News

Vending kiosk enables customized orders/analytics

Kiosk manufacturer is replacing its traditional gumball machines with a new kiosk that enables customized orders with eight different snacks, along with digital signage advertising.

December 9, 2015

Technology company BMC Universal Technologies Inc. is attempting to answer retailers' need for more customization and speed by replacing its gumball machines with its new kiosk. Known as the Media Kiosk, it is designed to offer a customized vending experience, which allows customers to create their own snack bags, according to a press release.

The kiosk is designed to give complete control to users by allowing them to customize the type and amount of snack they want. The kiosk dispenses the snack in a sealed bag with nutritional information stamped on it.

In addition, the kiosk is also designed to provide beneficial analytics and advertising to the retailer. It features a 65-inch HD screen to display retailer or brand advertising. "The software we have integrated into our Media Kiosk is somewhat like Google Analytics," said Robert Schwarzli, vice president of product development, BMC Universal Technologies. "It provides the Media Kiosk owner with information on the approximate age and demeanor of its consumers, as well as gender and attention span. The data is anonymous and used to cater the right product to the right consumer."

Currently, the Media Kiosk can dispense up to eight different items. The kiosk was test run in local malls in Toronto and received positive results from participants who were fascinated by the process, according to the release.

"Every interaction and every connection with technology provides a breadcrumb trail — little tidbits of knowledge, of evidence," Schwarzli said. "Every trace of data has the potential to revolutionize the way customers and businesses interact. That’s what we'll help companies accomplish with our Media Kiosk."