatherings party trays and Justin’s nut butters. She has an unrelenting passion for the convenience channel that includes both unattended retail and C-stores. In the last three years, Haley, along with the entire Hormel convenience team, has made significant advancements against the Columbus and Gathering snack trays, making them the fastest-growing brands in their respective categories each year. As a result of Haley’s leadership, Hormel has brought successful channel-specific innovation into the market
across a multitude of brands. Haley’s positive personality, strategic decisiveness and work ethic fuel her passion and Hormel’s results in the convenience channel.
JENNIFER FOX, Fox Vending
For 25 years, Jennifer Fox has managed a variety of responsibilities ranging from operations to sales and customer service at Fox Vending, a full-line vending, coffee and pantry service and micro market operator in the Chicago market. During this time, she has grown Fox Vending’s customer base, streamlined routes, reduced overhead and increased the bottom line. The accomplishment she is most proud of came in 2021 when she launched Dragonolia in honor of her late brother Justin, who died from a heroin overdose in December 2018. Dragonolia is a community of people sharing their stories of recovery to show the world that there can be beauty in the darkness of addiction. One dollar from every bag of Dragonolia coffee sold goes to Herren Project, a national nonprofit organization providing free resources and support for the treatment, recovery and prevention of substance use disorder.
TARRYN GORRE, 365 Retail Markets
Tarryn Gorre is the vice president of SaaS commercial strategy at 365 Retail Markets. She joined the company in 2023 following the acquisition of her food technology business. With more than 20 years of experience in the global food service industry, Tarryn has expertise across three continents — South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States. Throughout her career, she built and led a technology company that delivered innovative solutions to businesses within the food service sector worldwide. At 365 Retail Markets, Tarryn is focused on driving go-to-market strategy, leveraging her deep understanding of the food industry and technology to deliver impactful solutions. Her passion for technology and market growth and her extensive global experience make her a valuable leader for ambitious SaaS initiatives.
Joanna Choi
Haley Eggum
Jennifer Fox
Tarryn Gorre
Haley Eggum Brand Manager - Convenience Hormel Foods
MARY LEE GENES, Unified
Strategies Group
Mary Lee Genes was nominated by her peers for her work with Unified Strategies Group, a U.S. purchasing cooperative servicing independently owned vending, office coffee service, micro market, convenience store and food service companies.
TIFFANY HARRISON, Nayax
Tiffany Harrison is a seasoned professional with almost 15 years of experience in the convenience services industry. After earning a bachelor of arts in communications, she began her career in this sector and spent 14 years with Crane Payment Innovations, where she honed her expertise in sales and client relations. In December 2024, Tiffany joined Nayax as a regional account executive, continuing her passion for consultative selling and helping operators thrive in their businesses. Married for 15 years with a 10-year-old daughter, Tiffany lives in Aiken, S.C., where she enjoys family time and community involvement. Her focus remains on building strong, long-lasting partnerships and providing solutions that lead to success for her clients. She takes pride in helping businesses grow and succeed, using a personalized approach to meet their unique needs and challenges.
THERESA HASKINS, Veterans
Canteen Services team at Central Virginia VA Health Care System
Theresa Haskins was raised in a small town in Ohio on a farm and learned that with hard work and dedication, you can do anything. Theresa started her hospitality career at the age of 14 while working in the kitchen of her grandparents’ tavern, where she fell in love with the business atmosphere and the consistent passion from the customers on how it felt to come into a place that felt like home with a friendly smile and great homecooked meal. Theresa continued her career path in the hospitality business by opening her own sports bar and full-service restaurant and lounge. For many, she was a local favorite.
Care System in Richmond, Va. When hearing of their mission, she knew she had to be part of that. It is her way of giving back to the well-loved and respected veterans who gave so much for this country. Theresa started as an assistant food chief in 2018 and, with hard work, in 2022, became the first female chief in of VCS in Richmond. As a chief, Theresa oversees the multi-million dollar operations of the Patriot Café, Patriot Store and Patriot Coffee along with the vending operation, barber shop and optical department. She also recruits local vendors that supply crafts and other items for the veterans’ convenience. The VCS mission is to provide America’s veterans enrolled in the VA health care system, their families, caregivers, VA employees, volunteers and visitors with reasonably priced merchandise and services essential to their comfort and well-being.
ROXANNE JOYAL, &Back Coffee
Roxanne Joyal is a people-centered social entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience advancing the inclusion of women through social and economic empowerment initiatives around the world. Roxanne is the founder and CEO of &Back Coffee, a premium, purpose-driven coffee company dedicated to empowering women coffee farmers that promotes sustainability and scalable impact. “Women-Owned and Women Grown,” &Back Coffee also helps businesses align to their sustainability, inclusion and employee engagement goals through their choice of coffee, and &Back also offers digital content to connect people to their cup of coffee. &Back Coffee believes part of future success in C-stores is rooted in quality, convenience and community. Offering a premium coffee experience is part of an enhanced consumer experience, building customer and employee loyalty, engagement and connection.
Roxanne is a Rhodes Scholar and Stanford graduate. She holds a law degree from Oxford and clerked for the Supreme Court of Canada. She is also a contributing author to Entrepreneur.com, where she shares her business insights to help women-owned companies succeed in a competitive landscape.
JENI KISA, Press Coffee
After much thought, Theresa made the decision to get back into the workforce and join the Veterans Canteen Services team at Central Virginia VA Health
Jeni Kisa is a dynamic sales leader based in Arizona. As vice president of sales at Press Coffee, she brings more than 25 years of experience in driving business
Tiffany Harrison
Theresa Haskins
Roxanne Joyal
growth and developing high performing teams. Jeni is passionate about making a positive impact on others’ lives, building strong customer relationships and creating strategies that deliver results. Her leadership style focuses on maintaining a positive mental attitude and fostering an empowering work environment.
