Spiral Verdict 3
By Ian Maguire, Planet Vending’s Roving Reporter (and Technical Director)
Well, here we are – the final leg of my Vendex Midlands 2025 snack safari! After powering through protein bars, sipping my way through the drinks aisle, and sampling enough crisps to keep me crunching for days, it was time to tackle the final (and arguably most fun) category: sweets. From chocolatey protein indulgence to sour face-scrunchers, this round-up is all about treats that pack in the flavour, bring the fun, and definitely deserve a spot in your vending machines.
In this post, I’ll be sharing the lowdown on four standout products that turned heads at the show: the irresistible Barebells Salted Peanut Caramel Protein Bar, the candy-coated chaos of Nerds Gummy Clusters, the nostalgic joy of Twix and Milky Way Crispy Rolls, and the face-puckering power of Chewits Xtreme Sour Bites and Sour Apple Chews. Sweet, sour, chewy, crunchy – we’ve got it all covered. Let’s get into it!
Crispy Comebacks: Twix & Milky Way Rolls Are Flying Off Shelves – and Into Machines
Of all the sweet treats I spotted at Vendex Midlands 2025, it was two familiar faces (well… fingers) that caused arguably the greatest buzz – the brand new Twix Crispy Rolls and the long-awaited return of Milky Way Crispy Rolls. Judging by the reaction from visitors and the Mars Wrigley team, these little bars are already becoming a bit of a phenomenon.
The Twix version brings together everything you love about the original – crispy wafer, that gooey caramel, and smooth milk chocolate – all wrapped into a neat, snackable roll. Meanwhile, the Milky Way Crispy Roll is exactly as you remember it: lightly whipped centre, delicate wafer shell, and a silky milk chocolate coating. Nostalgic, sweet, and ridiculously easy to eat, these two are fast becoming vending royalty. (Click the links to order from your favourite wholesaler, Automatic Retailing Northern)
A Crunchy Craze
I had a quick chat with the Mars Wrigley rep at the stand, who told me – slightly wide-eyed – that they’re struggling to keep up with demand. Apparently, these are already among the fastest-selling launches they’ve ever done. And after trying both, I totally get it.
Let’s be real – these are the kind of snacks that are totally addictive. They’re the perfect mix of crunchy and creamy, rich but not too heavy, and ideal for that “just one more bite” moment that ends with you wondering where the wrapper went.
Why They’re a Vending No-Brainer
If you’re a vending operator, this one’s a slam dunk. Here’s why:
- Trusted brands with huge customer loyalty
- Compact and tidy packaging – perfect for vending machines
- Impulse-buy gold – people see “crispy roll” and the nostalgia kicks in
- Quick turnover – when something’s this popular, it won’t sit around for long
- Great for both kids and adults – sweet enough for a treat, light enough for an everyday snack
With the kind of hype Mars Wrigley is seeing, you’ll want to get in on this wave while stock lasts. These rolls aren’t just a novelty – they’re becoming a core favourite.
Final Thoughts
The combo of Twix’s new twist and Milky Way’s crispy comeback is vending perfection. Light, layered, and seriously moreish, they’re the kind of snack people will hunt down – and when they spot them in your machine, they will press the button.
Spiral Verdict 3: Big flavour, huge demand, and the kind of treat that keeps your machines busy. Get stocked up – before someone else grabs your share.
Barebells Salted Peanut Caramel: The Protein Bar That Tastes Like a Treat
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from trawling the aisles at Vendex Midlands 2025, it’s that not all protein bars are created equal. Some are a bit of a chew, others taste like they’ve been made in a lab, and very few deliver on both taste and nutrition. But then I tried the Barebells Salted Peanut Caramel – and folks, this one is in a league of its own.
Wrapped in smooth milk chocolate, it’s got a light, fluffy caramel centre, a satisfying crunch of salty peanuts, and enough indulgent flavour to make you forget you’re also actually fuelling your body. With 16 grams of protein packed into every bar, it’s the kind of snack that works just as well post-workout as it does when you’re flagging mid-afternoon and eyeing up the biscuit tin.
The Best of the Barebells Bunch
Now, I tried the lot – Rocky Road, Choco Choco, Banana Dream and Caramel Choco – and to be fair, they’re all excellent. But Salted Peanut Caramel? That one’s the clear winner. It nails the sweet-salty balance, has a great texture (none of that weird dry protein-y afterbite), and tastes like a proper chocolate bar.
It’s the bar that doesn’t scream “health food”, even though it’s low in sugar, high in protein, and keeps hunger at bay without the crash. And in vending, that’s exactly what people are looking for – something functional and tasty.
Why It Belongs in Your Machine
If you’re a vending operator looking to boost your better-for-you range, this bar is a must-stock. Here’s why:
- Premium taste in a healthy format – appeals to gym-goers and chocolate lovers
- Trusted brand with growing popularity
- Eye-catching packaging that looks great in any snack spiral
- Great alternative to regular chocolate bars – higher price point, but real value
- Perfect grab-and-go snack for offices, gyms, uni campuses, service stations – you name it
Customers are getting savvier with their snack choices – and Barebells is exactly the kind of product that shows your machine is keeping up.
Final Thoughts
Barebells Salted Peanut Caramel is the real deal – a protein bar that eats like a treat, delivers on nutrition, and keeps your customers coming back for more. If you’re refreshing your healthy snacks section, make space for this one near the top. It won’t hang around for long.
