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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Award?
The Readers’ Choice Product of the Year Awards and our new Industry Innovation Honors recognize the most innovative new products, equipment, technology and services shaping the convenience services industry. The program highlights innovations across vending, micro markets, office coffee service and unattended retail, with winners selected through industry voting and editorial review.
Industry Innovation Honors are selected by the editorial team at Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com in consultation with industry experts based on innovation, industry impact and relevance to convenience services operators. Companies can nominate their entries for the Industry Innovation Awards as part of the submission process.
Who should enter?
Entries are welcome from companies serving the convenience services industry, including: Food and beverage manufacturers, office coffee service suppliers, equipment manufacturers, technology providers, service providers supporting operators, products and services designed for vending, micro markets, office coffee service, pantry programs or autonomous retail environments are eligible.
How many products can I enter?
Companies can submit multiple entries for the Readers’ Choice Product of the Year Awards. Each product or service is eligible in only one category. Please submit a separate entry for each product or service you would like to enter.
How should I decide what category the product fits?
Enter your product in the category that best reflects its primary use in convenience services operations.
- Convenience foods- Packaged or prepared foods sold through vending, micro markets or other unattended retail channels.
- Beverages- Packaged drinks sold in vending machines, coolers or micro markets.
- OCS and water- Products designed specifically for office coffee service or workplace hydration programs, including brewers, water systems and beverage ingredients such as creamers and syrups.
- Equipment- Physical retail hardware installed in locations, including vending machines, smart coolers, micro market fixtures and autonomous retail units.
- Technology- Software platforms or digital systems used to operate and manage convenience services businesses.
- Tools and accessories- Operational tools and physical accessories that support delivery, merchandising, sanitation and day-to-day operations.
- Business development- Services and platforms that help operators grow their business, generate leads or strengthen customer engagement.
Who selects the winners?
Readers’ Choice category winners are determined through reader voting.
Industry Innovation Honors are selected by the editorial team in consultation with industry experts at Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com based on innovation, industry impact and relevance to convenience services operators.