Outside of her professional life, Jeni is a dedicated wife and proud mom of three, believing in the importance of balancing career success with family. She values quality moments filled with laughter and continuous learning, always seeking personal and professional growth. In her free time, Jeni enjoys spending time in the sun, cooking, baking, team sports and writing. Her mission is to “flourish, thrive and live to make a difference.”
NICHOLE LACOUR,
Team Saverino / Saverino & Associates Inc.
Nichole LaCour is vice president of unattended retail and special markets for broker Team Saverino /
The Most Influential Women
Congratulations to Nicole and Tarryn! Their expertise at 365 Retail Markets helps drive our business and deliver better solutions that support our customers’ success.
Saverino & Associates Inc., located in Carol Stream, Ill. She has been with Team Saverino for 23 years. Nichole started out in the corporate office, working with inside sales orders. Soon, her abilities and ideas to restructure the order processing and system applications quickly put the company in a leadership role in the industry. She advanced to assistant to the vice president and began making outside sales calls to customers. She realized that she loved the connections between the customers and manufacturers. Her knowledge and past personal experience with customers proved her ability to help them grow their business. Nichole’s high volume sales and natural ability to supervise resulted in a promotion to vice president of vending and micro markets in 2017. Today, she leads 11 sales team associates in 30 states. Nichole’s inspiration to her team brings her this honor. She guides them in marketing their products with programs to grow their business. They regard her as an intelligent leader and motivator who strategically guides them as she also listens to their suggestions and sales needs.
Nicole Sprenger Director of Customer Operations, Insights and Activation
Nicole Sprenger has 15 years of experience in marketing, advertising, and customer operations, using data-driven strategies to help customers improve efficiency and drive revenue growth. She specializes in optimizing advertising programs and strategic initiatives that create new opportunities for customers, turning insights into actionable results that strengthen their business.
Tarryn Gorre
Vice President of
SaaS Commercial Strategy
Tarryn Gorre joined 365 Retail Markets in 2023 after building and leading a global food technology company. With 20 years of experience across South Africa, the UK, and the US, she now drives go-to-market strategy for SaaS initiatives, combining her industry expertise with technology to deliver impactful solutions.
Jeni Kisa
Nichole LaCour
REBECCA LOTZ, Red Bull North America
Rebecca Lotz is a sales leader with more than 20 years of experience in the food, beverage and convenience services industries. She excels at developing strategic sales initiatives, managing distributor relationships and driving market growth.
ANITA MARCOLINE ROSE, Mill Creek Coffee
Anita Marcoline Rose is the owner and operator of Mill Creek Coffee and has been in the office coffee business since 1979.
ALLISON M. MOORE, Foundational Vending
As national account manager, unattended retail and vending, at Red Bull North America, Rebecca has played a key role in expanding distribution and strengthening partnerships in the vending, micro market and office coffee service sectors. Previously, she held key account management roles at Pepsi Bottling Ventures, leading business development for Compass, Sodexo, Aramark and the college and university segment. Her extensive background also includes experience in food service sales with Sysco and distribution management with Vistar. Passionate about team leadership, innovation and industry growth, Rebecca’s strategic mindset and collaborative approach make her a true influencer in the convenience services space.
Allison M. Moore is the dynamic CEO of Foundational Vending, a majority woman-owned business based in southeastern North Carolina. After the successful sale of their janitorial business in western North Carolina, Allison and her husband ventured into the micro markets and vending industry, bringing with them a vision rooted in integrity, excellence and service to their community.
From the entire team at Fox Vending, Inc., we would like to honor our fearless leader Jennifer Fox on her 25th Anniversary, and for being recognized as one of the 2025 Most Influential Women in Convenient Services! It is your courage, tenacity & authenticity, both in and out of the office, that inspires us all to keep going!
To share one of her favorite quotes:
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind”
~ Dr. Seuss
Raised in her family’s business, McArthur Supply, Allison developed a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to giving back — values that continue to guide her leadership today. Her impact extends beyond business: as a passionate worship leader and pageant judge, she helps support scholarships for women through pageants like Miss Rhododendron and Miss Denton, enabling young women to pursue their educational dreams. This prestigious honor underscores her dedication to empowering others and inspiring everyone she encounters. Above all, Allison’s unwavering dedication to her family, faith and community has earned her widespread admiration. Through her exemplary leadership, she continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact in both her industry and her local community.
CRISTINA NOEL, Canteen
Cristina Noel has grown up in the vending and micro market industry. In 2014, she became the general manager of Golden Age Vending, a Canteen Franchise in Houston, Texas. In that role, she played a key role in helping the company continue to grow by embracing technology such as implementing a vending management system (VMS) and installing its first markets. During her time at Golden Age, she was recognized in Automatic Merchandiser ’s first class of 40 Under Forty Award winners. After the company was acquired in 2024, Cristina has spent the last year as district general manager for Canteen in
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2024 29029 Finisher
Rebecca Lotz
Allison Moore
Christina Noel
NICOLE SPRENGER, 365 Retail Markets
Houston. She has served on the Texas Merchandise & Vending Association since 2018 and, due to her hard work and commitment, has risen through the ranks. In the association’s 74-year history, she is serving as TMVA’s first female president. Cristina’s passion for the industry is sure to have a positive impact for years to come.
As a dynamic and outcomeoriented professional, Nicole Sprenger has 15 years of experience spanning marketing operations, advertising, customer operations and insights. Recognized for her ability to enhance customer operations and drive revenue growth, she excels in crafting innovative strategies that improve operational efficiencies. She leverages test-and-learn approaches to inform strategic decision-making and ensure impactful outcomes. Throughout Nicole’s career, she has successfully executed programmatic advertising initiatives and delivered marketing solutions designed to optimize business performance. Her resultsdriven approach is rooted in strategic planning, influential leadership and a strong commitment to refining customer experience.
Nicole is currently the director of customer operations, insights and activations at 365 Retail Markets. In this role, she oversees advertising programs and key strategic initiatives that have created new revenue streams for clients and the company. Nicole is driven by the opportunity to continue shaping the future of customer operations and business performance through forward-thinking strategies. After all, innovation is not just about new ideas — it’s about turning insights into action and action into impact.