Spiral Verdict 3: Sweet, salty, protein-packed perfection. Get it in your machine before someone else beats you to it.
Nerds Gummy Clusters: Big Flavour, Bold Colours, and a Vending Must-Have
If you’ve got a sweet tooth and a soft spot for American candy, then chances are you’ve already heard the hype around Nerds Gummy Clusters. And if you haven’t? Buckle up – because these little gems are America’s #1 candy for a reason.
I gave both flavours – Berries and Fruits – a proper taste test (purely in the name of vending research, of course), and I can confirm they’re as colourful, chewy and downright addictive as they look. Each cluster is made up of a soft, gummy centre wrapped in that classic Nerds candy shell – the kind that’s sweet, tangy, and has just the right amount of crunch. One bite and you’re hit with a mix of textures and fruity flavours that makes it impossible to stop at just one. (I can attest to this as I was given a couple of bags, and they went in one sitting… oops. MD – YRY)
Tiny Clusters, Big Impact
There’s something joyfully chaotic about these sweets – every handful is different, and the mix of fruit flavours in each pack keeps it interesting right to the bottom. Whether you’re team Berries or team Fruits (I couldn’t pick a winner), the chewy-sweet-tangy combo hits just right.
They’re playful, vibrant, and basically engineered for snackers who want something fun. Great for kids, nostalgic for adults, and perfect for sharing (or, let’s be honest, not sharing at all).
Why They’re Made for Vending
If you’re a vending operator looking to brighten up your confectionery offering, Nerds Gummy Clusters are an absolute no-brainer:
- Strong brand recognition – especially among Gen Z and Millennials
- Fun, bold packaging – stands out instantly in any machine
- Portion-controlled and mess-free – ideal for on-the-go
- Perfect impulse buy – eye-catching and totally craveable
- Something a bit different – not your average gummy or chocolate bar
These sweets don’t just satisfy a craving – they bring a bit of joy to the snacking moment. And with the popularity of American-style treats continuing to rise here in the UK, stocking something like this shows your machine is ahead of the trend.
Final Thoughts
Nerds Gummy Clusters are colourful, crunchy, chewy chaos in the best possible way – and your customers will love them. Whether it’s for a mid-day sugar hit or a post-lunch sweet fix, these are the kind of treats that turn a quick vending stop into a full-on experience.
Spiral Verdict 3: Fun, fruity and flying off shelves. Add a splash of colour and a whole lot of flavour to your machine with Nerds Gummy Clusters.
Chewits Sour Range: Puckered Faces and Big Thumbs-Up from the Kids
I’ll be honest – sour sweets aren’t usually my thing. I can handle a bit of zing, sure, but full-on mouth-puckering sour? That’s a bit out of my comfort zone. So when I picked up a few bags of the new Chewits Xtreme Sour Bites and Chewits Sour Apple Chews at Vendex Midlands 2025, I did the sensible thing: I passed them straight to my kids.
The verdict? Immediate grins, scrunched-up faces, and a request for more. These sweets are properly sour, with the kind of intense tang that younger snackers absolutely love. And judging by the bright, bold packaging and the speed at which they disappeared, I think it’s safe to say Chewits are onto a winner with this sour duo.
Full-On Flavour, Full-On Fun
The Xtreme Sour Bites are small, chewy bonbons that hit with a sour blast right from the first bite. They’ve got that fizzy, almost electric tang that makes your eyes water – in the best possible way. Meanwhile, the Sour Apple Chews offer that classic green apple zing, with a chewy texture that stretches the enjoyment out just long enough.
Both packs are ideal for sharing (or hoarding – no judgement here), and they’re perfect for that sweet-sour fix on the go. If you’re a sour fan, you’ll love them. And if you’re not? Just do what I did – hand them to the kids and enjoy the show.
Why They’re a Vending Essential
Sour sweets have a loyal fanbase – and Chewits Xtreme and Sour Apple are perfect for vending. Here’s why:
- Bright, bold packaging that grabs attention instantly
- Trusted brand with massive nostalgic appeal
- Perfect pocket-money treat for schools, leisure centres and family-friendly spots
- Bite-sized and portable – great for snacking on the go
- High repeat purchase potential – once tried, they’ll be back for more
They’re also a smart way to add variety to your sweet selection – something a bit different from the usual chocolates and fruity chews, with a serious flavour punch.
Final Thoughts
Chewits Xtreme Sour Bites and Sour Apple Chews bring the fun, the flavour, and the face-scrunching sour hit that fans love. Whether your customers are sweet-toothed thrill seekers or just looking for a cheeky snack to share, these are guaranteed to go down a storm.
Spiral Verdict 3: Sour, zingy and seriously addictive. A top choice for operators looking to liven up their sweet offering. Get them in your machines – the kids will thank you.
Check out Ian’s Vendex Midlands 2025 savoury snacks Spiral Verdict 1 here
Check out Ian’s Vendex Midlands 2025 drinks Spiral Verdict 2 here
Note that all these Spiral Verdicts are completely unbiased and Ian’s personal opinion! – Ian’s only compensation was the samples he took away and demolished.
Lastly, if you’ve read the set from this year’s Vendex Midlands and you’d like Ian’s take on your product, get in touch with me here. – Yvonne
