The AVA 2024 Census & Market Report has been released. Acknowledged as the most comprehensive review of the vending, OCS and automated retail sectors in the UK, the eagerly awaited report is available free of charge to AVA Members. Non-members can acquire the information for a one-off purchase.
This year’s report, compiled by Colston Consultants, delivers vital insights into industry performance, consumer behaviour, and emerging trends, drawing on data from nearly 150,000 machines—that’s over a third of the UK industry’s total base.
The overall picture revealed by the census makes encouraging reading for all those engaged in the industry.
These are the headline findings:
- £3.66 billion total industry revenue – up 9.6% from 2023
- 13.3% growth in product revenue, now exceeding pre-Covid levels
- 730 micro-markets and 1,920 smart fridges now installed across the UK
- Cashless technology adoption now stands at 90% of pay vend machines
- Coffee-to-Go revenue hits £648 million, making the UK one of the top Coffee-to-Go markets in Europe
The AVA 2024 Census & Market Report also reveals a clear shift in consumer preferences, with bean-to-cup coffee, healthier vending options, and premiumisation continuing to re-shape the market. Notably, paper cups now account for 92% of single-use vending cups, and more than 57% of all cashless payments are now made via mobile phone.
AVA Chief Executive David Llewellyn told PV: ‘There has never been a more important time for businesses to understand the forces shaping our industry. From evolving consumer habits to regulatory pressures, this report provides critical intelligence to help businesses adapt, grow, and thrive.’
For more information or to purchase a copy of The AVA 2024 Census & Market Report, visit: www.the-ava.com or contact info@the-ava.com.
Next week, we’ll be publishing an exclusive interview with David, in which he’ll consider the ramifications of the census in terms of how operators can apply its findings to improve and to future-proof their businesses. Don’t miss it!
More on The AVA can be found HERE on Planet Vending
