ARN : How we became the wholesaler for vending’s growing Health and Fitness market

All the goss, from Gordon

Hello again

Love and marriage go together like a horse and carriage, but healthy refreshments and vending machines… You’re having a laugh, aren’t you?

Well actually, we’re dead serious. The UK is experiencing a significant rise in healthy product offerings within vending machines. This phenomenon is being driven by an increase in consumer demand for nutritious and convenient options and it’s reshaping the vending machine landscape. Operators are increasingly stocking healthier choices like protein bars, sports nutrition, and ‘free from’ snacks, and this is not about virtue signalling, it’s about reacting to the demands of a more health-conscious public.

People are far more mindful about what they eat and drink—especially in health-focused environments where performance, recovery, and wellbeing are front of mind.

This shift in habits has changed what customers look for when they grab a quick bite or a drink. It’s no longer just about crisps and fizzy pop: today’s gym-goers and active individuals are seeking high-protein snacks, functional drinks, and better-for-you options that still hit the spot.

At Automatic Retailing, we’re all over this shift in social morés because we understood from the off what UK consumers are really reaching for. We are the wholesaler for the health and fitness market.

Let’s break it down: protein and nutrition products continue to be some of the strongest performers, especially in high-footfall fitness centres and health-focused venues. The products below are a small and, frankly, a pretty random selection chosen from our extensive list of popular healthier eating and drinking. All of them offer great taste, strong brand recognition and consistent sales across active environments – and they all come in vending-ready formats that are easy to stock and sell through quickly.

 Grenade White Oreo Protein Bar
A proper indulgent treat without the sugar crash. With a high-protein, low-sugar mix and that iconic Oreo taste, this one’s always a winner.
12-pack (60g bars)

Barebells Peanut Butter Protein Bar
Rich, nutty, and vegetarian-friendly—this one’s a firm favourite for anyone looking for a satisfying protein fix on the go.
12-pack (55g bars)

Huel Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Complete Nutrition Bar
Packed with 26 vitamins and minerals, plus 14g protein and 7g fibre, this all-in-one bar is ideal for busy customers who want a nutritious option without the fuss.
12-pack (55g bars)

Optimum Nutrition Chocolate & Sweet Coconut Protein Bar
Deliciously coated in milk chocolate with a sweet coconut centre—its nostalgic flavour makes it a hit with people from all walks of life, whether they’re after a quick boost or a comforting treat on the go.
12-pack (59g bars)

Applied Nutrition High Protein Strawberries & Cream Shake
A smooth, classic flavour in a convenient ready-to-drink bottle. Ideal for those looking for a refreshing recovery option or midday boost.
8-pack (500ml bottles)

Grenade Cookies & Cream Protein Shake
Indulgent but low-cal, with 24g of protein in every bottle. This one’s built for people who want to enjoy their protein without the extra sugar.
8-pack (330ml bottles)

Huel Black Edition Chocolate Complete Meal Drink
A plant-based, low-sugar complete meal in a bottle. Great for health-focused customers who want no-faff nutrition while they’re on the move.
8-pack (500ml bottles)

 Lucozade Sport Orange (500ml & 750ml)
A proper go-to for hydration and energy. Packed with carbs, electrolytes, and Vitamin B3—ideal for active recovery.
12-pack (500ml) and 12-pack (750ml)

Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy Orange Can
Low calorie and sugar-free, this functional drink delivers amino acids and natural caffeine to boost energy and focus—without the crash.
24-pack (250ml cans)

Applied Nutrition ABE Blue Lagoon Energy Can
Refreshing, sugar-free, and designed to help with endurance and focus. Perfect for active lifestyles.
12-pack (330ml cans)

Huel Vitamin Blue Raspberry Sparkling Water
This isn’t your average sparkling water—it’s packed with 26 vitamins and minerals, plus a natural caffeine kick. Vegan, gluten-free, and full of flavour.
12-pack (330ml cans)

 C4 Tutti Frutti Ultimate Pre-Workout Shots
An advanced and comprehensive shot of clinically tested, patented ingredients to support peak performance.

24-pack (60ml bottles)

C4 Energy Carbonated Cosmic Rainbow
Rich in Niacin and vitamin B12, with added caffeine, to support the reduction of tiredness and fatigue while contributing to normal energy metabolism.

12-Pack (500ml cans)

 And that’s just for starters, so let’s get you stocked up. There’s never been a better time for NIVO members to refresh their vending machines by giving their customers what they’re really after!

That’s it for this month, see you next time.

More from our extensive ARN content on PV here.