Final Bow at NAMA Show 2023: Reflections and Look Into the Future

Walking through the lanes of The NAMA Show for the last time as the leader of Gimme, a kaleidoscopic mix of emotions swirled within me. The air was thick with the familiar smell of hustle and ambition, the hallways echoing with the hum of countless conversations. Yet, this time, there was a twist.?I wasn’t the CEO navigating Gimme’s direction anymore, but a keen observer, taking in the view from the sidelines.?

Every aisle was a trip down memory lane. Every booth stood as a testament to our industry's relentless pursuit for better margins. I remember the first time I stepped into this very event, eyes wide, heart pounding, eight years ago. The world was so different then. We were different.?Back then, we hadn’t overcome the 0-to-1 problem.?We were yet to discover the kingmakers, evade the snakes in the grass, and understand the people in between. (Thank you for guiding us Bill Levisay )

The transformation of Gimme into today’s Unattended Retail Lankmark, encompassing O.G. Gimme Vending and Gimme “Grocery” (or Gimme DSD) is an evolution I find truly remarkable. Seeing my best-friend, Evan Jarecki , take the reins with his unique blend of laid-back charm and perennial optimism fills me with pride I can’t verbally encapsulate.

This year, the 2023 NAMA Show revealed an array of exciting new products, underlining our industry's magnetic pull for both visionaries and pragmatic innovators. Cantaloupe’s direct competitor to Lightspeed caught my attention, a vivid reminder of how competition sparks innovation.

Exploring the diverse array of beverages was like a journey into the future of our industry. "poppi", a probiotic soda, and "Solely", a shelf-stable fruit "jerky", stood out in particular. Being an ardent follower of gut health research, it was heartening to see the industry embracing healthier options.?

Being in Atlanta, our HQ, lent a nostalgic touch to the experience. And what better way to celebrate this valedictory 'home game' than a round of Duck Bowling with our Gimme customers, who feel like family? The laughter and camaraderie we shared that night are memories I'll cherish forever.?

Little Debbie, our first DSD customer, was there too. The innovation they've infused into their new products is nothing short of inspiring. The photograph we took together will serve as a reminder of our shared journey and the countless milestones we've crossed together.

And who could forget the TangoCafe robotic demo? Its articulating barista arm was like something out of a sci-fi movie. If that's not a glimpse into the future, I don't know what is.

Exiting the exhibition doors for the final time, a profound sense of gratitude washed over me. Gratitude for the experiences, the people, the hurdles, my setbacks, and our victories.?For every bit of it has contributed to who I am today.

I may be stepping away from the day-to-day at Gimme, but the lessons I've learned and the relationships I've built will remain with me. As I embark on the next chapter of my life, I do so with a heart full of hope and a spirit ready to embrace the future.?

The journey continues.