For years, retailers have faced an impossible choice: embrace self-shopping for the convenience and speed of consumer demand or focus on traditional checkout for better control against losses. The Joya Smart family solves this dilemma, delivering both with the same device. These devices offer the most efficient and interactive shopping experience for consumers, while addressing retailers’ most critical concerns regarding loss prevention.

Intelligent Design meets Innovation

These next-generation self-shopping devices redefine the in-store experience with thoughtfully designed comfort and intuitive usability, advanced performance, and future-ready innovation.

• Elevated Experience: The large 5-inch high-resolution display is housed in an ergonomically optimized design that fits naturally in a shopper’s hand.
• Augmented Reality: Shoppers can scan product GS1 Digital Link-ready QR codes to view real-time, screen-displayed information like ingredients, nutritional facts, and promotions before purchase.
• Speed and Feedback: Powered by fast Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and embedded NFC contactless technology, shoppers can scan and pay in seconds and enjoy instant visual feedback via Datalogic’s proprietary Green Spot good-read technology.
• Software Ecosystem: The family is compatible with Self-Shopping software from all major retailers and ISVs and offers seamless integration with Datalogic’s Shopevolution and EasyShop software platforms.

The Joya Smart+ takes the experience to an all-new level. Providing smartphone-like familiarity in both aesthetics and use, with a notable market differentiation that sees the scan engine and AI camera share the same point of view. The front-facing visibility means shoppers can view their aimed item via the rear camera as they scan to ensure higher first-time read success.

What truly sets the new Joya Smart family apart is its embedded AI algorithms that use computer vision via the integrated rear-camera to validate scanned items, preventing errors or unintentional mistakes and helping store associates to quickly find only the items to be re-checked in any customer’s cart.

• Loss Prevention: The AI-driven Shop Guard system verifies non-scanned items, preventing errors or unintentional mistakes
• Operational Efficiency: This intelligence allows store associates to quickly find only the items to be re-checked in a customer’s cart, boosting shopper throughput

“The new Joya Smart family represents a fundamental transformation in how we approach self-shopping technology” said Rosario Casillo, Executive Vice President of Product & Solutions – Data Capture Division at Datalogic. “We provide unparalleled value with devices that redefine the in-store journey, delivering speed and convenience for shoppers while helping retailers in reducing losses.”

A Smart, Sustainable Investment

The Joya Smart family is designed with long-term strategies in mind, representing the smart choice for retailers aiming to achieve their ESG goals without compromising performance.

• Sustainable Design:Joya Smart and its accessories are built with recycled materials and come in recyclable packaging
• Investment Protection:The devices feature wireless charging, which eliminates the worry of replacing broken or corroded pins. Combined with long-term Android support, this ensures investment protection for years to come
• Charging Innovation:Retailers can choose a boosted (sub 2-hour) charging mode or an eco-mode that uses less energy.
• Wall-mount re-use: Migration path from other self-shopping device configurations is made easier thanks to kits to install new cradles without changing the existing wall.

Joya Smart and its accessories are available now, while the advanced Joya Smart+ will be available during Q1 2026, marking a new era in the evolution of intelligent self-shopping technology.

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“With this second Sustainability Report, extended for the first time to include all our international offices, we want to share an integrated vision of our global commitment. We are aware of our responsibility toward the planet and its people, and we will continue to promote a business approach that combines quality, well-being, and sustainability. Our ambition is to encourage a more conscious lifestyle, offering moments of conviviality that respect the environment and enhance human relationships,” comments Andrea Pozzolini, CEO, Rhea.

Highlights:

• 65 years of history
• 11 international branches
• More than 90 countries served worldwide
• 401 employees globally
• 99% of hires on permanent contract
• 100% energy from renewable sources in Italy and Austria
• -18 tons of materials used
• 57 actions planned for sustainability
• 8 areas of R&D
• Part of the United Nations Global Compact

A growing commitment: the adoption of the ESRS and the updated Sustainability Plan

 In 2024, Rhea began the transition from the GRI standards to the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), aligning itself with the new European reporting directives (CSRD).

The 2024 Report, therefore, represents a first step toward increasingly comprehensive, transparent, and consistent disclosure aligned with the Group’s ESG priorities.

