Navarra Company Launches Prototype of Smart Vape Vending Machine

Ahead of the expected new vaping regulations, Navarra Retail Systems has outlined the details of its proposal for a smart vape vending machine.

The UK government’s vaping consultation concluded a few weeks ago, and new rules on the future of vape retail are expected to be introduced early in the new year.

A spokesperson for Navarra said: “Many retailers have asked us whether we have a solution for vaping products. Based on the questions raised in the consultation, we decided to explore a smart vape vending machine solution to meet the future needs of UK retailers.”

The unit is designed to operate as a standalone system or alongside our existing smart tobacco vending machine. Features include:

• Compact, modular design with a 600mm-wide unit
• Each unit can hold up to 75 SKUs, depending on product type
• Locked, secure merchandise frames with multiple lighting options
• The merchandise frames can also be replicated on our existing smart tobacco shelving to expand vaping display space
• Stock is stored in the dispenser and accessed through the EPOS till; we work with the UK’s top 30 EPOS providers, so it is plug-and-play
• The till always prompts for age verification and records all transaction details
• All product information, prices, and product availability are stored in the till for easy management
• Speeds up selection and delivery, with no need to leave the till or unlock cabinets to serve customers
• Prevents shrinkage and theft, just like our smart tobacco shelving
• Moves all vaping products from the shop floor and countertop to behind the till, where children cannot see or access them; all vaping products are available only through the till
• Optional media screens to promote other in-store brands and display legal signage

“We believe this system will improve vape sales, enhance security, and meet the requirements of the upcoming government consultation/new regulations, eliminating the risk of selling vapes and nicotine products to under-18s.

“It allows retailers to choose which vape brands they sell, rather than restricting them to certain brands previously controlled by shelf suppliers.

“EPOS integration ensures compliance with age-verification requirements and protects staff, shop owners, and the category itself.

“It protects inventory from theft and shrinkage, especially as we believe vape prices may rise in the near future due to taxation.

“If vaping products become subject to display bans, a dispensing system like this will be the most effective way to manage the category.

“We are waiting for the government’s final response to its consultation before confirming the final specifications and production details.

“We are discussing requirements with key customers and are in talks with customers interested in joining the first production run once UK legislation and specifications are finalized.

“As soon as the regulations are published, we will finalize the specifications as quickly as possible.”