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A wave of next-gen, self-service retail is transforming how and where consumers shop — and it’s not just hype. Dive into the real stories of operators breaking sales records, delighting customers, and redefining convenience through the rise of Smart Stores.
In this episode of Retail on the Go, we’re diving into the data that’s shaping the future of self-service retail. Join host Russ and producer Anders as they unpack the key insights from Cantaloupe’s newly released 2025 Micropayment Trends Report with special guests Elyssa Steiner (Chief Marketing Officer) and Sonya Lehner (Director of Marketing, Brand & Communications).
Topics we cover:
—Why cashless is the new baseline in retail
—Surpassing $1B in micro market sales in 2024
—The rise of Smart Stores and $4.25 average ticket sizes
—How inflation is shifting consumer habits
—Best practices for operators to boost revenue
Micro markets are booming—and it’s no accident. From tap-to-pay tech to new high-traffic locations, discover what’s fueling their growth and why now’s the time to get in. A quick preview of insights from Cantaloupe’s Micropayment Trends Report.
Didn’t get a chance to visit Cantaloupe at NAMA this year? Don’t worry, in this video Elyssa Steiner, Chief Marketing Officer and Tony Danna, VP Small Business Client Sales lead you through all the exciting new innovations we showcased at our booth, like the Go Micro, Smart Aisle, and Smart Store.
In this episode of Retail on the GO, we break down Cantaloupe’s lineup of self-service kiosks—Go Micro, Go MiniX, Go Plus100, and Go Max—and help you figure out which one fits your space, traffic, and business goals.
Whether you’re outfitting a break room, gym, apartment complex, or corporate office, matching the right kiosk to the right location can make all the difference in performance and ROI. We cover:
— A side-by-side comparison of Cantaloupe’s kiosk options
— Location-specific recommendations for each model
— Real-world examples of successful deployments
— Tips for maximizing convenience and ticket size in self-service retail
Choosing the right micro market kiosk can boost ROI and customer satisfaction. Learn how to match kiosk models to real-world environments—from gyms and offices to car dealerships and residential spaces.
In this episode of Retail on the GO, we’re joined by Shaun Dayton from Canteen of Northern California to explore how his team brought their Smart Stores to life—and what it means for the future of unattended retail. We dig into the why, how, and what’s next of the Smart Store model, including:
— What made Canteen NorCal take the leap into Smart Stores
— The challenges they faced and how they overcame them
— The impact on operations, efficiency, and customer experience
— Tips for other operators looking to future-proof their business
If you’re a vending or micro market operator exploring your next move, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay ahead of the curve. 🎧 Tune in now and hear how smart retail is becoming the new standard.
The world of self-service retail is on the brink of a major transformation as we head into 2025. Discover the potential for business growth through cutting-edge technologies and the expansion into new markets. This is essential reading for anyone who wants to stay ahead in this dynamic industry.
The Cantaloupe Micropayment Trends Report 2025 is your ultimate guide to the future of self-service retail. Discover the latest insights on cashless transactions, which now dominate micro markets and Smart Stores. Learn about the explosive growth in micro market locations and sales — even with inflation’s continued impact on consumer behavior and the potential for continued growth. Don’t miss out—download the report to stay ahead of the curve.
Fresh Donuts in a Vending Machine? The Donut Trap Story | Retail on the GO Podcast
In this episode of Retail on the GO, we chat with Bradley from The Donut Trap, a St. Paul-based business turning heads with their fresh, handmade donuts—delivered through a vending machine.
We dive into:
— How The Donut Trap got started
— The challenges of keeping fresh inventory in an unattended format
— Lessons learned in scaling a unique food concept
— Tips for anyone looking to blend local goods with self-service tech
This episode is packed with insights for vending operators, food entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about what it takes to keep fresh food fresh in automated retail.
Welcome back to Retail on the GO! In this episode, we’re joined by Ethan, the founder of Pod Plug, a company that’s transforming vending operations with cutting-edge technology.
We dive into:
Ethan’s journey in launching Pod Plug
The biggest challenges in bringing new vending tech to market
How automation and innovation are shaping the future of unattended retail
Tips for operators looking to improve efficiency and profitability
If you’re in the vending or micro market industry—or just love hearing about new tech shaking up retail—this episode is for you!