At the same time, the company updated its 2024–2026 Strategic Sustainability Plan, which now includes 57 initiatives across seven main areas: culture and strategy, governance, environmental impacts, products and services, value chain, people, and communities.

Actions completed during the year include joining the United Nations Global Compact, calculating the product Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and establishing the ESG Committee to oversee sustainability governance in an organised manner.

rhea ESG: fostering sustainability

In 2024, the company launched the “rhea ESG” initiative, designed to encourage and support responsible behaviours to make the vending sector more sustainable by offering participants a contribution to finance sustainability policies.

The machine models used to promote the initiative generate significantly lower CO₂ emissions compared to their non-ESG equivalents, demonstrating the effectiveness of the design choices aimed at reducing environmental impact: the patented Varitherm induction heating system, the modular structure, and the use of recycled and recyclable materials.

Each rhea ESG machine is equipped with a QR code that allows customers and consumers to access dedicated content on the product’s sustainability, raising awareness throughout the entire value chain. “With this initiative, we aim to activate a virtuous circle among suppliers, customers, and consumers,” explains Pozzolini, “to transform vending into a shared lab for sustainable innovation.”

People first

In 2024, Rhea reaffirmed the central role of people as a driver of sustainable growth.

99% of employment contracts are permanent, and the company expanded its training programmes, offering pathways dedicated to developing both hard and soft skills. To support onboarding and sharing company values, a “buddy” system was also introduced for mentoring new hires and strengthening the sense of belonging and collaboration within the organisation. Particular attention is given to gender equality, as evidenced by the UNI/PdR 125:2022 certification, which was achieved and maintained. Women hold 33% of Board of Directors positions, representing an overall gender pay gap of 8.3%, an improvement over the 9.0% recorded in 2023. This result, which stands out positively compared to national averages (over 20%) and the broader European context (13%), demonstrates the company’s concrete commitment to promoting equity and constantly monitoring any gender-related differences.

Governance and transparency

In 2024, Rhea strengthened its sustainability governance system by establishing an ESG Committee, coordinated by Stefano Macchi, Chief Sustainability Officer. Its task is to monitor the implementation of the plan and ensure alignment between strategy, objectives, and results.

The Group has a Code of Ethics and a whistleblowing system that allows employees and collaborators to report any irregular behaviour confidentially and safely. These tools represent a fundamental safeguard of corporate conduct, helping mitigate reputational and legal risks.

“The 2024 Sustainability Report is tangible confirmation of our determination to anticipate regulatory developments and consolidate a corporate culture based on ethics, transparency, and sustainable innovation,” adds Stefano Macchi. “Being a community that promotes people’s well-being is our shared goal. Through our work, our products, and our choices, we want to contribute to spreading a more sustainable lifestyle.”

Social responsibility

Rhea has always considered its social obligations in the territories where it operates to be central. The belief that no solid and lasting growth can exist without the well-being of local communities has guided the company in developing concrete initiatives aligned with its values and capable of generating a positive impact.

Over the years, Rhea has built a synergistic relationship with the local social fabric, supporting organisations that promote inclusion, culture, sports, solidarity, and care. This commitment is now undergoing a process of strategic evolution, aimed at bringing all initiatives together under a single set of values and identity, with the goal of structuring a coherent and recognisable strategy for giving back to the community, both locally and internationally.

A commitment to the future

With the 2024 Sustainability Report, Rhea strengthens and expands its commitment to increasingly responsible and innovative growth. This is an ongoing journey, guided by the belief that sustainability and people’s well-being are the foundations of a shared and lasting future.

The 2024 Sustainability Report is available on Rhea’s website here.

About Rhea

Rhea, founded by Aldo Doglioni Majer in 1960, is one of the largest producers of automatic machines for coffee breaks in the world. For over sixty years, Rhea has stood out for its wide international reach, high-level design, state-of-the-art technology, and ‘Made in Italy’ excellence. With headquarters and manufacturing based in the province of Varese and foreign branches in 10 countries, Rhea is proud of having spread coffee break culture to over 100 countries around the world.

From a global player in vending to a pioneer in the introduction of vending to the new retail, hospitality and out-of-home sectors, Rhea confirms its mission to interpret and often anticipate a constantly evolving market.

Rhea’s new proposals revolutionize the very concept of hospitality, both in business and domestic contexts, with a value proposition that improves the coffee break moment.