ELYSSA STEINER
Cantaloupe Inc.
Elyssa Steiner is the chief marketing officer at Cantaloupe. She leads the marketing team in developing strategic campaigns that drive measurable results and support key business objectives. She joined Cantaloupe in 2017 through the acquisition of Cantaloupe Systems, where she served as director of marketing. Prior to
this, she was vice president of sales and marketing at Avanti Markets, where she was an early pioneer in introducing micro markets to the unattended retail industry.
With over a decade of experience in unattended retail, Elyssa has become a well-respected mentor and award-winning executive. In 2013, she was voted Automatic Merchandiser Readers’ Choice Manufacturer Representative of the Year. She has also contributed to NAMA’s Government Affairs, WIN, and ELN committees, as well as the Frost & Sullivan Marketing community. Elyssa holds a master’s in communication and leadership from Gonzaga University and a bachelor’s in business and marketing from the University of Washington.
LYNDSEY WOLFSMITH, VendTech International Lyndsey Wolfsmith is executive vice president of VendTech International. With a BSc in IT from the University of Salford, U.K., she has extensive experience in franchising, business
Lyndsey Wolfsmith
Nicole Sprenger
Elyssa Steiner
development, management consulting and entrepreneurship. As part of the Naturals2Go leadership team, Lyndsey develops training programs, mentors operators and champions diversity, applying background from multiple industries to drive growth and innovation. Since joining VendTech in 2013 as a sales consultant and launching her own vending business in 2014, Lyndsey has consistently improved customer satisfaction, enhancing operational efficiency and elevating women’s visibility in leadership roles. In 2022, she was promoted to executive vice president and joined the board of directors. She leads with authenticity, service and connection. Her expertise in strategic planning, team building and financial management inspires others while fostering a thriving entrepreneurial community. Her expertise in strategic planning, team building and financial management allows a seamless balance of professional responsibilities with personal life.
MANUELA ZONINSEIN, Kadeya
Manuela Zoninsein is the CEO & founder of Kadeya, a B2B2C hydration technology company on a mission to eliminate the need for single-use
Congratulations ASHILYN SUNDERMAN
on being named
beverage containers forever, for everyone, everywhere. She has more than 15 years’ experience in climate, starting her career in 2007 in China, where she reported on cleantech for Newsweek and the Engineering News-Record, before transitioning to entrepreneurship and starting her first business in Beijing. She has since started two more climate-focused entities, worked in international business development at Palantir Technologies, and invested in more than 30 women-led climate tech companies around the world. She now leads Chicago-based Kadeya which seeks to eliminate the packaging and greenhouse gas footprint of the beverage industry while hydrating frontline workers with fewer logistics, lower costs and superior safety outcomes. Kadeya’s kiosk washes, sanitizes, inspects and refills bottles, combining a bottling plant, dishwasher and soda fountain in a unit akin to a vending machine to eliminate the inefficient logistics of single-use’s linear supply chain.
ASHILYN SUNDERMAN,
Smith Vending Canteen
Ashilyn Sunderman is the CEO and owner of Smith Vending Canteen. Ashilyn grew up in the business, learning from her dad, Rod Nester. After completing her bachelor’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University for business management, she joined her father in the business. At the time, the business was just getting started with a VMS, had recently become a Canteen Franchise, employed nine people, and had five vending routes. Today, SVC employs 43 people, has three warehouses, and operates 15 routes. Over the years, Ashilyn helped SVC expand its footprint and implement many new processes and technologies. In 2021, Rod retired and Ashilyn took over the business.
Ashilyn completed the NAMA Executive Development Program in 2016. She attained her NCE in 2017 and her CCS in 2019. She is also the executive director and treasurer of the Iowa Automatic Merchandising Association and has also served on the ELN Steering Committee. Ashilyn serves on several local boards and committees, including the Clarinda Foundation, Cardinal Fund, and CRHC Patient and Family Advisory Council. ■
Ashilyn Sunderman
Manuela Zoninsein
Coffee culture preferences spark innovation, alternative channel growth
The coffee industry is evolving as consumer preferences shift toward wellness, convenience and premium experiences. Specialty and readyto-drink (RTD) coffees are fueling growth in office coffee services, micro markets and convenience stores. With Gen Z and Millennials driving demand for organic, functional and cold-brew options, brands are innovating to keep up. Discover how coffee culture is changing.
Energized by consumer and lifestyle trends that are fueling innovation aimed directly at growing industry segments — including office coffee services (OCS), convenience and micro markets — the coffee industry is set to see significant growth over the next five years.
The 2025 global coffee market size is estimated at just over $138 billion and is expected to reach at least $174 billion by 2030, according to “The Coffee Market Report — Industry Analysis, Size and Forecast (2025-2030),” a recently released report by Mordor Intelligence. The report states: “The global coffee industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing consumer
By Joy LePree
preferences and evolving coffee culture worldwide. Premium and specialty segments are witnessing substantial growth as consumers increasingly seek high quality artisanal coffee experiences.”
The report notes that North America holds approximately 20% of the global coffee market share. A significant transformation in coffee consumption patterns in the U.S. and Canada is occurring, says Mordor Intelligence, where premium and specialty coffee products continue to gain prominence, and where there is a strong demand for convenient coffee solutions.
Several coffee market trends, including growing health consciousness and the desire for novel formats and flavors among young consumers, are contributing to the development of innovative and diverse products. Many are directed at OCS, convenience stores and micro markets.
Rise’s RTD cans, including its nitro cold brew, are less acidic and slightly sweeter than a standard cup of hot coffee and have a nitrogen widget to mimic the draft experience.
COFFEE AS A WELLNESS SOLUTION
One of the biggest drivers behind both product innovation and the growth in alternative channel markets, especially OCS, is growing interest in overall wellness.
