The Future (and Beauty) of... Vending Machines!

…and other remarkable dispensing units. 10 of the most innovative vending machines, concepts and campaigns.

1. Facial Recognition

• Targeted ads are personalised uniquely for each demographic as they approach.
• Data is collected while the user is at the looking at the digital display regarding what type of content grabs their attention.
• 65 inch HD transparent LCD touchscreen.

This is currently still in development, so watch this space! More info from TechCrunch.

2. NFC Payment

• No more rooting around in pockets for change, a swift tap will confirm the user's payment.
• Will work with NFC enabled phones that have a virtual wallet, meaning expenses can be tracked.

The consumer adoption rate for this technology is minimal so vending machines implementing this payment option may not see a return... at least for a while!

3. Sponsored WiFi

• Brands benefit from the higher dwell time with an increased exposure to their product or advert.
• Location-specific information is delivered to the WiFi user's mobile device.
• Users are able to browse incredible sites, like jcdecaux-oneworld.com, for free within the 50m radius.

Over the next 5 years, Asahi plan to install 10,000 units across Japan.

4. Pepsi Social Vending

• Users can send a free drink voucher to a friend along with a video message.
• Interactive digital touch screen enables the user to learn about the product.

More info on Mashable.

5. Reuse and Recycle: Swap-O-Matic

• It's environmentally friendly, fun and original.
• Users are incentivised to donate and swap with credits.

The goal of this project is to promote a shift in culture away from an emphasis on unconscious consumption towards a more sustainable way of life through reusing and trading. More info on the Swap-O-Matic website.

6. JCDecaux Australia: Fruche Yoghurt - Text to Dispense

• The dispensing mechanism is triggered when a passer-by sends a text message to the number on the panel.

7. JCDecaux Cityscape: Olympus Giant Dispenser

• Free gifts were dispensed during happy hours.

8. Age Detecting Jell-o Dispenser

• Facial recognition software assessed the user's age and only dispensed to adults.
• The brand's age-appropriate message was reinforced effectively the more it was used.

9. Coca-Cola Happiness Machine

• 'Users' received free drinks and gifts.
• Coca-Cola received a lot of publicity from the video being shared online.

To follow up, Coca-Cola took the Happiness Machine on the road in a Happiness Truck.

10. Warm Baguette Dispenser

• Just baguettes, what else could you need?
• Fresh baguettes are available 24-hours a day.

For more information and ideas on how to vending machine technology can be applied to the out-of-home environment, contact Antoine.Letertre@JCDecaux.co.uk