By Gillian White, Interim CEO, the AVA
Following the announcement last week regarding Jonathan Hilder’s decision to leave the AVA, I wanted to introduce myself to AVA members. Firstly, however, I would like to thank Jonathan personally for all his work in the last 5 years; he leaves a heritage on which we can continue to build and I wish him continued success in his new business ventures.
I have worked in the industry for around 20 years and, as you may know, I have been serving on the AVA Board since 2011, latterly as the European Representative. I am delighted to be in the role as part-time, interim CEO and am very much looking forward to working with you all during my tenure.
You, the Membership of the AVA, is at the heart of everything we do. The AVA has a fantastic team based at Wycombe and our role is to develop, protect and promote the Vending Industry at every opportunity. The team can help you as follows:
Ann Goldsmith All things financial – subscriptions, payments etc: ann@ava-vending.co.uk
Rosie Mills: Everything AVEX and general enquiries : rosie@ava-vending.co.uk
Niki Graske: Business Events and general membership enquiries: niki@ava-vending.co.uk
Steve Collins: Quality, Audits and field related issues: steve@ava-vending.co.uk
Mike Saltmarsh: Techical and Scientific advisor : mike@inglehurst.co.uk
For everything else, please feel free to contact me: gillian@ava-vending.co.uk
Arguably, there has never been a better time for the vending industry. Busy consumers, leading 24/7 lives ,want quality snacks and drinks whereverthey are, whatever the time. The thirst for technology has never been greater and vending deserves to be front and centre of that technological refreshment provision. Yes, we still have a tough economic environment but AVA members represent the very best in the industry and by striving to deliver excellence every day in every situation, we can ensure that our industry is vibrant, relevant and exciting.
The AVA has much to do and we are listening. My door is an open one and I look forward to meeting you over the course of the next few months; at AVA Business Events or, by invitation, to your industry focused meetings across the country.
I am privileged to have a great team in Wycombe, a well-connected Board but above all YOU, the members of the AVA. Thank you for your ongoing support.