The Morder report states: “Increasing awareness about healthy eating habits has transformed consumer preferences in the coffee industry, driving significant demand for specialty and organic coffee products. Consumers increasingly seek coffee products that are produced with minimal exposure to synthetic chemicals and pesticides, believing these options offer superior health benefits.”
As a result, coffee manufacturers are focusing on developing innovative products that cater to health-conscious consumers such as low-acid coffee varieties, organic certified products and specialty blends that emphasize both quality and health benefits.
For example, Ciprian Bucsa, president of US Products, says, “Two Bears is a beverage company dedicated to crafting delicious, clean and innovative drinks that are committed to quality. We use simple, clean ingredients
and ensure that every beverage is made with zero added sugar.”
Busca continues: “From creamy oat lattes to proteinpacked drinks, Two Bears believes in delivering beverages that are not only better for you, but also ferociously delicious. Two Bears is passionate about offering options that meet modern, health-conscious lifestyles without compromising on taste.”
IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY, ONE CUP AT A TIME
Additional research has shown that loneliness has an impact on a corporation’s productivity and sales. A report published in the Journal of Organizational Effectiveness: People and Performance stated that loneliness strongly affects an organization and its financial success. The report found that loneliness costs companies more than $154 billion annually in lost productivity due to absenteeism. Employers are paying attention.
“Employers recognize the importance of a premium offering and that it keeps employees in the office and working productively,” explains Eric Anderson, sales manager, alternative channels, with Rise Brewing Co. “As a result, more employers are returning to subsidizing premium coffee products as an employee perk.”
Among these OCS offerings are Rise’s ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee
Two Bears creamy oat lattes and protein-packed drinks offer options that meet modern, health-conscious lifestyles without compromising taste.
Rise Brewing Co.
The NAMA Show: Where Business Moves FORWARD
The NAMA Show is where business gets done in convenience services. Industry leaders, top suppliers, and forward-thinking operators gather here to build high-value partnerships, explore innovative technology, discover revenue-driving products and learn best practices. Step onto the show floor and discover the unique solutions for every business—whether in vending, micro markets, coffee services, self-serve, unattended retail and more.
Don’t Get Left Behind – Why Attend?
Find What’s Next – Get hands-on with the latest products, technology, and business solutions.
Make Meaningful Connections – Meet decision-makers ready to collaborate and drive deals.
Gain a Competitive Edge – Learn from experts, attend exclusive sessions, and stay ahead of industry shifts.
Well-stocked breakrooms improve productivity
Meanwhile, a growing focus on mental health has initiated studies on the effects of loneliness on health and productivity, forcing corporate America to take action in the form of wellstocked breakrooms offering premium coffee products.
This trend was, in part, spurred by two reports, a Cigna study cited by the American Psychological Association and a 2023 report published by Dr. Vivek Murthy, surgeon general of the United States, which both refer to loneliness as a lethal pandemic with effects rivaling that of smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
To help combat loneliness and boost employee morale — and productivity — many businesses are beefing up their breakroom offerings with healthy, premium and specialty coffee selections. This trend may be one of the driving forces behind the growth of the OCS market, which is thriving despite inflation and a stillsomewhat remote workforce culture. Automatic Merchandiser ’s 2024 State of the Office Coffee Service Industry Report showed that 73% of respondents reported an increase in sales in 2023 and 54% of those surveyed suggested an increase in locations served.
A study titled, “U.S. Specialty Coffee Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Age Group, by Distribution Channel and Segment Forecasts, 2025-2030,” by Grand View Research further suggests growth in the OCS and workplace outlets, stating that the awayfrom-home distribution channel, which includes workplaces, held the largest revenue share — over 70% — of the coffee industry. “The desire for convenient and readily accessible specialty coffee options in diverse settings, from traditional coffee shops to quickservice restaurants to workplaces, contributes significantly to the segment’s growth.”
Peet’s single-cup coffee in a BPI-certified paper pod is available to the OCS space in two of the brand’s most popular blends: Major Dickason and Café Domingo. Peet’s Coffee
products, which feature organic ingredients and “none of the fillers or high sugar content that you’ll often find in ready-to-drink coffee products. Additionally, because it’s in a slim can, it makes for a great grab-and-go solution,” notes Anderson.
Similarly, Super Coffee’s 11 oz. slim cans of Super Coffee Espresso are the brand’s leading item in the vending, micro market and OCS space. “Customers like being able to have a quick shot of high quality coffee without the sugar and calories,” says Jake DeCicco, chief revenue officer with Kitu Life, whose Super Coffee brand sells about $20 million annually in the OCS channel. “In OCS, we are seeing a demand for higher quality ingredients. It’s not just about convenience and availability, it’s about stuff that tastes good and is good for you. Things don’t need to be niche, but the days of only offering Oreos and CocaCola are over.”
However, RTD cans aren’t the only premium offering in the workplace. Aaron Lerner, AFH/OCS senior sales manager with Peet’s Coffee, says the company provides whole bean, portion pack and single-cup paper pods to the OCS space. “As consumers have been returning to the office post-COVID, we are a loved and trusted brand that always delivers a strong, full-bodied coffee without a bitter aftertaste,” explains Lerner.
Peet’s recently made a single-cup coffee with a BPIcertified paper pod available to the OCS space. “The single-cup paper pod market has been serviced by regional coffee companies across the U.S.” says Lerner. “Currently, we are the first national brand to enter this space. Our lineup has two of our most popular blends, Major Dickason and Café Domingo.”
MILLENNIALS AND GEN Z CRAVE INNOVATIVE COFFEE PRODUCTS
Another driving force behind novel coffee products in the OCS space and micro markets is the influence of young coffee drinkers, including Millennials and Gen Z.
According to the Grand View Research study, which breaks down findings by age, Gen Z, or consumers between the ages of 18 and 24 years old, led the market with the largest revenue share of 31.9% in 2024. The study credits the affordability and accessibility of specialty coffees such as cold brew and RTD options for the growing demand within this age group.