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With reference to the Group’s performance on 30 September 2025, the main economic and financial results were the following:

• Consolidated Revenues: Euro 2 million, +6.1% from Euro 542.9 million on 30 September 2024.
• EBITDA reported: Euro 7 million (-9.0%). EBITDA Adjusted: Euro 76.4 million (-8.3%).
• Consolidated Adjusted Net Profit (before minorities): Euro -0.8
• Net Financial Debt equal to Euro 495.4 million (including Euro 121.8 million debt related to IFRS 16 and excluding Euro 12.6 million VAT credit) after payment for net fixed investments of Euro 25.6 million and Euro 6.4 million for
• In 2025 were completed 11 acquisitions to date, for a value of Euro 14.3 million and pro-rata contribution to sales of Euro 13.2 million.

Sales increased in all the group’s divisions: Vending (+4.7%), Resale (+7.4%), Ho.re.ca. (+20.5%), Coin (+13.9%).

Operating margins grew in all business areas, except in vending, that see an EBITDA decrease in Italy, Spain, and Other European Markets, but increased in France. Vending results were affected by volumes decrease (-0.8% the total number of vends, net of the acquisitions contribution), by the increase in the cost of goods sold, still strong, and readvances, only in part compensated by the increase of the average selling price per vend (+5.6% at Euro 57.62 cents).

With reference to the vending performance, it should be noted that the first nine months of 2025 include 2.5 fewer working days compared to the same period in 2024. The consequent lower volumes result in a reduction in profitability of 1.4%.

Moreover, in this scenario, all major coffee roasters have increased their prices, with an effect, compared to the corresponding period in 2024, of around Euro 5.5 million on a like-for-like volume basis, corresponding to a decrease in the EBITDA margin of the vending division of 1.3%.

The net result was also influenced by higher depreciations and amortizations (+5.3 million Euro compared to 30 September 2024). Capex in fixed assets in the period were Euro 47,8 million, slightly increased from the previous year.

Prospects for the year

Overall weak industrial production and consumptions in working places are currently recovered only in part by the good trend in travel locations, linked to tourism flows, while the increase in the cost of food and beverage raw materials continued, much higher than inflation, and is gradually recovered through a rolling work to increase sales prices.

In front of unfavourable market trends, the group intensified the effort to optimise its organisation and operations, as it is confirmed by the progressive improvement of the main performance indexes (KPI), that impact, in its turn, on economic results. The policy of industrial investments and acquisitions, according to the group European strategy, is going ahead.

The Board of Directors also resolved to approve the following Corporate Calendar for 2026.

• Thursday, March 26^th, 2026: board of directors to review and approve the Annual Report 2025 draft
• Thursday, May 14^th, 2026: board of directors to review and approve the interim report as of March 31^st,2026
• Thursday, June 25^th, 2025: general shareholders meeting to approve the Annual Report 2025
• Thursday, September 10^th, 2026: board of directors to review and approve the Half Yearly Report as of June 30^th,2026
• Thursday, November 12^th, 2025: board of directors to review and approve the interim report as of September 30^th,2026

About IVS Group

IVS Group S.A. is the Italian leader and the second player in Europe in the business of automatic and semi-automatic vending machines for the supply of hot and cold drinks and snacks (vending).

The vending business is mainly carried out in Italy (around 77% of total sales), France, Germany, Poland, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland, with around 273,400 vending machines, a network of 140 branches and around 4,600 employees. IVS Group served more than 15,000 corporate clients and public entities, with more than 980 million vends in 2024.

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The trade show, taking place for the first time at the modern Rimini Expo Centre thanks to the strategic partnership between CONFIDA – the Italian Vending Association – and Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), one of Europe’s leading exhibition organizers, already confirms six months in advance its role as an international platform and the leading European event for the vending industry.

As of today, more than 50% of the exhibition spaces are already occupied, and foreign exhibitors account for 41% of the total—a record for the event.

This is a significant response for a sector that, in Europe in 2024, generated €26.4 billion in revenue, with 4.5 million machines installed and 34.5 billion products sold.

Venditalia will be the perfect opportunity to showcase the ecosystem that brings together all the key players in the vending supply chain: technology manufacturers, operators, product suppliers, and stakeholders, creating real business and networking opportunities through a program of conferences and workshops (including sessions in English) on the most relevant topics in the vending industry.

