What began as a single smart cooler has evolved into a fully modular smart store ecosystem, giving operators unprecedented flexibility, scalability, and revenue potential.

In this episode of Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch’s Vending & OCS Nation podcast, presented in cooperation with 365 Retail Markets, host Bob Tullio interviews Michael Wood, manager of product management at 365 Retail Markets, to explore how his company is transforming unattended retail.

From frictionless shopping experiences to AI-powered personalization, this conversation dives deep into where smart store technology is today and where it’s headed next. Key aspects of the conversation include:

• From vending to vision: Traditional vending limitations are giving way to seamless, camera-powered retail experiences.
• Modular flexibility: Operators can build custom store formats using ambient, refrigerated, and freezer units.
• Frictionless shopping: No scanning, no checkout, just tap, grab, and go.
• VisionLink innovation: Multiple units connect into one seamless shopping journey, increasing basket size and convenience.
• New growth locations: Hotels, airports, campuses, and semi-public spaces are driving expansion.
• AI-powered future: Expect faster transactions, personalized experiences, and remote store management through digital twins.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone exploring unattended retail technology – especially if they are attending the NAMA Show in Los Angeles later this month, where the 365 Retail Markets exhibit is a must-see.

Patrick McGinty of VendVue is offering a compelling proposition to convenience services operators: a fully outsourced, end-to-end sales solution. From prospecting to closing, VendVue manages the entire sales process, allowing operators to focus on what they do best — execution, not business development. In this episode of the Vending & OCS Nation podcast, presented by Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com, in cooperation with VendVue, Patrick McGinty addresses a critical question: Why are some operators hesitant to embrace a program that others view as a “no-brainer”? In a conversation with podcast host Bob Tullio, McGinty breaks down the program in detail, explaining how VendVue’s approach can significantly lower acquisition costs while removing the burden of building and managing a traditional sales infrastructure. He also introduces VendVue’s newly customized growth programs, designed to meet operators wherever they are in their growth journey.

Importantly, VendVue is already seeing real, measurable success on both sides of the equation:

• Operators are onboarding high quality accounts and accelerating growth.
• Locations are benefiting from dedicated, service-driven operators better aligned with their needs.

VendVue’s always-on sales engine is generating a steady stream of opportunities — so much so that in certain markets, more accounts are being landed than there are operator partners currently participating in the program.

Ultimately, this episode is about more than a sales solution. It’s about rethinking how growth can happen without the high cost and complexity of marketing, advertising, SEO, website optimization, sales training, sales management, and ongoing commissions. Looking ahead, McGinty’s immediate goal is relationship-driven. “I will be walking the floor at NAMA, looking to build relationships with operators of all sizes. I will be inviting operators to join our network, not to sign up on the spot, but to start a conversation and understand the types of accounts you’re looking for. When those opportunities in your market present themselves, you’re the first person I call.” He added, “I’m looking to connect with operators to explore how you can take advantage of our ecosystem to grow your business at a pace that makes sense for you. Let’s connect at the NAMA Show and build something together.”

To learn more or schedule a meeting, visit vendvuepartner.com or contact Patrick McGinty directly at 216-393-0733.

The convenience services industry is gearing up for one of its most important annual gatherings, as the NAMA Show 2026 takes over Los Angeles from April 22–24. Hosted in and around the Los Angeles Convention Center with a strategic footprint extending into LA Live, this year’s event promises to be more immersive and impactful than ever. In this episode, presented in cooperation with NAMA, host Bob Tullio is joined by Kristen Griffith and Eric Rochon Larson of NAMA, along with operator Ryan Harrington of Royal ReFresh, to break down why this show is a can’t-miss experience for operators, suppliers, and industry leaders alike. A major theme throughout the conversation is growth and momentum. With more than 135 new exhibiting companies and expanded product zones, the 2026 show reflects an industry evolving rapidly through innovation, technology, and new business models. Attendees can expect hands-on access to cutting-edge products, real-world demonstrations, and the ability to compare solutions side by side. Education and community also take center stage this year, with targeted programming designed to deliver value across experience levels. Highlights include Small Operator Friday, a dedicated newcomers’ orientation, and a wide range of focused educational sessions. Special features like Imagination Way, curated show floor tours, and the operator lounge are designed to foster both learning and meaningful connections. Pre-conference tours to innovative locations such as Gaviña Coffee Company and Sony Pictures Entertainment Studios add another layer of insight, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at operational excellence and emerging trends. The episode also underscores the importance of planning to maximize return on investment. From leveraging the event app to scheduling meetings in advance, the guests share practical strategies to help attendees make the most of their time. The show’s headline moments, including an interview with acclaimed filmmaker Ron Howard and the industry awards, round out an experience that blends inspiration with actionable insights.