Meanwhile, Millennial consumers, or those aged 25 to 39, are responsible for the fastest growing CAGR of 10.3% from 2025 to 2030. “This demographic utilizes specialty coffee as a means of enhancing productivity and incorporating indulgence into their daily routines,” according
to the report. “This group places increasing emphasis on the quality and health benefits associated with specialty coffee, recognizing the potential for antioxidants and improved focus. They are increasingly drawn to unique flavor profiles and regional origins offered by specialty coffee roasters.”
Likely, these factors contribute to the novel offerings in the RTD coffee segment. “The RTD segment has seen particular innovation, with companies introducing premium cold brew varieties, functional coffee beverages and unique flavor combinations to appeal to younger consumers seeking convenience without compromising quality,” according to the Mordor report.
NielsonIQ, a global consumer intelligence company that provides market research services, agrees that cold brew and RTD options are gaining popularity. “Cold brew coffee is less acidic and has a smoother flavor than traditional hot-brewed coffee. Many brands are selling pre-made cold brews.”
Ami Krishan, senior marketing leader with Java House, agrees that younger consumers are a driving force in the coffee industry: “The next generation likes to indulge with flavors and different roasts as well as cold brews. We have been able to do a very good job at brewing a smooth and delicious cold brew, and we offer lattes in popular flavors to meet these demands.” Java House
currently offers 8-oz. cold brew RTD options in Pure Black, Vanilla Latte and Salted Caramel Latte.
Similarly, Starbucks also offers a variety of RTD coffees, including Cold Brew, Nitro Cold Brew, Tripleshot Energy and Doubleshot Energy. “We know consumers are onthe-go and looking for a variety of premium, high quality options to meet their lifestyle needs,” says a Starbucks spokesperson. “Starbucks RTD beverages are the same high quality Starbucks coffee and flavors that our consumers love.”
Additional innovation in this space can be seen in Rise’s RTD cans, including its nitro cold brew, which “offers a bold flavor that’s less acidic and slightly sweeter than a standard cup of hot coffee and features a nitrogen widget to mimic the draft experience as closely as possible,” says Anderson. ■
Starbucks offers a variety of RTD coffees, including Cold Brew, Nitro Cold Brew, Tripleshot Energy and Doubleshot Energy. Starbucks
Super Coffee’s 11 oz. slim cans of Super Coffee Espresso are the brand’s leading item in the vending, micro market and OCS space. Super Coffee
About the author Joy LePree is a freelance contributing writer and editor with more than 20 years of experience covering a range of B2B topics.
Avoid costly sales buying or
When buying or selling a business, most owners focus on valuations, contracts and negotiations — but what about sales tax?
Overlooking key sales tax obligations can lead to unexpected liabilities, derailed deals and even legal headaches. While sales tax is typically associated with retail transactions, many states have expanded their scope to include business sales, creating a complex web of regulations for both buyers and sellers.
By Daniel O’Rourke, JD/CPA, and Scott Walters, TACS LLC
tax surprises when or selling a business
Sales and use taxes — more commonly known as sales tax — are generally assessed at the retail level in the transaction flow. For example, when you purchase a taxable item, the retailer has an obligation to separately charge state sales tax, collect the tax from the customer, and file a return with the appropriate tax jurisdiction. When an item is purchased from a vending machine, the sales tax is included in the “sold amount” of the item. Ultimately, it is the seller’s responsibility to remit the sales tax collected to the tax jurisdiction in the manner prescribed by the tax authorities.
Most vending operators understand the need to remit sales tax on vended items. What is less known is that there are major sales tax issues for certain non-retail transactions: specifically, the purchase and sale of a business. This article will detail the significant sales tax issues related to the purchase and sale of a business. We will focus first on the sales tax issues the seller needs to consider, and then on the sales tax issues for the buyer.
SALES TAX ISSUES THE SELLER SHOULD CONSIDER
Over time, state tax authorities have broadened the scope of sales tax to
include the sale of services and certain non-retail transactions. The treatment of sales tax on the sale of a business will depend on whether the sale is a sale of assets (i.e., vending machines) versus the sale of stocks.
Sale of assets
Sales tax generally applies to the sale of tangible personal property (TPP). Assets are typically considered TPP, so you must account for the potential effect of structuring a sale as a sale of assets for sales tax purposes. Because a sale of assets does not typically occur in the normal course of business, many states maintain an ‘‘occasional or isolated
sales’’ exemption that can be applied to asset purchases.
Not all states exempt occasional sales, however. Specifically, Colorado, Oklahoma, New York and Wyoming do not have general occasional sales exemptions. Additionally, other states have limitations on their exemption. For example, states such as California, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Pennsylvania place restrictions on the exemption as applied to various vehicles.
Another issue arises regarding inventory. Most isolated or occasional sale exemptions specifically exclude inventory from the list of exempt assets. In most asset purchases that include inventory, the sales tax liability is not applicable because the buyer purchases inventory for resale. In most states, the inventory can be purchased tax-free as a purchase for resale.
Finally, some states provide additional requirements that must be satisfied before the exemption can be applied to the sale of a business. For example, in some states, to qualify for the exemption, the transaction must include ‘‘the entire operating assets of a business or of a separate division, branch, or identifiable segment of the business.” Thus, an occasional sale of one or two tangible assets by a business may not qualify for the exemption.
As you can see, there are many significant sales tax issues related to the disposition of a business by the sale of assets. We strongly recommend that you have a sales tax professional review the transaction to ensure it meets the tax jurisdiction’s requirements.
Sale of stocks
In most states, the sale of intangible assets such as stocks is not subject to sales tax because it is not a sale of
tangible personal property (TPP). It is commonly understood that buyers of stock or similar ownership interests in a business will inherit all of the known and unknown liabilities of that business along with its ownership interests.
All historical liabilities, including tax liabilities, continue after the transaction because the legal entity remains in existence and is responsible for its liabilities. The seller of the business in a stock sale should, therefore, ensure that there are no significant sales tax issues; otherwise, those liabilities could derail the transaction if discovered during due diligence — and impact the sale price or the entire sale.