Never before has the vending sector experienced such a technological acceleration, impacting the entire value chain: from machine design to remote management, digital payments, and customer experience.

At Venditalia 2026, SmartLink will make its world premiere—the new communication protocol between vending machines, payment systems, and management software, promoted by the European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA). The goal is to create a more connected, efficient system that is ready for the future.

“The vending sector is undergoing a true ‘Digital Revolution,’”- explains Ernesto Piloni, CEO of Venditalia – “With connectivity, a vending machine can be managed remotely, adjusting settings and parameters in real time and analysing big data. The integration of AI will make many processes more efficient. And let’s not forget consumer-facing innovations: from touchscreens to cashless digital payment systems, and the rapidly growing payment apps—33% of the more than 800,000 vending machines installed across Italy are equipped with them, and for 1 in 4 consumers, it’s the preferred payment method. Vending technology also has exceptional potential beyond the traditional channel: it can provide 24/7 service in multiple sectors, from retail to hospitality.”

“Venditalia is a prestigious showcase for Made in Italy foodtech innovation,” – continues Marco Cecchini, President of Venditalia – “Thanks to the partnership between Italian Exhibition Group and CONFIDA—which enriches IEG’s already extensive portfolio of out-of-home trade shows—the event will now benefit from a dynamic, international setting that will broaden its audience of exhibitors and visitors, strengthening its presence both in Italy and worldwide.”

 New consumption models will take center stage in this edition, under the claim “Think Automatic”: vending machines are entering unconventional spaces (from coworking hubs to smart hotels, from equipped camper areas to retail) to diversify, expand, and differentiate the offering in non-food sectors (fashion, tech, personal care, health & pharma), going beyond traditional vending.

An exhibition area will be dedicated to emerging products and technologies from start-ups and young entrepreneurial ventures, both Italian and international, while workshops on trends and innovations in the vending sector will complete the program.

Find out more at www.venditalia.com

How to reach the trade show

Rimini Expo Centre, one of the most modern in Europe for technology and services, is easily accessible thanks to an efficient network of national and international connections:

• By plane: Bologna International Airport, just 60 minutes away, is connected by a comprehensive free shuttle bus service.
• By train: a high-speed railway station inside the exhibition center (“Rimini Fiera,” opposite the SOUTH entrance) connects major Italian cities: Florence (2h), Milan (2h30), Rome (3h30).
• By car: A14 highway, exit at Rimini Sud (7 km) or Rimini Nord (6 km).
• Parking: around 11,000 parking spaces available near the three entrances, connected by a shuttle service.
• Rimini Expo Centre is located at Via Emilia 155. The entrance dedicated to Venditalia will be the SOUTH entrance.
• The Expo Centre is just 10 minutes from Rimini city center and the seaside, where you’ll find a wide range of hotels offering competitive rates all year round.
• Several buses connect the city to the exhibition district and stop in front of the SOUTH entrance.
• Many hotels provide shuttle bus services to and from the e\xhibition center during trade show periods.

About Vending Expo

A company jointly owned by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), one of Europe’s leading exhibition organizers, with a portfolio of over 60 events (including Sigep, Ecomondo, RiminiWellness) and a strong presence in major international markets, and CONFIDA, the only trade association representing the various product sectors across the entire food and beverage vending supply chain.

It is a member of Confcommercio – Enterprises for Italy and, within the EU, a partner of EVA (European Vending & Coffee Service Association).

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The Japanese food giant Ajinomoto’s conscious brand Atlr.72 proposes a new food lifestyle that contributes to a better future for people and the planet through food, responding to consumers’ growing demand for healthy and sustainable products.

This October, Atlr.72 is expanding with GRe:en Drop Coffee, a rich, dairy-free ice latte that combines delicious, deep flavour with sustainable ingredients. GRe:en Drop Coffee combines regular coffee with bean less coffee produced from broken rice and chickpeas (blending ratio: coffee 70%, bean less coffee 30%), reducing the environmental impact of coffee (for ¼ reduction in CO2 emissions) without compromising its deliciousness.

The dairy-free ice latte is made with oat drink and Solein, which gives the coffee rich creaminess and deep, round flavour. GRe:en Drop Coffee is available in Singapore for a limited edition one-week preview starting from October 27.

