Their existing vending machines were coming to the end of their lease, and Royal Berkshire Hospital also wanted to remove the Caterer from the responsibility of “operating” the vending services on site. However, they were concerned that it may not be possible to continue offering fresh food or recover all costs if the vending was outsourced.
ThirstLink identified then tendered the specified requirement to suitable potential vending operators, ensuring all NHS guidelines were met. Once our client had made their decision as to what supplier to choose, ThirstLink then assisted in the smooth implementation of all the brand-new Fresh Food, Snacks and Hot & Cold beverage equipment, all banked in attractive bespoke machine housing. Healthy options are on offer throughout and the service receives good attention to detail, which has all contributed to a pleasing 189% increase in vended sales revenue.
Client Reference
“I was tasked to find a new vending and drinking water solution without any capital outlay or leasing commitment – some task I thought! However, ThirstLink not only assisted me to achieve this, but the new service also resulted in a healthy reduction in our previous subsidy. A job well done!”
“Would I work with ThirstLink again? Absolutely, they take away the stress of managing it myself, are professional but nice people, and help us to avoid the many potential pitfalls”.
Old provision
Four Coca Cola vending machines placed in various locations across the site – Machines of various ages and design – Revenue paid to catering £ 1,257 p.a. – Eight snack, food, and hot drinks machines in varying conditions and image – The machines were leased and operated by the in-house catering team – Turn over £49,000 pa however due to labour costs, leases, maintenance, and food waste, the actual profit was minimal.
Summary of new Vending provision
10 Brand New Machines – Delivering excellent quality drinks and services – Machines fitted with Telemetry – Housed in two Banks of Shop fitted Machines – All 10 machines have latest cashless card readers – £ 72,000 worth of supplier investment – Healthier options in all machines – Fresh Food available in machines – Significant royalty increase on all sales – Providing detailed sales data -Delivering a much-improved image – 45% of transactions made by card – Risk and Investment Free – Meeting and exceeding NHS guidelines – No cost to the Trust – Significant rise in income with zero cost – Turnover last year of £143,000 pa New attractive vending facility, plus 189% increase in sales.