SUCCESSOR LIABILITY: SALES TAX ISSUES FOR THE BUYER TO CONSIDER
Even though some states do not have statutory successor liability provisions, they still often aggressively pursue the collection of historical or transactional liabilities from the buyer by using other legal doctrines. Whether the economy is struggling or booming, states have an interest in collecting sales tax revenue owed, and it is generally much simpler to seek payment from the current operations of the business than attempting to collect from a former owner who is no longer doing business in the jurisdiction, or even in existence.
Many states require one of the parties to an asset or bulk sale of a business to provide the state taxing authority with notice of the proposed sale. Such notifications provide state taxing agencies the opportunity to collect taxes due while the seller has money or assets from which to make a payment. If notification is not given to the state, then the purchaser will have successor liability for sales tax purposes and will become liable
for any unpaid sales and use tax of the seller.
Many states provide specific guidance on how a purchaser may avoid successor liability. The guidance usually includes two main actions:
• Withholding of an escrow to cover potential unpaid taxes and customer loss.
• The filing of tax clearance requests with the state to support that no taxes are due by the seller. In general, when one or both of these actions are not taken by a purchaser, the purchaser remains liable for the unpaid taxes of the seller.
In some cases, the states require the reporting or request for tax clearance to occur before the transaction. In New York or Pennsylvania, for instance, a 10-day advance notice of the transaction is required to be filed by the seller. All states do not provide for statutory relief from successor liability. ■
About the authors
Daniel O’Rourke, JD/ CPA, is the COO and senior vice president of compliance for TACS LLC. Dan has more than 30 years of experience in the application of sales tax and tax technology. He has a deep level of expertise in state and local tax legislation as well as managing global indirect tax within enterpriselevel resource plans (ERPs). He can be reached at dan_orourke@tacssoft.com or 630-240-1698.
Scott Walters is the co-founder and CEO of TACS LLC. Scott has worked for over 30 years with a focus on sales and use tax. He has extensive experience in the implementation of tax technology to simplify the accounting process. Scott’s background includes multiple roles at leading tax technology companies as well as a director at the Tier 1 accounting and consulting firm PWC. He can be reached at scott_walters@ tacssoft.com or 865-304-3212.
May 7–9
Las Vegas, NV
Industry partnerships and hard work help Global Vending Service prosper in a burgeoning Florida market.
By Adrienne Klein
ew operators in the vending industry can tout having several decades of experience in the business, but Jay Holstein is one of them. Jay and his wife, Sherri, own and operate Global Vending Service, headquartered in Lake Worth, Fla. The medium-tolarge vending company offers fullline vending, micro markets, OCS and pantry service. The Holsteins focus on building partnerships with their clients and creating gathering spaces in customer breakrooms.
Through their commitment to offering a personal touch, Jay and Sherri have grown Global Vending Service to 25 employees, seven fullline vending routes, two micro market routes and more than 800 vending machines in just 10 years.
A UNIQUE HISTORY
Jay began working in and learning about the vending industry as a young kid in his father’s Baltimorebased vending company, which was in operation for 30 years. With
a propensity for hard work, Jay opened his own vending company at the age of 18 after graduating from high school. He ran and operated American Vending Service for 10 years before merging with Baltimore-based Black Tie Services in 1998. After selling his ownership in Black Tie Services, he launched Global Vending Management, a vending management company based in Baltimore.
While this could have signaled a “stepping back” approach for Jay, he
Jay and Sherri Holstein founded Global Vending Service in 2015.
was actually just getting started. After living and working in Maryland, Jay and Sherri moved to Florida and built Global Vending Service from the ground up. “Maryland has such a small footprint and there are so many vending operations,” he said. “It’s a lot easier to grow here in Florida.”
Like many other vending operators, the Holsteins started their vending company out of their house. Jay was running routes, buying product and filling machines. “The first year was tough,” said Jay. But the duo credits their success in Florida to their hard work and industry knowledge. The first account they landed was 17 locations in one, and they’ve grown from there. “As you grow, it doesn’t get easier,” laughed Jay. But, they were able to hire more employees as the business grew, and now the company employs 25 people.
Another additional advantage of starting over in Florida was Sherri’s immersion and involvement in the business. As co-owner of Global Vending Service, Sherri jumped right in with the company’s marketing, social media and graphics. She learned how to bid on large contracts and how to create engaging social media content. “I taught myself how to do this work,” said Sherri. “I just dove into it and never felt intimidated by it.”
Sherri realized early on in Florida that she enjoys running a business with Jay. “We complement each other,” she said. “We are the ying and yang. He does the business side; I do the creative.” The Holsteins note that 90 percent of their growth has been through the internet and website traffic. Sherri consistently posts on the company’s social media platforms and even created a full-page ad for Global Vending Service in the Miami Dolphins’ 2023 and 2024 yearbook.
“It’s a huge proposition to start a business over,” said Sherri. “We just did it and never stopped.”
The duo has a hand in everything to do with the business. “I’m not sitting at my desk all day,” said Jay. “We are out there dealing with the clients, the sales calls, and fixing the issues. We have that personal touch with our customers that other vending companies don’t.”
GROWTH THROUGH PERSONAL TOUCH AND INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS
Having a personal relationship with clients is important for Jay and Sherri, and they believe it is what
sets Global Vending Service apart. Jay believes that the larger vending companies can’t offer a personal touch. “When people call our company, they get me,” said Jay. “If I sold my business, there goes that personal touch.” If customers have an issue, suggestion or a request, Global Vending Service takes pride in its response. “That’s what makes us different. That’s what customers like,” said Jay.
Sherri points out that even though Jay is at an executive level at Global Vending Service, he still makes it a point to be involved in the dayto-day operation of accounts. “Jay makes sure the wires are hung right
Global Vending Service offers clients the choice of large markets for 250 or more people, medium markets for 150 to 250 employees, and small markets for between 75 to 150 employees.
and that everything is in the right spot,” said Sherri. “It’s just a personal touch. For a company of our size to have that, that’s unique.”