“Solar Foods and Ajinomoto started a strategic product development partnership already in 2023, and we are very excited to support them when they innovate products to consumers, answering the demand for healthier and more environmentally friendly products. The Atlr.72 products showcase Solein’s versatility from replacing dairy or egg yolk to being a nutritious protein ingredient. Solein brings superior nutritional values, taste, and functionality, with minimal environmental impact”, says Juan Benitez Garcia, Chief Sales Officer of Solar Foods.

Having previously developed sweet products, the brand is now expanding to beverages. Ajinomoto plans to expand Atlr.72 further into daily meals and other food categories, aiming to provide a food experience that allows people to enjoy eating while contributing to a better future for the environment around the world.

The first limited-edition products of Atlr.72, Flowering Mooncakes and Ice Cream Sandwiches, both powered by Solein, were launched in September 2024. Earlier this year, Ajinomoto launched the Atlr.72 Flowering Ice Cream, which has received great feedback from customers. The ice cream is available in Singapore in three flavours, all powered by Solein. Ajinomoto’s Solein-powered products were also available in the summer during the World Aquatics Championships – Singapore 2025.

Solein cream combines rich consistency with a protein boost

Extremely versatile, Solein can replace traditional proteins in virtually any food. It excels as a protein ingredient in health & performance nutrition products like protein shakes, drinks and snacks, but it can also be used to replace egg yolk and dairy. Mixed with vegetable oil and water – the same elements as in traditional cream – Solein turns into Solein cream, a very versatile application which can be used just like regular cream in cooking and baking and in products ranging from smoothies and ice cream to coffees. Solein cream brings rich and creamy consistency and flavour, adding a protein boost at the same time.

“The demand for non-dairy coffee creamers has increased significantly. Solein cream brings rich, indulgent consistency and deep, round flavour for coffee, adding a protein boost at the same time. We are thrilled that consumers in Singapore will get to taste GRe:en Drop Coffee and see how Solein can transform their coffee experience”, Benitez-Garcia says.

What is Solein?

Solein is an all-purpose protein grown with the air we breathe: The unique bioprocess takes a single microbe, one of the billion different ones found in nature, and grows it by fermenting it using air and electricity. Solein is a nutritionally rich and versatile ingredient which can replace protein virtually in any food. Solein can also be used as a fortifier to complement the nutritional profile of various foods: it can be a source of iron, fibre and B vitamins, and it can also bring different techno-functionalities into food products. Learn more at www.solein.com.

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“This award celebrates the people who define our industry’s standards of excellence, leaders whose innovation and integrity inspire others to aim higher,” said Carla Balakgie, president and CEO of NAMA. “Jim embodies that spirit. His contributions have left a lasting imprint on coffee service and on the many professionals who have followed his example.”

With a career spanning decades, Jim Carbone has shaped nearly every facet of convenience services, from his start in the family vending business to founding companies that redefined how coffee is distributed, served, and experienced.

He played a key role in expanding the craft coffee movement within corporate and hospitality sectors.

Through his founding of Tradecraft Outfitters, he connected small-batch roasters with major clients such as Google and Yelp, raising the bar for workplace and hospitality coffee programs across the nation.

At WithMe, Inc., the company behind PrintWithMe and SipWithMe, he now advances the seamless delivery of barista-quality coffee with technology-driven systems in modern living spaces.

Beyond these business achievements, he has served on the NAMA Board of Directors, the NAMA Foundation Board, and the Illinois Automatic Merchandising Council Board, shaping policies and education in support of industry growth.

Jim Carbone will be honored at CTW 2025, taking place Nov. 4-5 in Miami, Florida. To register, visit namactw.org.

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The same system can also be applied to OCS machines, making life easier in the office environment.

The result: a smoother, more aromatic coffee experience, and a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

What changes:

• Goodbye to stirrers and sugar packets: significant reduction in waste and single-use plastic consumption.

• Precise dosing: the right amount of beverage, every time.

• Food safety: materials compliant with regulations ensure high hygiene standards.

Key Benefits:

• Environmental sustainability: drastic reduction in plastic waste.

• Operational efficiency: lower maintenance and reduced waste management costs.

• Customization: ability to dispense different sweetened beverages with adjustable doses.

• Hygiene and safety: controlled dispensing minimizes contact and contamination risks.

