The foodservice and unattended retail industries are experiencing a major transformation.
With labor shortages and changing consumer habits, unattended retail—micro-markets, vending, and self-service kiosks—has emerged as a game-changer.
No longer limited to snacks and sodas, vending technology now offers fresh meals, high-quality coffee, and even gourmet tea.
For retail landlords, converting underutilized space into high-performing micro-markets can boost revenue and increase foot traffic. For foodservice operators, unattended retail provides an additional sales channel with lower labor costs.
The NAMA Show 2025, happening May 7-9, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, is where industry leaders gather to explore these opportunities, see new technology firsthand, and build partnerships to future-proof their businesses.
With nearly 5,000 attendees expected, The NAMA Show 2025 is the largest event dedicated to unattended retail, vending, micro-markets, and convenience services. It’s not just a trade show—it’s a marketplace where business happens.
“You can see, touch, and test all the latest vending innovations under one roof,” said Ryan Harrington, Founder and CEO of Royal ReFresh and NAMA member. “It’s the only place where you can meet directly with manufacturers, suppliers, and operators to negotiate deals and solve challenges in real-time.”
For many businesses, attending the show has led to key partnerships, operational improvements, and game-changing insights. Unlike virtual meetings or online research, walking the show floor provides an irreplaceable experience—where new ideas, technology, and industry trends come to life.
Today’s consumers expect quick, easy access to food—whether it’s a fresh sandwich at a transit hub or healthy snacks in a corporate office. The growing demand for grab-and-go solutions is reshaping foodservice. “Unattended retail revenue is no longer just an alternative—it’s a necessity,” added Harrington.
“With labor costs rising and consumer expectations shifting, foodservice operators who ignore this trend risk falling behind.” By integrating smart vending and micro-markets, restaurants and foodservice providers can expand their reach, reduce wait times, and increase revenue—all while lowering operational costs.
A highlight of The NAMA Show 2025 is Imagination Way, a real-life innovation lab demonstrating emerging trends. This immersive exhibit showcases how self-service technology can enhance various environments, from hotels to hospitals and corporate offices.
“Imagination Way gives attendees a hands-on look at how convenience services are evolving,” noted Kristen Griffith, NAMA vice president of programs and services.
“Whether it’s a smart cooler in a hospital or an AI-powered vending kiosk at an airport, this showcase helps foodservice professionals and landlords envision new revenue streams.”
For hotel operators, this could mean offering 24/7 access to essentials without additional staffing. For property managers, it’s a way to enhance tenant satisfaction while generating passive income.
Convenience, speed, and frictionless transactions are now the standard. Consumers are accustomed to ordering via apps, using self-checkout, and expecting food on demand. This shift is fueling the rapid expansion of unattended retail. “People don’t just want convenience—they expect it,” detailed Harrington.
“Whether it’s a busy professional grabbing lunch at a micro-market or a traveler using a contactless vending machine, today’s consumer values fast, reliable service.” With cashless payments and AI-driven inventory management, vending and micro-markets are not only keeping up with consumer habits but also enhancing profitability for operators.
Beyond the show floor, The NAMA Show offers valuable educational sessions designed to provide actionable strategies for industry professionals.
This year’s lineup includes Harnessing AI to Decode Data: Waste Management Workshop, a hands-on session demonstrating how AI can optimize inventory and reduce food waste; C-Store Recon: Growth Through Consumer Mission Trips, which explores real case studies on how convenience stores are adapting to evolving shopping behaviors; and Retailing 101, part of the new Essentials Track, focused on helping small and growing operators maximize margins and improve merchandising strategies.
“The education sessions are a must,” outlined Harrington. “They provide real strategies that foodservice professionals can apply immediately to improve operations and increase revenue.”
The NAMA Show 2025 isn’t just reflecting industry trends—it’s driving them. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in helping businesses transition from traditional vending to high-tech micro-markets and frictionless self-service models.
“Every major step in our company’s growth was influenced by what we learned at The NAMA Show,” said Harrington. “It’s where we’ve met our best partners, discovered new technology, and made decisions that have transformed our business.”
Harrington, co-CEO of Royal ReFresh, began his journey in 2006 with two vending machines. Under his leadership, Royal ReFresh has grown into a prominent provider of vending services, including micro markets and office coffee services, serving the Portland, OR and Las Vegas marketplaces.
For foodservice operators, property managers, and vendors interested in exploring unattended retail, The NAMA Show 2025 is the place to be.
Whether you want to network with industry leaders, attend workshops or showcase your products, now is the time to get involved. “You can vend anything,” concluded Harrington. “And The NAMA Show is where you learn how.”
Attendees and exhibitors can find essential event details at The Nama Show. The site also provides travel details, marketing tools, and show updates.
