Tilly’s Christmas Crackers 2022
Hello and welcome to a special festive edition of Tilly’s Travels entitled, for one issue only, Tilly’s Christmas Crackers! I’ve gathered together some of my favourites from the stories I’ve found for you this year, and as it’s Christmas, I couldn’t resist a few festive, puntastic gags. I apologise in advance for them; but for now, munch on a moreish mince pie, glug on a glass of grog and come Christmas crackering with me!
Kicking things off in January, with the modernisation of influencer advertisement in vending. I am of course referring to Nara Prefecture in Japan, launching a vending machine specialising in offering fresh crepes, cheesecakes and other delightful desserts. I am still waiting for the launch of such a dessert vending machine in the UK, doesn’t this sound amazing? To refresh your memory, take a look over here.
What do you get if you cross Santa with a duck? A Christmas Quacker!
In February, we saw the introduction of a Ramen vending machine at the Microsoft Redmond Campus, but with a twist. This vending machine was operated by robotics! It is known as a mobile smart kitchen, working in conjunction with mobile phone technology. The robotic vending machine was later launched to the public at the Super Bowl, to a great public response. For more on robots, vending and ramen, click this link.
Who is Santa’s favourite singer? Elf-is Presley!
Tilly’s Christmas Crackers
One of the most popular innovations in vending this year has been taken place in schools across the world! Some schools, particularly in America, have introduced book vending machines to encourage youngsters to read. It has become known as a novelty, and has provided great results in encouraging children to take up reading. These machines have travelled to some schools in the UK, with book tokens as a reward for good behaviour in classrooms. I think that book vending machines may continue to be a hot topic into 2023, so, watch this space!
What do snowmen wear on their heads? Ice Caps!
Many brands have seemed to jump on the vending bandwagon. From designer handbags, to medical machines. My personal favourite big brand has been the introduction of a LUSH vending machine in London, as well as Japan. With an innovative circular design and products displayed in every way possible, allowing access to the machine for multiple customers. for some LUSH insight, click this link.
What carol is commonly heard in the desert? O Camel Ye Faithful!
Did you ever think that fast food could get faster? Well, with the help of vending, it just might. Subway announced this year that they were trialling some of the most popular subs, salads and wraps in vending machines in a range of locations. This is another vending machine I wish we had in the UK, as I’m sure it would save some time. For more on fast food innovations, take a look here.
What is the most popular Christmas wine? ‘I hate sprouts!’
Tilly’s Christmas Crackers
I’m sure we have all been at an airport, stuck in a queue waiting for a coffee and snack before boarding the ever waited flight, but how would you feel if you didn’t have to queue for half an hour? Well, Selecta attempted to combat this issue this year. With the introduction of a new automated retail system, selling everything from Lavazza Coffee to sandwiches and snacks. The area is open 24/7 and is hopefully preventing the rush. Let us know in the comments if you have used this service.
What’s green, covered in tinsel and goes ribbet ribbet? A Mistle-Toad
Another hot topic, not just in our world of vending, but globally, is the introduction of sustainable practice. We all know that single use plastics are causing issues with pollution, and Lavazza Professional have been leading the way in the vending industry to develop biodegradable cups, sourced from sustainable suppliers. Sustainability may be vending’s next big thing, so watch this space
What did the stamp say to the Christmas card? Stick with me kid and we’ll go places.
In 2022, I went on a search for the most interesting things that vending has to offer. Towards the end of my journey, I found a vending machine that sells pizza! It is located in Glasgow, and is perfect for on the go munching, or that post pub craving. Follow this link for the tweets and some hilarious photos.
I want to give honourable mention to one of my favourite small businesses that has found UK wide success through vending. Meggi Lashes first came to my attention last year, with a pop up vending machine in Birmingham. Since then, we have seen the expansion of vending machines in the North West, South West and other UK locations. If you have spotted any, let us know in the comments.
And to round off Tilly’s Christmas Crackers, here is one final Christmas Cracker. (I’ve saved ‘the best’ til last…)
How did Mary and Joseph know that Jesus was 7lb 6oz when he was born? They had a weigh in a manger!
And I thought that was a halo in the picture! Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year everyone!
I’ll be back in January – see you then!
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