• Enhanced brand image: ideal for shopping centers, university campuses, and vending chains focused on sustainability and ESG goals.

Looking ahead:

Adopting stirrer-free patent pending systems could set a new industry standard, paving the way for innovation in design, materials, and system interoperability.

A strong focus on product lifecycle and traceability maximizes both environmental and economic benefits.

Visit the company for an exclusive preview, hands-on innovations, and surprises.  The brand will be waiting for you at Hall 8, Stand E53.

The post Ilinvest by Nova presents a high value-added solution at HostMilano 2025: the patent pending system that eliminates plastic stirrers appeared first on Comunicaffe International.

The launch stems from the unique strengths each partner brings to the table. Station Agro-Biotech leads product development and production using its cutting-edge facilities, the only ones of their kind in Canada. Second Cup, part of the Foodtastic group, contributes its premium coffee expertise and strong brand recognition. Meanwhile, Labatt Breweries of Canada harnesses its extensive distribution network and innovative BEES digital platform to ensure these products reach consumers on a large scale.

Products Highlights

• 90 mg of caffeine per can
• Made with Canadian cow’s milk for a creamier texture
• Gluten-free and preservative-free
• Minimal ingredients
• Starting at 17g of sugar (varies by flavour)

Designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life, these ready-to-drink lattes offer a local alternative to major American brands. Perfect for office breaks, road trips, study sessions, or moments shared with friends.

“At Second Cup, our promise is simple : to offer premium-quality coffee. With this new product line, we’re bringing our expertise into a convenient, indulgent format that will be part of Quebecers’ everyday lives,” said Francis Turcotte, Senior Vice President, Business Development, Foodtastic Group

“We’re excited to launch these new cold brew lattes in collaboration with Station Agro-Biotech and Second Cup. This product comes at a pivotal moment, as ready-to-drink coffee continues to win over more and more consumers. With our distribution network and BEES platform, we’re proud to make a product that reflects local expertise available across Quebec,” said Marc-Olivier Bourgeois, Vice President Quebec, Labatt Breweries of Canada

“This project is a perfect example of the strength of Quebec innovation! Thanks to our continuous canning process autoclave – a one-of-a-kind piece of equipment in Canada, located right here in Saint-Hyacinthe – we are proud to have developed a product that stands out for its quality and showcases local ingredients. Together, we’re proving that it’s possible to innovate locally while meeting evolving consumer habits,” said Patrick Simard, Chief Operating Officer, Station Agro-Biotech

About Second Cup / Foodtastic

Founded in 1975, Second Cup is an iconic Canadian brand specializing in quality coffee, recognized for its expertise, unique recipes, and commitment to an exceptional customer experience. With a presence in Quebec spanning several decades, Second Cup has established itself as a benchmark for coffee lovers, focusing on carefully selected beans and passionately prepared beverages.

Since 2021, Second Cup has been part of the Foodtastic group, a Quebec-based foodservice leader that includes more than 27 brands and over 1,200 restaurants in Canada and internationally. This partnership allows Second Cup to pursue its mission: to offer superior, innovative products tailored to the tastes of today’s consumers.

About Labatt Breweries of Canada

Labatt Breweries of Canada is one of Canada’s most established companies and one of the country’s leading beverage companies, with more than 3,600 employees, an unrivaled portfolio of over 60 quality beers, ready-to-drink and non-alcoholic products, and six core breweries and four craft breweries from coast to coast.

Our employees are the driving force behind our company, brewing some of the world’s most loved beverages, building iconic brands, and creating enriching experiences for Canadians. With 178 years of brewing excellence behind us, we’re always looking to deliver new ways to experience life’s moments, dreaming big to advance our industry, and making a meaningful impact on our communities through our collective purpose of creating a brighter future.

About Station Agro-Biotech

Located in the heart of Saint-Hyacinthe’s City of Agri-Environmental Biotechnology, Station Agro-Biotech is a Quebec company specializing in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of innovative alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. With facilities unique in Canada, state-of-the-art equipment, and its own research and development laboratory, it focuses primarily on creating distinctive products, from formulation to marketing, placing innovation at the heart of its process.

Recognized for its avant-garde approach and its ability to produce on a large scale while maintaining high quality standards, Station Agro-Biotech stands out for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the promotion of local ingredients. It brings together several leading companies under one roof, including NOROI Distillery, Le Bilboquet microbrewery, and Trema Café.