It’s this service that Jay believes has helped them retain long-term accounts. “You’re only as good as your last service,” he said. “We still have accounts that we’ve had since we started here,” he said. In his experience, the life of a vending account is seven years. “If you go past that, you’re doing great,” he said.
Jay and Sherri love when customers give them ideas, and they always try to personalize accounts. Customers also appreciate the reporting that comes with the micro markets and vending. “A lot of clients ask us what’s selling in their locations, and it’s nice that we can send a sheet with all the products, from what’s selling and what’s not,” said Jay.
It’s not just the personal relationships with customers that Jay and Sherri appreciate. They also enjoy the partners in the vending industry they’ve worked with throughout their many years in the business. “Our partners are wonderful people who’ve been with us, and I want to emphasize that,” said Sherri. “We’re so lucky to have great partners in this business and to be part of a community.”
We are a familyowned and womenowned business, and we take such pride in everything we do. I’m a proponent of hard work. Hard work pays off.”
Jay Holstein Global Vending Service
Global Vending Service partners with USG purchasing cooperative as well as Cantaloupe for its equipment and technology. They also have found great support from their web hosting company, OCS Access. “Christine Grecco and Richard Smith have been integral to our success, helping us maintain our website since the very beginning of our journey,” said Sherri. “Their support has been invaluable.” They also credit Neil Swindale, president of Vend Central and ZippyAssist, with helping to make their company and the industry succeed. “He wrote our first website and logo when we first started in business, and now, we use his ZippyAssist refund technology,”
said Jay. “And that just is phenomenal that he stuck with us. He didn’t care about our size. He was so helpful.”
PRIORITY ON TECHNOLOGY
Technology has always been a priority for Jay and Sherri. From day one, every Global Vending Service machine has had credit card readers and telemetry. “When we first started, credit card usage was around 20 percent, then it grew to 40 percent, and today, it’s more than 80 percent credit card usage,” said Jay. “Look at our colleges and our high schools...nobody has cash these days. The kids don’t use cash at all,” he said.
Global Vending Service
Website: www. globalvendingservice.com
Founded: 2015
Founders: Jay and Sherri Holstein
Current leadership: Jay and Sherri Holstein
Headquarters: Lake Worth, Fla.
Other offices/locations: Lakeland, Fla.
Number of employees: 25
Number of routes: 7 vending routes, 2 micro market routes
Services: Vending, micro markets, OCS, pantry service
Tech/equipment providers: Cantaloupe Inc., Crane, USG purchasing cooperative, OCS Access, ZippyAssist
In Maryland, Jay was always interested in using technology to streamline operations. “We had technology that was a little bit more primitive.” Adding technology became even more important, however, when the Holsteins started Global Vending Service. “I had no choice [when it came to adding technology] because I would not have known where to go, and I was by myself with 500 machines.”
Technology was a necessity for Jay to service and grow Global Vending Service in the early days. “It helped me know where I needed to go and what I needed to pick.” It was especially helpful during COVID. “Places were closed, and with technology, we could see what locations had sales and where we needed to go,” he said.
Technology has not only streamlined their business; it has also helped them stand out amongst the competition. Today, many Global Vending Service machines have technology that allows customers to pay via card, nearfield communication (NFC), coupon codes, mobile wallet payment and more. The company utilizes Crane’s Merchant Media Ambient and Merchant Media Combo snack and candy vending machines. The company also offers several hot beverage vending machines, including Voce Media, which allows customers a choice among 18
In Global Vending Service’s micro markets, a payment kiosk can accept credit cards, mobile wallets and the Koin Pay app. The company currently has 35 micro markets.
different hot beverages. In all, Global Vending Service has more than 800 machines. “We try to optimize all our equipment and get high average earning machines,” said Jay.
The company also has begun offering Cantaloupe’s Cooler Café smart locking coolers, which are popular in many college locations, said Jay. The Cooler Café is equipped with easy-to-use point-of-sale systems and remote monitoring apps. The Cooler Café works by remaining locked until after a customer’s payment is processed. Customers can shop and pay at the touchscreen terminal or through a mobile app.
Jay and Sherri also expanded into micro markets when they opened Global Vending Service. They offer clients the choice of large markets for 250 or more people, medium markets for 150 to 250 employees and small markets for between 75 to 150 employees. A Cantaloupe payment kiosk can accept credit cards, mobile wallets and the Koin Pay app. The company currently has 35 micro markets and hopes to open more. “We’re doing conversions from vending to markets where we can,” said Jay. “Our first pitch to customers now is a micro market.” He has gotten some reluctance from some customers who have never
heard about micro markets and are concerned about theft. “I tell them that if your employee is stealing a candy bar, they’re stealing office supplies,” said Jay.
The Global Vending Service team takes great care to create welcoming, unique micro markets for its clients. “Our markets really make us stand out,” said Sherri. “They look really good. We don’t just put product on a wire rack.”
There are many factors that have aided in the company’s growth. In the last five years, the company has more than doubled its income. They now operate a branch in central Florida as well as a branch in southern Florida. “Really the only area we do not service is the Florida panhandle due to several challenges, one of which is distance,” said Jay. The company services the largest flighttraining school in the country, several airports, several colleges, many healthcare facilities and manufacturing plants around the state. “We have a mix of everything, and every single type of location is just totally different,” said Jay. “You just really have to be a businessman and a vendor. And you have to wear two hats.”
HARD WORK PAYS OFF
Jay and Sherri continually showcase their proclivity for hard work, and they both take great pride in their business and the services they offer. “We are a family-owned and womenowned business, and we take such pride in everything we do,” said Jay. “I’m a proponent of hard work. Hard work pays off.”
Despite ongoing challenges, Jay enjoys being an operator. “It’s a great business to be in,” said Jay. “I’ve been doing this for many years, and I have seen its ups and downs.”