Smart Stores can transform your vending business by offering more products and a smooth customer experience. Discover how these advanced machines can boost your sales and expand your business into new locations.
Discover how Seed Analytics can revolutionize your retail operation with seven powerful functionalities that offer real-time insights and actionable data. These tools are designed to boost efficiency, reduce waste, and drive your business forward.
Canteen of Northern California’s work with a local college is a testament to the transformative power of cutting-edge retail solutions. The outcomes are impressive: substantial sales growth, more efficient inventory control, and heightened customer satisfaction. By embracing innovative technology, traditional vending operations were revolutionized, yielding exceptional results.
Discover how to launch a vending business with minimal upfront costs. Learn about Cantaloupe Capital’s flexible line of credit and Cantaloupe One’s no upfront cost subscription plans, plus essential budgeting tips and software tools.
Adopting cashless payment systems in the amusement and gaming industry offers several advantages. Cashless transactions, averaging $6.13 per transaction compared to $0.81 for cash, can significantly boost revenue. The initial investment in card readers, which includes hardware, software, training, and marketing, is quickly offset by a short payback period.
The well established vending operator placed their first Smart Store in a car dealership in Sugarland, TX. The results were explosive sales growth, minimized shrink, and excitement around the flexible, modern solution.
Modern Vend introduced the Smart Store solution to 200 residents of a senior living facility and saw immediately promising results. They hope to improve the quality of life and ease of access to essential products right at their doorstep.
Prepare for the next generation of retail with Cantaloupe’s groundbreaking Smart Stores! Watch now to learn how Smart Stores are tackling theft, elevating the customer journey, and opening up new revenue channels. Through the lens of real-world success stories, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the technology that is reshaping the retail landscape. Don’t let this chance slip by to lead the pack and embrace the future of retail.
You want a sandwich, would love a cup of coffee, or simply want something to cure your sweet tooth. You could run to the local convenience store, or maybe there’s a better solution.
The Cantaloupe Smart Store is a revolutionary new way to sell food, beverages, consumer goods, and anything in between. Eliminate shrink with weighted shelf technology and built-in cameras. You’ll maximize sales by accepting any cashless payment method, including mobile wallets.
Using data from vending machines helps businesses. By using solutions like card readers and kiosks, companies can select top products, enhance efficiency, and make smart choices to boost profits and lower costs.
Maple City Dispensing improved its warehouse with Seed Pick Easy, cutting picking time in half, increasing inventory accuracy, and reducing delivery routes. This made their operations faster and more efficient, saving both time and money.
Exact authorization for vending machines uses G10 or G11 card readers to hold the exact purchase amount, reducing confusion and improving customer experience. It requires single-vend mode, allowing only one item per transaction.
To launch and test new micro market products, partner with suppliers, use eye-catching signs, hold customer events, and analyze sales data. These steps help make your market exciting, boost sales, and keep customers happy.
Learn how to make small changes that can have a big impact on your business. In this webinar, we’ll discuss Exact Authorization, a new setting that reduces consumer confusion and increases revenue by authorizing the exact amount of each purchase. We’ll also cover the benefits of our Cash Flow Advantage program, which offers daily deposits and increased revenue opportunities. Don’t miss this opportunity to optimize your operations and simplify your business.
Feel Good Market, led by Aldo Tejada, is transforming shopping in Panama with staffless, cashless micro markets. They aim to expand into homes and hotels, prioritizing customer trust and convenience.
Making businesses accessible helps everyone, including people with disabilities, shop easily. Features like voice prompts and big touchscreens let customers buy things on their own. This makes shopping faster and happier, bringing more people and sales to the store.
In this insightful and informative discussion, industry experts Chris Constantino, Jace Gatmaitan, and Russ Russell come together to share their experiences and strategies for overcoming common vending machine challenges. They delve into crucial topics such as employment challenges, price increases, and effective strategies for managing these obstacles. Packed with valuable insights and real-world examples, this video is a must-watch for vending machine operators and business owners looking to stay ahead in the industry. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and actionable tips from these seasoned professionals.
To boost micro market sales in 2024, understand customer needs, expand to new locations, use reward programs, adjust prices, and highlight high-margin products. Cashless payments, self-service kiosks, and smart coolers make shopping faster, easier, and more fun.