Aaron Lawton used “books on tape” to enter the world of real estate investing. While doing that, he was a vending route driver, starting early and tending to his rental property in the afternoon. Ultimately, he decided that he hated real estate but loved the vending business. In this episode of Automatic Merchandiser & VendingMarketWatch's Vending & OCS Nation podcast, Aaron Lawton from Oasis Break Room Services sits down with podcast host Bob Tullio and shares how deliberate design and thoughtful amenities can turn break spaces into vibrant community hubs that attract and retain top talent. He strives to create a "heart of the workplace" atmosphere. Lawton is focused on turning traditional break room spaces into intentional venues that become a culture hub and a tool for HR directors – promoting onboarding, employee happiness and ultimately, retention. He loves the convenience services business and especially the interaction with clients and end users at all ends of the spectrum. As a listener, you will find his enthusiasm for what his company does and his commitment to an intentional approach to be contagious. It’s a big reason why Oasis Breakroom Services is a success.

We talk a lot about sales on Automatic Merchandiser’s Vending & OCS Nation. This time, we shift gears and tackle something that may be even more important: customer service.

In this episode, host Bob Tullio sat down with Brian Wolfe, vice president of global customer service at Harman International and the leader behind JBL’s global customer experience operation, to talk about what really separates average service from a true competitive advantage. Together, they dig into three fundamentals every operator should be thinking about right now:

• Empowering your frontline team
• Being proactive instead of reactive
• Responding with speed

Along the way, Bob shares a personal story about a closet remodel gone sideways — because everyday frustrations are often the best business lessons. When sales oversell, when service says “there’s nothing I can do,” when response times drag on — that’s when loyalty is won or lost.

If you’re building a dedicated customer service team, trying to free your salespeople from client maintenance work, or simply looking to reduce churn and protect long-term revenue, this episode delivers practical takeaways you can apply immediately.

Because in our business, customer service isn’t a department. It’s your reputation.

She is an industry veteran turned consultant. Tammy Stokes has plenty of advice to offer operators and suppliers, old and new, developed over the years in multiple roles. On this episode of Automatic Merchandiser & VendingMarketWatch’s Vending & OCS Nation podcast, host Bob Tullio sat down with Tammy Stokes, president of Insight Edge Performance. It’s another edition of our consultant series.

She offers some useful free advice for operators, including:

• What to think about as you are building your sales force.
• The importance of being relentless when it comes to important initiatives.
• How to get the best out of your sales reps.
• The importance of becoming connected with the community, utilizing a cause marketing program.
• She offers her recommendations for operator success in 2026.
• She talks about what workplace decision makers are looking for.
• How small operators can level the playing field and how large operators should respond.
• “Study your products. Study your customers. Study your competition.”

For newcomers or long-time operators, Stokes offers some excellent insights — some hearty “food for thought.”

In an interview with Automatic Merchandiser's Vending & OCS Nation podcast host Bob Tullio, John Hickey, CEO of Tech 2 Success, shares the journey of starting his company, the challenges faced in the tech industry, and the importance of cybersecurity for small businesses.

He discusses the future priorities for Tech 2 Success and the role of technology as a problem-solving tool, sharing success stories and the positive results that come from working with Tech 2 Success. He also suggests a practical approach to adopting technology, even for a company far behind in technology. Tullio said the cybersecurity part of the conversation got his full attention, and if you are an operator, you need to hear this. Hickey has cybersecurity answers that can help an operator sleep better at night.

What makes Orrin Huebner a leading convenience services consultant? It’s the sheer range of hats he’s worn over his career. From the warehouse to the executive suite, Orrin has seen the industry from every possible angle, giving him a 360-degree perspective that benefits operators of all sizes.

In this episode of Automatic Merchandiser & VendingMarketWatch's Vending & OCS Nation podcast - Bob Tullio talks to Orrin Huebner, who offers multiple proven business strategies for 2026. From using AI to drive your business - to account retention - to the importance of building your brand - to storytelling, Huebner delivers ideas that will bring measurable results.

This continuation of our 2026 "Consultant Series" brings a guest who truly 'checks all the boxes.' Get ready for some high-level, free advice from one of the most knowledgeable names in the business – Orrin Huebner.