Jay notes he’s seen history repeat itself in the vending industry. “The
“We’re doing conversions from vending to markets where we can,” said Jay Holstein. “Our first pitch to customers now is a micro market.”
smaller companies like mine grow and then a large company will come in, and they’ll buy you out. There’s consolidation and then the small guys come back up again.”
He cautions other prospective operators of the realities of the industry. “Sometimes, you have to walk away from accounts because they’re wanting $1 bottles of soda, which is just something we can’t do anymore,” he said, adding, “This industry is not easy.”
Despite the realities of everyday operations, Jay and Sherri feel blessed to own and run their own vending business. “If you have a bad day, just know your next day is going to be better,” said Sherri. Her advice to other operators? “Never ever give up. If you want to achieve a goal and you want to start a business, just jump in and start.” ■
Like many other vending operators, the Holsteins started their company out of their home. They added employees as the business grew and now employ 25 people.
PRODUCT FOCUS
[ HEALTHY SNACKS ]
Actual Veggies Purple Sweet Potato Super Fries
Actual Veggies Purple Sweet Potato Super Fries provide a nutritious twist on a timeless favorite. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these fries deliver the classic fry experience with a healthful boost. Actual Veggies is the first brand to feature purple sweet potato, a trending, nutrient-dense ingredient. Packed with superfoods for enhanced flavor, protein and nutrients, the fries are cooked in 100% pure avocado oil.
Actual Veggies
Huel Complete Nutrition Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
The Huel Complete Nutrition Bar is a high protein snack bar. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough flavor combines layers of smooth caramel, indulgent vegan chocolate and all the nutrients you need. The Huel Complete Nutrition Bar includes 26 vitamins and minerals, high protein, high fiber, and low sugar for less than 200kcal. Take your nutrition on-the-go with this chocolatecovered bar.
Huel
You can find all of these products in the Product Guide at VendingMarketWatch.com/directory.
Nature’s Garden Probiotic Fruichias
Nature’s Garden Probiotic FruiChias are fruit snacks made with real fruit puree and chia seeds for texture and nutritional value. Each serving contains 2 billion microencapsulated probiotics that support digestive health and immune function. The probiotics in FruiChias help promote and regulate a healthy gut microbiome, reduce inflammation and boost immunity. FruiChias do not contain added sugars, artificial colors or flavors. Each serving has 4g of dietary fiber. They are nonGMO, gluten-free and kosher. The 24-count multipack contains 1-oz snack packs, 90 calories each, making them a convenient choice for on-the-go consumption. Nature’s Garden
Popchips Nacho
With 50% less fat than traditional fried chips, Popchips deliver bold Nacho flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite. Made with nondairy, vegan-friendly ingredients, this cheesy snack redefines betterfor-you indulgence without compromising taste.
Popchips
Vitamin Energy Immune+ shots
Vitamin Energy Immune+ shots, offered in 1.93 fl. oz. bottles, are filled with supportive vitamins to boost immune health and help prevent disease or illness. Each shot provides up to seven hours of naturally caffeinated energy without crashing later. They are kosher, keto and vegan-friendly. The Vitamin Energy Immune+ shots are offered in three flavors: Fruit Punch, Grape and Blue Raspberry. Vitamin Energy
Bridgford Smokehouse Sausage Stick Original Recipe
Savor the rich, smoky flavor of Bridgford Smokehouse Sausage Stick Original Recipe, crafted with a premium blend of pork and beef. Bridgford’s natural fermentation process ensures authentic taste, made without a starter culture for a bold, distinctive flavor. Smoked with real wood, the sausage sticks are made with Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce, adding a touch of irresistible sweetness. Packaged for convenience, the sausage sticks are a tasty snack for pantries, micro markets and vending machines.
Bridgford
Lorissa’s Kitchen meat sticks
Made with 100% grass-fed beef or free-range poultry, the new LK meat sticks serve as savory snacks with a bold kick. They are offered in four flavors — Original Smoke Show Beef, Jalapeno Heat Seeker Beef, Chicka Boom Chicken and Savory Herb Turkey — all certified free from the top nine allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, milk, sesame, eggs, fish, shellfish and soy). Each stick has 8g of protein and 0g of sugar. The paleo-friendly snacks are packaged individually for on-the-go convenience.
Lorissa’s Kitchen
SOCIAL HUBS
Breaktime TV, a platform that promises to enable vending, OCS and micro market operators to extend their reach beyond traditional products, is expanding nationally after more than 300 successful installs in the Phoenix and Salt Lake City markets.
When Cathy Lewenberg joined Bevi earlier this year as CEO, she was tasked with three priorities: accelerating growth and product innovation, investing in the foundation for scaling, and driving Bevi’s sustainability mission through strategic partnerships and alliances. https://bit.ly/41sg3g7 #officecoffeeservice #breakroomamenities #hydratehappy
How does a company thrive in vending and micro markets? All Star Services, Inc. has the recipe for success: prioritizing family, team and innovation. https://bit.ly/498U1kv #pantryservice #micromarkets #vending #convenienceservices #operatorprofile #successstory
Organic Valley, a farmer-owned cooperative known for its organic dairy products, has launched its first plant-based product: oatbased creamers. https://lnkd.in/dQngQZ5p #convenienceservices #micromarkets #officecoffeeservice #pantryservice
Photo: All Star Services
Photo: BreaktimeTV / Breaktime Holdings
Photo: Bevi
Featured in the June/July issue of the magazine, 40 Under 40 highlights innovators who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to advancing convenience services for vending, micro markets and workplace beverages.
Acknowledge yourself or a colleague for dedication to the convenience services industry.
Deadline: April 4, 2025
Nominate today! https://bit.ly/40under402025
Nominees must be 39 years old or younger as of July 1, 2025, to be eligible.
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Discover your next top sellers with snacks based on insights about customers’ future cravings. Ditch the guesswork while we curate a collection that best appeals to your snackers.
