Earlier this month, members of the Naturals2Go and VendTech teams joined industry leaders in Washington, D.C. for the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) Fly-In, an annual advocacy event that brings together operators, suppliers, manufacturers, and industry partners to meet directly with lawmakers and discuss issues impacting the convenience services industry.
Representing Naturals2Go and VendTech were Tina Paine, SVP of Corporate Relations; Michael Hume, SVP of Naturals2Go Revenue; Lewis Zimbler, SVP of VendTech Technologies; Nina Gompels, Regional Development Manager; and Jake Waskin, External Operations Manager. They were joined by Naturals2Go Owner-Operators Megan Camp and Chris Camp, Jeff Westmoreland, and Jason Hrisanthacopoulos, whose firsthand experiences helped bring an operator’s perspective to discussions with policymakers.
One of the key topics discussed was the Payment Choice Act and the need for an exemption that recognizes the unique operating realities of unattended retail businesses. Industry leaders also advocated for a more consistent national approach to food labeling requirements. As manufacturers and operators navigate a patchwork of state-by-state regulations, a federal framework would help simplify compliance while maintaining transparency and food safety standards.
Another important discussion focused on the growing role of artificial intelligence and video technologies within unattended retail. These tools are increasingly being used to improve inventory management, food safety, operational efficiency, and theft prevention. Industry leaders emphasized the importance of responsible policies that encourage innovation while ensuring these technologies are used appropriately and not for consumer profiling.
Throughout the Fly-In, one message remained consistent: convenience services are essential services. Millions of Americans rely on unattended retail every day for access to food, beverages, and everyday necessities in workplaces, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, schools, transportation hubs, and public spaces.
The convenience services industry supports more than 171,000 jobs and generates approximately $41 billion in economic activity. Decisions made in Washington affect how operators serve customers, adopt new technologies, manage compliance requirements, and continue to grow their businesses. By participating in these discussions, Naturals2Go, VendTech, and our operators help ensure the voices of entrepreneurs and the unattended retail industry are represented where those decisions are made.