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“I am honored to join NAMA at such a pivotal moment for the U.S. convenience services industry,” said incoming President & CEO Christine Cochran. “With more than 165,000 jobs supported and 40 million consumers served daily, this industry plays a critical role in delivering accessible nutrition and innovative solutions to people at work and on the go. I look forward to collaborating with the NAMA Board, members, stakeholders, and staff to build on this strong foundation and support the industry’s continued evolution as convenience services operators provide an ever-increasing range of custom solutions.”

Cochran is a strategic leader of membership organizations with a deep knowledge of nutrition and a proven track record in advocacy, coalition-building and strategic planning. She joins NAMA after serving as President & CEO of SNAC International since 2022. Previously, she served as Executive Director of the Grain Foods Foundation and was President of the Commodity Markets Council. She holds a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center and a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Missouri.

“Christine has consistently demonstrated strategic vision, operational expertise, and a focus on growth. Her track record makes her the right leader to guide NAMA forward. I’m eager to partner with Christine to advance the industry as she focuses on delivering high-impact programs and services for our members,” said NAMA Chair, search committee Chairman, and owner of Moran Refreshments Patrick Moran. “I’m also deeply grateful for Carla Balakgie’s impactful and enduring leadership and dedicated NAMA service.”

“Christine brings a deep knowledge of Consumer Packaged Goods, food and nutrition to NAMA. Her background in food manufacturing and related regulatory issues ensures NAMA will continue to protect the industry while growing association programs and services,” said NAMA Chair Elect, search committee member, and Vice President of Field and Account Sales and Equipment Commercialization and Service for Nestlé Professional Solutions Michael Schwartz.

To ensure a seamless transition, Cochran will join NAMA on December 2, 2025, while Balakgie remains with NAMA through the end of 2025.

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Developed in partnership with UK-based manufacturer Regency, the new board material, known as the Nestlé Recycled Plastic Coffee Board, replaces older designs made from MDF, plastic and other virgin materials. The boards are solely made from Nestlé waste materials, and they are unique to Nestlé.

This innovation supports the company’s packaging and waste reduction commitments and significantly reduces emissions

Initially the organisation moved to a UK-sourced unit board material called “Regency Plastic Board” and made from 90% recycled materials, including coffee grounds.

Quantis for Regency conducted a 2018 Life Cycle Assessment which showed that in comparison to the previous Melamine Faced Chipboard (MFC) and MDF panels, these new panels generated 70% less carbon emissions, if used five times.

However, the team wanted to challenge themselves further and had a vision for a closed loop solution that would use Nestlé’s own surplus materials to make the panels.

The new design can be refurbished and reused up to five times, reinforcing a closed-loop approach

To date approximately 200 units of both the 90% and fully recycled panels have been implemented.

Beyond materials, the move has streamlined the supply chain. Five separate distribution stages have been removed, cutting lead times from up to 12 weeks to just 10 days.

Smaller design touches are also getting an update. Condiment holders, once made from plastic, are now crafted using coffee grounds, adding another layer of circular thinking.

This innovation is already sparking interest beyond the UK. Other Nestlé markets are now looking to replicate this initiative, opening the door for greater impact across the global business.

In recognition of this pioneering approach to circular design and emissions reduction, Nestlé Professional was named the winner at both the 2025 Footprint Award in the Waste Prevention and Waste Management category and the Best Closed Loop Project Award at the 2024 waste2zero Awards. These industry accolades highlight the impact and scalability of the Nescafé self-serve unit project in driving more sustainable practices in foodservice.

Stuart Fleming, Trade Asset Manager UK & Ireland, Nestlé Professional, said:

“I feel we should all be doing what we can to support the environment and sustainability. Despite it not being my role or responsibility, I wanted to see if I could introduce a better solution to house our coffee machines. It’s been fantastic seeing this closed loop solution come to life, where we can now transform our own waste into purpose-built furniture. It’s a very proud moment for our team, business and wider community.”

Julia Jones, head of corporate communications and sustainability, Nestlé Professional, said:

“What I love about this initiative is that the idea came from someone in the business who doesn’t work on sustainability at all. It demonstrates how anyone can drive sustainability action and support our customers on their sustainability journey.”

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